Letter from our Community Liaison ………………………………. 2 Staff Updates ………………………………………………………. 3 Projects Supported by A/OFRC…………………………………… 4 Year at a Glance …………………………………………………… 5 Moose Information System Update ……………………………… 6 2017/2018 Field Programs ………………………………………. 7
A/OFRC & Drones…...….........................................................
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Just For Fun ………………………………………………………… 20 Funding Opportunities ............................................................... 22 What to do when you catch a tagged fish…..…………… …….. 23
Brought to you by: The Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre
Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
A MESSAGE FROM OUR COMMUNITY LIAISON As A/OFRC’s Community Liaison, I have the incredible opportunity to visit communities within the Anishinabek Nation. As I travel from Aamjiwnaang to Namaygoosisagagun, Zhiibaahaasing to Alderville, I am blessed with the opportunities to travel within the traditional territories of communities of the Anishinabek Nation. You may have seen me with the A/OFRC display in my travels, as I attend career fairs at colleges and universities to promote job opportunities within the organization, job fairs in Anishinabek Nation communities, and other events such as the Grand Council Assembly Meetings and other events hosted by the Anishinabek Nation. Each community that I visit has their own unique way of showing hospitality, and that is definitely the greatest part of working within the Anishinabek Nation.
The 2017-2018 Field Season was a success with over 18 projects completed, ranging from workshops with youth, Lake Sturgeon assessments, assessing wild rice beds as fish habitat, habitat mapping, walleye spawning assessments, and more. Here’s to a great field season next year!
Board of Directors The A/OFRC is not-for-profit corporation controlled by a Board of Directors appointed by the Anishinabek Nation and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. The Centre serves as an independent source of information on fisheries conservation and management within traditional harvesting areas. The Ontario Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry and the Grand Chief of the Anishinabek Nation jointly approve the Chairperson.
A/OFRC Chairperson Cliff Meness, Algonquins of Pikwakanagan
OMNRF Appointments Frank Kennedy, Retired Director of the Science and Information Branch, OMNRF Kevin Reid, Fisheries Scientist for the Ontario Commercial Fisheries Association Tom Whillans, Assoc. Professor, Environmental and Resource Studies, Trent University
Anishinabek Nation Appointments Rick Stevens, Nipissing First Nation Frank Hardy Jr. Biinjitwaabik Zaaging Anishinabek Barron King Moose Deer Point First Nation
For More Information
Miigwech,
Heidi Manitowabi
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Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre 755 Wallace Road, Unit 5 North Bay, ON P1A 0E7 Phone: (705) 472-7888 Fax: (705) 472-6333 aofrc@aofrc.org www.aofrc.org
Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
STAFF UPDATES Business Manager Fisheries Technician
Kelly Bahm started at the A/OFRC in 2017.
Clerical Assistant
Angie Avery is a member of Nipissing First Nation. She holds a Business Diploma and Office Administration Certificate. Angie started at the A/OFRC in April 2013 and is responsible for providing support in finances and administration, as well as maintaining files and archives.
Community Liaison Specialist Heidi Manitowabi is from Wikwemikong, and ho ld s an a d v a nce d d ip lo m a in Environmental Technology. She joined the A/OFRC team in March 2015, and is responsible for assuming a liaison role with First Nations and stakeholder groups across the Anishinabek Nation, delivering presentations and workshops, and assisting in the delivery of projects.
Fisheries Biologist
Curtis Avery graduated with honours in 2011 from Nipissing University in the four year Environmental Biology and Technology program. His second year was collaborated with Canadore College in which the focus was on lab work/experience. As a member of M’Chigeeng FN, one of his aspirations is to go back to Manitoulin Island and familiarize himself with the area and possibly work there in this field.
Fisheries Biologist Lexi started working at the A/OFRC in March 2017. Lexi obtained her undergraduate degree at McGill University, and earned her M.Sc. from Laurentian University. Originally from southern Ontario, Lexi has developed a love of the north, and is looking forward to the opportunity to monitor fish populations in this region to ensure the continued sustainability of this important resource.
Lucas Beaver has been with the A/OFRC since April 2014. Lucas is a member of Alderville First Nation and is a graduate of the Fish & Wildlife Program at Sir Sandford Fleming College. Through working with the A/ OFRC, Lucas wants to gain experience in fisheries conservation and management, working with different First Nations across Ontario.
