UMaine Machias, Downeast Salmon Federation formalize partnership

Courtesy / University of Maine at Machias The University of Maine at Machias and the Downeast Salmon Federation have formalized a partnership to strengthen regional aquatic conservation efforts.

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By Staff

The University of Maine at Machias and the Downeast Salmon Federation have formalized the partnership that pairs the school's resources with the federation's fishery-related projects, hatchery and under-construction East Machias laboratory.

A memorandum of understanding was signed Wednesday that "recognizes that both organizations have a mutual interest in aquatic research, habitat restoration, diadromous fish recovery, boosting fisheries-related economic activity and environmental sustainability," a news release from both organizations said.

“Partnering with DSF both broadens and strengthens the STEM programs that the university can offer students,” said Daniel Qualls, head of campus at UMM, in the release. “We can get our students out in the field doing real science.”

DSF raises endanged Atlantic salmon in its conservation hatchery, as well as other work to restore Atlantic salmon. The Aquaculture Research Institute at UMM brings together faculty, scientists, and others to explore innovation in the field, and the college also offers a marine biology major.

The first joint project between the two organizations is a water quality experiment on a tributary of the East Machias River. The federation is putting 12 tons of clamshells — a source of calcium — into the waterway to counteract the acidity caused by acid rain. High acidity hinders the growth of fish, most critically, the endangered Atlantic salmon. UMM students are helping carry the clamshells and collect data.

The agreement "will make a tremendous difference to the community,” said Dwayne Shaw, DSF executive director. “The students learn about the aquatic environment, DSF can do more restoration work with their help, the university has more to offer prospective students helping ensure its continued success, and the fisheries recover more quickly bringing jobs and growth into the region. It’s a win-win all around.”

A signing event was held Wednesday at DSF’s hatchery and laboratory in East Machias. Attending were Joan Ferrini-Mundy, the president of the University of Maine; Qualls; state and municipal officials; staff from Maine’s congressional delegation; and faculty members from the UMM Science Department.