Fish habitat improvement projects underway in the Kawartha Lakes

JULY 28, 2022 – Landowners across the Kawartha Lakes are working with Kawartha Conservation’s Stewardship staff to complete fish habitat improvement projects this summer and fall as part of the Bring Back the Fish program.  

Funded by Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Bring Back the Fish program aims to create, improve, and protect fish habitat along sensitive areas of local urban waterways through habitat restoration projects. With two projects already completed in 2022, this year’s eight remaining projects will include fish habitat installation, erosion and sediment control, and streambank naturalization along portions of the Scugog River, Jennings Creek, Sucker Creek, Pigeon River, and smaller tributaries near Cameron Lake and Sturgeon Lake. 

“Different fish species have different needs when it comes to habitat and spawning, so it’s important that the proper measures are implemented in the correct locations,” said Danielle Marcoux-Hunter, Landowner and Community Support. “By creating in-stream habitat, stabilizing and naturalizing streambanks, and re-connecting blocked watercourses, fish in our urban waterways have a better chance at spawning successfully and moving safely throughout their habitat.”  

Kawartha Conservation staff conducted dozens of site visits in 2021 to identify key sites for restoration, working with landowners to create projects that promote and protect healthy aquatic habitat on their properties. 

“Increased development near urban streams and private ownership of sensitive areas causes a variety of challenges for local fish populations,” said Marcoux-Hunter. “By working with local landowners and construction companies to protect and improve these areas, we are able to help create a better habitat for the local populations of brook trout, walleye, and other species in the area.”  

To learn more about Bring Back the Fish and how to protect your shoreline, visit our Erosion and Shoreline Protection page or contact Danielle Marcoux-Hunter by email or phone at 705-328-2271 ext. 242.