The upper reaches of Twelve Mile Creek in the Short Hills of Pelham provides unique habitat for freshwater brook trout. file photo NPCA
“This restoration project is a testament to our commitment to preserving the natural heritage of the Niagara Peninsula watershed. By addressing the erosion challenges in this area, we are protecting not only the habitat of native species like the native Brook Trout but also the overall health of the watershed.” – John Metcalfe, Chair, NPCA Board of Directors
News from the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority
Posted November 1st, 2024 on Niagara At Large
A look at a restored section of the upper reaches of the Twelve Mile Creek from a pedestrian walkway. Photo courtesy of Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority
Niagara, Ontario – (This October 31st, 2024). the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA), in partnership with the Niagara Chapter of Trout Unlimited Canada, celebrated the completion of the Twelve Mile Creek Restoration Project in the Town of Pelham.
This critical initiative focused on remediating a severely eroded section of the creek near Highway 20 and Rice Road and implemented essential erosion control measures to protect the unique habitat of native Brook Trout.
The project stands as a true demonstration of partnership and community collaboration, bringing together multiple stakeholders, including three distinct landowners: Pelham Cares, the Lions Club of Fonthill, and Maxima Holdings. The restoration was made possible through the financial support of the Government of Canada via the Environmental Damages Fund, as well as Trout Unlimited Canada, the Town of Pelham, and Niagara Region. Additionally, Walker Industries and Lafarge Canada Inc. generously donated the aggregate needed for this project.
From Left to Right’ Ed Gazendam, Founder & President, Water’s Edge; Steve Miller, Senior Manager, Infrastructure Engineering, NPCA; and Leilani Lee-Yates, CAO, NPCA. Photo courtesy of NPCA
As part of the restoration, the severely eroded creek channel was re-graded, and rock riffles and pools were installed to slow water flow, reduce sedimentation, and provide refuges for aquatic species.
The structural improvements were complemented by the planting of 33 native trees and more than 250 shrubs along the creek banks, further stabilizing the area and fostering a more sustainable landscape.
The newly restored sections of 12 Mile Creek will now serve as vital breeding grounds for aquatic species, while improved riparian buffers will help filter pollutants, maintain cooler water temperatures, and support the surrounding wildlife. Native trees and shrubs planted along the banks will also prevent future erosion, fostering a more sustainable landscape.
Today, project partners and stakeholders gathered at the restoration site to reflect on this significant achievement. NPCA Board Chair John Metcalfe, NPCA CAO Leilani Lee-Yates, and Pelham Mayor Marvin Junkin emphasized the importance of partnerships in bringing this project to life, highlighting how it reflects a unified commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
A guided walk along the creek followed, led by NPCA’s Project Manager, Steve Miller, who shared insights into the challenges the creek and native Brook Trout were facing and then innovative approaches utilized throughout this restoration project.
For more information, members of the community are encouraged to visit Get Involved NPCA to learn more about the Twelve Mile Creek Restoration Project.
Quotes:
“NPCA is proud to lead initiatives like the Twelve Mile Creek restoration, and we look forward to continuing our role as key partners in supporting sustainable environmental projects across the Niagara Peninsula watershed. With unique expertise, our goal is to be a reliable partner and resource for future initiatives that safeguard the health of the watershed.” – Leilani Lee-Yates, CAO & Secretary-Treasurer, NPCA
About Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority – As a community-based natural resource management agency, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority envisions a healthy and vibrant natural environment with shared greenspace and clean water for all. NPCA’s work supports the conservation, enhancement and sustainability of healthy watersheds with programs and services that focus on drinking water source protection, flood and hazard management, endangered species protection, ecosystem restoration, community stewardship, education, and land management.
NPCA is the caretaker of 41 conservation areas within the Niagara Peninsula watershed held in public trust for recreation, heritage preservation, conservation and education. These natural and shared greenspaces marry nature, culture and adventure to create limitless opportunities for discovery.
For more info on NPCA: www.npca.ca
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