Nequasset Alewife Count
Every spring, the alewives migrate to Nequasset Lake to spawn. Volunteers help us to count the fish that reach the lake each year. Volunteering takes two hours or less, and volunteers of all ages are invited to take part in this fun community science project. You can choose to count once in the season or come back many times.
Why Count Fish?
The Nequasset fish count helps to support Nequasset's alewife population and annual harvest. It can also help to check how well the fish ladder is working. Visit this section to learn more about the restoration of the Nequasset fish ladder and the Nequasset alewife harvest.
Sign-Up To Count
Counting fish at Nequasset is fun and easy! Sign-up for a two hour block and count for any two 10 minute periods in that block.
Counting Instructions
Visit this section to find directions to the fish ladder and instructions for how to count. A copy of the counting instructions will also be posted on the fence at the ladder.
Form to Submit Count Data
Submit your count results using this online form or email to rindrick@kennebecestuary.org
Stories from the Ladder
Read the latest updates from the fish ladder. Spot a cool critter? Witness an amazing natural scene? Capture a splendid photo? Have a fun experience? Share it with us on our fishy blog.
Results from Past Fish Counts
The fish count at Nequasset started in 2012. Check out this section to find out details about the number of fish counted each year, when they were counted, and how the count relates to the harvest.