The Kennisis Lakes Fishery: Past, Present and Future

Transcription

1 The Kennisis Lakes Fishery: Past, Present and Future Lake Trout (Salvelinus namaycush) 04/15/2010 An evaluation of the historical condition, present state and future recommendations for the Kennisis Lakes Fishery Prepared by: Alison Kemp, Jessyka Ludwig, & Carolyn Reid, Submitted to: Dr. Eric Sager and Dr. Tom Hutchinson 425OH Restoration Ecology

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION - LAKE KENNISIS 2.0 PURPOSE 3.0 METHODOLOGY 4.0 LAKE PLAN CONCERNS AND OBJECTIVES 5.0 HISTORY - Historical Condition - Stocking History 6.0 CURRENT STATE 7.0 PRELIMINARY FINDINGS - Angler Perspectives - Dedicated Angler Program 8.0 OVERRIDING ISSUES 9.0 KNOWLEDGE GAPS 10.0 RECOMMENDATIONS & FUTURE STEPS 11.0 REFERENCES 12.0 APPENDIX A ANGLER PERSPECTIVES - RAW DATA SUMMARY 13.0 APPENDIX B - MNR DATA - RAW DATA HISTORIC FILES 14.0 APPENDIX C - GEOLOGY TERRAIN VS AGGREGATE RESOURCES MAP KENNISIS LAKES SHOAL MAP WATER LEVEL VARIATION MAP 15.0 APPENDIX D KENNISIS LAKE STOCKING HISTORY Page 1

3 1.0 INTRODUCTION Kennisis and Little Kennisis Lakes are the headwaters for the Gull River watershed with only one outflow, the Kennisis River (Figure 1). They are located in Havelock Township, south of the Haliburton Forest on the Precambrium Shield. With two public access points, the lakes provide an ideal fishing opportunity to the public. The physical characteristics of the water meet the general habitat preferences for lake trout (Salvelinus namycush). The lakes are naturally oligotrophic (nutrient poor), deep for the area. The water quality has been acceptable with respect to dissolved temperature oxygen, ph, and clarity (French Planning Services, 2007). To their ecological benefit, the lakes are not accessible from well-travelled roads and as a result, they experience much less fishing pressure than other lakes in the watershed. However, cottage and full time resident fishing pressure is increasing and it has been estimated that 90% of the shoreline has now been developed (French Planning Services, 2007). The Ministry of Natural Resources has worked to manage and monitor fisheries on the Kennisis Lakes since Taking on a comprehensive environmental stewardship role, the Kennisis Lakes Cottage Owners Association (KLCOA) is concerned with the preservation and sustainability of the fisheries in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources, Minden office. The evaluation of all the available fisheries information has allowed for the documentation of the historical condition and an estimation of the present state, while drawing attention to knowledge gaps and future objectives. Page 2

4 Figure1. The Trent Watershed (French Planning Services, 2007). Kennisis Lakes are the headwaters of the Gull River Watershed and are at the top of the drawn down for the Trent-Severn Watershed. Page 3

5 2.0 PURPOSE The purpose of this community-based research project was to use existing information about the past and present state of the Kennisis Lake fishery in order to inform the structure and focus of a fisheries management plan. Through developing a better understanding the history and current state of the lake; issues of concern; and the various needs of different community groups and stake holders; we have been able to create a set of recommendations for future projects and research that would support the development of a sustainable fishery on Kennisis Lake. As the stewardship of lakes is increasingly downloaded to the community, it is vital that a lake management plan be based on the integration of scientific recommendations and community objectives. 3.0 METHODOLOGY The Lake Plan concerns and objectives were identified through consultation with the sustainable fishery management plan partners including the Kennisis Lake Cottage Owners Association, the Ministry of Natural Resources, and local anglers. Lake quality and fishery records including creel surveys and stocking information have been analysed from MNR files. Interviews were conducted to include angler and lake resident knowledge, experience and concerns. The results were compiled into this document that can be used as a reference source on the KLCOA website. The researchers met with the community-based research project plan stakeholders included Heather Reid (ULINKS), Jim Prince (KLCOA), and Professor Eric Sager (Trent University) to identify the purpose, methodology, and objectives for the project. The researchers then met with David Flowers, the MNR Fisheries Extension Biologist responsible for Kennisis Lake, to develop a better understanding of the ecology of the lake and the fish. Documents and information from MNR files were recorded and assessed to help determine the historical condition of the fisheries and the stocking history of the lake. A poster presentation was made at the ULINKS Page 4

