Maine, mid-May: abundant, explosive, pulsing with life and color. In streams and rivers still or again connected to the sea, alewives return to their home waters to spawn, feeding the web of life.
In May in Maine, river people anticipate alewives like bird people wait for warblers and plant people search for spring’s ephemeral wildflowers.
Here’s a recap of writing on alewives, from the archives:
The Heart of the Sea: Alewives bring ocean nutrients to inland lakes Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors, 2018
Alewives return to the Penobscot, but who’s counting? Fishermen’s Voice, September 2018
Penobscot River Restoration Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors, 2016
Alewife Season Maine Sea Grant, 2012
North Haven to Alewives: Welcome Back! Working Waterfront, 2011
Returning Alewives to North Haven Working Waterfront, 2010
Alewives: Feast of the Season Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors, 2008
Catherine Schmitt 