Advancing the science of diadromous fish restoration

Institutions: University of Maine, University of Southern Maine
Sponsor: National Science Foundation

The goal of the Diadromous Species Restoration Research Network (DSRRN) is to advance the science of diadromous fish restoration and promote state-of-the-art scientific approaches to multiple-species restoration through workshops, conferences, web sharing, and journal publications.

Diadromous (migratory) fish are experiencing a ‘rebirth’ of late. Researchers, managers, and communities are recognizing that restoring migratory fish can benefit the health of entire river ecosystems. However, in many regions, including the Penobscot River and the Gulf of Maine, diadromous species restoration is occurring in a scattered and uncoordinated fashion.

DSRRN integrates these diverse activities in ways that improve understanding of ecosystems and enhance restoration outcomes. Diadromous fish, such as Atlantic salmon, present unique management and conservation challenges as they move between local habitats, lakes, rivers and regional/international waters during their lives. DSRRN facilitates the study of questions fundamental to diadromous fish ecology and restoration through scientific meetings, workshops and local networking. DSRRN enhances coordination of diadromous species restoration efforts by academic, government, and watershed stakeholders in the Penobscot River by providing administrative structure, and by supporting information management and outreach. The strength of DSRRN is in its integration with the Penobscot River Restoration Project in Maine, the most ambitious restoration effort ever proposed for a watershed of this size.

This project is significant because of its magnitude, its collaborative nature, and its very real potential to restore a diverse community of fishes that have important commercial and recreational value. The knowledge gained from DSRRN’s efforts will guide future restorations of these valuable natural resources.

DSRRN Contact

Karen Wilson, University of Southern Maine