Fisheries Technician Aireal Starr’s home community is Biigtigong Nishnaabeg, formerly known as Ojibways of the Pic River First Nation. She is a recent graduate from the University of Western Ontario with a Bachelor of Science double major in Biology and Psychology. Aireal began as an intern in July 2016, and was promoted to a technician in 2017.
Fisheries Technician Intern Briana Chevrier joined the A/OFRC team in May 2017. She received a Fish & Wildlife Conservation Technician diploma from Sault College in 2015. Her goal is to eventually return
to
her
experienced
home
community
technician
leading
as
an
natural
resource
assessments. She is excited to have the opportunity to work for the A/OFRC.
Wildlife Specialist Jesse Popp is a member of Wikwemikong First Nation, and she joined the A/OFRC team in September of 2016. She has a B.Sc. and M.Sc., and Ph.D degrees in wildlife ecology. She has extensive experience in population, behavioural, and spatial ecology of many taxa; however, the majority of her experience has been focused on the study of large terrestrial mammals, their habitats, and management.
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Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
Fish Population Assessments Objective: to determine the health/status of a fish population in streams, rivers, and lakes
Impact Assessments Objective: to determine the extent that local forms of development have on fish and fish habitat
Angler/Commercial Fishing Surveys Objective: to determine effort, and amount of harvest of fisheries
Fish Stocking Fish Farming/Aquaculture Fish Habitat Rehabilitation
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Fish Habitat Assessments Objective: to identify and assess fish habitat features in order to protect or rehabilitate
Training/Workshops Objective: to provide hands-on training on fish assessment protocols, capture techniques, scientific methods, etc.
Commercial Catch Sampling Objective: to sample fish caught to describe health of targeted fishery
Infrastructure (buildings, storage facilities,
fishing boats, etc.)
Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
April
May
Wolf River Walleye Spawning
August
Pike Lake Broad Scale Monitoring
Assessment, Red Rock Indian Band
and Habitat Assessment, Dokis First
Spring Walleye Survey, Whitefish River
Nation
First Nation
Nursery Lake Broad Scale Monitoring,
LaCloche Lake Walleye Spawning
Pic Mobert First Nation
Assessment, Sagamok Anishnawbek
Selwyn Lake Broad Scale Monitoring
Garden River Lake Sturgeon Spawning
and Habitat Survey, Wahnapitae First
Assessment, Ojibways of Garden River
Nation
First Nation Wetland Turtle and Amphibian Study, Thessalon First Nation June
Parry Island Early Spring Trap Netting, Wausaksing First Nation Lake Helen and Polly Lake End of Spring Trap Netting, Red Rock Indian Band Workshop in Kettle & Stony Point First Nation
July
Humboldt Bay Early Spring Trap Netting, Biinjitiwabik Zaaging Anishinaabek Cantin Island Habitat Assessment, Henvey Inlet First Nation Wild Rice and Fish Habitat, Curve Lake First Nation
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Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
2017/2018 FIELD PROGRAM
The goal of the Moose Information System (MIS) project is to combine traditional ecological knowledge with state-of-the-art monitoring technologies that will ensure that moose populations and/or harvest can be monitored using cutting edge methodologies capable of adapting to the needs of any interested Indigenous community. The Results of our Canadian Jurisdictional Scan, Moose Monitoring Methodologies Literature Review, and Community Consultations guided the direction of the moose monitoring system. Based on the results, we arranged aerial training to staff in Biigtigong Nishnaabeg, performed fecal pellet count surveys, and partnered with Trailmark to develop the “Moose Monitoring App” which allows users to report moose sightings, harvest, and additional information, and allow for an index of moose population trends over time. Other options we developed to record moose sightings and harvest included an online Moose Monitoring Survey as well as paper surveys. In addition to our moose monitoring
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efforts, we are incorporating Indigenous Knowledge (IK) that was collected through interviews with Biigtigong Nishnaabeg community members to report on the importance of moose, factors perceived to be related to decline, and potential impacts of moose decline on the environment and community diet, health, and traditional way of life. A graduate student at Laurentian University will work with the results of the IK survey to identify factors associated with moose population decline. The IK interviews will also be incorporated into the development of a moose documentary for Biigtigong Nishnaabeg.
Jesse Popp, A/OFRC Wildlife Specialist
Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
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From May 8th to June 22nd 2017, the Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC), in partnership with Garden River First Nation, undertook a project to study the spawning migration of Lake Sturgeon in the Garden River.
