Next generation of Atlantic Salmon ready to go

Next generation of Atlantic Salmon ready to go
Restoration project continues to draw international support

On Thursday, October 25th, the Lake Ontario Atlantic Salmon Restoration Program will receive a helping hand from as far away as Australia and as near as the local public school. Stefan Trofimovs, Australian Consul General, Toronto and Senior Trade Commissioner, Canada and Gord Miller, Ontario Environmental Commissioner will be on hand to help the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (O.F.A.H.) and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) stock the Credit River with Atlantic salmon fingerlings. Senior representatives from the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) and Churchill Cellars Ltd. will also participate in the stocking of 500 fish that were raised in the nearby Belfountain Community Hatchery run by O.F.A.H. member club volunteers. Belfountain Public School students will both stock salmon and beginning in January, run their own classroom hatchery in preparation for a spring release of fry.

This is a rain or shine hands-on event. There will be photo and interview opportunities. Media are welcome to participate in the stocking.

BACKGROUND:

Once abundant, the world-renowned Lake Ontario Atlantic salmon fell prey to clear-cutting, dam and mill construction and over-harvest, and disappeared from the lake more than 100 years ago. In April of 2006 the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, in partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Banrock Station Wines (through the Banrock Station Wetlands Foundation Canada) and the LCBO, launched the Lake Ontario Atlantic Salmon Restoration Program. Additional lead partners include the Canadian Sportfishing Industry Association (C.S.I.A.), Fishing Forever Foundation, Fleming College, Conservation Authorities, and the Trees Ontario Foundation.

EVENT DETAILS:

ONSITE MEDIA SUPPORT:

OFFSITE MEDIA SUPPORT:

Lezlie Goodwin
O.F.A.H. Communications Coordinator
705 748-6324 ext 270