Warm waters are a key factor in the continued decline of salmon returns, according to the DFO. High water temperatures and low water levels are having a serious impact on Newfoundland and Labrador's salmon population, with over 60% of the province's salmon rivers remaining in the critical zone. This trend is expected to worsen in the coming years, as the number of young salmon affected by these conditions could significantly reduce the salmon population in five to six years. The DFO's 2025 salmon stock assessment confirms a continued downward trend in salmon returns, with historic lows observed since 2023. The situation is particularly dire in the Conne River, where salmon returns have been devastated, with only about 585 fish returning this year, and at least 100 of them dying. This is a stark contrast to the 1980s when as many as 10,000 salmon returned each year. The high water temperatures and low water levels have also caused mortality events in seven freshwater rivers, including Middle Brook, Placentia Bay, and Point Leamington. While the fatalities were low, the river temperatures reached the 20s, possibly high 20s, which is approaching and possibly exceeding the lethal limits for salmon. This trend is further exacerbated by the threat of climate change, as Mowi has blamed it for the latest salmon die-offs on Newfoundland's south coast. The situation is expected to worsen, as less smolt head to sea each year, which could translate to even smaller returns in the future. Fisheries and Oceans Canada will continue to monitor the impacts on salmon, and a management plan for the 2026 season will consider the assessment along with stakeholder input and socioeconomic factors.
