Since 1953, the Miramichi Salmon Association (MSA) has worked toward the preservation and enhancement of Atlantic salmon on the Miramichi River. With strength in numbers, the MSA continues to build its membership to support our conservation efforts. We encourage you, if not already a member, to please join us.

Vol. 68 March 2024

Dear MSA Members and Supporters,

As we await the arrival of spring and the opening of the fishing season, I find myself reflecting on the days spent by the river, tying flies in anticipation of those serene moments on the water. The season is upon us, and it cannot come soon enough.

The past few months have been eventful for the MSA, marked by transitions and progress. Following a six-month tenure as interim president of MSA, I am honoured to announce that the Board of Directors has elected to appoint me permanently to this role. It is a privilege to contribute meaningfully to salmon conservation in the Miramichi, following in the footsteps of distinguished leaders such as Jack Fenety, Bud Bird and Mark Hambrook.

As many of you are aware, our Administrative Assistant and Communications Coordinator, Vanessa McLaughlin, has transitioned from MSA. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Vanessa for her outstanding contributions and wish her success in her future endeavors. We are pleased to welcome Tehillah Porter as her successor, who brings talent and warmth to our team. Additionally, we have onboarded Jeff Russell on a part-time basis as our Program and Development Coordinator. To Tehillah and Jeff, we extend a warm welcome and look forward to collaborating with you.

In January, MSA engaged in discussions with DFO representatives regarding recommendations on Atlantic salmon and striped bass regulations. We await DFO's consideration of our proposals, particularly concerning the burgeoning striped bass population in the Miramichi estuary. March will witness further dialogue with DFO, advocating for salmon conservation and the enhanced utilization of the Miramichi Salmon Conservation Centre.

Spring heralds a flurry of MSA events, including the 27th Annual IceBreaker Dinner and the MSA Annual General Meeting on May 4th at the NB Woodman’s Museum and the Rural Community of Upper Miramichi facility, respectively. Additionally, we are delighted to announce the return of the MSA Moncton event on May 23rd at the Canvas Hotel. Tickets for these events will soon be available on the MSA website. Furthermore, we eagerly anticipate our participation in the Moncton Sportsman Show during the weekend of March 22nd, fostering engagement with our community.

Lastly, we extend congratulations to Alex Morgan, recipient of this year's Jack Fenety scholarship. Alex, a Master’s student under the supervision of Antóin O’Sullivan, explores hyperspectral imaging for fish identification. To learn more about Alex’s groundbreaking work, please refer to the section below.

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to our shared mission of conservation and preservation.

William "Butch" Dalton

MSA President

Get ready to celebrate in style with Mavis O'Donnell and friends at the 27th MSA IceBreaker dinner, happening on May 4th at the NB Woodsman's Museum! This year, we're thrilled to recognize the remarkable Alden MacKay from Porter Cove, NB, whose vibrant spirit and talent lit up the Miramichi River community. Alden was more than a songwriter; he was a storyteller extraordinaire and a master river guide, enchanting all with his tales and expertise. From the infectious tunes like "Fiddleheads and Gaspereau" to the timeless charm of "You Should Have Been Here Last Week," Alden's songs embody the heart and soul of our region. In 2008, his legendary status was solidified with induction into the Atlantic Salmon Museum Hall of Fame. Join us as we raise our glasses high and toast to Alden's indelible mark on our cultural tapestry, ensuring his legacy lives on with every melody and memory shared among friends old and new. It's a night not to be missed!



We are pleased to announce the upcoming Annual General Meeting of the Miramichi Salmon Association. The meeting will be held at the UMRC building on May 4th starting at approximately 12:30 pm.

A light lunch will be provided for all attendees. We encourage everyone to participate, as we have several important MSA issues to discuss. Your presence and input are invaluable as we chart the course for the association's future endeavors.

Please mark your calendars and make every effort to attend. Your involvement is crucial to the success and vitality of the MSA.

Join us for an fun evening at the MSA Moncton Mixer, hosted at the Canvas Hotel at 55 Queen St, Moncton, NB on May 23rd! We're excited to celebrate and honour the 25th anniversary of the Dieppe Fly Tying Club, a milestone that speaks volumes about their dedication and passion for the art of fly tying. The event kicks off at 5:30 pm and promises an array of delights, including a silent auction and an exciting raffle that will keep the energy high throughout the night. Attendees will hear an update from MSA President Butch Dalton, offering insights into the association's latest initiatives and achievements. Guests will be treated to a sumptuous smoked salmon reception and a selection of mouthwatering appetizers, creating the perfect backdrop for mingling, networking, and forging new connections within the angling community. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of an evening filled with camaraderie, celebration, and shared passion for Atlantic salmon. Tickets will be available in the coming weeks via the MSA website or at the Moncton Sportsman show.

The Miramichi Salmon Association (MSA) is delighted to extend a warm welcome to Tehillah Porter, our newest team member! Tehillah brings a wealth of organization and warmth to our dynamic group, enhancing the collaborative spirit that defines our organization. In her brief tenure with us, Tehillah has already demonstrated her knack for efficiency and her genuine friendliness, making her an invaluable asset to our team. As she continues to settle into her role, we anticipate the contributions she will undoubtedly bring to the table. With Tehillah's positive attitude and dedication, we are confident that she will play an integral part in advancing the MSA's mission and goals. Welcome aboard, Tehillah – we're thrilled to have you with us!

The MSA invites student applications for the upcoming 2024 summer field season! This presents a fantastic chance to acquire practical knowledge in the fields of biological or environmental sciences. Selected candidates will engage in various field programs and conservation initiatives at the Miramichi Salmon Conservation Centre, under the guidance of our biologist and hatchery team. Further information on this job opportunity and application procedures can be found below. The extended deadline for student summer job applications is March 8th.

We are excited to announce the newest addition to the Miramichi Salmon Association team, Jeff Russell, who joins us as the Program and Development Coordinator. With a passion for Atlantic salmon and community engagement, Jeff brings a wealth of experience to our organization. His role will be instrumental in spearheading impactful fundraising programs and fostering strategic development initiatives aimed at preserving the rich heritage of the Miramichi River and its salmon population. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Jeff as we embark on our shared mission of safeguarding this treasured natural resource for generations to come.

The MSA congratulates Alex Morgan as the recipient of the 2024 Jack T. H. Fenety Scholarship. Alex, an MSc student at UNB, focuses his research on using hyperspectral imaging for fish identification. His dedication and academic achievements are commendable, and his work promises significant contributions to fisheries science. The MSA applauds Alex's success and eagerly anticipates the impact of his research in advancing scientific understanding and conservation efforts.

In this photo, from left to right, MSA President Butch Dalton, Jack T. Fenety Scholarship recipient for 2024 Alex Morgan, and MSA Chair, Joe Palmer.

Join us at the Moncton Boat and Sportsmen Show from March 22nd to 24th as we celebrate the spirit of outdoor adventure and conservation. The Miramichi Salmon Association is thrilled to be part of this engaging event, where enthusiasts gather to explore the latest in boating, fishing, and outdoor gear. Visit our booth to learn more about our efforts in salmon conservation, upcoming events, and how you can get involved in safeguarding the natural beauty of the Miramichi River. See you there!

MSA Annual General Meeting

May 4th



27th Annual IceBreaker Dinner

May 4th

MSA Moncton Event

May 23rd

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Miramichi Salmon Association

485 Route 420

South Esk NB E1V 4L9

506-622-4000

admin@miramichisalmon.ca

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