Atlantic Whitefish (Coregonus huntsmani): Report on the progress of recovery strategy implementation for the period 2012 to 2017

1. Conserve, protect and manage the species and its habitat

1. Critical habitat has been identified and protected
2. Research activities outlined in the schedule of studies have been completed
3. Abundance of the existing wild population in the Petite Rivière lakes has been estimated and meets target (>1,275 mature adults)
4. The threat posed by Smallmouth Bass and Chain Pickerel is understood, and appropriate mitigation and management measures are in place to control their abundance and ensure the survival of Atlantic Whitefish in the Petite Rivière
5. Human activities permitted by this recovery strategy continue to not jeopardize the survival or recovery of the Atlantic Whitefish
6. An action plan has been completed and is posted in the Species at Risk Public Registry

2. Increase the number and range of viable populations

7. Anadromy has been established on the Petite Rivière.
8. A self-sustaining population has been established in another freshwater waterbody (for example, Anderson Lake)
9. Anadromy has been established in a second watershed in Nova Scotia’s Southern Uplands eco-region
10. The feasibility of repatriating an anadromous run to the Tusket River has been evaluated, and repatriation pursued if appropriate

3. Address knowledge gaps relating to the species and its habitat

11. Progress has been made towards filling other knowledge gaps identified in this recovery strategy

4. Increase public involvement in, and acceptance of, measures required for the species survival and recovery

12. An adaptive communication plan has been developed, engaged stewards are active, and public awareness and acceptance of the Atlantic Whitefish has increased and been expanded to new areas selected for introductions

A Dalhousie University PhD thesis examining conservation and recovery priorities for data poor species, focusing on the Atlantic Whitefish as a case study, was completed in 2012. The thesis examined Atlantic Whitefish genetic diversity, effective population size, and evolutionary status; its response to perceived environmental threats; and, options for translocation and repatriation of Atlantic Whitefish considering habitat suitability. This information will inform ongoing conservation and recovery planning for the Atlantic Whitefish.

References: Cook (2012)

Criteria to discriminate larval and juvenile Atlantic Whitefish from two similar species, Lake Whitefish (C. clupeaformis) and Cisco (C. artedii), were developed and published.

References: Hasselman and Bradford (2012)

Results of a 2006 comparative hydroacoustic tracking study examining the survival, depth preferences and movements of hatchery-reared and wild Atlantic Whitefish was published in 2013.

Reference: Cook et al. (2013)

Eleven second and third generation captive-bred Atlantic Whitefish (five females and six males) housed at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography were transferred to Dalhousie University Faculty of Agriculture, Aquaculture Centre (Dal-AC) in Truro in December 2013. These fish were the offspring of wild Atlantic Whitefish spawned at the Mersey Biodiversity Facility (MBF) about ten years prior. The purpose of this project was to: 1) develop technical expertise in the successful transport of Atlantic Whitefish; 2) assess the potential for adult Atlantic Whitefish of an advanced age to mature and spawn; and 3) assess the suitability of untreated local groundwater sources at the facility for housing and rearing Atlantic Whitefish.

Results:

• Fish were successfully transported to the Dal-AC
• Efforts to induce spawning by manipulating temperature were unsuccessful, due to  eggs being overripe
• Fish were found to be in better condition when reared in seawater or brackish water, rather than freshwater
• Fish were active and feeding at temperatures of 10°C
• Most of the fish (8 of 11) were successfully reared until fall 2014 and the last remaining fish (four males) were found to be sexually mature on December 9, 2014

Reference: Manríquez-Hernández and Duston (2015)

A report describing the Atlantic Whitefish stocking and monitoring activities undertaken by DFO in Anderson Lake between 2005 and 2012 was developed.

Results:

• Results of Anderson Lake 2012 monitoring activities are reported in Recovery Activity (RA) #17.
• November 2012 releases of captive-raised Atlantic Whitefish are reported in RA #7.

References: Bradford et al. (2015)

The Atlantic Whitefish Culture Handbook, published in 2016, documents and describes the methods used to culture Atlantic Whitefish at the former MBF between 2000 and 2012, and identifies knowledge gaps and future research opportunities related to the culture of Atlantic Whitefish.

