THE SCIENCE

STRIPED BASS POPULATION GROWTH

Striped bass numbers have surged beyond what the river can naturally support.

Summary:
 Striped bass are a natural part of the Miramichi River, but their population has increased far beyond historical levels. This rapid growth has created new pressure within the ecosystem.

Key Points:

  • Striped bass numbers have risen significantly over the past decade
  • Spawning populations are now well above sustainable levels
  • The species has expanded throughout more areas of the river system
  • Current population levels are higher than what the ecosystem historically supported

Atlantic salmon are disappearing from the Miramichi at an alarming rate.

Summary:
 Atlantic salmon in the Miramichi River are in decline. Fewer fish are surviving to adulthood and returning to spawn, making population recovery increasingly difficult.

Key Points:

  • Salmon populations are now at critically low levels
  • Fewer adult salmon are returning from the ocean each year
  • Juvenile survival rates have dropped significantly
  • Without intervention, long-term recovery is uncertain

Many young salmon aren’t making it out of the river.

Summary:
 One of the biggest challenges facing Atlantic salmon is predation during their early life stages. Juvenile salmon are especially vulnerable as they migrate downriver.

Key Points:

  • Striped bass feed on juvenile salmon during river migration
  • High predator populations increase the likelihood of predation
  • Large numbers of juveniles are being lost before reaching the ocean
  • Lower survival rates mean fewer adult salmon return to spawn

When one species dominates, the entire ecosystem suffers.

Summary:
 A healthy river depends on balance between predator and prey species. When one population grows too large, it can disrupt the entire ecosystem.

Key Points:

  • Ecosystems rely on natural balance to function properly
  • Overpopulation of a predator species affects multiple species
  • Scientific research supports maintaining sustainable population levels
  • Balance allows species like salmon, shad, and gaspereau to coexist

The river once supported both species—when balance existed.

Summary:
 Historical data shows that the Miramichi River once supported both strong Atlantic salmon and striped bass populations—when those populations were in balance.

Key Points:

  • Past population levels allowed multiple species to thrive
  • Current striped bass levels exceed historical norms
  • Salmon populations have declined as ecosystem pressures increased
  • Returning to balanced population levels can support recovery

Research shows there is a level where all species can thrive.

Summary:
 Research indicates that maintaining striped bass at a sustainable level is key to restoring balance in the river.

Key Points:

  • Scientific findings support a target of approximately 100,000 spawning striped bass
  • This level allows for a healthy bass population while reducing pressure on salmon
  • Balanced population targets benefit multiple species—not just one
  • The goal is coexistence, not elimination

This problem is solvable—with the right actions.

Summary:
 The research shows that recovery is possible—but it requires action based on evidence and long-term thinking.

Key Points:

  • Science-based management can restore ecosystem balance
  • Monitoring and adjusting population levels is critical
  • Protecting juvenile salmon is key to rebuilding the population
  • Public awareness and support play an important role in driving change

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