6 Celebration of Research. This presentation facilitated discussion with community members, faculty members, and students and this dialogue helped the researchers identify further areas of investigation, including analysis of aggregate resources to aid in the identification of spawning areas for lake trout and brook trout. The researchers then met with David Flowers a second time to ask further questions. The researchers also met with Jim Prince during the process to discuss the research needs of the KLCOA, as well as to visit and learn more about Kennisis Lake. Informal interviews with a small sample of anglers were conducted in order to gather some local community knowledge and perspectives on the state of the fishery. All the collected information was then organized and incorporated into this document. Page 5

7 4.0 LAKE PLAN FISHERY CONCERNS AND OBJECTIVES The purpose of the Kennisis Lake Plan is to recognize and protect the unique character of the watershed. Strategies to ensure the long-term protection, maintenance and restoration of natural, social and physical features of the watershed are recommended in the plan. The Guiding Principles of the Kennisis Lake Plan (2007) propose that, the Kennisis Lakes support a sustainable fish population including optimum habitat for their naturally reproducing lake trout. *and+ that the further introduction of invading species be prevented. In addition, the protection and rehabilitation of the lake shoreline and river banks. that supports a diverse range of fish and wildlife species, be promoted to increase the amount of natural shoreline. Issues of concern related to fisheries that were discussed in the Kennisis Lake Plan include: the fluctuation of water levels on Kennisis Lake by the demands of the Trent-Severn Waterway; the development of shorelines and shoreline erosion; the impact of climate change on the lake; the introduction of invasive species; and the impact of septic systems (French Planning Services Inc., 2007). Water level fluctuations may be a threat to lake trout because they tend to spawn near the shores of the lake during the fall, and if the water level drops during spawning times, eggs may not survive (Figure 6). In addition, gross water level fluctuations can have impacts on shorelines and wetlands; cause soil erosion; change the temperature of the water; and increase the success of invasive species(french Planning Services Inc., 2007). Concerns with boating usage include pollution and damage to spawning habitats and shorelines, and shoreline development impacts on water quality and fish and aquatic species habitat (French Planning Services Inc., 2007). Page 6

8 5.0 HISTORY Historical Condition and Stocking History As man modified the Kennisis Lakes watershed with dams and developed shorelines, the fish community changed drastically from its historical condition. As a result of dam construction around 1850 the original lake trout population became extinct (OMNR, ). It is unknown whether this original lake trout population was the "Haliburton Gold" variety but it would be interesting to find out if there are any pre-dam taxidermy lake trout specimens existing. If so, they could be identified via DNA analysis at Trent University. Early lake trout stocking was very indiscriminate, as was typical of stocking in Ontario at this time (Kerr & Lazenby, 2001). The present naturalized population was derived from stocking efforts that occurred between Lake trout can be very plastic throughout their Ontario range and therefore it is necessary to evaluate them on a site-specific basis (Houston & Kelso, 1990). Each stocking has genetic traits that may allow it to adapt to various spawning conditions (Henderson, 1982). The Manitou stocking strain, used in the 1920 s and 1930 s, adapted well to the Kennisis Lakes and became a naturally reproducing population (Appendix D, Table 1). As a result of this self-sustaining population, the OMNR stopped stocking lake trout in the 1990's which is their policy when populations successfully naturalize (OMNR Minden records, ). Lake trout were stocked between 1925 and 1992 and Brook Trout from 2004 to A complete stocking history detailing both lake and brook trout stocking from was made available by the OMNR (Appendix D, Table 1). Despite numerous attempts, including sonic telemetry, spawning areas for lake trout have not been identified. It is assumed that the naturalized trout population have become deep spawners in response to the seasonally Page 7

9 fluctuating water levels regulated by the Trent Severn Waterway Authority (Flowers, 2010; Figure 6). S.C.U.B.A. diving on potential spawning shoals at regular intervals during the spawning period could potentially establish the location of the spawning areas (McLeish, 1993). It is assumed that brook trout were part of the historical fish community (and may have gone extinct concurrently with the lake trout) since they are found in lakes surrounding the Kennisis Lakes (Wootton, 2006). Intensive study of brook trout in the Haliburton Forest reserve, bordering on Lake Kennisis, found that there was significant genetic variation in brook trout between streams (Wootton, 2006). Quantity and quality of brook trout habitat accounted for the frequency and amount of genetic exchange between streams, but genetic exchange was infrequent, suggesting that brook trout become highly specialized in their environmentally forced genetic adaptations (Wootton, 2006). This may account for the inability of the current stocking to become self-sustaining. A close examination of the characteristics of the strains being stocked may be warranted to achieve the goal of having a self-sustaining population in the Kennisis Lakes. In addition, small streams bordering on lakes were found to play an important role in the maintenance of naturally existing brook trout populations (Wootton, 2006). Identification of currently unmapped streams and potential spawning areas would be beneficial to the goal of creating a self-sustaining population of brook trout, especially with regard to the impact of the current water level variations on potential spawning streams. Reduced stream flow and associated higher temperature and low oxygen situations created by water withdrawls can cause a physical loss of essential trout habitat. Additionally, it can cause a loss in the habitat quality (its chemical nature) necessary to maintain biotic integrity for brook trout (Armstrong & Parker, 2003). A watershed model predicting brook trout stream habitat using a topographic index, geology and land cover features has been used in the Haliburton Forest Reserve (Wootton, 2006). Geology has been found to correctly predict presence/absence in 70-80% of streams (Pickard, 1995; Wootton, 2006). Page 8

