| Abstract/Description or Keywords |
This report explores the feasibility of restoring fish habitat in the lower 12 km of Mission Creek. This section was chosen because of impacts to channel morphology, watershed processes and aquatic and terrestrial habitat due to historic flood protection constructed along the channel. We nvestigated the possibility of returning the creek to a more natural configuration by setting back dykes, building riffle-pool sequences and realigning portions of the channel. Within the selected area we investigated the possibility of returning the creek to a more original configuration by setting back dykes to widen selected portions of the river; constructing riffle-pool sequences; and realigning portions of the channel in a more natural and meandering route. The rationale for undertaking restoration work in Mission Creek is based on its relative contribution to Okanagan Lake fish production. Restoration of Mission Creek is one of the major components in a multi-faceted plan to restore depressed kokanee and rainbow trout stocks and recover a viable sports fishery in Okanagan Lake. The urgency of implementing restorative measures on the spawning and rearing habitats of kokanee and rainbow trout is due to the continuing declines in Okanagan Lake wild fish stocks over the past 30 years. Restoration of Mission Creek will involve the cooperation and commitment from all levels of government as well as local community groups within the Kelowna area. A coalition made up of the City of Kelowna, Regional District of Central Okanagan, Friends of Mission Creek, and Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection in conjunction with First Nations and community groups is envisioned to oversee and champion the long term restoration of Mission Creek. If in support, the coalition will use this report as a working document to discuss and refine the conceptual restoration options, and, over time, implement the approved projects. restoration, aquatic habitat, fisheries |
