Two provincial governments are looking to improve sustainable fish populations on the Ottawa River.
In a press release, MPP John Yakabuski, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry, announced the start of a fishery management plan that both Ontario and Quebec are backing. The plan entails management in Zone 12 of the river, which stretches from the north shores of Lake Temiskaming to the south-east end of Lac Dollard des Ormeaux. Yakabuski says the Ottawa river is a great place to fish and this plan will continue to ensure anglers enjoy the benefits. He also said he’d like to thank the Ottawa River Advisory Council for their hard work, patience and advice.
The plan is a joint venture by the MNRF, the Advisory Council and the Quebec Ministry of Forests, Wildlife and Parks. The plan’s goal is meant to reflect maintenance of healthy connected ecosystems. The report also says that it looks to create protected areas to promote the health of walleye and northern pike populations. The plan looks to incorporate work indigenous communities have done on fish populations. The plan also has the support of Ottawa Riverkeeper, the Ontario Federation of Anglers, and Muskies Canada.
The full notice can be read here.