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Year End Report

The invasive golden star tunicate growing on eelgrass.

M A M K A

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Executive Summary This report presents the activities and

outcomes of the Mi’kmaw Alsumk

Mowimsikik Koqoey Association (MAMKA)

for the period from April 2014-March 2015.

MAMKA was created in 2005 by a joint

partnership between the Federation of

Newfoundland Indians (FNI) and the

Miawpukek First Nation (MFN). MAMKA

was formed under the protocols of the

Aboriginal Aquatic Resource & Oceans

Management (AAROM) Program. In 2012

the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation succeeded

the FNI as the associate member of

MAMKA.

The Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation and

Miawpukek First Nation are both

represented by MAMKA in a variety of

marine and ocean stewardship matters.

MAMKA has been active for over ten years

and is widely known within our Aboriginal

Communities. MAMKA is also recognized

externally due to its Aboriginal involvement

and representation in various marine

matters that have and impact on our

communities and their waters. MAMKA

participates with our First Nation

Communities to ensure their involvement

and advice in the decision making process

used for aquatic resources and oceans

management.

A quick summary of the activities

undertaken by MAMKA in the past year is as

follows:

Continued branding and communicating of

MAMKA’s role and mandate;

Advancement of staff skills and capacity

development through a “Team Building”

course provided by MUN’s Gardiner Center.

Engaging Aboriginal youth through a

presentation on the American Eel at St.

Anne’s School in Conne River;

MAMKA continued to represent Mi’kmaq

interest in the Coast of Bays sub-committee

on Placentia Bay/Grand Banks Large Ocean

Management Areas;

Continued to research and gather ATK with

respect to important aquatic species

including American eel and salmon.

Economic activity and revenue generation

in the commercial fishery which returned

revenues for re-investment back into the

fishery and MAMKA’s marine project

activity;

MAMKA continued to represent the

Mi’kmaq of Newfoundland and Labrador in

several key stakeholder processes including,

the Atlantic Salmon Federation, COSEWIC,

Atlantic Large Pelagic Advisory Committee,

ACAP Humber Arm, NL AIS Subcommittee,

etc.

We at MAMKA look forward to continuing

our participation with the Mi’kmaw

community and our involvement in aquatic

resources and oceans management issues.

Table of Contents Executive Summary 2

I. MAMKA Background and Mandate 3

II. Problems Identified 4

III. MAMKA Solutions and/or action items 5

IV. Deliverables and Outcomes 6

V. Outcomes/Impact 7

VI. Lessons Learned 10

VII. Funding Renewal and Future Opportunities 10

Our Appreciation 11

MAMKA and (OLP) 12

John Nick Jeddore 12

MAMKA Board Of Directors:

Brendan Sheppard – Co-Chair (Qalipu)

Misel Joe – Co-Chair (MFN)

Calvin Francis – Board Member (Qalipu)

Jessi Martin – Board Member (Qalipu)

Harvey Drew – Board Member (MFN)

Ross Hinks – Board Member (MFN)

MAMKA Staff: Shayne McDonald – Executive Director (MFN)

Annie Randall – Aquatic Policy and Planning Manager (Qalipu)

Joeleen Drake – Aquatic Policy and Planning Manager (MFN)

Karen Tiller - Administrative Assistant (Qalipu)

Sue Benoit - Administrative Assistant (MFN)

Jonathan Strickland - Manager, Aquatic Policy & Planning

(Qalipu)

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I. MAMKA Background and

Mandate The Mi’kmaq Alsumk Mowimsikik Koqoey

Association (MAMKA) was established in

2005 due to the implementation of the

Aboriginal Aquatic Resource and Ocean

Management (AAROM) program by Fisheries

and Oceans Canada (DFO). MAMKA is

actively involved in aquatic resource and

ocean management activities from the local

level up to national levels. Each year MAMKA

further develops and continues to implement

its Capacity Building, Skills Development,

Stewardship and Collaborative Management,

and Economic Development initiatives in

support of its mission statement

The goal of AAROM is to help Aboriginal

groups to participate effectively in advisory

and decision-making processes used for

aquatic resource and oceans management.

The program was developed to respond to a

number of issues that were identified during

discussions on the renewal of the Aboriginal

Fisheries Strategy program:

Aboriginal groups are seeking greater

participation in decision-making

processes used for aquatic resource and

oceans management;

The Department of Fisheries and

Oceans’ (DFO) expanding responsibilities

require engaging with Aboriginal groups

on a broad range of issues, including

oceans management, habitat

management and planning,

environmental assessment and species

at risk; and,

Existing Aboriginal programming is

focused on fisheries management,

limiting the department’s ability to

respond effectively to the evolving

aspirations of Aboriginal people.

Source: Fisheries and Oceans Canada

The main objectives of the AAROM program

are:

to assist Aboriginal groups in acquiring

the administrative capacity and

scientific/technical expertise to facilitate

their participation in aquatic resource

and oceans management;

to encourage the establishment of

collaborative management structures

that contribute to integrated ecosystem/

watershed management and planning

processes;

to enhance existing collaborative

management structures, where

appropriate;

to facilitate sound decision-making in

advisory and other processes related to a

number of areas of DFO responsibility;

to strengthen relationships through

improved information-sharing between

Aboriginal communities, DFO and other

stakeholders and among Aboriginal

communities; and,

to contribute to the federal

government’s broader objective of

improving the quality of life of Aboriginal

people.

