Using habitat suitability models and an aquatic invasive species (AIS) risk management framework, we identified watersheds with high-quality salmon habitat and assessed which invasive species and human activities pose the greatest risks. Crayfish and certain plants could cause major ecosystem changes, while fish like chain pickerel and smallmouth bass were more widespread and may impact salmon in a cumulative sense through predation. The biggest threats for spreading AIS were unclean boats and fishing gear. 

 

Our “Management Matrix” is intended to guide decisions based on how widespread an invasive species is and how harmful it could be, helping to prioritize actions like prevention, control, or eradication in Atlantic salmon watersheds.