Project Planning & Stream Restoration Approach
Manitoulin Streams uses science-based, bio-engineered planning to guide stream and river restoration projects across Manitoulin Island. Each project begins with a site-specific design, developed by a qualified engineer, that focuses on a defined section of a river system. These designs consider stream size, shoreline condition, existing in-stream features, and land use, and are developed with direct input from the landowner. Site designs also provide a detailed and realistic cost estimate for rehabilitating the area.
In some cases, a broader enhancement strategy may be developed. An enhancement strategy outlines a general, system-wide approach to restoring a river or watershed and is used when rehabilitation work is more complex. These strategies identify priority sites along a river, outline recommended bio-engineering techniques, list required materials, and provide estimated costs. Not all streams require an enhancement strategy; the level of planning depends on the condition and complexity of the system.
Manitoulin Streams received approval for a Class Environmental Assessment (EA) in 2008, covering 184 waterways across Manitoulin Island. This approval was successfully reviewed and renewed through a five-year review process in 2014. From this list, a “best-bet” group of priority restoration streams was identified, including the Manitou River, Blue Jay Creek, Black Creek, Bass Lake Creek, Norton’s Creek, Mindemoya River, Grimesthorpe Creek, Kagawong River, Silver Creek, and Shrigley Creek.
The purpose of the Class EA process is to ensure that potential environmental effects are properly identified, evaluated, and addressed before restoration work begins. It provides an efficient and transparent framework for project screening, consultation, and decision-making, while ensuring that natural processes and ecosystem functions are respected throughout the planning and implementation stages.
As part of this process, Manitoulin Streams uses stream classification tools based on channel form and natural processes to better understand stream condition and behaviour. One commonly used framework is the Rosgen Stream Classification system, which helps predict how a stream may respond to change, supports consistent communication across disciplines, and allows site-specific data to be applied to similar stream reaches elsewhere on the Island. This approach ensures restoration decisions are grounded in how streams naturally function, leading to more effective and lasting outcomes.
Restoration
Deer Save
Stocking Activities
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Angling Platforms & Map
Invasive Species Managment
Community Tree Plants
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Island-Wide Garbage Cleanup
Monitoring & Surveys
Barrier Management
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Stream Locations
Pictured below is a general overview map highlighting the location of the top ten priority streams in need of restoration efforts, as identified by the Environmental Class Assessment carried out by the Ministry of Natural Resources.
For a more interactive look at the streams which have been identified for restoration, take a look at the map application below, which also contains some background information on each of the streams.
*At any point in time you can navigate elsewhere within the map as it is an active, interactive map application.
*At any point in time you can navigate elsewhere within the map as it is an active, interactive map application.
The map application below displays the locations of 5 streams which have had restoration work done as a result of local community leaders initiating partnerships with Manitoulin Streams to better their local natural environment & habitats.
*At any point in time you can navigate elsewhere within the map as it is an active, interactive map application.
*At any point in time you can navigate elsewhere within the map as it is an active, interactive map application.