Source: Fisheries and Oceans Canada

The roles and responsibilities of the joint

AAROM structure serving Qalipu and the

MFN are :

To provide advice, coordination and

information management assistance to

Qalipu and the MFN in areas of aquatic

management;

To assist member organizations in

building capacity in the area of aquatic

management;

To assist member organizations in

participating in the aquatic management

and advisory process as aforementioned

and to act as a conduit in parlaying the

results of such processes to member

communities;

To assist member organizations in

playing an active role in key areas of

fisheries management;

To facilitate greater aboriginal

participation in multilateral decision-

making and advisory processes that

involve fishers, scientists, industry

representatives, conservation groups,

DFO officials, and other government

departments;

To assist in strengthening and

complementing the existing relationship

between member organizations and DFO

To communicate via various media

outlets the activity and undertakings of

member organizations in the area of

aquatic management;

To indirectly assist in the broader

government and member organizations’

objective of improving the socio-

economic situation of aboriginal

peoples;

To provide technical and advisory

assistance where possible to member

organizations in the planning,

development, and implementation of

aquatic management projects and

undertakings; and,

To raise the awareness of aquatic

resource management issues and

concerns with the Aboriginal youth

through youth initiatives, which serves

to better inform the youth and to

encourage their participation and input.

Our mission is to represent

the Mi'kmaq people and

communities of the Qalipu

Mi’kmaq First Nation and

the Miawpukek First Nation

in aquatic resource and

oceans management issues.

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II. Problems Identified

MAMKA has identified numerous key problems or issues affecting the Mi’kmaq community of Newfoundland regarding marine resource

and ocean management initiatives of government and industry:

Species At Risk and Stock Status

There has been a general decline in most species traditionally utilized by Newfoundland Mi’kmaq for socio-economic, food and ceremonial purposes:

The mighty plamu (i.e Atlantic Salmon/Grilse) on the Conne River show no sign of recovery.

Little River experiences a marginal return despite continued enhancement efforts of the aboriginal community on the river system

Lack of suitable habitat due to past logging efforts that altered river systems on the West Coast such as Jack Burke’s brook

the American eel faces being listed as threatened

Invasive species such as green crab and tunicates appearing in waters adjacent to Newfoundland's aboriginal communities in the Bay St. George area and Fortune Bay area.

Socio-economic & Socio-cultural exclusion

Financial and cultural exclusion has prevented the Aboriginal community from fully participating in aquaculture resource management:

Continued denial of Newfoundland Mi’kmaq treaty rights and benefits under the Marshal Decision;

Lack of Scientific and Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge (ATK);

Many DFO management efforts continue to proceed with consideration of Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge;

industry developments continue to proceed with consideration of impact on the Aboriginal community (i.e. aquaculture expansion in Bay d’Espoir);

lack of capacity and funding for Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge undertakings;

little to no interest from a provincial standpoint on aboriginal issues regarding Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge

Species At Risk and Stock Status

There has been a general decline in most species traditionally utilized by Newfoundland Mi’kmaq for socio-economic, food and ceremonial purposes:

The mighty plamu (i.e Atlantic Salmon/Grilse) on the Conne River show no sign of recovery.

Little River experiences a marginal return despite continued enhancement efforts of the aboriginal community on the river system

Lack of suitable habitat due to past logging efforts that altered river systems on the West Coast such as Jack Burke’s brook

the American eel faces being listed as threatened

Invasive species such as green crab and tunicates appearing in waters adjacent to Newfoundland's aboriginal communities in the Bay St. George area and Fortune Bay area.

Socio-economic & Socio-cultural exclusion

Financial and cultural exclusion has prevented the Aboriginal community from fully participating in aquaculture resource management:

Continued denial of Newfoundland Mi’kmaq treaty rights and benefits under the Marshal Decision;

Lack of Scientific and Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge (ATK);

Many DFO management efforts continue to proceed with consideration of Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge;

industry developments continue to proceed with consideration of impact on the Aboriginal community (i.e. aquaculture expansion in Bay d’Espoir);

lack of capacity and funding for Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge undertakings;

little to no interest from a provincial standpoint on aboriginal issues regarding Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge

Diminished Significance

MAMKA is helping to improve the youth’s knowledge of traditional use of traditional customs and practices by immersing them in hands on demonstrations and activities. As a whole, the socio-cultural importance and responsibility for the marine environment to Newfoundland’s Mi’kmaq is threatened as today’s youth have little knowledge or use of traditional customs and practices pertaining to the ocean, lakes and rivers in part due to lack of species supply/stock status and external social influences further threatening the survival of the Newfoundland Mi’kmaq traditional and cultural value system.

Inclusion

In Newfoundland and Labrador, commercial fishing has historically been a staple in outport communities. Both Federal and Provincial Governments have been more prone to engage with these fishers in the past. The Mi’kmaq’s use of marine resources for food, cultural and ceremonial purposes has been overlooked and underrepresented. The Aboriginal community has often expressed its concern over misuse and environmental issues regarding these resources but have been largely ignored.

MAMKA represents both Mi’kmaq First Nations in Newfoundland and its involvement and visibility over the past ten years has created a brand that is recognized as a capable organization that has allowed the Aboriginal community to become involved in various ocean management and stewardship matters with regards to the care of our marine resources.