10 The proportion of catchment with sand and gravel geology has been shown to have a linear relationship with brook trout density (Wiley et al, 1997). Professional aggregate mapping analysis of the area could indicate the potential areas of cold upwelling which is characteristic of potential spawning conditions; however, this type of mapping doesn`t appear to be available (Appendix 3, Figure 4). An aggregate map shows classes of sand, gravel, or bedrock. High value deposits of sand and gravel are of interest because that means they are deep. Often, beside deep deposits spring fed streams are found with potential habitat for brook trout nurseries. Unfortunately, a lack of aggregate resources mapping in the Kennisis Lakes area presents as a gap in knowledge; if an aggregate resources map does exist it was not made available to us during the process of developing this document. Interesting research regarding the stocking of brook trout in non-native environments has suggested that the invasion of nonnative species of brook trout in freshwaters is facilitated through the interaction of habitat quality, biotic resistance, and connectivity (Benjamin et al. 2007). Concentrating on the first two of these may contribute to the success of Kennisis Lake brook trout stocking becoming more than put and take. Smallmouth bass and rock bass were illegally (bait) introduced to the lake in the 1970s and 1980s, respectively; rock bass are thought to be responsible for the decimation of minnow species in the lakes and the subsequent change in lake trout diet from a piscivore to an insectivore diet (OMNR Minden records, ). A comprehensive stocking history and fish community composition was provided by the MNR in March of 2010 and is included for KLCOA records (Appendix D). From the 1950 s to the 1990 s, the OMNR conducted depth contour mapping, water quality profiling, netting surveys, fish community details, winter and summer Creel surveys, and spawning observations. A lack of assessment and monitoring with regard to these activities has occurred in the last decade (Figures 2 &3). Page 9

11 Kennisis Lake Little Kennisis Kennisis Lake Little Kennisis Kennisis Lake Little Kennisis Kennisis Lake Little Kennisis Figure 2. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources depth contour mapping, water quality, netting surveys and fish species identification from 1958 to 2001 (OMNR, ). The graphs illustrate the lack of assessment occurring over the last decade and the need for future efforts to be directed toward establishing a current baseline for the fisheries. For raw data see Appendix B. Page 10

12 Kennisis Lake Little Kennisis Kennisis Lake Little Kennisis Kennisis Lake Little Kennisis Figure 3. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources summer and winter creel surveys and lake trout spawning observations from 1958 to 2001 (OMNR, ). The graphs illustrate the lack of assessment occurring over the last decade and the need for future efforts to be directed toward establishing a current baseline for the fisheries. For raw data see Appendix B. Page 11

13 6.0 CURRENT STATE Due to the lack of monitoring in the last decade, the exact state of the lake is unknown. We do however have historic data that can be used to estimate the current state of the lake. The primary sport fish that currently populate the lake are lake trout and small mouth bass (Flowers, 2010). Brook trout is currently stocked with the intent to create a sustainable population in the lake, to provide public access to another sport fish, and decrease angling pressure in surrounding lakes. The brook trout could also compete with rock bass for habitat (Flowers, 2010). Rock bass are prevalent and largely blamed for changes in the food web of the lake, the decline of lake trout and brook trout, and near elimination of bait species. Rock and small mouth bass, introduced in the 1970s and 1980s and are considered invasive species in this lake (OMNR, Minden office, ). Lake trout tend to live in the deep, cold parts of the lake while brook trout and both species of bass live in the shallow, warm waters (Henderson, 1982; Wootton, 2006). Lake trout prefer minnows and dace as their main prey as this allows for optimal growth (Henderson, 1982). Rock bass have had a major effect on decimating minnow and dace population, thus forcing adult lake trout to change their diet. Lake trout are currently thought to be consuming benthic insects, zooplankton and juvenile lake trout as their main prey (Flowers, 2010). This shift in diet reduces the amount of energy consumed/unit effort, as well as the number of juveniles that make it to adulthood to reproduce. This may account for some anglers observation that lake trout lack condition they grow to acceptable length but do not gain body depth. The catch per unit effort (how long it takes to catch a fish for every line in the water) for lake trout has not changed significantly since the 1950s when the MNR started to document it (OMNR Minden records, ). Opinions regarding the effort required to catch fish differs among anglers; angling experience may reflect some of this variability. Page 12