Over the course of 22 days, 114 gill nets were set around the mouth of the Garden River. In addition, 116 larval drift nets were set to capture larval sturgeon at selected spots along the length of the Garden River. Lake Sturgeon that were captured were implanted with acoustic telemetry tags and were tracked throughout the St. Mary’s and Garden River. Temperature data was also collected in the Garden River.
transmitters. Also, 243 larval lake sturgeon were captured, with the majority being captured at Murphy’s Rapids (220). In total, throughout 2016 and 2017 a total of 39 lake sturgeon were implanted with acoustic tags. These fish will be tracked for years to come. Also, Murphy’s Rapids shows strong evidence as a spawning location, with many larvae captured there this year.
Lexi Sumner, A/OFRC Fisheries Biologist, and Tanner Lesage, GRFN Technician, with a Lake Sturgeon
A full report will be available in Spring 2018. This three-part study is funded by the Species At Risk Stewardship Fund. Larval Sturgeon captured during larval drift netting during 2017
In total, 26 adult Lake Sturgeon were captured, 22 of which were implanted with acoustic
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Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
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over the course of the project. This resulted in a catch per unit effort (CPUE) of 4.2 fish/net. From June 27 - July 4, 2017, the Anishinabek/ Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC), in partnership with Biinjitiwabik Zaaging Aireal Starr, A/OFRC Fisheries Technician, weighing a NorthAnishinaabek, undertook a ern Pike project to study Walleye in the shallow waters of Humboldt Bay, Lake Nipigon. Over the course of 8 days, 42 trap nets were set within the confines of Humboldt Bay. All game fish (Walleye, Whitefish, Northern Pike and Brook Trout) were sampled for length (mm), weight (g) and species specific ageing structures. All other fish were sampled for fork length. In addition all game fish were implanted with an external FLOY tag.
Briana Chevrier, A/OFRC Fisheries Intern, sampling a Walleye
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In total 29 Walleye, 59 Northern Pike, 5 Lake Whitefish and 2 Brook Trout were captured. Overall 177 fish, representing 10 different species were captured
In conclusion, a fair number of Walleye were captured, indicating that there are Walleye in the shallowest depth stratum in Humboldt Bay. These fish were tagged and may turn up in future netting studies or commercial catches.
The Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC), in partnership with Red Rock Indian Band (RRIB), successfully completed a Walleye Spawning Assessment at the Mouth of the Wolf River mouth of the Wolf River in Spring 2017. The objective of this study was to confirm the importance of the Wolf River as a spawning location for the Black Bay walleye population. This was the third consecutive study completed on the Wolf River. From April 23—30, 2017, a total of 26 gill nets were deployed for two (2) hour durations near the mouth of the Wolf River with the aim of capturing spawning walleye on shoals around the river mouth. From May 9—16, 2017, an A/OFRC biologist and RRIB technician collected walleye using dip nets in the evening
Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
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as they were spawning in the Wolf River downstream of the sea lamprey barrier. All walleye captured were measured for length and weight, were tagged with a white FLOY tag, and were live released. A total of 46 walleye were captured, 38 were captured in gill nets, and 8 were captured by dip netting. Other species captured included northern pike, common carp, white sucker, and longnose sucker. There were 3 recaptured walleye caught by dip netting which were tagged in the 2016 walleye spawning assessment. Walleye were first observed spawning when surface water temperatures reached 7.5 °C. Dip netting continued until water temperatures reached 9.0 °C. Over the past 3 years, walleye have been observed spawning downstream of the sea lamprey barrier on the Wolf River. For the first time, fish tagged in previous years were recaptured while spawning at the barrier, indicating that walleye are spawning at this site. Walleye spawning in the Wolf River may be part of a different spawning population than those spawning in the Black Sturgeon River and in the shoals in Black Bay.
In April 2017, the Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre, in partnership with Whitefish River First Nation, successfully completed a Spring Walleye Index Netting (SWIN) survey on the Whitefish River, including the area below Whitefish Falls.
Netting occurred from April 21—May 7 on the Whitefish River, and captured walleye moving to the spawning grounds as well as to the lake. Trap nets were set near the mouth of the river and at Whitefish Falls. In total, 56 trap nets were set. Water temperatures varied from 5.3—8.7 °C during the sampling period. In total, 291 Walleye were captured throughout the course of the project. Other species captured include Northern Pike, Yellow Perch, Redhorse spp., Muskellunge, Bluegill, and Smallmouth Bass. All Walleye were measured, weighed, sexed, and tagged with an external FLOY tags and a dorsal spine clip of the 2nd and 3rd rays for identification in future projects. A previous project, completed in 2012, captured 120 Walleye. In conclusion, a large proportion of Walleye captured (~25 %) in spawning condition were nine years old, while the bulk of Walleye ranged from 490—639 mm in length. A total of 251 males and 29 females were captured. Curtis Avery, A/OFRC Fisheries Biologist, pre-pares to sample Walleye captured in Trap net.