References: Whitelaw et al. (2016)

2 - Increase the number and range of viable populations

3 - Address knowledge gaps relating to the species and its habitat

Releases of captive-bred Atlantic Whitefish into Anderson Lake prior to February 2012 are described in the first 5-year progress report (DFO 2016) and the project is detailed in the recovery strategy (DFO 2018a; see RA #20). During this reporting period, all remaining captive-bred Atlantic Whitefish (80 fish ages 5+ and 6+ years) from the MBF were released into Anderson Lake on November 5, 2012 following the facility’s closure. The fish were marked for future identification.

Monitoring activities conducted in Anderson Lake following the release are described in RA #17 and reports about the stocking and monitoring of Atlantic Whitefish in Anderson Lake are described in RA #5.

References: Bradford et al. (2015)

Annual Smallmouth Bass nest surveys, ongoing since 2007,  continued to provide information about Smallmouth Bass habitat use in the Petite Rivière lakes during this reporting period. Additional nest surveys were included in areas of Minamkeak, Milipsigate, and Hebb lakes in 2012 and in areas of Milipsigate and Hebb lakes in 2013. Locations (coordinates) and physical habitat characteristics were recorded at nest sites.

Results:

• In the three Petite Rivière lakes, 235 nests were found in 2012 and 53 nests were found in 2013 (Note: survey effort was greater in 2012)
• Nests were observed in water depths of 0.5 m to 1.0 m at distances of approximately 2.5 m to 9.0 m from shore, and were typically constructed of cobble substrate and positioned adjacent to a large boulder
• The nest surveys showed that Smallmouth Bass are reproducing in all three Petite Rivière lakes

References: Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation (BCAF^b) (2012, 2013)

Following the first confirmation of the presence of Chain Pickerel in the upper Petite Rivière watershed on May 17, 2013, BCAF and DFO collaborated in conducting initial surveys to determine the extent of their distribution within the Petite Rivière lakes. Sampling methods included angling, fyke nets, eel and minnow pots, and electrofishing. In September 2015, backpack electrofishing was also conducted at select locations to further evaluate the distribution of Chain Pickerel.

Results:

• In the first year of surveying (May to October 2013), a total of 28 Chain Pickerel of multiple age classes and measuring from approximately 15 cm to 45 cm fork length (FL) were found in Hebb and Milipsigate lakes as well as other smaller lakes (Garber and Little lakes) that are connected to these larger lakes by streams
• During the September 2015 backpack electrofishing surveys, no Chain Pickerel were captured at sampling sites on the western shore of Hebb Lake or the northern shore of Minamkeak Lake
• Four Chain Pickerel ranging in size from 9 cm to 32 cm FL were captured in Wildcat Brook, a tributary to Hebb Lake, during the September 2015 survey

References: BCAF (2013, 2015)

In July 2013, exploratory sampling of Milipsigate and Minamkeak lakes using an electrofishing boat was conducted to assess its effectiveness in removing invasive fish species (Chain Pickerel and Smallmouth Bass) from the Petite Rivière lakes. DFO and NSDFA subsequently signed a Memorandum of Understanding for a three-year project from 2014 to 2016 to use boat electrofishing to:

• evaluate the potential to reduce the abundance of invasive fish species in areas of the lake previously known to be frequented by Atlantic Whitefish
• capture and remove Chain Pickerel and Smallmouth Bass, and assess removal rates
• explore the use of boat-electrofishing as a tool to determine population size of invasive species based on depletion estimates
• determine the scope for harm to Atlantic Whitefish by evaluating the feasibility of boat-electrofishing to catch this species and the potential for population estimate work (to be carried out annually during the three years of the agreement)

Results:

• During the exploratory sampling in 2013, 32 Chain Pickerel and 170 Smallmouth Bass were removed from Milipsigate Lake. No Chain Pickerel and 118 Smallmouth Bass were removed from Minamkeak Lake. No Atlantic Whitefish were captured in either lake.
• During the three-year study (2014 to 2016):
• it was determined that boat electrofishing is effective in targeting invasive species life stages that are confined to the shore (≤ 2 m depth) and that a multi-pass method is effective in reducing localized populations.
• a total of 3,280 Chain Pickerel and 1,767 Smallmouth Bass were removed from Hebb Lake by boat electrofishing 
• eradication is considered highly unlikely using boat electrofishing, however control of the population may be achieved with ongoing effort

In February 2017, DFO and NSDFA signed a second agreement for a three-year invasive fish species control project (2017 to 2019) using the electrofishing boat in the Petite Rivière lakes. The control strategy will be informed by the results of the first three-year research project. Results of the 2017 to 2019 invasive species control project will be summarized in the next five-year progress report.

