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