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Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
2017/2018 FIELD PROGRAM
From April 24—May 7, 2017, the Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre, in partnership with Sagamok Anishinabek, set out to study the Walleye spawn in LaCloche Lake. A trap-netting protocol was used to allow for the live release of fish. Over the course of nine days, 22 trap nets were set at areas that showed promise as Walleye spawning habitat. All game fish including Walleye, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, and Northern Pike, were sampled for ageing structures, weight, length, and gender. A total of 252 fish were captured representing nine different species. The majority of the fish species captured were Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, White Sucker, and Brown Bullhead. 118 fish were sampled. Although some good A walleye from LaCloche Lake Walleye spawning habitat exhibiting a clipped fin, common to was found, including gravel stocked fish. and cobble shoals, very few captured Walleye were in spawning state, which may indicate that Walleye are not spawning in LaCloche Lake.
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On October 26, 2017, The Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre, in partnership with Toronto Zoo’s Turtle Island Conservation Program, and Chippewas of Kettle & Stony Point First Nation, conducted a fisheries workshop at Pinewood Park. Students from Hillside School participated in this workshop which included a presentation by Toronto Zoo’s Turtle Island Conservation Program on the Pugnose Shiner (a Species at Risk in the area), a tour by Parks Canada of Pinewood Park’s unique environment, and a seine netting and electrofishing demonstration by the A/OFRC at the nearby waterway. There were no Pugnose Shiner’s captured, however, the students enjoyed witnessing a big Northern Pike jump out of the water during the electro-fishing demonstration.
Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
2017/2018 FIELD PROGRAM
The Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC), in partnership with Thessalon First Nation, competed a Wetland Turtle and Amphibian Survey to detect the presence, absence, and relative abundance of frogs and toads, and turtles. The Amphibian Survey took place from May 31—September 1, 2017. The Basking Turtle Survey took place from August 30—September 1, 2017. These surveys took place at wetlands within the traditional territory of Thessalon First Nation.
Amphibian Survey The Amphibian Survey consisted of three periods of auditory (hearingbased) surveys. These Amphibian Surveys were conducted 30 minutes after sunset until midnight. There was little wind during this time, and the minimum air temperatures were 5 °C, 10 °C, and 17 °C for each respective evening. 500 m monitoring stations were established 500 m apart at two wetlands, and surveys were
completed in three-minute intervals at each station respective study site. Frogs identified included Grey Treefrog, Green Frog, Mink Frog, Spring Peeper, American Toad, and Western Chorus Frog. Basking Turtle Survey The Basking Turtle Surveys consisted of visually identifying basking turtles using a spotting scope, with attempts to get closer for identification. Roadside cruises also took place. These surveys took place in the mornings, when turtles are most likely to bask to increase their metabolic rates. Fyke nets and minnow traps were also deployed in the wetlands. An average of 8 basking turtles were spotted at the uppermost wetland, which is adjacent to the CPR railway. These turtles were identified as Painted Turtles. The fyke net survey captured two (2) Snapping Turtles, one yearling, and one ~42 cm in length. The minnow traps revealed the presence of the following
minnow species: Fathead Minnow, Northern Pearl Dace, and Redbelly Dace. Brook sticklebacks were also captured. This was the first year of the Wetland Turtle and Amphibian Survey at Thessalon First Nation. Future studies will continue to monitor frog and turtle species within the traditional territory of Thessalon First Nation. Results from water chemistry, combined with this year’s data, will assist in establishing baseline data and determining the health of wetlands for Thessalon First Nation.