References: Themelis et al. (2014); J. LeBlanc, pers. comm. (2016)

Targeted Smallmouth Bass and Chain Pickerel angling surveys were undertaken in the three Petite Rivière lakes during spring and summer 2012 to 2016 to mitigate the impact of invasive fish and to reduce their risk of spread. This technique complements the boat electrofishing described in activity 10 by removing a different size component of the populations. Effort was concentrated in Hebb Lake at the Milipsigate Dam outlet area. All invasive fish were retained and sampled as part of a biological study (see RA #12).

Results:

• Between 2012 and 2016, 2,977 Smallmouth Bass and 308 Chain Pickerel were removed by angling in the three Petite Rivière lakes
• No Chain Pickerel were captured in Minamkeak Lake despite substantial angling effort in 2016
• Atlantic Whitefish were not targeted, but two were incidentally captured in Hebb Lake: one (17.7 cm FL) was captured and safely released on August 31, 2012, and one was hooked but not captured in Hebb Lake at the Milipsigate Dam outlet area on April 30, 2014

References: BCAF (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016); Themelis et al. (2014)

A biological study of invasive fish species in the Petite Rivière lakes was conducted to better understand the invasive fish populations. Biological parameters of all Smallmouth Bass and Chain Pickerel captured in the Petite Rivière watershed from 2012 to 2016 were documented, including: length, weight, age, sex and stomach contents. The stomach contents of 3,212 Smallmouth Bass were analyzed during the 2012 to 2016 period and the stomach contents of 390 Chain Pickerel were analyzed during the 2013 to 2016 period.

Results:

• Stomach content analyses confirm that invasive fish species are preying upon native fish species
• A single Atlantic Whitefish was positively identified in the stomach of a Smallmouth Bass in 2013
• Length data indicate that multiple size classes of Smallmouth Bass are present in all three Petite Rivière lakes and multiple size classes of Chain Pickerel are present in Hebb and Milipsigate lakes
• No Chain Pickerel were observed or captured in Minamkeak Lake during this reporting period (see RA #11)

References: BCAF (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016)

The potential for Chain Pickerel to move from Milipsigate Lake into Minamkeak Lake via a small brook and shallow lake (Caribou Lake) during high water conditions was assessed. Caribou Lake was investigated on August 22, 2016 by backpack electrofishing and angling, and hydraulic connectivity and flow direction were assessed.

Results:

• No fish were captured or observed in Caribou Lake.
• Based on the connectivity and directional flow assessment, the dispersal of Chain Pickerel from Milipsigate Lake to Minamkeak Lake via Caribou Lake is thought to be unlikely because the direction of flow is toward Milipsigate Lake, and because there is significant build-up of debris creating a barrier between the two lakes.

References: BCAF (2016)

BCAF has been monitoring water quality in the Petite Rivière watershed since 2011. During this reporting period, BCAF conducted water quality sampling and monitoring at 18 sites, including four within Atlantic Whitefish critical habitat (Minamkeak Brook, Milipsigate Dam, Hebb Dam, and below Hebb Dam). Monthly temperature, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, total dissolved solids, salinity and pH testing was completed at each site.

Results:

• Water quality is relatively good and has remained largely stable over the monitoring period.
• The water quality data was added to an online database maintained by Community-University Research Alliance (CURA) H2O.