14 7.0 PRELIMINARY FINDINGS Angler Perspectives A small group of anglers were informally surveyed over the telephone to obtain subjective opinions regarding the historical and current state of Kennisis Lake and its fishery. Anglers were asked how long they have been fishing on Kennisis Lake (either Big or Little), if they had observed any changes to the lake or the fishery since they started fishing it, and if there are any actions they would like to see taken with the lake or the fishery. For raw survey notes, see Appendix A. The number of years fishing on Kennisis Lake ranged from 9 years to 64 years, with 30 years being the average. This long-term ecological knowledge is extremely valuable in determining the historical and current state. Respondents represented anglers that participated in both summer and winter fishing. The following is a summary of their answers. Individuals that have fished the lake for more than 20 years noted the following in common: Drastic decline in bait species such as leeches, minnows, and crayfish -in previous years the bait species had been abundant and easy to catch Disappearance of perch schools -one respondent also attested to seeing catfish and young near shore 20 years ago, but none since The shorelines and bays have been cleaned up, no debris has been left to serve as habitat for smaller fish and insects -there is also a lack of shoreline naturalization, many new lawns extend to the water s edge Large increase in the population of rock bass and small mouth bass -fewer and smaller small mouth bass in recent years Speckled trout (brook trout) are very difficult to catch or not caught at all Page 13

15 Water levels drop drastically in the fall Lake Trout observations: -perception is that the drop is faster and greater in recent years Lake trout frequently have empty bellies unless they were caught where anglers have been using live bait Lake trout lack size growing long but lack muscle and fat -experienced anglers reported that decades ago lake trout were routinely caught exceeding 8 lbs. Lake trout are now much more difficult to catch and the style of fishing has had to change to suit fish preference (presentation, depth, etc...). More experienced anglers note that there seems to be less angling pressure on the lake; however newer anglers suggest that overfishing is the cause of the Lake Trout population declines. One newer angler also though that the lake trout were bigger and fatter than in previous years, but also noted that their angling skills may also be improving (resulting in better catches). Suggested actions for the Lake from respondents: There was a general consensus that wake boats damage the lake by eroding the shoreline with large wakes contributing the sedimentation within the lake. Some residents wanted to see the boats either removed or controlled. Naturalize shorelines -include buffer strips of natural vegetation at water edge instead of trimming lawns all the way to the water -leave debris near shore and in bays to serve as habitat for young fish and bait species Increase speckles (brook) trout stocking measures to improve angler experience Page 14

16 Follow up on spawning bed construction, potentially build more Monitor and control water quality Negotiate better (more equitable) water flow, slow down and decrease water level fluctuations Find spawning lake trout beds Unite organizations that are working to improve the lake to make sure efforts aren t being duplicated While the survey size used here was small, the results points to the need to educate the public regarding the rationale behind decisions made about fish stocking policies and habitat, as well as respectful boating practices and how wake close to shore affects habitat and wildlife. Groups such as the Coalition for Equitable Water Flow, Parks Canada (who control water levels on the Trent Severn Waterway), the Kennisis Lake Cottage Owners Association, the Kawartha Lake Stewards Association, and the Haliburton Forest Reserve need to ensure that they work together toward common goals, rather than duplicating work. In addition, support for Kennisis Lake Cottage Owners Association mandate to educate lake side residents regarding the importance of proper septic care, riparian zones, and water use needs to be continued to help maintain water quality and shore integrity around Kennisis Lake (French Planning Service Inc., 2007). In the Coalition for Equitable Water Flow s report (Downey et al, 2008), Its All About the Water, concerns were voiced that mirrored many of the concerns that angers had regarding Kennisis Lake. Examples of these concerns include: declining water quality, falling water levels, threats from invasive species, loss of wetlands, underfunding and understaffing of the water way, and a need for strict development regulations. Page 15

