Akwesasne Mohawk Nation- Thursday, August 11, 2016, the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Environment Program- Tehotiennawakon was informed by a community member that 11 sturgeon were discovered floating in the St. Lawrence River. The large fish were found gutted, for what authorities believe was for the purpose of harvesting the eggs to sell and create caviar.
The lake sturgeon is a threatened species in Canada and the United States, and under heavy catch and release restrictions. Sometimes referred to as a “living fossil,†the lake sturgeon have been around for over 200 million years. They can be found in the North American Great Lakes to the St. Lawrence River, clear across to Alberta. Once found in abundance sturgeon were thought to be a nuisance and slaughtered by the thousands, much like the North American Buffalo.
They are the largest fish in Canada, growing up to and sometimes over 6.5 feet (2 meters) in length, and weigh up to 400 lbs. (180kg). Males can live up to 55 years, and up to 150 years for females. The reproductive rate is very slow, as females reach reproductive maturity around 10 years. Females will spawn only every 4-5 years. Due to the lake sturgeon’s slow reproductive rate, over-harvesting, spoiled habitats, and other environmental threats, this great fish has been decimated to the threatened species list.
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne and the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe Environment Divisions are both investigating this matter. In an MCA press release, published August 11, 2016, they stated, “The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne does not condone these disturbing actions. As Onkwehonwe people, we believe that it is our responsibility, and also the responsibility of visitors to the area, to treat the environment with respect and protect the creatures that live in it. They are grateful to the community member for reporting this sighting, and appreciate all those that care for the beautiful rivers in Akwesasne. All community members and local fishers are urged to report sightings of any threatened species or suspicious behavior regarding this matter. Please contact:
- MCA Conservation – (613)575-2250 Ext. 1021
- MCA Environment- (613)575-2250 Ext. 1040
- SRMT Environment Division- (518)358-5937
- Akwesasne Mohawk Police- (613)575-2340
- Saint Regis Mohawk Police- (518)358-9200
BY: Ohseraseia:hawi