References: BCAF (2012)

Weblinks:

• Water Quality of Petite Rivière Watershed
• CURA H2O

2 - Research activities outlined in the schedule of studies have been completed

11 - Progress has been made towards filling other knowledge gaps identified in this recovery strategy

Various methods were used to monitor the presence and status of Atlantic Whitefish in the Petite Rivière watershed, including the Petite Rivière lakes during this reporting period:

• a rotary screw trap (RST) downstream of Hebb Dam in spring 2012 to 2013
• a RST in Hebb Lake (at the base of Milipsigate Dam) in spring and fall 2014 and 2016, and spring 2015
• a trap net in Hebb Lake (at Milipsigate Dam outlet area) in spring 2012 and 2013
• two trap nets in Minamkeak Lake in fall 2013
• two trap nets in Hebb Lake in fall 2016
• a single trap net upstream of Crousetown Dam in fall 2013
• a fyke net below Hebb Lake in spring 2013
• three video cameras in Hebb Lake (at Milipsigate dam outlet area) in spring 2015

During all of these monitoring activities, all native fish species were sampled and released, while all Chain Pickerel and Smallmouth Bass were retained for biological studies. These activities were all undertaken as part of BCAF’s Atlantic Whitefish Recovery Project.

Results:

• No Atlantic Whitefish were captured or observed in 2012 and 2013 using any of these methods
• A school of adult-sized Atlantic Whitefish was observed in Hebb Lake downstream of the RST in 2014 only
• Four young-of-the-year Atlantic Whitefish were captured in the RST in Hebb Lake below Milipsigate Dam in spring 2015, and another 53 were captured in the spring of 2016

References: BCAF project reports (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016)

Upstream fish passage was monitored at the Hebb Lake Dam Fish Passage Facility during spring/summer and fall migration periods from 2012 to 2015 in accordance with the revised Hebb Lake Dam Fish Passage Facility Interim Monitoring Plan (IMP). All native fish were sampled and released, while all Chain Pickerel and Smallmouth Bass captured were removed from the fishway and retained for biological studies.

Results:

• During spring/summer monitoring, a total of 12,736 fish representing eight different species were intercepted, of which Gaspereau (Alosa pseudoharengus) was the most abundant (>90% of total catch) each year
• During fall monitoring, a total of 46 fish, representing six different species, were intercepted
• A total of 19 Atlantic Whitefish (only one showing signs of hatchery rearing) were intercepted in the fall of 2012
• No fish were intercepted in the fishway in fall 2016

References: BCAF (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016); Themelis et al. (2014)

Monitoring of captive-bred Atlantic Whitefish releases in Anderson Lake occurred in fall 2012 and 2016 to assess the general status of Atlantic Whitefish and to determine whether spawning had occurred. Monitoring previously occurred annually from 2007 to 2010 and is summarized in DFO 2016 (see RA #20) and detailed in Bradford et al. (2015) (see RA #5).

Results:

• Two adult Atlantic Whitefish were captured in 2012, measuring 34 cm and 36 cm FL
• Neither of the two adult Atlantic Whitefish captured had any observable fin clips or markings indicative of their potential presence since 2006 when the last group of unmarked age 1+ fish were released
• No Atlantic Whitefish were captured or observed during the 2016 monitoring activities in Anderson Lake

References: Broome and Redden (2012); Bradford et al. (2015); DFO unpublished data (for 2016 monitoring)

The first 5-year progress report on recovery strategy implementation for the Atlantic Whitefish (February 2007 to February 2012) was developed and published to the Species at Risk (SAR) Public Registry in June 2016.

References: Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) (2016)

The recovery strategy for the Atlantic Whitefish, first published in 2007, was amended to include new and updated information including population and distribution objectives, critical habitat, revisions to the recovery feasibility determination and additional activities permitted by the recovery strategy. The amended recovery strategy was published as proposed in June 2016, and the final version was published outside this reporting period in 2018.

References: DFO (2018a)

The proposed version of the action plan for the Atlantic Whitefish was published to the SAR Public Registry in June 2016. The action plan identifies specific measures or actions to implement the recovery strategy and mitigate threats, and describes 26 recovery measures that will be undertaken by DFO, partners, and/or other jurisdictions or organizations. The final version of the action plan was published outside the reporting period in September, 2018.

References: DFO (2018b)

The protection of identified critical habitat is afforded using a critical habitat order made pursuant to subsection58(4) and subsection 58(5) of Species at Risk Act (SARA). As required, a regulatory package was prepared for approval. With the Order in place, the subsection 58(1) prohibition against the destruction of critical habitat applies to these areas and any future identified critical habitat. The order was completed outside the reporting period in September 2018.