17 Respondents for our survey also correlated the radical drop in water level to understaffing and underfunding of Parks Canada respondents suggested that water levels were brought down more slowly in the past which allowed invertebrates and other small species to move out of shallow areas before they drained for the winter. Dedicated Angler Program Mission: To manage lake trout fisheries in an ecologically sustainable manner to ensure that they continue to be available for the enjoyment and use of present and future generations. The Haliburton Lake Trout Project partners with the Haliburton Highlands Outdoors Association, the Ministry of Natural Resources, and the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters together with community members to manage local fisheries. The dedicated angler program allows community members to participate directly with resource management by recording field data that can then be analyzed by biologists to determine fishery health. This activity helps to foster stewardship values by enlisting those that use the resource to contribute to the resources conservation (Chow, 2009). Regular entries into angler diaries gives biologists information regarding frequently caught species, size and weight of fish caught, whether they are stocked or naturally reproduction populations, and fishing effort required to catch fish. This also helps anglers keep track of their own catches. The MNR has collected angler diaries from , though the data has yet to be fully analyzed and the MNR has yet to release definitive information with regard to the information they have received. The MNR has suffered many funding cutbacks and staff shortages over the years and as a result there is an overall general lack of resources available for the Ministry to do the field research necessary to intensively manage the lake fisheries (Flowers, 2010). Page 16

18 Thanks in part to these Ministry cutbacks, stewardship of lakes and fisheries is now frequently downloaded to the community level. As such, it is vital that community members participate in the continued health of their natural resources. While the responsibility to manage resources can be onerous at the community level, it also allows for local solutions to local problems on a lake specific basis instead of relying solely on the broad application of provincial policies. It can also foster greater awareness and responsibility for local ecosystems at the community level. 8.0 OVERRIDING ISSUES Given the growing influence of climate, environmental stress and reduced resilience in the lakes is probable. Social and economic drivers like overdevelopment, excessive resource consumption and undervaluation of natural processes and resources underlie the anthropogenic driven global warming that may ultimately affect the fisheries environment in the Kennisis Lakes. This is especially relevant with regard to the fluctuating water levels and drawn down. If water becomes increasingly scarce the water system levels may drop even more than they currently do. 9.0 KNOWLEDGE GAPS The identification of knowledge gaps assists in determining the direction of future research projects. The following knowledge gaps were identified: 1. Lack of an aggregates map. 2. The most recent field monitoring surveys conducted by the MNR were done in the 1990 s. Field monitoring surveys provide data on water quality (temperature/oxygen profiles, depth, alkalinity, etc.), and the status of fisheries (species, profile, population, stocking success, etc.). There has been an obvious gap in field monitoring and assessment data for the past ten years. Page 17

19 3. There is a lack of knowledge around the location of spawning areas for lake trout and brook trout. The identification of potential spawning shoals could lead to the protection and restoration of these areas, thus supporting the fish populations. A number of factors, including the fluctuations in water levels of the Trent-Severn Waterway and damage to shoreline habitat are thought to have a negative impact on lake trout and brook trout populations. 4. There is a lack of knowledge over why brook trout are not spawning in Kennisis Lake. According to David Flowers, the MNR would like to end the stocking of brook trout into Kennisis Lake, if the brook trout population is reproducing sustainably. Understanding the factors that affect the spawning success of brook trout would allow the development of research or projects that can encourage the success of brook trout spawning. 5. The fluctuation of water levels by the Trent-Severn Waterway system is thought to have a strong impact on fish populations, especially the success of spawning. There is a gap of knowledge around how the fluctuation of water levels impacts on the success of different fish species. 6. The Dedicated Anglers Program was implemented to collect information on fish populations, species, and fish health. A full analysis of the survey is not yet complete. Page 18

20 10.0 RECOMMENDATIONS AND FUTURE STEPS Through conversations with the MNR, local anglers, and the KLCOA, as well as research into the suggestions from other Kawartha Lake associations, a number of recommendations and suggestions have emerged that directly and indirectly affect the Kennisis Lake fishery. Mapping of wetlands in the Kennisis watershed would benefit the lake by identifying those sensitive areas that serve as filtration zones for water and nursery habitat for young fish, insects, and other invertebrates. By identifying the wetlands, KLCOA policies could be developed to protect them and their valuable services. Locate spawning areas for lake trout. Aggregate mapping may serve to identify areas of cool groundwater upwelling and gravel/rock rubble bases where lake trout may prefer to spawn. Alternatively the primary focus of the MNR should be the identification of spawning areas so that they can be protected and potentially enlarged or improved through community stewardship activities. Identification of shoals have been detailed (Appendix C, Figure 5), these may be off assistance in locating spawning shoals. The required spawning conditions for brook trout (referred to as speckled trout by some anglers) may not currently be met by the lake and its tributaries. This could be due to grossly fluctuating lake levels which disrupt spawning potential in streams as well as from predatory pressures from bass populations. Continue to monitor water quality to ensure that it is not deteriorating, and if it is, discover why. For example, some species may be vulnerable to relatively small changes in ph which can affect entire food webs. Continue to pressure Parks Canada regarding equitable water flow via groups such as the Coalition for Equitable Water Flow in order to protect sensitive ecosystems while maintaining an acceptable quality of life for residents and users of the lake and downstream waterways. Page 19

