Shoreline Riparian Enhancement

Loss of the riparian zone in Lake St. Francis has contributed to the decreased water quality in the littoral zone, increased shoreline erosion, increased nutrients that promote weed and algae growth and the impairment of wildlife and aquatic habitats.  A Fish Habitat Management Plan for Lake St. Francis completed in 2006 measured the shoreline and littoral zone impairments and recommended restoration of the riparian zone as a priority to assist in delisting this area of concern.

In discussions with shoreline landowners, the concerns to overcome are restrictions to the view of water and the untidy, unkempt look of a naturalized shoreline.  A strategy is being developed that approaches riparian enhancement with a more landscaped approach to the planting of native species of trees and shrubs and incorporating the use of native wildflowers to provide a more visually appealing  installation.  A local landowner in a very degraded reach of the Lake St. Francis has provided his shoreline property for the installation of a demonstration site.  Work has proceeded with the assistance of a local naturalist to investigate the suitability of a wide variety of native wildflowers planted at the site.

For additional information, please contact Chris Critoph, Manager of Environmental Services.  chris@rrca.on.ca or Normand Genier, Soil and Water Specialist normand@rrca.on.ca.

Back to Fish and Wildlife Habitat