Citizen Science Monitoring

The Downeast Salmon Federation has been collecting data on Sea-run Rainbow Smelt for many years.

Due to recent declines in smelt numbers, there has been in increased effort to collect information on this important species.

We are looking for people with an interest in recreational smelt fishing, natural history buffs, healthy rivers, or those who want to learn to help collect data on the health of the sea-run smelt population in Downeast Maine.

Our Sea-run Rainbow Smelt citizen science initiative is a powerful scientific tool that DSF is using to advocate for conservation and sustainable harvest as well as educate the next generation of stewards. Monitoring lesser-known species like smelt allows DSF to collect critical information about the health of our fish populations and habitat that would otherwise be lost or forgotten.

Interested in becoming a Citizen Scientist?​ Fill out our volunteering form, and we will get back to you right away. Make sure to check the box “Field Based Biology Volunteer.”