NFC Looks to Make Atlantic Salmon the National Fish
“Like the American bald eagle and North American bison, Atlantic salmon represent a species that stands above all others in its scientific class in regard to power, strength, and endurance.”
The Maine chapter of NFC along with National NFC recently wrote to the Maine Congressional Delegation asking for their help in regard to making Atlantic salmon our official National Fish.
Currently, while the American bald eagle and North American bison are our national bird and mammal respectively, the United States does not have a national fish. The last attempt to create one was a New Jersey legislator who petitioned for striped bass.
“Most notably, for roughly eighty years, the first Atlantic salmon caught from Maine’s Penobscot River was delivered to the President of the United States. Referred to as the “Presidential Salmon,” the first went to President William Howard Taft in 1912. The last fish went to President George H. Bush, a part-time Maine resident and avid sportsman, in 1992. No other species of fish has been so honored.”
As was once the case with regard to the American bald eagle and North American Bison, Atlantic salmon are currently at risk of going extinct. Also like the eagle and bison, salmon should and NFC believes can be saved.
When it comes to saving something, symbolism is a powerful tool. And when it comes to symbolism, nothing is more powerful that a national symbol designation.
“Atlantic salmon are a critical part of our state’s marine ecosystem, but they are endangered and at risk of extinction… These fish help to ensure the health of our rivers and oceans that Mainers and wildlife depend on. We welcome this funding, which will help to conserve and restore wild Atlantic salmon and their ecosystems across the state.”
