As the first of the sea-run fishes to return to freshwater each year, Rainbow smelt are a sure sign of spring along the Maine coast; millions of these shiny little fish once returned annually to reproduce in coastal brooks, streams, and rivers. But historical overfishing, loss of spawning habitat, and warming waters have led to drastic drops in smelt numbers. To effectively manage and restore Maine’s rainbow smelt, biologists need up-to-date information on here, when, and how many smelt are spawning - but with more tidal coastline than California and nearly 300 historic spawning streams to visit, scientists need more boots on the ground to monitor smelt in Maine.
To help collect this important information, adventurous Community Scientists from Kittery to Calais are getting ready to pull on their muck boots and head into the chilly air to search for signs that smelt are spawning.
Will you join the quest to spot a smelt this year? We sample both at during the day and at night, so whether you are a night owl or an early bird, we can use your help! Training is required for participation, even if you have participated in past years and will be held on-line.
Training for points east of Penobscot Bay will be held on April 1 from 4 to 5 pm.
To register for training, please fill out this form: