Following the 2020 removal of a 6m high dam and 100m pond at Petun Conservation Area a natural channel was reconstructed. A large excavator reshaped the channel, excavated the floodplain and removed the sediment that had collected in the pond. The river now winds through a valley and flows over several rocky steps.
In 2021 the ecosystem restoration work continued. Volunteers and staff planted the site with 670 native trees and shrubs. Native grasses were spread, and native shrubs were propagated along the banks, increasing biodiversity. To ensure coldwater fisheries persist in spite of long-term climate change projections, habitat for native brook trout was improved. Woody cover habitats were installed to enhance fish habitat.
Nearest city or town: Collingwood, ON
Project start date: April 19, 2021
End date: November 5, 2021
Project focus: Ecosystem Restoration
Project contact: Laura Wensink and Fred Dobbs