May 10, 2013 – The following was released by the Maine Department of Marine Resources:
Joan Trial, Senior Atlantic Salmon Biologist for the Maine Department of Marine Resources, was recently honored with the Dwight A. Webster Memorial award for Lifelong contributions to fisheries science and the profession in the Northeast. The prestigious award, given by the Northeastern Division of the American Fisheries Society (AFS) during their April meeting, also recognizes Trial’s significant academic and technical accomplishments and long-term service to the AFS Northeastern Division.
“This award recognizes the remarkable career of one of Maine’s leading marine scientists and Atlantic salmon researchers,” said Governor Paul R. LePage. “Joan Trial’s career illustrates the critical role science plays in conserving our valuable natural resources.”
Trial received her B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in biology/zoology from the University of Maine and is an AFS Certified Fisheries Professional. In addition to working for the Department of Marine Resources, she is a member of the U.S. Atlantic Salmon Assessment Committee and one of three U.S. representatives to the ICES (International Council for the Exploration of the Sea) Working Group on North Atlantic Salmon. Trial also represents Maine on the International Joint Commission, St. Croix River Board, and she is part of the Graduate Faculty of the University of Maine Cooperative Research Unit and Department of Biology.
“Joan has set a high-standard within our Bureau of Marine Science,” said Department of Marine Resources Commissioner Patrick Keliher. “Her work has been vital to our understanding of the iconic Atlantic salmon and many other species that are critical to a healthy and bio-diverse marine environment and she has laid the groundwork for successful future research and conservation efforts.”
In its announcement, AFC acknowledged Trial as instrumental in the conservation and management of Maine and Northeast fisheries resources throughout her career. “From work with conserving wild brook trout and their fisheries in small Maine ponds to protecting U.S. Atlantic salmon in international waters, Joan has always brought science and scientific integrity to the forefront,” stated the press release from the AFS.
Trial has indicated that she plans to retire from the State of Maine this summer although she has indicated that she will continue to serve on several University boards and committees. “We will miss her expertise and deep well of knowledge,” said Commissioner Keliher.
The American Fisheries Society is the world's oldest and largest organization dedicated to strengthening the fisheries profession, advancing fisheries science, and conserving fisheries.