A review of Implementation of the Lake Simcoe Fish Community Objectives

Session: 56. - Science for a Healthy Lake Simcoe

Melanie Shapiera, Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, [email protected]

Abstract

The Lake Simcoe Fish Community Objectives (FCOs) were developed in 2011 to provide a comprehensive set of objectives to guide collective efforts to manage the fish community and fisheries resources of the Lake Simcoe watershed (LSW). Various initiatives by government agencies and partners work towards the FCO goal of “a fish community reflective of a healthy and restored ecosystem where socio-economic and cultural benefits of the fishery are realized now and into the future”. To support achieving this goal, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry along with its partners have been implementing key objectives of the FCOs. Coldwater fisheries in LSW are being adaptively managed to encourage natural reproduction of native species such as Lake Trout to achieve a self-sustaining fishery with sustainable harvest opportunities. Tributary habitats are being identified for protection and restoration for species such as Brook Trout. Efforts are being made to restore lost elements of the fish community, such as Muskellunge. Monitoring efforts are being implemented through long term programs and research is being undertaken to improve our understanding of the ecosystem and support decision making such as re-opening the Cisco fishery in 2015.  Collaboration across agencies and has been critical throughout FCO implementation.

1. Keyword
fisheries

2. Keyword
management

3. Keyword
Lake Simcoe