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III. MAMKA Solutions and/or Action Items

In 2014-2015 MAMKA continued with many activities that have been started in years past. MAMKA is an active member of several evolving projects including Species at Risk, Regional stewardship Boards (i.e. ACAP-Humber Arm Environmental Association and Atlantic Salmon Federation) have to become a leading advocate and authority in various Newfoundland project developments (killifish, eel elver and bioremediation). MAMKA has a mandate that commits it to working diligently to ensure Mi’kmaq inclusion in all aspects of Ocean/Aquatic/Marine Resource Management over the long term. This year, MAMKA has continued to work in the areas of scientific research, education, preservation, protection, promotion, and management of the aquatic environment in a socially responsible, sustainable and accountable manner. This serves to ensure ongoing Aboriginal participation in the Newfoundland Region.

MAMKA’s funding in 2014/15 was continued once again due to its effective demonstration of capacity, administrative credibility, and organizational accountability in the conduct of day to day operations and ongoing project developments. MAMKA’s presence through the establishment of new strategic alliances/partnerships, as well as with existing partners and with various government departments (i.e. Parks Canada, Health Canada, Environment Canada, DFO) and industry outside of the immediate realm of the Newfoundland’s Mi’kmaw community are a testament to its commitment to making a positive difference.

MAMKA’s partnerships with COSIWIC, Parks Canada, DFO and others continues to grow from local and provincial to regional and national levels. MAMKA’s association with the Aboriginal community not only benefits those groups, but also helps MAMKA’s partners understand traditional methods of identifying habitats, assessing those habitats and ways to help restore and improve those habitats

The Mi’kmaq people share, cooperate, assist and improve on processes for the benefit of all people. The guiding principle of the Mi’kmaq, which MAMKA strives to achieve, is known as Netukulimk. Netukulimk is the ability to use the bounty provided by the Creator to maintain health and wellness and to be able to achieve a standard of well-being while ensuring that no harm comes to the environment. The marine resources in Newfoundland have always been abundant, however, in recent times they have become threatened. MAMKA was developed based on the principle of Netukulimk and continues to work with the Miawpukek First Nation and Qalipu First Nation to move forward on issues of social, economic and cultural development for future generations of Newfoundland Mi’kmaw.

Mi'kmaq Alsumk Mowimsikik Koqoey is a

Mi'kmaq variation of Mi'kmaq Aquatic Resource

and Oceans Management. We can also be

referred to as MAMKA.

MAMKA

Habitat Degradation

Habitat loss poses the greatest threat to species. The world's forests, swamps, plains, lakes, and other habitats continue to disappear as they are harvested for human consumption and cleared to make way for agriculture, housing, roads, pipelines and the other hallmarks of industrial development. Without a strong plan to create terrestrial and marine protected areas important ecological habitats will continue to be lost.

Source: WWF

Forestation of areas adjacent to critical spawning habitat in numerous rivers across the entire province;

Insufficient documentation or scientific research pertaining to long term impact of past human activity on lakes, rivers and marine habitat (i.e. Bay d’Espoir Hydro Development, Harry’s River tributaries (Jack Burke’s Brook South East Brook) and past forestation efforts/dams, pollutants etc...Jack Burke’s Brook (tributary of Harry’s River);

The growing presence of Aquaculture growout sites in areas deemed to be of critical importance to Atlantic salmon smolt and kelt rejuvenation and competition amongst users potentially impacting traditional use and harvest areas;

Improper decommissioning of provincial roads and or upkeep of forest access roads (I.e. old Conne River access road was improperly decommissioned leading to MAMKA

efforts to evaluate potential habitat threats and subsequent cleanup, Little River access road, Flat Bay Brook access road, North West Gander access road, etc) and provincial highways have destroyed and/or obstructed and/or altered once critical habitat for salmon and trout that Mi’kmaq communities once depended upon for survival).

Aquaculture development and expansion continues to gain momentum in the Coast of Bays Area which includes Bay d’Espoir. Marine debris such as cages and cage parts, rope, netting, etc. is a major contributor to the amount of refuse found on previously pristine beaches. The potential impact of this debris on waterfowl and other wildlife is significant.

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IV. Deliverables and Outcomes

MAMKA will represent the Aboriginal

Organization and First Nation member

communities on federal and provincial

advisory processes pertaining to commercial

fisheries, watershed and stewardship

management, and environmental issues.

During the 2014-2015 period, MAMKA

continued its involvement with various

stakeholder engagements. The following

elaborates more on the key stakeholder

processes and the specific outcomes.

Newfoundland and Labrador Aquatic

Invasive Species Advisory Committee

The Newfoundland and Labrador Aquatic

Invasive Species Advisory Committee (NL AIS

Committee) was organized in 2007 in

response to the increasing interest and

developing issues related to marine aquatic

invasive species found in NL. The role of the

NL AIS Committee is to provide a forum for

discussions on research, monitoring,

outreach and communication between the

various organizations and stakeholders. The

NL AIS Committee has organized and hosted

several International AIS workshops in

Newfoundland. MAMKA has maintained its

engagement in 2014-2015 and hopes to

increase its involvement with this committee

as well as other AIS stakeholders in the

region during 2015-2016.

Various Fisheries Advisory Councils

DFO has a number of fisheries advisory

councils which exist for almost all commercial

species. The goals of the Fisheries Advisory

Council (FAC) are to:

Improve communication between the

public and Science Divisions of DFO;

Delineate issues and problems that

affect all users of marine fishery

resources;

Advise DFO in developing solutions to

problems and approaches to issues; and,

Advocate for fish and fisheries issues.