21 Continue to support and promote programs such as the Haliburton Lake Trout Project and the Dedicated Angler Diary in order to monitor fish populations in concert with larger organizations like the MNR and OFAH. Encourage continued support of KLCOA mandates such as the Shoreline Advisor Program which guides lake side residents regarding the care of septic systems and shoreline maintenance. Stabilize shorelines through naturalization efforts to maintain vegetation growth, encourage leaving natural debris, and create policies around wakes from boats to avoid fish habitat degradation due to wave action. Protecting easily eroded shorelines also serves to minimize sedimentation deeper in the lake. Educate the public (including lake residents) regarding invasive species as to avoid further introductions into Kennisis Lake. It may also be beneficial to continue to explain stocking rationale and procedures to help the public understand why stocking may or may not be beneficial for certain situations. Facilitate communication and cooperation between organizations so that work is not duplicated and more voices can speak for a common goal. Stocking needs to be monitored after the young are placed to firmly establish stocking success; complete surveys to determine fish species composition of the lake, catch per unit effort, and survival after stocking events. Need to monitor specifically which strains survive, what time of year is best to stock for survival, at what age (fingerling, yearly, etc...) survival is most likely. Page 20

22 11.0 REFERENCES Armstrong, G.S. and Parker G.W Assessment of habitat and streamflow requirements for habitat protection. Open-file Report for Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management. Viewed April 4, 2010 at Benjamin, J.R., Dunham, J.B. and Dare, M.R Invasion by Nonnative Brook Trout in Panther Creek, Idaho: Roles of Local Habitat Quality, Biotic Resistance, and Connectivity to Source Habitats. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 136: Chow, Adam Haliburton Dedicated Angler Program. Haliburton County Collection. Viewed on February 12, 2010 at Downey, D., Symons, T.H.B., Barrett, S., Rollins, D., Bishop, G. and Peters, D It s All About the Water: Report of the Panel on the Future of the Trent-Severn Waterway. Coalition for Equitable Water Flow. Viewed April 6, 2010 at Flowers, D Personal communication. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Minden. French Planning Services Inc Kennisis Watershed and Lakes Management Plan. Viewed on February 2, 2010 at %202007%20DRAFT%2037%20Web%20Version.pdf Henderson, B.A The population dynamics of Lake Trout in Lake Manitou in relation to the planting and spawn taking operation. Ontario Fisheries Technical Report Series 5. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Toronto, Ontario. pp.14. Houston, K.A. and Kelso, J.R.M Lake Trout Mortality (Savelinus namaycush) Mortality A Review. Depatment of Fisheries and Oceans. Viewed on March 6, 2010 at Kerr, S. J An Historical Review of Fish Culture, Stocking and Fish Transfers in Ontario Fish and Wildlife Branch. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Peterborough, Ont. Viewed February 12, 2010 at Kerr, S.J. and Lasenby, T.A Lake trout stocking in inland lakes: An annotated bibliography and literature review. Fish and Wildlife Branch. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Peterborough, Ont. pp Page 21

23 McLeish, D.A Status of Lake Trout Fisheries in the Haliburton Highlands and Minden South Areas. Ministry of Natural Resources, Minden pp. 7. Mollard, D.G Southern Ontario Engineering Geology Terrain Study. Data Base Map, Haliburton Ontario Geological Survey Map pp. 3. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Haliburton Lake Trout Angler`s Diary. The Haliburton Lake Trout Project. MNR Minden. pp. 33. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. ( ). Kennisis Lakes Files. Minden Office. Pickard, C.R Factors that predict brok trout distribution, thermal habitat and abundance in northwestern Ontario streams. Master s thesis. Lakehead University. Riddel, Dr. C Submission to the Panel on the Future of the Trent-Severn Waterway by the Kennisis Lake Cottage Owner s Association. 07_Kennisis_Lake_Cottage_Owners_Association_-_Dr_Chris_Riddle_-_Written_submission.pdf Wiley, M.J., Kohler, S.L. and Seelbach, P.W Reconciling landscape and local views of aquatic communities: lessons from Michigan trout streams. Freshwater Biology 37: Wootton, B. C Spatial ecology of Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) Populations Inhabiting Small, Headwater Tributaries on the Precambrium Shield of South-Central Ontario. For the Watershed Ecosystems Ph.D. Program. pp Wootton, B. C Personal communication. Sir Sanford Fleming College. Lindsey, ON. Page 22

