In 2008, Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) researchers identified a good candidate site for aquatic habitat restoration where Western Creek and the East Holland River meet in the centre of Newmarket. Issues at the site included unstable banks, lack of vegetation and an in-stream fish barrier. LSRCA, in partnership with the Town of Newmarket, the Regional Municipality of York, the Lake Simcoe Conservation Foundation (LSCF) and Royal Bank’s Blue Water Fund, raised the resources necessary to undertake the restoration work at the site, which is owned by the Town of Newmarket.

The restoration project began with removal of a box culvert crossing and failing retaining walls. The crossing was replaced with an open span bridge that was installed approximately 5 metres upstream of the existing crossing. This also helped to open the mouth of the creek where it enters the East Holland River. The banks were stabilized by installing river stone along the toe and native plantings along the banks, mouth and riparian area. Creek bed enhancements included the installation of small boulders along the banks to promote fish habitat and stabilization.

Prior to this project, LSRCA staff had completed a fish community summary assessment and found no fish present at this location. Removal of the barrier allowed fish access upstream. LSRCA staff re-sampled the creek after the project’s completion and found White Sucker, Common Carp, Longnose Dace and Creek Chub. This restoration work was a great success as it demonstrates both an improvement to the local aquatic habitat and a measurable improvement in the fish diversity within Western Creek.

Figure 1. Western Creek before restoration. Figure 1. Western Creek before restoration.

Figure 2. Western Creek after restoration. Figure 2. Western Creek after restoration.