Members of the Fisheries Advisory Council

represent various stakeholders including

harvesters, DFO, Aboriginal groups, and

other individuals. MAMKA for 2014-2015 has

been involved in a number of FACs including

the following:

Eel Fishery Advisory Council

Ground Fishery Advisory Council

Lobster Advisory Council

Large pelagic Advisory Council

Shellfish Advisory Council

Crab Fishery Advisory Council

The above noted advisory councils allow

MAMKA to have meaningful input and

participate in management decisions

affecting important species to the Aboriginal

community.

ACAP Humber Arm

The Atlantic Coastal Action Program (ACAP)

Humber Arm is an environmental

organization funded by Environment Canada

to promote stewardship activities and to

research various aquatic and marine issues

found in the Humber Arm and greater Bay of

Islands area. In the past MAMKA has

partnered with ACAP Humber Arm to

conduct stewardship and research initiatives

related to American lobster harvest

sustainability, and youth education and

awareness in aquatic and marine resource

issues. Currently MAMKA has a member on

the ACAP Humber Arm Board of Directors.

Committee on the Status of

Endangered Wildlife in Canada -

Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge

Subcommittee

The role of the Committee on the Status of

Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC)

Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge

Subcommittee (ATK-SC) is to review the use

of ATK within COSEWIC species status

reports, develop ATK source/assessment/

gathering reports for key species, and

provide guidance on the use of ATK for

species conservation and recovery. MAMKA/

Qalipu has a member on the COSEWIC ATK-

SC for a 3 year term.

Atlantic Aboriginal Protection of

Species Committee

The role of the Atlantic Aboriginal Protection

of Species Committee (AAPSC) is to allow the

Aboriginal Aquatic Resource and Oceans

Management (AAROM) groups and

Aboriginal people of Atlantic Canada a forum

to discuss species at risk issues and concerns.

Atlantic Salmon Federation

The Atlantic Salmon Federation (ASF) is

dedicated to the conservation, protection,

and restoration of wild Atlantic salmon and

the ecosystems on which their well being and

survival depend. ASF has worked with other

conservation organizations and governments

to implement some life-saving measures and

programs for wild Atlantic salmon and the

rivers they inhabit.

Laurentian Channel Area of Interest

Advisory Committee

This Committee serves as the primary

consultation mechanism for moving forward

the Area of Interest (AOI) development and

potential Marine Protected Area designation

under the Oceans Act. The objective of this

committee will be to advise members on the

current conservation objectives, boundary

delineation and associated management

measures for the proposed Marine Protected

Area (MPA) as well as discuss next steps in

the regulatory process. MAMKA’s

participation through board member Ross

Hinks ensures that aboriginal stakeholders

have input in this important process.

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V. Outcomes/impact:

MAMKA’s participation in the aforementioned stakeholder processes ensures that Aboriginal concern, input and recommendations are considered in a variety of areas involving the marine environment and marine species of concern to the Aboriginal community.

For example, through continued participation with the Atlantic Salmon Federation (ASF), MAMKA is part of an organization that is very influential with respect to management and conservation measures affecting Newfoundland’s Atlantic salmon. With this participation brings better communications and support from the ASF regarding MAMKA’s salmon enhancement activities at Conne River and Little River.

MAMKA continues harvesting on its two core

commercial fishing licenses for fishing area 3PS and four commercial fishing licenses for fishing area 4R. MAMKA has collaborated with the commercial fishing operations of

each of its member organizations for the management of the commercial fishing licenses. This approach reduces the need for MAMKA to duplicate commercial fisheries

management staff and capacity and adds value and stability to member organizations commercial fishing operations through the revenue sharing arrangement.

MAMKA will report on all Economic Development opportunities and investments undertaken in the AAROM program

Purpose: The purpose of MAMKA’s Economic Opportunity-Commercial Fishing is to create employment opportunities for Aboriginal members, build harvest capacity, and to generate revenue for MAMKA. MAMKA’s commercial fishing effort in 2014-2015 generated $16,365.00 in 3PS and $10,200 in 4R.

Results: For 2014-2015 and the reporting period the MAMKA licenses were directed at the following species:

MAMKA will report on the training and professional development, and the associated results taken with staff.

Purpose: To increase the skills and capacity of MAMKA staff in managing and delivering MAMKA goals and objectives.

Results: In 2014-2015 MAMKA continued its staff development and board member development by gaining additional training in strategic planning. Tammy A. Drew, CGA and General Manager of the Miawpukek First Nation facilitated a Strategic Planning Training session in March 2015 which sought to increase board and staff skills in strategic planning. As well, the session and lesson plan focused on MAMKA and the training resulted in a first draft of a new MAMKA strategic plan which will direct MAMKA’s strategic plan on a go forward basis. MAMKA will report on all stewardship and collaborative management projects and associated results undertaken including stakeholder engagement processes, youth engagement activities and workshops and all species specific projects outlined in the work plan.

Little River and Conne River Salmon Enhancement Activities

Purpose: To manage, protect, and enhance the Atlantic salmon population in Little River and Conne River.

