After establishing a quorum, President Wall opened the meeting with 30 seconds of silence to remember those members no longer with us. He then made some remarks about the ever declining salmon stocks and mentioned the serious declines in Newfoundland and Labrador. He went on to say that along with conservation and habitat work the future of Atlantic salmon stocks will need to be enhanced through the judicious use of hatcheries. Wall then thanked all the financial supporters of WSU.
President Wall then introduced Seth Jenkins, a master's student, who is doing a WSU funded study on the history of hatcheries and their contributions, positive or negative over time. The study is to be completed by Fall 2018.
No one was available to represent the Richmond County Wildlife Association. Chuck Thompson suggested that a letter be sent to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) requesting the full report on the work done on the Eastern Cape Breton rivers that was funded by WSU. President Wall agreed to write the letter.
Geoff Nishi and David Cameron of the Inverness South Angler's Association (ISAA) gave a very positive report on the work being done by their group on the Graham's river and Campbell's brook in their area. That work is partially funded by WSU. They are now embarking on a new initiative, an overview study of the Southwest Mabou River beginning with some electrofishing.
Chuck Thompson indicated that the DFO's policy, with respect to Atlantic salmon, is now preservation as opposed to enhancement. It appears much of this has to do with funding.
Harry Vickers, longtime president of the Cape Breton Anglers Association (CBAA), told the meeting he was stepping down from his position after decades of service.
Bob Shortt, the nominations chair presented the list of nominees for next year and all were accepted. His intention is to recruit members from outside the area to sit on the Board and attend meetings electronically. President Wall is to investigate methods to do that.
The financial report was presented and approved and auditors were appointed for next year following which the meeting was adjourned.
After the meeting draws for 9 door prizes, that were generously donated, took place while attendees mingled and told tall tales.