How Important Are Alewives? Talk Will Focus on the Tiny Fish
ROCKLAND – Spring in Maine is marked by the annual migration of alewives, an 11-inch, herringlike fish. For thousands of years, alewives have co-existed with other native fish in Maine’s rivers, streams, ponds and lakes.
Theodore Willis, whose research at the University of Southern Maine includes the historical ecology of anadromous fish, will present a slide show and talk about the return of the alewives in the St. George River at the Warren Public Library at 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 21.
Two hundred years ago there were as many as 20 herring weirs in this river. Today there are only two locations – Warren and Cushing. In fact, Willis points out, no one but the official agent for the town of Warren can set a weir in the river.
Willis hopes to reintroduce the audience to the alewife, its life history, importance in the food chain and watershed health, as well as some of the current controversy surrounding it. Lately the little fish has attracted media attention.
“I hope I can convey why the public should pay attention as the fates tussle over this little fish,” said Willis about his coming talk.
Organized in 1987, the Georges River Land Trust works to conserve and steward the natural resources and traditional character of the Georges River watershed, for the public benefit. The watershed extends from Montville in the north to Port Clyde and Cushing in the south and includes streams, ponds, lakes, wetlands, farms, hills, mountains, blueberry barrens and forest, as well as a rich tidal estuary of salt marsh, clam flats and productive fishing grounds.
The Land Trust organizes monthly walks and talks throughout the year, such as the upcoming events: Wildlife Walk on Frye Mountain on May 31st and the National River Cleanup in early June.
For information on the Georges River Land Trust and its programs, visit www.grlt.org, e-mail info@grlt.org or phone 594-5166.
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