Results: The MAMKA salmon conservation efforts in 2014-2015 entailed the monitoring and removal of escaped farmed fish from the river systems. MAMKA and MFN Natural Resources cooperated with DFO in removing approximately 33 farmed salmon from Little River. This project has evolved into a more comprehensive project in 2014 that resulted in MAMKA and DFO cooperating to monitor the movement of radio tagged released salmon in the Fortune Bay Area. The project was entitled “Wild Atlantic Salmon-Farmed Salmon Interaction” and was funded by AFSAR and MAMKA. The major results of MAMKA participating in this project were:

1. Allowed aboriginal community and stakeholder input into study;

2. Resulted in MAMKA and aboriginal technicians doing manual tracking to determine movements of farmed salmon with specific emphasis on the area adjacent to Miawpukek reserve (Bay d’Espoir area).

3. Resulted in aboriginal skills development and capacity building via the use of radio receivers and the manual tracking of

radio tagged farmed salmon.

4. Resulted in a finding/determination that given the release of farmed salmon some distance from Bay D’Espoir in Fortune Bay the migration to Bay D'Espoir have not taken place. However, Farmed salmon have disbursed in the Fortune Bay area in vicinity of the cages area where they were released.

Youth Engagement

As a part of its youth engagement strategy, MAMKA arranged a field trip for Miawpukek First Nation Youth to attend an Ocean’s Learning Event at Terra Nova National Park. The field trip took place on August 8, 2014 and involved 13 youth ages 10-15. The focus of the field trip was the ecological integrity of the marine environment. National park staff took youth on a marine ecosystem tour and explained the importance and significance of the marine ecosystem. Park staff explained the data collection activity they undertake and the importance of the information collected through this process for decision making and planning.

Objectives:

a) To raise the awareness of aquatic resource management issues and concerns with the Aboriginal youth

Species Fishing Areas Outcomes

Crab 3PS and 4R 94% of 3PS caught, 100% of 4R Caught

Whelk 3PS No directed effort in 2014

Lobster 4R No IQ but fished to capacity

The above noted licenses contributed towards the employment of 15 Aboriginal fishers and created a positive economic impact in the aboriginal community.

M A M K A

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through youth initiatives, which serves to better inform the youth and to encourage their participation and input.

b) To increase aboriginal youth awareness of Aboriginal traditional knowledge with regard to marine species and marine environment. (ex: Marine and Aquatic Ecosystem)

c) To Increase awareness of MAMKA, mandate and activity in the Aboriginal community.

American Eel Study

Purpose: To document American eel migration from headwaters to ocean. All eels captured during the project were measured for total body length and the body colour documented. In 2014, MAMKA-West did not carry out an adult eel study but conducted additional research by documenting body condition of eel within the commercial fishery.

Results South: Over 461 eel samples were documented from the south coast and 584 eel samples were documented from the west coast. On the south coast the average weight of American eel was 731g up from 444g from 2013. The average body length of eel from the south coast was 566mm, which is similar to the average length documented in 2012 (586mm).

Results West and Central: This project involves cooperating with local fish harvesters in Western and Central Newfoundland and recording a number of biological characteristics of the eels captured by the harvester. Work was done through collaborating with local fish harvesters as to satisfy the community engagement portion of our Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy agreement. This opportunistic monitoring was beneficial to Qalipu, local harvesters and the eel population as additional nets were not set in the study areas. This reduced the amount of working hours required to complete the study, competition for catch with local harvesters, and stress on the eel population. Parks Canada employees also took part in monitoring at the western field site.

A total of four sampling events took place in both locations between September 9th 2014 and October 2nd 2014. A total of 176 and 175 eels were caught in central and western specifically. While the total number of eel caught were similar, the ratio of yellow to silver eels between sites was significantly different with only yellow eels being caught in Western and 78 of 176 (44%) being silver in Central. The Central field site also had significantly less abnormalities in eels captured (1 of 176) compared to Western (18 of 175). The Central site also had a growing increase of silver eels being caught as time progressed, shifting the ratio of life stage caught from being weighted from yellow to

silver.

American Eel Elver Recruitment

Purpose: To document the American eel elver recruitment within selected freshwater systems on the West Coast and South Coast of Newfoundland.

Results: The 2014 field season has seen continued success in consistently trapping glass eel and elver. Using micro mesh fyke nets on both sides of the mouth of Harry’s River, MAMKA Technicians were able to keep a consistent catch of glass eel and elver each day. In total, twenty one (21) elver and 0 glass eel were captured in both nets. With the highest daily catch being three individuals in net two. Net one caught a total of 10 elver, while net two caught 11 . No glass eels were captured. A period of four and five days between August 2nd, 2014 and August 6th, 2014 for nets one and two respectively were unsuccessful for data collection. Nets were removed for this time due to policy limiting the number of hours worked per week by staff.

On the South Coast, MAMKA technicians placed a fyke net on the South East Brook and South West Brook which are adjacent to the Miawpukek Reserve. On South West Brook a total of 23 elvers were captured and on South East Brook a total of 21 Elvers were captured. The most elvers captured in a

single day was 4 on South West Brook captured on June 7th, 2014 and July 16th, 2014. The recruitment of elvers on Harry’s River, South East Brook, and South West Brook suggests the relative health of eel stocks in those river systems. However, due to overall catch rate, no confident assumption can be made regarding recruitment rate of glass eels and elvers in each river system. Future elver studies and baseline data for comparison purposes will be beneficial.

Eel Grass Survey

Through the Marine and Aquatic Resource Inventory initiative, MAMKA have moved towards identifying ecologically significant habitats in western and central Newfoundland. Extensive video transects were carried out in Flat Bay, St, George’s Bay, NL in 2012. Although substantial eelgrass beds were recorded, poor image quality prevented accurate analyses of eelgrass abundance.

