LAKE ONTARIO ATLANTIC SALMON RESTORATION PROGRAM UPDATE

For Immediate Release
December 04, 2008

LAKE ONTARIO ATLANTIC SALMON RESTORATION PROGRAM UPDATE
Backgrounder

The presence of spawning Atlantic salmon in the Credit River is an important milestone in the Lake Ontario Atlantic Salmon Restoration Program.

Since late July 2008, the Credit River Anglers Association and ministry staff have helped 34 adult Atlantic salmon returning to the Credit River to reach prime spawning habitat in the upper reaches of the river. Four pairs were moved into a tributary in the Terra Cotta area. In early November, ministry staff noted that fish had begun to excavate nests, known as redds, in the gravel of the stream bed. A short time later, a male and female Atlantic salmon were observed spawning in this tributary. Field crews and local landowners have continued to monitor the stream for signs of spawning activity.

Bringing back wild populations of Atlantic salmon to Lake Ontario is one of the largest freshwater conservation projects in North America. More than 50 partners and sponsors are taking part in this effort, co-led by the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters and the Ministry of Natural Resources. Moving forward with restoration has been assured through the generous support of lead sponsors: Australia’s Banrock Station Wines, Liquor Control Board of Ontario, Canadian Sportfishing Industry Association and Fishing Forever Foundation.

Current restoration efforts are focused on three Lake Ontario streams: Duffins Creek, Credit River and Cobourg Brook. These streams were chosen because of their high-quality spawning and nursery habitat, and strong community support. Atlantic salmon have been returning to all three streams, but to date spawning has only been reported in the Credit River.

Launched in 2006, the Atlantic salmon restoration partnership will benefit from contributions of more than $5 million over five years by partners and sponsors. Funding and in-kind support are going toward enhanced fish production and stocking, research and monitoring, habitat rehabilitation and stewardship, and education and outreach initiatives.

Partners in the Lake Ontario Atlantic Salmon Restoration Program include the Ministry of Natural Resources, Australia’s Banrock Station Fine Wines, Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, LCBO, Canadian Sportfishing Industry Association, Fishing Forever Foundation, Fleming College, conservation authorities, local community groups and landowners. To find out more or how you can get involved, visit ontario.ca/fishing or www.bringbackthesalmon.ca.

For More Information

Marion Daniels, Lake Ontario Management Unit, 705-755-1345

General Enquiries

Natural Resources Information Centre
1-800-667-1940
TTY 1-866-686-6072 (Hearing Impaired)