Three painted turtles observed during the basking surveys
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Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
2017/2018 FIELD PROGRAM
In June 2017, the Anishinabek/ Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC), in partnership with Wasauksing First Nation, successfully completed an End of Spring Trap Netting (ESTN) and habitat survey along the north shore of Parry Island, including Peterson’s and Hay Bay. Netting occurred from June 1 to June 9, 2017 along the north shore of Parry Island. Trap nets were set in locations with water depths ranging from 1.7 to 3.5 meters. In total, 22 trap nets were set. Water temperatures varied from 12 to 16 degrees Celsius during the sampling period. In total, 88 fish were captured throughout the course of the project, consisting of 8 species. The captured species consisted of Smallmouth Bass, Rock Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Alewife,
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Brown Bullhead, Longnose Gar, and Silver Redhorse. All Walleye, Smallmouth Bass and Northern Pike were measured, weighed and sexed. Walleye and Smallmouth Bass both received dorsal spine clips on the third ray, while Walleye also had a FLOY tag* applied near the dorsal fin on their left side. In conclusion, this study will build on past studies conducted in 2010 and 2006, both of which consisted of ESTN and habitat surveys on the south side of Parry Island. The data collected will be used by Wasauksing First Nation to develop and implement a Fisheries Management Plan to ensure the health of fish species around Parry Island.
From June 5—14, 2017, the Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC) in partnership with Red Rock Indian Band and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (OMNRF) successfully completed an End of Spring Trap Netting (ESTN) Survey on Lake Helen and Polly Lake. The objective of this survey is to provide and accurate reading on the population dynamics of fish species. The End of Spring Trap Netting protocol utilizes a random sampling design. This particular survey used 40 net sets. The ESTN Survey took place when surface water temperatures are between 12°C and 18°C. All Northern Pike and Walleye were FLOY tagged. Walleye were also radio -tagged with the assistance of OMNRF.
Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
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Over 250 fish were captured and FLOY tagged by the A/OFRC and OMNRF. A/OFRC tags are white, with a four digit code, and a phone number. OMNRF tags are green, with a number preceded by the letters OMNRF.
This project will continue to assist in monitoring efforts by Red Rock Indian Band It is recommended that the ESTN Survey on Lake Helen and Polly Lake take place for two (2) consecutive years.
A/OFRC Fisheries Technician Briana Che3vier and A/OFRC Fisheries Biologist Curtis Avery
The End of Spring Trap Netting (ESTN) is a standard live-release trap netting program that is designed to estimate the relative abundance of spring spawners in shallow waters. The ESTN is typically used to provide biological measures to assess the status of Walleye populations in Ontario, but can be modified to target other spring spawning fish, including Northern Pike. The ESTN is an adaptation of the Nearshore Community Index Netting program that was designed to provide trends through time information on nearshore fish communities. An ESTN can provide decision-makers with abundance and biological attribute data that can be used to make relative comparisons to provincial benchmark values from other lakes in Ontario.
The Broad Scale Monitoring (BSM) Program was developed to support the Ecological Framework for Fisheries Management in Ontario through long-term monitoring of fish populations, aquatic habitat, and recreational fishing. This program is designed to evaluate Ontario’s fisheries on a broad level, and includes the collection of detailed information about fish species and fish communities, physical and chemical water characteristics, aquatic invasive species, and fishing effort. A BSM uses a combination of two types of gill nets, large mesh and small mesh. A variety of information is collection from captured fish including length, weight, sex, maturity, ageing structures, stomach contents, and a contaminant sample from muscle.
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Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
2017/2018 FIELD PROGRAM
The Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC), in partnership with Dokis First Nation, conducted a Broad-scale Monitoring survey and habitat assessment on Pike Lake. A similar survey was done in 2005. The results of this project will assist in determining any impacts from a nearby quarry. A total of 15 gill nets were set in Pike Lake overnight from July 31 - August 2, 2017. The gill nets were composed of a variety of mesh sizes, ranging from 13 mm to 127 mm, ensuring that both small and largebodied fish were targeted. From large-bodied fish, length and weight was measured, sex and maturity was determined, and aging structures were removed for age determination. Muscle tissue samples were collected from northern pike for contaminant analysis. All smaller fish were measured for length. In addition to gill nets, 20 minnow traps were set overnight around the perimeter of the lake. Fish caught in the minnow traps were measured for length. Water samples were collected for water chemistry analysis. Both a
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shoreline and a littoral habitat survey were conducted along the edge of the lake. Bottom sediment samples were collected at 11 sites around the lake to determine if rocks from the quarry are altering the sediment composition of the lake. In total, 23 northern pike, 188 yellow perch, 22 pumpkin seed, 4 white sucker and 79 golden shiner were caught in the gill nets. The most abundant fish collected the minnow traps were pumpkinseed, with 530 individuals being caught. Fish caught in the minnow traps were 37 yellow perch, 2 golden shiner, and 1 juvenile northern pike. Many of the same species were caught during the 2017 survey as those caught in 2005 before the quarry had been established, suggesting that the quarry adjacent to Pike Lake has not significantly changed the fish community structure. The results of the water chemistry analysis will help us to identify any changes that the quarry runoff has had on the chemistry of the lake.