Purpose: The objective of this study is to: 1) improve methodologies for capturing abundance data on eelgrass meadows and 2) to generate meaningful data on the distribution and abundance of eelgrass at eight sites in western NL.

Results: The percent cover of eelgrass along the west coast of NL ranged between 5.89 and 69.27 %, with the greatest cover observed at site 6. Overall, the cover of

eelgrass was significantly different between sites and was higher at sites 4 (68.78%) and 6 compared to sites 3 (25.92%) and 7. The percent cover of eelgrass increased between June/July and September at sites 2, 4, and 7, before decreasing again in October. Overall, the percent cover of eelgrass peaked at 81.18% in September at site 4.

Salmon Redd Survey

Salmon Redd surveys are part of the Atlantic salmon monitoring activities that MAMKA conducts annually, alternating between the Western and Central portions of Newfoundland.

The three tributaries in Western Newfoundland that were targeted for 2014-

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2015 study were Ahwachenjeech Brook, Coal Brook and Sheep brook. Dribble Brook was to be surveyed if there was time available after the target areas were completed. Ahwachenjeech is a tributary to Harry’s River with the later three being tributaries to Flat Bay Brook.

Purpose:The objectives of employing redd count surveys for salmonids is to index temporal abundance of spawners on target rivers.

Results: A total of 40 redds were observed with all of them being located on Dribble brook. Ahwachenjeech was unable to be surveyed due to adverse weather and environmental conditions. Coal Brook and Sheep Brook contained no redds presumably due to observed habitat obstructions (i.e. beaver dams and log jams). Multiple habitat obstructions were later observed on Ahwachenjeech but redds were unable to be surveyed due to the amount of sediment and silt build up between the time of spawning and surveying. Habitat obstructions were also found and documented on Sheep, Coal and Dribble Brooks.

Beach Cleanup and Monitoring

Purpose: To ensure that the beach areas within the Bay d’Espoir area are clean and suitable for wildlife species and resource users. To monitor the Aquaculture industry created debris and lobby the same for preventative measures and proactive clean-up of affected beaches.

Results: MAMKA-South staff and community members in 2014 continued the annual practice of cleaning several beaches in the Bay d’Espoir area (Arran Back Cove, Little River, Southern Bight and Big Cove). MAMKA also partnered with the MFN Lands and Environment program and the Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association again in 2014 to clean shorelines in the MFN area. Approximately 4km of beach adjacent to the Miawpukek First Nation was cleaned of beach debris. The

project produced cleaner beaches in the Bay d’Espoir area, greater public awareness regarding beach litter, an inventory of beach

debris and pictures that will aid in public awareness campaigns, and improved relationships with other stakeholders within the Bay d’Espoir area. Moreover, MAMKAs direct representation to the Aquaculture Industry has resulted in proactive clean up measures by Aquaculture Farms in the Bay D’Espoir Area.

Alien and Invasive Species Studies

Green Crab

MAMKA carried out green crab studies on the West Coast and South West Coast of Newfoundland in 2014.

Purpose: On the West Coast the goal of this study was to determine the abundance and distribution of green crab along an approximately 270 km latitudinal range while increasing our mitigation efforts in sensitive habitats of Bay St. George and Bay of Islands. On the South West Coast two studies were carried out: one in the Bay d’Espoir area and one in the Pool’s Cove-Fortune Bay area. The goal of the study in these areas was to determine the presence of green crab, if any, in the Bay d’Espoir area (monitoring project) and to eradicate a heavy green crab infestation in the Pool’s Cove area.

Results: A total of 8050 crab were removed from western Newfoundland, with 3867

removed from Penguin Arm, Bay of Islands, and 4183 removed during rapid assessments and focused removal at all other sites. Overall, 29.7 % of green crab removed from Penguin Arm in late July were female while 47.3 % of the crab removed from all other sites between early August and early October were female. Mean carapace width of all crab caught was 38.1 mm, with the majority of crabs falling between 30 and 40 mm (Figure 4). Interestingly, the mean carapace width was 36.7 mm for Penguin Arm and the majority of crabs were between 30 and 37 mm. The mean carapace width of crab at other sites was 39.4 mm and the size of the crabs was more evenly distributed. The mean carapace width of male crabs in Penguin Arm peaked at 43.9 mm during the initial short term soak on July 23rd before decreasing to 36.3 mm on July 24th.

In the Bay d’Espoir Area no green crab were captured despite over 40 days of harvesting effort. indicating that the confirmed infestation in the Fortune Bay has not reached the Bay d’Espoir area.

In the Pools Cove area a total of 2455 green crab were removed from the area. The harvest efforts points to a heavy infestation and MAMKA will be undertaking mitigation efforts in 2015 with other stakeholders.

Golden star tunicate (Botryllus schlosseri)

Recently, colonial and solitary invasive tunicates have been found to colonize eelgrass shoots reducing light transmittance, growth, survival and productivity (Wong & Vercaemer 2009). The fouling of eelgrass by

invasive tunicates and the dislodgement of eelgrass shoots by the invasive green crab (Carcinus maenas) may result in large scale losses in this ecologically significant habitat in Atlantic Canada (Wong & Vercaemer 2009, Garbary et al. 2014).

