Conservationists observe an increase in the population of alewife and blueback herring in the St. Croix River following the removal of a hydroelectric dam two years ago. The St. Croix River, also referred to as Skutik, flows through the southwest New Brunswick town of St. Stephen, where the Milltown Dam once stood but was dismantled with the assistance of conservationist initiatives.
Alexa Meyer from the Passamaquoddy Recognition Group, a group led by Indigenous members representing the Peskotomuhkati Nation, expressed joy at witnessing the revived ecosystem, stating that the river now teems with over a million fish, up from around 800,000 during the last population assessment. Meyer mentioned that the river’s capacity could support an estimated 50 to 100 million fish, emphasizing the significance of this natural balance.
The removal of the Milltown Dam, which had a presence for approximately 140 years, marked a cultural milestone for the Peskotomuhkati Nation, where families traditionally gathered for fishing activities. Matt Abbott from the Conservation Council of New Brunswick has been facilitating discussions near the river to encourage storytelling and reconnect individuals with its history, recognizing the cultural and social impact of the dam’s operations.
Local resident Peter Brown reminisced about his experiences paddling on the river during the summer at a recent storytelling session, expressing curiosity about the river’s appearance without the dam. While some individuals voiced concerns about losing a piece of heritage with the dam’s removal, Abbott emphasized the importance of fostering a renewed sense of belonging and connection to the river through shared narratives.
The restoration of the river’s ecosystem not only benefits the wildlife but also serves as a catalyst for cultural revitalization and community bonding. By preserving and cherishing the St. Croix River, residents are encouraged to continue advocating for its protection and sustainability for future generations.