24 13.0 APPENDIX B MNR DATA - RAW DATA HISTORIC FILES Page 31

25 MNR DATA - RAW DATA HISTORIC FILES Year Lake - Big Kennisis 1968 Water Quality Profiles - physical and chemical parameters Netting Depth contour mapping 1974 Survey GOOD ABUNDANCE OF MINNOWS & DACE Depth contour mapping Water Quality Profiles - physical and chemical parameters Fish Species - lake trout, yellow perch, white sucker, bullhead, longnose sucker, longnose dace, golden shiner, spottail shiner Fisheries primarily Lake Trout Public Access - 2 points landing just above dam and KL Marina Netting 1978 Water Quality Profiles - physical and chemical parameters Fish Community 510 cottages 1979 Water Quality Profiles - physical and chemical parameters 1. Netting - mercury conc. Of lake Trout measured - species, length, weight, sex % fat n=20 some PCB's 2. Netting Lake Trout - 4 n=20 length, weight and sex at two locations (mapped) 1982 Survey Water Quality Profiles - physical and chemical parameters Optimal and essential habitat % for Lake Trout 1983 Water Quality Profiles - physical and chemical parameters 1986 Lake Trout Netting Page 32

26 17 Lake Trout 1 SMB 2 Suckers Water Quality Profiles - physical and chemical parameters Depth contour mapping Netting - Post Stocking Assessment n=17 Lake Trout CUE = 3.48/100m Average for lakes this size = 2.2 Stocked fish CUE = 0.61 Natural fish CUE = 2.87 Lake trout 85% of catch, remainder white sucker & smallmouth bass ( no % stated) Stocked Lake Trout 17.6% (n=3) 1 from 1981 Kelly Lake plant, 1 from 1983 Kennisis, 1 from 1986 Little Kennisis *note poor growth of 1981 and 1983 stockings Natural fish mm length, g and 2-4 years old indicating good natural reproduction Recommendations based on poor survival and growth of stocked fish stocking should be discontinued management efforts should be directed at monitoring harvest through creel surveys, habitat protection 1988 Winter Creel Survey 7% harvested were stocked fish supportive to stocked fish exhibiting poor survival 1989 Survey Water Quality Profiles - physical and chemical parameters 1990 Sonic Telemetry 15.7% of lake trout caught were stocked supportive to stocked fish exhibiting poor survival indicated 2 major and several minor spawning shoals Netting Events look at indication of what species are being caught Mainly SUCKER Depth contour mapping Netting-green mono - Lake Trout n=20 Sucker n=5 Netting - mono - Sucker n=9 Netting - mono - Page 33

27 Lake Trout n=1 Sucker n=1 Netting - mono - Sucker n=8 Published Reports: 1958 Lake Trout Project for Kennisis Lake (size distribution, age, creel census) 1959 to1975 Creel Census Data Summary Sheet for Lake Kennisis Lake Trout Lake Trout Age-Length Analysis 1963 Weekend Winter Fishing Reports 1964, 1965, 1966, 1968 Winter Fishing Report Forms 1965 Ontario Water Resources Commission, Chemical Laboratories River Survey (Solids, Turbidity, Alkalinity) 1967 Summary of Winter Fishing 1968 Lake Kennisis Creel Census Field Sheets for May and June Lake Survey Summary Sheet (Depth, Temperature, O 2, ph, Alkalinity, CO 2, Turbidity, TDS Total Dissolved Solids, Conductivity, etc Lake Survey Summary 1974 Depth Contour/ Bathymetry maps of Little Kennisis Lake Page 34

28 1974 Kennisis Lake Characteristics, Fish Species, Access, Fishing 1975 Lake Sampling Program (Water Quality Information) by the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) and Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) 1977 Creel Census Water Sampling (Water Quality Information) 1980 s - Sampling Projects Data on Kennisis Lake (Gillnetting, Trap Fishing, Electrofishing, Creel Survey) 1985 Coldwater Fisheries Characteristics (Water Quality Information) 1988, 1987, 1986, 1985 Creel Surveys? 1993 Sonic Telemetry of Lake Trout in Kennisis and Percy Lakes by David A. McLeish and Tim J. Haxton Purpose: Identification of potential spawning shoals on Kennisis Lake with the intent of follow up assessments (eg. Egg survival) Methods: Tagging of Lake Trout (technique), use of ultrasonic tags, tracking of fish, water temperature measurements, assessment of shoals (S.C.U.B.A., snorkelling, fry traps, hydrobot) 11 potential shoals located on Kennisis Lake Information on male/female spawning behaviour Recommendations of further assessments and projects, use of transmitters, involvement of anglers in data collection, placement for rock rubble 2008 Kennisis Lake (Havelock and Guilford Townships) by Dave Flowers Lake Characteristics Stocking History (Lake Trout and Brook Trout) Kennisis Lake Fish Programme: Fish management program, Dedicated Angler s Program Role of the MNR Future Studies No date Lake Kennisis Area Information (Inside Depth, Area, Depth Interval, Volume, Cum. Volume) Page 35

