Characterization and protection of thermal refuges drainage area on Matapédia River

The GMRC will continue knowledge building about thermal refuges of Matapédia River. With its thermal refuges database and various geomatic tools, the GMRC will identify thermal refuges of interest for Atlantic salmon. Mapping of drainage areas of thermal refuges will enable the GMRC to identify the refuge water catchment area and identify its weaknesses. By educating and engaging riverfront owners, the GMRC will work towards the conservation of these essential habitats and the increase of the resilience of in-stream Atlantic salmon habitat quality in response to climate change. The conservation of an optimal habitat for Atlantic salmon sustainable stocks in Matapédia River is closely linked to freshwater temperature regimes. In addition, this project will help initiate new approaches for soil inventory and uses, with private owners and the forest industry, to protect thermal refuges. The GMRC will contact the regional biologist of the Department of Forests, Wildlife and Parks to ensure that the data building protocol is adequate and that it meets the department requirements.

Contact: Carole-Anne Gillis, 418-788-3017          , cgillis@gmrc.ca