Trout pond plan taking shape

The Logan Green Water Reuse Pond is being developed with a goal of being a fish pond.

Adam Matichuk, Fisheries Project Coordinator with the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation told the regular meeting of Yorkton Council Monday the project is well under way, adding it fits with his organization's mandate "to create new fisheries in urban areas."

The initial step was to determine the feasibility of stocking the pond and man-made steam, adding the result of that work was "yes we probably can do this."

Once it was determined that fish would likely be viable Matichuk said they had to "develop some habitat."

The habitat development included riffles in the stream, areas of stone which create pool areas, and help aerate water as it passes over the riffle area.

That work was started earlier this year, and Matichuk said he is already seeing algae and insects in the water, which biologically speaking is a positive sign.

There will also need to be vegetation started along the water way to create a complete habitat, said Matichuk.

Matichuk said with the water from the treatment plant being cold the area will be "most suitable for trout," adding "trout do quite well in ponds."

The one concern is that the water is quite hard, "which may limit the growth of the fish," said Matichuk, adding that will require monitoring.

The third phase of the project would be to "improve angler access", including wheelchair accessible platforms, and areas along the stream which could allow fly fishing, said Matichuk.

While work has started, and will continue this year, Matichuk said, "it will take some time to establish a fishery. It will be a year, to two years out before people are fishing in the pond."

The project will have benefits beyond local fishing, added Matichuk. He said there is potential "to develop educational programs for the public, but particularly for students."