Purpose: This research aimed to: 1) confirm the presence of golden star and violet tunicate in southwestern NL, 2) investigate spatial and temporal variability in the abundance and cover of colonies on polyvinyl chloride panels (PVC) at twelve sites along an approximately 270 km latitudinal gradient, and 3) determine the frequency of occurrence of colonies on eelgrass (Zostera marina), rockweed (Fucus spp.), and/or kelp (Saccharina latissima) at three sites along an approximately 120 km latitudinal gradient.

Results: Invasive colonial tunicates were observed at Sites 1, 2 and 5, with golden star found at all three sites and Botrylloides sp. observed at Site 2. Studies have utilized both sea temperature and salinity as predictive variables to determine suitable habitats and the potential range for both golden star and violet tunicates in the eastern Pacific (Epelbaum et al 2009). Low salinities, due to proximity to a large river and/or stream, will likely preclude the successful establishment of these invaders at Sites 3, 6, and 8. The fouling community, salinity, and sea

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VI. Lessons Learned

MAMKA has earned credibility and has matured into a culpable organization which represents the Mi’kmaq people of Newfoundland in

ocean management and habitat related projects. MAMKA continues to ensure the Aboriginal knowledge is applied in marine aquatic and

stewardship matters.

MAMKA has grown over the past ten years and has established its identity. MAMKA has overcome the obstacles that is has faced and has

been a very successful organization thanks to operational and financial support from DFO and AAROM.

The key lessons that MAMKA has learned over the past years include the following:

Effective and efficient communications amongst all stakeholders is very important;

Partnerships and joint collaboration yield greater results with less resources;

Inclusiveness of youth and elders in MAMKA’s activity is very rewarding and important in recording and preserving ATK;

Transparency and accountability (including excellent reporting) of MAMKA activity to both the Aboriginal membership and funders is a

paramount goal.

VII. Funding Renewal and Future Opportunities

2015-2016 is the last funding year in MAMKAs multi-year funding cycle. The 2014/15 fiscal year included, for the most part, the

continuation of MAMKA’s yearly project activity which has remained unchanged for the past several years. However, as some projects run

their course and new opportunities emerge, MAMKA looks forward to continuing its important role in Aquatic Resource management and

stewardship. To this end, we look forward to a renewed AAROM funding initiative in 2016 and the continuation of our marine stewardship

work . As stated in 2014 new opportunities are in the works and MAMKA is set to undertake new activity with various partners.

These opportunities include:

1. Collaborating with DFO and Miawpukek Natural Resources in a radio telemetry project that involves the release of tagged aquaculture

salmon in Fortune Bay and the monitoring of their movements and eventual recapture;

temperature at invaded sites was similar to Sites 4, 9, 11, and 12, suggesting that future establishment of golden star or Botrylloides sp. is possible. These sites are further at risk, as pelagic herring and mackerel seiners move between northern and southern NL during peak recruitment in the fall. Although Sites 4, 9, 11, and 12 appear to match a number of the physiological requirements of both golden star and violet tunicate, these sites may be inhospitable due to increased wave exposure, difference in available food resources, and resource competition (food and space).

Clay Bank Bio Remediation Project

Clay Bank is an important cultural area on the Miawpukek First Nation that is the westerly corner of its Powwow and recreational fields. The area is also adjacent to the Conne River. Each year wind and wave action cause large portions of clay bank to founder into the water and Conne River creating large plume of silt and soil debris. Engineers say it will continue to erode until it "naturalizes". This will take place over many years or even decades but when naturalization has occurred there will be no soccer field, no

Powwow grounds, no recreation area!

Miawpukek First Nation and MAMKA have partnered to work towards ensuring that clay bank and the hinterland remains intact for future generations and that erosion into the Conne River water system is mitigated.

Purpose:The purpose of this project was to look at a slope which is eroding along side of a community cultural area and walking trail and to develop remedial action reducing further erosion at this site.

This project will help develop capacity within the community by creating a course for community members to learn about bioremediation which can then be used on many different erosion issues within the

community and within our watershed areas.

This project will not only benefit this site of erosion but as a whole it will help develop the skills needed to address other sites within the community as well.

The bioremediation course will engage community members including elders in discussion about bioremediation and its benefits. Miawpukek is facing erosion issues due to climate change and this initiative will help in preventative measures.

Results: This project has achieved several results including the following:

1. The delivery of a bio-remediation course at Miawpukek and participation of community members including elders;

2. The Hiring of a Consultant to provide bioremediation course and to provide assistance with a remedial plan for site;

3. Implementation of a remedial plan;

4. Building of skills and capacity at Miawpukek and MAMKA to carry out bi-remediation measures on slopes with erosion issues.

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Our Appreciation

In conclusion of the 2014/15 fiscal year activity MAMKA would like to take the opportunity to thank its sponsors, all stakeholders and the

Mi’kmaq community for their support and participation in its overall operation and management efforts. Most Notably:

Aboriginal Affairs and Nothern Development Canada for funding the erosion control and bioremediation training at

Miawpukek.

DFO, through continued administrative, financial and technical support has enabled MAMKA to achieve its goals and objectives and is a

clear indication of DFO’s commitment to MAMKA, its member organizations and the Mi’kmaq community of Newfoundland.

SARA, COSEWIC and AFSAR continue to be instrumental in the development and support of several MAMKA initiatives pertaining to

Species at Risk. Their participation is a testament of AAROM’s success by the creation of a strategic partnership/alliance for the

inclusion of aboriginal input in Canada’s action plan for dealing with threatened and/or endangered species.

