Once native to Lake Ontario in large numbers, Atlantic Salmon were declared extinct in 1896. Deforestation by early settlers of the many tributaries surrounding the lake, resulted in a warming of the waters and soil erosion entered the waters covering the prime spawning beds. Dams were also built by the early settlers to harness water power which in turn created barriers or obstacles stopping the adult fish from reaching the spawning grounds.
More than a century later plans are underway for a large scale species restoration effort. The reintroduction plan is a joint effort combining the Ministry of Natural Resources with a number of partners including the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, Canadian Sportfishing Industry Association, Trout Unlimited Canada and Sir Sanford Fleming College.
Nine watersheds have been chosen as potential reintroduction sites. They include Shelter Valley, Cobourg, Ganaraska, Wilmot, Soper, Duffins, Humber, Credit and Bronte. A small, medium and large watershed will be chosen for the reintroduction launch this spring. The remaining watersheds as well as those selected will be targeted for habitat restoration through the Community Stream Steward Program launched in 2004.
Approximately 3 km of the Wilmot Creek watershed pass through the Orono Crown Lands.
The names of the three streams chosen will be announced in April.
Pending positive results, the remaining enhanced watersheds will become possible reintroduction sites in the near future.
