Conservationists have observed 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. Situated in the southwest New Brunswick town of St. Stephen, the St. Croix River, also known as Skutik, was once obstructed by the Milltown Dam, which has since been dismantled through conservationists’ efforts.
Alexa Meyer from the Passamaquoddy Recognition Group, a group advocating for the Peskotomuhkati Nation, expressed joy at the river’s restoration, stating that it now feels vibrant and beautiful. Meyer estimated that the river now hosts over one million fish, a significant increase from the previous count of around 800,000. However, she emphasized that the ideal fish population in the river should range from 50 to 100 million.
The removal of the Milltown Dam, which had stood for approximately 140 years, has revitalized the river, once considered the heart of the Peskotomuhkati Nation. Families used to gather along the riverbanks for fishing activities, making it a significant cultural and social hub for the community.
Matt Abbott from the Conservation Council of New Brunswick has been facilitating discussions at the river to foster cultural restoration. Reflecting on the dam’s impact, Abbott highlighted the connection between the decline in fish population and the diminishing cultural ties to the river. Storytelling sessions at the river, also known as Skutik, aim to strengthen people’s sense of belonging and connection to the revitalized natural environment.
Local resident Peter Brown, who participated in a storytelling session, reminisced about his experiences paddling on the river during the summer. While some individuals expressed concerns about losing a piece of heritage with the dam’s removal, Abbott emphasized the importance of reconnecting with the river’s natural state and promoting a continued love and protection for this vital waterway.