29 No date Kennises Lake: Origin of name, Characteristics, Fish Species, Access and Facilities Correspondance from David Flowers - March 5/2010 Our Results Our Results Big Kennisis Little Kennisis In the Correspondence File I found survey information associated with preliminary Catch Data records available from as early as I showed these results on the easel board yesterday. I also found a reference that suggested that Ice fishing was first permitted on this lake in ? It was reported in one of the correspondence letters Circa 1958 that there were 254 building sites and 150 cottages on the lake at that time...i don't know what it is today Original lake survey 1968 and also Water quality profiles available cottages Public Access - 2 areas on Lake Water Quality Profiles , 1968, 1971, 1974, 1975, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1989 Water Quality Profiles , 1976, , 1989 Depth Contour Mapping , 1974, 1975, 1986, 1991 Depth Contour Mapping , 1976 Netting Surveys completed in 1986, 1987, 1990 Telemetry Studies 1990 and 1991 Netting surveys , 1968, Netting surveys , 1982, 1985, 1974, 1979, 1986, Telemetry Studies , 1993 Sonic Telemetry Study of Lake Trout (incl. identifying spawning shoals, use of utltrasonic tags, recommendations) Telemetry Studies - Page 36

30 Creel Information - Winter Creel 1988, 1989, 1992; Summer Creel Creel Information - Winter Creel , 1963, , 1976, 1988, Summer Creel Information - Winter Creel - Creel , , 1975, Summer Creel - *Season 1976, Unidentified- 1963, , 1970 Creel Census Data Summary Sheet for Lake Trout ( ) Spawning observations Spawning observations recorded in 1982 and Mid lake shoal - rock rubble added in Essential and Optimal Habitat Identification for Lake Trout - Essential and Optimal Habitat Identification for Lake Trout Fish Species Community Fish Species Community , 1974, 1978 CUE - CUE /100m Average for lakes this size = 2.2 Public Access - - Stocked fish CUE = 0.61 Crucial dedicated angler diary information is now being collected by - Natural fish CUE = 2.87 Minden MNR Office. Detailed angler reports recorded in 2007, 2008 and 2009 have not been fully analysed. Post Stocking Assessment - Stocking recommendations % Lake Trout were natural Recommendations based on poor survival and growth of stocked fish - stocking should be discontinued management efforts should be directed at monitoring harvest through creel surveys and habitat protection. Page 37

31 14.0 APPENDIX C GEOLOGY TERRAIN VS AGGREGATE RESOURCES MAP KENNISIS LAKES SHOAL MAP WATER LEVEL VARIATION MAP Page 38

32 Figure The geology 4. Kennisis terrain Lake study and map Little provided Kennisis by Lake the OMNR in the shows Southern more Ontario surficial Engineering geology but most Geology townships Terrain have Study. Data Base Map, Haliburton Ontario Geological Survey Map (Mollard, D.G. 1981). The geology terrain study does not indicate high value deposits of sand and gravel something called "aggregate resources" map. An "aggregate resources" map shows the potential market value of Page 39

33 Kennisis Lake Boating Map April 22 nd 2008 Map 4a for illustrative purposes only (KLCOA, 2008). Figure 5. Map of the Kennisis Lakes as prepared by the Kennisis Lake Cottage Owner s Association (KLCOA) based on data from the Ontario Ministry of Resources (KLCOA 2008). Of interest are the marked shoals which may aid in the identification of Lake Trout spawning habitat. Page 40

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35 Figure Seasonal variation of water level provided by Trent Severn Waterway. This data shows the maximum, average and minimum drop from the high water level (Riddle, 2007). Note the season with the greatest variation and unpredictability and lowest water levels is August-September during or close to the lake trout fall spawning period. Wetland and natural shorelines are also vulnerable to this gross variation in water levels. Therefore, both fish habitat and spawning grounds are therefore negatively impacted by this water regime which in turn may have forced Kennisis Lake Trout to become deep spawners. Page 42

36 15.0 APPENDIX D KENNISIS LAKE STOCKING HISTORY Page 43

37 Table 1. Kennisis Lake Stocking History Brook Trout were stocked by the from 1925 to At this point they were evaluated to be a self-sustaining population with no additional stocking required. Brook trout were stocked beginning in 2004 to 2009 with the genetic variety denoted by stock origin. The brook trout have are not reproducing successfully and the stocking is a put and take. Page 44