From August 14 - 19, 2017 the Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC), in partnership, with Pic Mobert First Nation, undertook a Broad-Scale Monitoring project to gather baseline information of the fish species in Nursery Lake. The population dynamics collected in the study will be used for future fish management in Nursery Lake. Over the course of four days, 16 gill nets were set overnight within Nursery Lake. Both large and small mesh nets were used, with varying mesh sizes, ranging from 13 mm to 127 mm. This allowed the capture of small and large-bodied fish for baseline fish population data. The primary and secondary fish species captured in the large mesh nets were fully biologically sampled: which includes fork length, total length, round weight, sex, maturity, stomach contents, and aging structures. Also, a muscle tissue was collected for contaminant sampling
Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
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of those fish. For the small mesh nets, all of the fish caught were measured only for fork length. Moreover, a water chemistry analysis, bathymetric mapping, and habitat assessment of littoral (near shore) and shoreline zones also occurred during the study.
Overall 714 fish representing 9 different species, were captured throughout the study, with the most abundant being Yellow Perch. There was 331 Yellow Perch, 209 Spottail Shiners, 38 Northern Pike, 6 Walleye and 5 Lake Whitefish caught in the gill nets. This resulted in a catch per unit effort (CPUE) of 44.6 fish/net for Nursery Lake. This project will assist Pic Mobert First Nation with inventorying of inland lakes within the traditional territory, and gathering baseline data to help with future fisheries management.
The Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC), in partnership with Wahnapitae First Nation, conducted a Broad Scale Monitoring Survey on Selwyn Lake, located next to a decommissioned mine near Wahnapitae First Nation. This project took place August 21— 27, 2017. The objective of this survey was to determine whether a Brook Trout population was present in the lake, and to gather baseline information on other species present and their current population dynamics. Two streams were also examined to identify any Brook Trout refuges. A total of 21 overnight net sets composed of eleven 50-foot large mesh gill nets and ten 25-foot small mesh gill nets were set in three different stratum depths ranging between 1—20 m. Contaminant samples were taken from three fish species—Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, and White Sucker. A temperature and dissolved oxygen profile were taken at one-meter intervals at the
deepest part of the lake using a Dissolved Oxygen Meter. Two minnow traps were set in two small streams flowing into the lake. Velocity of the streams were measured using a Water Flow Probe. Bathymetric mapping was also conducted using a side-scanner to record depth contours of the lake. A total of 287 fish were captured, representing eight species, with one unknown specimen. The most abundant fish captured was the Yellow Perch, with 89 individuals captured. Other species included White Sucker (74), Smallmouth Bass (47), Pumpkinseed (41), Golden Shiner (25), Walleye (9), Cisco (1), and one unknown specimen. No Brook Trout were captured during this survey. Possible reasons for Brook Trout observations could be due to stocking attempts by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) in the 1950s, or due to a historical Brook Trout population which no longer exists.
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Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
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The Anishinabek / Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (A/OFRC) in partnership with Curve Lake First Nation, completed a pilot fisheries assessment of the Wild Rice beds in Pigeon Lake. This project began July 25, 2017 and continued until July 29, 2017. This study used a total of 25 modified broad scale gill nets, each 0.9 m in height. The nets were set for two (2) hours within the wild rice beds in Pigeon Lake. Nets were set early in the morning and at dusk. In total, 326 fish were captured, representing 10 different species. The most abundant species observed were Yellow Perch (131), Golden Shiners (122) and Pumpkinseed (35). Some important sport fish species captured included Largemouth
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Bass, Walleye, and Muskellunge, which were live released. Most fish captured in this study were juveniles, which indicated that the wild rice beds may provide important habitat for these fish during this vulnerable stage in their life cycle. It is suspected that Walleye were entering the wild rice beds to forage on the abundance of Yellow Perch and Golden Shiners. In an effort to monitor changes in the wild rice beds, a preliminary mapping exercise will take place. Upon the completion of this project, Curve Lake First Nation would like to examine the wild rice beds in other water bodies within their traditional territory, namely Chemong Lake and Buckhorn Lake.
