Lake Ontario Atlantic Salmon Habitat Restoration
The Lake Ontario Atlantic Salmon Restoration Program (LOASRP) Habitat Team identifies and addresses the major factors limiting the life stages of Atlantic Salmon based on priorities and planning documents, available funding, and landowner engagement.
Collaborative Efforts Enhance Atlantic Salmon Habitat
The Lake Ontario Atlantic Salmon Restoration Program (LOASRP) Habitat Team identifies and addresses the major factors limiting the life stages of Atlantic Salmon based on priorities and planning documents, available funding, and landowner engagement. In addition to landowners, OFAH’s habitat partners include MNR, the Ministry of Environment, Conservation, and Parks (MECP), DFO, conservation authorities, municipalities, non-government organizations like Ontario Streams and Trout Unlimited Canada, and the public. Many projects involve volunteers, with 9,089 volunteers participating since 2006.
Typical habitat projects undertaken by the LOASRP include:
- Modifying, bypassing, or removing online dams and ponds to restore natural channels, lower stream temperatures, and allow fish passage
- Planting trees in riparian areas to stabilize banks and reduce sedimentation and water temperature
- Installing cattle fencing and alternative watering systems to prevent riparian grazing, erosion, and destruction of in-stream habitats
- Stabilizing banks to minimize erosion and sedimentation in spawning and nursery areas
Outcomes
Benefits
These efforts collectively enhance valuable coldwater fisheries habitat, supporting various life stages and processes (e.g., spawning, juvenile migration) for Atlantic Salmon and other aquatic species requiring clean, cold water and good physical habitat. Additionally, all projects promote overall biodiversity at each site, benefiting both aquatic and terrestrial species. Tree and shrub planting also contributes to climate change mitigation and carbon sequestration.
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