The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority along with the Environment Committee of Ottawa South have been putting their heads together on an exciting neighborhood initiative – to connect the man-made former swimming pond in Brewer Park with the natural Rideau River.
It would be the first time these water bodies have been joined in over 50 years!
The project would allow a channel to be cut on the east-side of the pond allowing the free flow of water from the main Rideau River.
Several ecological benefits have already been identified by the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority:
| a) | Allow fish species year round access in and out of the pond to the Rideau River. |
| b) | Eliminate the potential for fish kills as a result of the occurrences of anoxic conditions in the pond in the winter and summer months. |
| c) | Altering elevations to create conditions suitable for more diverse submergent and emergent aquatic vegetation in the pond. |
| d) | Creation of new functional spawning, nursery, rearing and food supply habitat in the restored wetland feature for the fish community residing in the adjacent reach of the Rideau River. |
| e) | Providing new and enhanced winter and summer refuge areas for fish. |
| f) | Increased biodiversity. |
| g) | improved water quality for the Rideau River as a result of the wetland enhancement. |
(Photo showing how Brewer Park Pond as it appeared in 1950)
(Photo showing how Brewer Park Pond appears now)
I can just imagine hauling-in a 20 pound muskie from Brewer Park Pond….sounds like a dream come true!
Come out this weekend for an Information Session on the project – Saturday from 3:15 to 5 pm, Main Hall Ottawa South Community Centre, 260 Sunnyside Avenue (in Old Ottawa South)
For more information: http://www.rvca.ca/brewerpark/index.html
Outdoorsguy
How about putting the beach back at Brewer Park. I remember going every day during the summer back in the late 60’s early 70’s.
Please note my new email address: [email protected]
Outdoorsguy
They came last Tuesday to our OFS meeting and gave a presentation about their organisation that we support and assist (Stream Watch) when possible with the members. They talked about this particular project. We provided input for consideration.
So Michel, what do you guys think of the project in general?
Outdoorsguy
Michel. When you. Say stream watch is that for water quality or for illegals fishing and littering?
There we go again with my real name. LOL
What I think of the project is once it will be completed, it will add to the pleasure of people fishing the ex-pond with diversified fish species. Our concern was to enable access by pediastrian to the edge of the water, since there might be particular shrubs lining the edge for correcting potential soil erosion. Also as fly fishers, we brough to the attention of the organisation that fly casting from shore (obstacles like branches or even people nearby) might benefit with access to more inside of the ponds where wading could be done.
As for Stream Watch, I was referring to “water quality” efforts performed.
Oh and btw LeGrand, there is some OFS News featured in this Thurs’s Outdoors Column.
Outdoorsguy
Barrhaven wild turkey trouble!
http://blogs.canoe.ca/outdoorsguy/safety/barrhaven-wild-turkey-mayhem/
Outdoorsguy
jeff.morrison says:
March 11, 2013 at 1:46 pm
Oh and btw LeGrand, there is some OFS News featured in this Thurs’s Outdoors Column.
Outdoorsguy
Well, I wonder what that could be?
Maybe something happening on March 20th.
Man LG..you’re good man!
Seriously though…if there is someone in the Org now in charge of Press releases or Media Relations, please have them send me regular updates! I used to hear from Grant Hopkins now and then.
It is my pleasure to feature you guys more regularly..you’re one the great local Clubs!
Outdoorsguy
Jeff…did you get a PDF Copy of the “Parliamentary Petition to Amend the Firearms Act” sponsored by MP Cheryl Gallant?
Please email me & I will send you both 8.5 x11 and 8.5 X 14 inch versions and if you like the FRENCH one as well!
We are shooting for 1.5 MILLION signatures…
Was launched last weekend at Renfrew Gun & Hunting Show, and Shows in Chilliwack B.C. and Calgary!
Please respond at your earliest convenience!
B.G.