During the past two weeks, students from several Acadia-area middle schools have been participating in “The Great Fish Migration” field trip in Somesville, Maine. They’ve had a chance to observe firsthand several of the big challenges encountered by alewives and American eels during their incredible journey up Somes Brook. To help track the species’ recovery in this small watershed, every individual alewife returning from the ocean is counted. So far this spring, about 28,000 fish have ascended the fish ladder. The elvers (young American eels) have been plentiful this year as well, and students were thrilled to gently hold such amazing creatures.
Sincere thanks to all the knowledgeable program leaders: Billy Helprin, John Correa, and Rusty Taylor from Somes Meynell Wildlife Sanctuary, Raney Bench from Mount Desert Historical Society, and Acadia Education Rangers Taryn Withers, Linda Taylor, and Michael Marion. Please note that some portions of the education program took place on private property by prior arrangement and are not open to public access. Learn more about fish species in Acadia by visiting www.nps.gov/acad/learn/nature/fish.htm.
Original source can be found here
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