Volunteer profile – Fernand Savoie

Meet Fernand Savoie, a member of our New Brunswick Advisory Committee.

Savoie has lived in the Moncton area all of his life; he graduating from the Université de Moncton in 1987 with a Bachelor degree in biology. For the past 28 years Savoie has been working for DFO.

“I originally started my career in a lobster research group and now work as a biologist in the Fisheries Protection Program,” he said. “The goal of the program is to provide for the sustainability and ongoing productivity of commercial, recreational and Aboriginal fisheries. My primary responsibility within the program is working in guideline development and partnerships.  This means working with provincial governments, industry, and NGOs in applying the fisheries protection provisions of the Fisheries Act.”

Savoie first became involved with the ASCF in 2011. He said he initially became involved as it was part of his job and was asked by the ASCF to review projects submitted for funding. 

“But once I got involved I realized that my role as a fisheries protection biologist for DFO was a good match with the mission of the foundation that is to promote enhanced community partnerships in the conservation of wild Atlantic salmon and its habitat. The committee reviews project proposals. By participating in the review of projects in New Brunswick I have been able to integrate my work objectives and goals as they are complimentary to those of the foundation.”

As a biologist with DFO, Savoie reviews and evaluates a large number of habitat restoration projects. He said he stays involved with ASCF because he believes the organization is doing a good job in funding good projects that improve the state of the environment and aquatic habitat. 

“I also like the process that is used to prioritize the projects that are submitted for funding. The NB team is comprised of individuals from different backgrounds and experiences in the field of conservation. We then have the opportunity to share these experience to fund the best projects possible. These round tables are my favorite part. Opinions and views are shared respectfully among the team and the proof is in the quality of work that is being done by the different groups in New Brunswick.”

Savoie encourages others to get involved. 

“The ASCF does good work in supporting salmon habitat restoration projects in New Brunswick and across Atlantic Canada.  There are many groups across the province that are working hard and always need extra hands, so there are opportunities out there to help if only for a few hours or a day.”

Volunteers are crucial to the work ASCF does, and each month we will introduce you to one of our stellar volunteers to say thank you for all the work they do in Atlantic salmon conservation.