Can the Atlantic Salmon Restoration Program Safely Re-Integrate Atlantic Salmon to Lake Ontario?

Abstract

Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) are an economically valuable species and have inhabited the lakes and rivers of Eastern Canada since the last post-glacial period. However, since the end of the 19th century, Atlantic salmon populations have collapsed in Lake Ontario due to land clearance and dam and mill construction. In 2006, the Atlantic Salmon Reintroduction Program (ASRP) was established in Lake Ontario in an effort to recreate a self-sustaining salmon population. The ASRP aims to rebuild the Lake Ontario Atlantic salmon population by stocking fish from genetically diverse broodstock, restoring Atlantic salmon habitat and monitoring water quality. The ASRP also includes a public education component to emphasize the importance of maintaining the Atlantic salmon population. However, re- introduction programs like the ASRP can be challenged by interspecific competition. Chinook salmon are known to induce male agonistic behavior in Atlantic salmon. In addition, Atlantic salmon juveniles are out-competed by Rainbow trout. Furthermore, the prospective diet of Atlantic salmon in Lake Ontario is thiamin-deficient, which may lead to neurological, developmental and reproductive problems as well as Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS). We will conduct research in partnership with Bring Back the Salmon Lake Ontario, Atlantic Salmon Conservation Fund and the Atlantic Salmon Federation to investigate the potential threats to both Atlantic salmon and existing species that may result from the ASRP for Lake Ontario. Findings will be presented as well as recommendations for alterations to the program to ensure that the ASRP is a safe and successful endeavor.