Wild rice (Zizania palustris), also called manoomin in Anishinabemowin, is a wild grass that grows from seed annually and produces a very valuable grain. Wild rice has been used as a food source for thousands of years, and many lakes and rivers have received their names from the presence of wild rice in them. Wild rice filters the waters, binds loose soil, and provides protection from
Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
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high winds and waves along shorelines. Wild rice also provides habitat for many species, including species at risk. Every stage of growth of natural wild rice provides food and habitat for wildlife, and provides exceptional breeding and nesting areas for an abundance of species, including fish. Plant growth occurs in three phases: submersed (late May), floating leaf (mid-late June), and emergent (July). Wild Rice harvest takes place in September. Wild rice has a very shallow root system, and changing water levels can easily dislodge the plant. Shoreline development is, and continues to be, a major threat to wild rice. Another threat to wild rice is climate change, as it can have an effect on water levels, resulting in a serious impact to the growing cycle.
The Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre, in partnership with Henvey Inlet First Nation, completed a Habitat and Water Quality Assessment of the area surrounding Cantin Island. This Assessment took place from June 30—July 10, 2017. The habitat assessment consisted of shoreline cruises, in which the shoreline was inventoried based in substrate type, vegetation type and slope, and the presence of manmade structures. The littoral zone was inventoried based on substrate type, vegetation, and unique fish habitat features. Areas adjacent to the shoreline were mapped using a side-scan sonar, which will assist in delineating important habitat features. Four (4) water quality monitoring sites were established within the Lower French River and Pickeral River. Each site is equipped with a tethered temperature loggers that is set to record temperatures
every hour. These sites will be used to monitor changes in the temperature and oxygen profiles of the rivers, as well as serve as sites for water quality samples. These sites will be sampled from June— October 2017. A/OFRC crew were unable to detect any algae bloom as of August 16, 2017. Results from the water quality analysis, temperature loggers, and dissolved oxygen profiles may assist in identifying the potential of algae blooms in the areas surround Cantin Island. The collection of water quality data in the Lower French River and Pickeral River will assist Henvey Inlet First Nation in determining if algae blooms are responsible for foul odours reported by community members.
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Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
As a “Centre of Excellence” the A/OFRC is tasked with keeping upto-date on new and innovative technologies related to fisheries research. In 2017, the centre began the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) for conducting fisheries research in a more effective and efficient way. From 2017 to 2018, the A/OFRC has conducted over 10 flights on various bodies of water and in various traditional territories throughout the North. Overall, the use of UAVs has given the centre the ability to view fisheries research with a new perspective, allowing us to gather data which would otherwise have require the use of extensive field crews utilizing robust protocols. The A/OFRC hopes to take drone mapping even further in the future, from modeling in three dimensions (i.e. small stream), employing various types of lenses such as infrared (to view ground water seeps and Brook/Rainbow Trout habitat), to conducting habitat surveys of littoral zones. With an eye in the sky, the A/OFRC will continue to be efficient, not only in the water, but above it as well. It will also assist in building more robust studies for
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First Nations while establishing solid working relationships with provincial agencies and community organizations for future endeavours.
Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation The A/OFRC has assisted Sagamok Anishnawbek in the investigation of Northern Pike in various backwater bays since 2013. These surveys have utilized a trap netting protocol aimed at capturing migrating Northern Pike as they enter backwater bays for spawning. One of bays understudy included Johns Bay, which is located adjacent to the North Channel, Lake Huron. During low lake levels, Johns bay has been known to produce winter kills, due to its shallow nature. However, in years where Lake Huron is high, the becomes a popular spawning ground for migrating northern pike. In 2018, the A/OFRC attempted to utilize the UAV to map Johns Bay. Due to the size of the bay, multiple flights were needed. The map produced will be merged with bathymetric data, and catch data to determine areas utilized or preferred by spawning Northern Pike.
Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
Black Bay – Black Bay once supported the largest population of Walleye in Lake Superior, along with a prosperous commercial and recreational fishery. From the late 1800’s to 1965 commercial harvest from Black Bay exceeded all other catches from Lake Superior. At its peak, catches exceeded 150 000 kg of walleye annually. In conjunction with Nipigon Bay, the two fisheries amounted to 90% of the commercial Walleye harvest in Lake Superior from 1948 to 1974. However, in 1968, after years of intense overfishing, habitat fragmentation to critical spawning habitat (Black Sturgeon River), and predation by rainbow smelt, the population collapsed. To aid in knowledge gaps surrounding the recovery of the Black Bay Walleye, the A/OFRC began conducting spawning surveys on various tributaries flowing into the Bay. Theses surveys led to the discovery of other Walleye spawning populations, utilizing tributaries other than the Black Sturgeon River. In 2017, the A/OFRC conducted a UAV operation with the objective of mapping important, instream spawning habitat, used for the estimation of suitable spawning substrates. Future Projects In the 2018-2019 field program, the UAV will be used on multiple operations. Some of these include: •
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Mapping spawning bass nests in Hay Bay, Wasauksing First Nation Mapping. Land-use around Smith Bay Creek, a rainbow trout bearing stream in Wikwemikong. Mapping Wild Rice stands in Buckhorn Lake, for Curve Lake First Nation. Mapping important wetlands utilized by various turtle and amphibian species in Thessalon First Nation.
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Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
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Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
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Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES! Need support with your application or project design? The A/OFRC works with communities within the Anishinabek Nation, and regularly supports clients in successfully applying for fisheries related funding opportunities and enhancing environmental and community capacity.
Great Lakes Guardian Community Fund As part of Ontario’s Great Lakes Strategy, this Fund was set up to help people take action to protect and restore their corner of the Great Lakes. The fund is open to not-for-profit organizations, First Nations communities and organizations, and Metis communities and organizations located within the areas of Lake Erie, Lake Huron, Lake Ontario, Lake Superior, St. Lawrence River, the Ottawa River, and their connecting channels and watersheds. Up to $25,000 per project is available. To learn more, visit http://www.ontario.ca/page/ great-lakes-guardian-community-fund
Aboriginal Fund for Species at Risk The goal of this program is to contribute to the conservation and protection of Canada’s biodiversity by supporting species recovery planning, habitat protection, and overall conservation and capacity building initiatives by Aboriginal people in Canada. The key objective is to encourage meaningful involvement of Aboriginal people and communities in the implementation of the Species at Risk Act. Funding ranges from $10,000 to $50,000 per year, and projects may extend more than one year. To learn more, visit http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/aboriginalautochtones/sar-lep/funds-fonds-eng.htm
Ontario Trillium Foundation The Ontario Trillium Foundation has four Investment Streams: Seed, Grow, Capital and Collective Impact. A selfassessment is available on the website to find out which Investment Stream best suits your project. Each stream has it’s own criteria, applications, organization registration deadline, and the application deadline. For more information, visit http://www.otf.ca/apply-grant.
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Canada Ontario Resource Development Agreement The Canada Ontario Resource Development Agreement is an agreement between Canada, Ontario and First Nations members in Ontario. The agreement promotes resource and economic development initiatives for First Nation`s members by providing financial assistance to develop and utilize renewable natural resources. Funding up to $35,000. To learn more, visit http://www.anishinabek.ca/ lands-and-resources-other.asp.
Great Lakes Sustainability Fund This fund provides technical and financial support to action projects aimed at cleaning up, restoring and protecting the environmental quality and beneficial uses of Canada’s Great Lakes in areas of concern. Projects are restricted to the Canadian Great Lakes Areas of Concern. Deadline: early December. For more information, visit
EcoAction Community Funding Program The EcoAction Community Funding Program funds projects across Canada to encourage Canadians to take action to address clean air, clean water, climate change and nature issues, and to build the capacity of communities to sustain these activities into the future. Up to $100,000 per project is available. Maximum duration of a project is 36 months. Deadline for submissions: November 1st. For more information, visit https://www.ec.gc.ca/ecoaction/
Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre’s Fisheries E-Newsletter 2017-2018 Field Season
• WHAT TO DO • WHO TO CALL • WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED
Why do we tag fish? Tagging is a biological method for monitoring fish and assessing populations. The reason for doing this is to tell one fish from another so its daily movements or seasonal migrations can be studies and rates of growth can be learned. Tags have a unique number printed on them, along with a phone number to call to report that the caught tagged fish. When a fish is first tagged, basic information, such as when and where it was tagged and its size at release, is recorded with its tag number. When the fish is recaptured, biologists can use the tag number to match up the release information with the recapture information and learn how long the fish was at large, how far the fish travelled, and how much it grew during that time period. Tagging is an important tool for monitoring fish because they spend their entire lives out of the sight of researchers trying to learn about them. With enough tagging data, fisheries biologists could estimate fish migratory behaviour, population structures, and mortality rates.
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Baamaapii Kawaabmin!