Lee Creek Salmonid Enhancement: Phase-­one, Burgoyne Bay Provincial Park

Abstract

In 2005, phase one of a multi-level salmonid enhancement project was implemented in the Burgoyne Bay Provincial Park watershed. Located on the southwest side of Saltspring Island in the southern Gulf Islands, 475 hectares of the Burgoyne Bay valley were purchased from Texada Land Corporation in 2001. The purchase included the entire watershed. The whole area is under the management and protection of BC Parks, Environmental Stewardship Division of the Ministry of Environment.

Most of the Burgoyne Bay valley has been highly modified from historic, intensive land use. Overview and in-stream assessments of the watershed indicate major changes in channel morphology. Coho and Cutthroat trout historically entered the streams at the head of the bay; however, recent stream surveys show the presence of salmonids is very few to none. The Island Stream and Salmon Enhancement Society have initiated a multi-level plan to restore the whole watershed to a healthy, productive, self-regulating system.

Phase one of the watershed restoration plan took place in September 2005. It focused on enhancing year-round in-stream salmonid habitat and facilitating fish passage into the lower 50-meter reach of Lee creek. In-stream analysis indicated a hanging culvert as the main obstruction limiting fish passage. A lack of stable spawning substrate and juvenile refuge habitat was also a significant concern limiting fish production. The scope of phase one included replacing the culvert with a new submerged-bottom design, creating three Newbury pool and riffle configurations, and two rearing ponds. 

The preliminary conclusion indicates the construction component of phase one was a success. Overall success will be determined by the continuous presence of salmonids in Lee creek. Phase two of the watershed restoration plan includes channel contouring and pond development in Narnia creek. Implementation is scheduled for September 2006 but is dependent on the success of phase one and secured funding.