State of the River 2004-2005

Upper Restigouche River (New Brunswick)
“where the salmon reigns”
Designated 1998

The implementation and co-ordination of the management plan for the Upper Restigouche River, which was formally declared a Canadian Heritage River in 1998, continued under the direction of the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources in co-operation with a variety of stakeholders.

A stakeholder committee, called the Restigouche River Watershed Management Council, provides a unified voice for Salmon clubs; camp owners; persons interested in the management of salmon; groups providing/protecting recreation/fishing; First Nations; and the NB Conservation Council. Already scientific studies on the river have gained a more organized and effective approach resulting in greater sharing of information and the reduction of duplication of effort. Discussions continue leading towards the involvement of the Council.in the operation of the Restigouche River recreation maintenance program

Progress was made on public information and education goals including wise use ethics and promotions of the "Carry In -Carry Out" program, development and maintenance of campsites and access sites, voluntary registration of recreational canoeists and the removal of litter to approved landfills.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police co-ordinated their enforcement initiative which emphasizes safe and responsible boating and the phased introduction of new boating regulations of the Canadian Coast Guard.

The New Brunswick Chapter of the International Appalachian Trail continued the development and maintenance of the trail which offers outstanding views of the Restigouche River in several locations. The trail is a co-operative project of volunteers from Quebec, New Brunswick and Maine. The 1,000 km trail provides a link to the Appalachian Trail in the USA.

The natural and cultural heritage values and recreation values for which the Upper Restigouche River was designated a Canadian Heritage River have been maintained through the implementation of the management plan under direction and co-ordination of the Department of Natural Resources.

For more information, contact Eric Hadley (eric.hadley@gnb.ca)