Parks Canada for its continued effort to consult and work with MAMKA as it pertains to project development which may impact the

Aboriginal community.

Netukulimk Fisheries Ltd. represents MFN’s commercial fishing division and has been instrumental to MAMKAs successful participation

in the commercial fishery.

ACAP – Humber Arm Environmental Association for cooperating with MAMKA staff and contributing to successful project completion in

the Humber area.

Newfoundland Aquaculture Industry Association (NAIA) – For extending invitations to MAMKA for participation in various industry

stakeholder process.

Miawpukek First Nation and its various departments which continue to be supportive in project implementations of MAKMA and its

field projects. MFN’s Conne River Health and Social Services Department deserves special thanks for providing much needed

employment support through its Job Creation Program. Through these departments MAMKA has been able to expand the scope of

project work and leverage additional funding for project support and development.

Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation and its Aboriginal River Guardian program. The guardians were instrumental in the development and

conduct of scientific research and development. The Guardians actively participated in data collection and other field work during the

conduct of their regular duties and responsibilities. Their intricate knowledge of local ecosystems has assisted MAMKA in its success.

2. Increased Aquaculture monitoring and ensuring marine debris is kept to a minimum; and

3. Collaborating with Northern Harvest Sea Farms Ltd., to capture and eradicate green crab in the Pools Cove area as a step in mitigating

potential migration of Green Crab to Bay d’Espoir.

4. Putting to use the bioremediation skills in mitigating erosion along the coastline and in rivers.

5. Doing research to help in the recovery plans of newly listed SARA species (i.e Porbeagle shark).

As seen from the above, MAMKA has identified several key opportunities in the area of project development whereby MAMKA can utilize

existing core funding and organizational capacity to leverage external funding from other federal departments, the provincial government

and industry. More specifically, MAMKA seeks to establish key partnerships within the Aquaculture industry pertaining to environmental

cleanup and waste management, escapee prevention and monitoring.

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MAMKA Mi'kmaq Alsumk Mowimsikik Koqoey Association

Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation

P.O. Box 956, Corner Brook, NL A2H 6J3

Tel: 709-634-9896 Fax: 709-639-3997

Miawpukek First Nation

P.O. Box 10, Conne River, NL A0H 1J0

Tel: 709-882-2470 Fax: 709-882-2292

MAMKA and Oceans Learning Partnership (OLP) Retro Fit of the Wooden Heart and implementation of OLP at Miawpukek

Background: As an AAROM body, a part of MAMKA’s mandate, is to engage the aboriginal youth in oceans management and stewardship issues. To this end, MAMKA annually engages youth in a variety of ways. This may include ATK on marine species, learning traditional harvest methods, in class presentations, etc. Miawpukek youth have always expressed an interest in visiting the marine environment to observe first-hand the environment and its species. MAMKA has not been equipped to handle such requests as it requires a large vessel to accommodate a classroom size youth group. Moreover, the safety and liability issues in taking youth out to the marine environment presents a barrier.

In 2014-2015 the Miawpukek First Nation has agreed to transfer to MAMKA a retired 42’ fishing vessel that can serve as a learning platform for MAMKA’s youth engagement. The vessel needs to be refitted to be suitable for passengers. Furthermore, MAMKA wishes to have the vessel approved by Transport Canada as a passenger vessel. This will ensure the utmost safety for its youth passengers and will allow MAMKA to acquire appropriate third party liability insurance on the vessel.

Oceans Learning Program

The Oceans Learning Partnership (OLP) is the lead organization for a new Ocean Education Initiative for youth in the Newfoundland and Labrador school system, providing a much-needed bridge between K-12 and post-secondary.

OLP has united all key players in ocean science and education to create a collaborative and integrated approach to ocean education for younger students in this province. The aim is to offer hands-on learning experiences that excite young people about ocean science and technology and expose them to the many careers available in the ocean sectors.

Scientists and educators from Memorial University, Marine Institute, Parks Canada, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada are all part of the initiative, along with program advisors from Department of Education and NL Teachers Association. Funding partners include the Hebron Project, ACOA, and the Government of NL – Department of Innovation, Business and Rural Development, and Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

John Nick Jeddore, Elder, Author of Moccasin Tracks “As I walked along the shoreline one August day, I was very hungry, not having had any breakfast. I looked off across the Gut at a grease slick on the water, caused by organic matter on the tide. As I had seen my father do it many times before, I knew if I could get the old dory and reach the spot before a breeze dispersed the tide line, I could perhaps spear a few eels for the next meal. I knew the dory would drift fast over the water, so I had to be pretty quick. This day I speared three large ones and by evening they were dried and split with the back bone taken out. Mother fried them and we had a good supper. Only years later would I figure out a way to slow the dory down to gain more time to scan the bottom. I cut a small fir, tied a rope to the top and threw it overboard for a drud. By slowing the dory, I had a 50/50 chance of success in spearing eels.”

Elder John Nick Jeddore of Miawpukek First Nation (Conne River) has been an invaluable resource for MAMKA and it’s partners. John Nick has shared vast amounts of traditional knowledge with us. He has often worked with MAMKA to share and expose the Mi’kmaq youth of Miawpukek to traditional customs, foods and way of preparing these foods. John Nick will have his memoirs, Moccasin Tracks, published in the Summer of 2015. More information about the book and how to get it is available at www.johnnickjeddore.com.