Populations of North American large salmon and grilse plummeted from approximately 1.6 million 25 years ago to 400,000 in 1999. The department's commitment to the Pacific coast salmon is far greater. Mr. Michael commends the Department for this approach and states that Atlantic Canada needs similar investment to help reverse the wild Atlantic salmon decline. Restored populations will help revitalize the valuable recreational fishing industry and satisfy the food, social, and ceremonial requirements of First Nations people who must be included in the decision-making process. This is especially important following the Marshall decision, which requires a cooperative, conservation-based approach to sharing the resource.
Habitat restoration is a priority in Prince Edward Island.
PEI's salmon and trout and other fish species are threatened by loss of habitat through fish passage problems from improperly placed road culverts and poorly designed fishways. There are about 800 impoundments and 700 km of streams that are inaccessible to all fish. Poor land use practices resulted in 8 chemical fish kills in 1999 alone. These are common occurrences. Government support in removing impoundments and legislation and funding for farmers to implement sustainable agriculture are necessary.