Another grant of $2000 has been awarded to the University of Guelph, Department of Zoology student Marie Clement for work being done on Salmon and Trout. The project will investigate the possible co-existence of trout and Atlantic Salmon in the same stream waters.
Atlantic salmon were once common in Lake Ontario, until heavy urbanization of Ontario in the late 1860's. The construction of dams, deforestation and heavy commercial fishing also took a toll on the Atlantic Salmon and the fish became extinct in Lake Ontario by the turn of the century.
"This research may help us learn how to reintroduce this once magnificent sport fish so the y may once again become part of the Lake Ontario ecosystem," said OFAH Director of Fish and Wildlife Services, Terry Quinney. OFAH has been actively involved in the reintroduction of the Atlantic salmon since 1990.
Another issue that came to light during the Conference was during Minister of Natural Resources John Snobelens speech to OFAH. The MNR has a "Lands for Life" program that will determine how Ontario's crown lands will be carved up for parks, remote tourism operators, the forest industry and anglers and hunters.
Numerous members spoke out to Snobelen their concern over the possibility that huge new parks would be and massive tracts of land would be set aside exclusively for tourist operators and leave hunters and anglers with dramatically reduced access to crown lands and lakes. Snobelen responded that his government is committed to enhancing fishing and hunting opportunities in Ontario. The crowd objected to large tracts of land being set aside for the sole use of remote outfitters. Snobelen could not comment on the possible outcomes of the "lands for life" hearings but did add that the present provincial government agrees with multi-use parks where as large parks can be set up and maintained for future benefits while hunting and fishing practices continue.
The OFAH Conference was attended by more than 400 members from across the province. OFAH continues to be a leader in provincial conservation issues often continuing or developing hands on work projects that are needed to protect or enhance Ontario's fisheries and big game numbers.
