Use of Molecular Genetic Data to Manage Salmon Conservation Programs: Atlantic Salmon Broodstock Management in Maine

Atlantic salmon in Maine are listed as an endangered distinct population segment (DPS).  A significant part of the recovery and restoration program involves the use of Craig Brook and Green Lake National Fish Hatcheries to maintain, produce, and stock Atlantic salmon from seven different broodstock populations. The overall genetic goal of the hatchery program is to maintain the genetic diversity of the Atlantic salmon populations over time.  To achieve this goal, genetic techniques and principles have been integrated throughout the hatchery program.  Genetic information is obtained from each individual Atlantic salmon utilized in the hatchery program, and genetic data is used to identify origin (hatchery or from natural reproduction) of wild caught individuals, estimate relatedness to identify spawning pairs and guide spawning practices, screen incoming broodstock for potential aquaculture origin individuals, and to monitor the long term maintenance of genetic diversity within each population.  Using parentage analysis, reproduction of hatchery stocked adults in the wild is assessed annually, and for other applications such as stage specific survival following stocking at different life stages.  The extensive use of genetic characterization within the hatchery allows evaluation of hatchery practices and products, including their contribution to recovery and restoration outside of the hatchery.