Christie Lake Fish Habitat Project
Cottage development along Christie Lake has resulted in the loss of in-water structures due to cottagers removing and “cleaning up” their shoreline properties. This project created brush/tree bundles and sunk them in waters greater than 12 feet deep to provide fish habitat without impeding boat traffic. These in-water structures (often called fishsticks) provide excellent nursery habitat for many species such as walleye, yellow perch, bass, crappie and panfish. The structures also provide habitat for the forage base species, such as minnows, and for invertebrates essential for a healthy aquatic ecosystem. Top predator fish species such as pike, walleye, and bass will use these structures for shelter and feeding locations to wait for prey species to pass by. Brush bundles have been placed at approximately 19 sites in Christie Lakes in the fall of 2015.
The final phase of this project is to plant native vegetation on five shoreline properties on Christie Lake in the fall of 2015. Funding through the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada has been approved to carry out this project in the fall of 2015.
This project has taken place in partnership with the Christie Lake Association, Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, the Lanark County Stewardship Council, the Lanark & District Fish and Game Club, 14th Gloucester Venturer Scout Company and Camp Opemikon.