About the project
The existing shallow wetland feature is an area of 3,444 square metres, which will more than double after construction. A tributary that presently bypasses the wetland will be redirected through the newly constructed wetland, and will provide a larger wetland feature that supports amphibian breeding, fish habitat and bird foraging, as well as act as a water supply for wildlife.
The Black Rapids Wetland Enhancement Project, undertaken in September 2016, included:
- repositioning fill from the existing work zone to create a wetland feature with a variety of side slopes
- installing woody debris (i.e. root wads, basking logs and sweeper trees)
- replanting the riparian area with native trees, shrubs and wetland vegetation
Monitoring for the effectiveness of the new wetland feature is planned for 2017, 2019 and 2021.
Project benefits
Ecological
- Increased wetland habitat in the catchment
- Improved water quality for Black Rapids Creek and the Rideau River
- More diverse submerged and emergent aquatic vegetation
- New and enhanced winter and summer refuge areas for aquatic organisms, including fish, turtles and amphibians
- A quiet area for waterfowl to rear their young, and an area for shorebirds to feed
- Increased biodiversity of aquatic and terrestrial plants, as well as fish and wildlife
- Enhanced habitat diversity with the installation of wood structures in the form of trees, stumps and large branches
- New functional spawning, nursery, rearing and food supply habitat in the restored wetland feature for the fish community residing in the headwaters of Black Rapids Creek
Social
- Potential for interpretive signage describing the project and its benefits to Black Rapids Creek and the Rideau River
- An opportunity for community groups and local NGOs to participate in the construction and effectiveness monitoring activity
- Use of the site for environmental educational opportunities centred on learning about wetland and habitat restoration activities
- A unique habitat feature with high visibility along the NCC’s Greenbelt Pathway network