Activities that would otherwise contravene the prohibitions of SARA can be permitted under SARA provided certain conditions are met. Applications for SARA section73 Permits are reviewed and evaluated by DFO. Within the reporting period, DFO issued 14 SARA section 73 permits for activities affecting Atlantic Whitefish. These activities were determined not to jeopardize the survival or recovery of the species and permit conditions included mitigation measures to ensure minimal impact to the species.

Weblinks:

SAR Public Registry Permits and Agreements page

The federal government administers several competitive funding programs that have supported Atlantic Whitefish stewardship projects including: the Habitat Stewardship Program (HSP), the Aboriginal Fund for Species at Risk (AFSAR) and the former Recreational Fisheries Conservation Partnerships Program (RFCPP).

Annual funding from the HSP supported many of BCAF’s activities outlined herein over the reporting period. Annual funding from RFCPP supported BCAF’s habitat assessment and restoration activities in the Petite Rivière watershed (RA #38).

Weblinks:

• HSP
• AFSAR

12 - An adaptive communication plan has been developed, engaged stewards are active, and public awareness and acceptance of the Atlantic Whitefish has increased and been expanded to new areas selected for introductions

In response to the illegal introduction of invasive fish species in provincial waters, the Government of Nova Scotia developed regulations that prohibit the live possession and transport of certain fish species.

The Government of Nova Scotia enacted the Live Fish Possession Regulations pursuant to the Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act in November 2012. Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture (NSDFA) also posted an information sheet about the Regulations on its website to raise awareness and increase understanding of the Live Fish Possession Regulations.

Weblinks:

• Nova Scotia Live Fish Possession Regulations
• Live Fish Possession Regulations information sheet

4 - The threat posed by Smallmouth Bass and Chain Pickerel is understood, and appropriate mitigation and management measures are in place to control their abundance and ensure the survival of Atlantic Whitefish in the Petite Rivière

During this reporting period, DFO Conservation and Protection (C&P) continued Atlantic Whitefish-focused monitoring and surveillance patrols and investigations in the Petite Rivière watershed and at Anderson Lake. Patrols were conducted by foot, all-terrain vehicle (ATV), trail motorcycle, boat, and using technology (for example, trail cameras).

Results:

• Over 1,000 hours were spent conducting regular patrols of the Petite Rivière lakes and investigations directed at the protection of Atlantic Whitefish
• There were no violations of persons catching and retaining Atlantic Whitefish but C&P officers issued warnings or proceeded with prosecutions on 13 violations of angling in closed areas in the Petite Rivière watershed or fishing in open areas without a license
• No violations were detected during dedicated patrols in Anderson Lake

In fall 2015, the Hebb Dam Fish Passage Facility (the fishway) was inoperable due to low water levels in Hebb Lake. An agreement was reached between BPSC and DFO to maintain ecological maintenance flows in the Petite Rivière and fish passage through the fishway. These new procedures were implemented in August 2016.

The construction of the Hebb Dam fishway was completed in spring 2012, and commissioned in fall 2012. Its construction is described in the first 5-year progress report (DFO 2016).

Results:

• Fish passage monitoring activities at the fishway are described in RA #16.

An IMP for the Hebb Dam Fish Passage Facility was originally developed in 2011. The IMP identifies: a long term goal of allowing free passage to all wild, native fish species at the facility; ownership and responsibilities related to the facility and achieving the stated goal; and, a multi-phased monitoring approach with goals and protocols. The IMP was revised in May 2013 based on experience and knowledge gained to date, and the ongoing evaluation of potential risks, impacts and interactions associated with the introduction of native and non-native fish species to the Petite Rivière lakes.

To inform the revisions to the IMP, Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) were collected from both above and below Hebb Dam in 2012 and 2013 to evaluate the risk of disease transmission to fish populations in the Petite Rivière lakes from fish migrating upstream. Fish were sampled for bacterial and viral infections according to the Fish Health Protection Regulations. All of the fish tested were determined to be healthy.

Results:

• Communicable fish pathogens and diseases were not found in the lake fish populations and were determined unlikely to be introduced by species migrating into the lakes through the fishway.
• The revised IMP was finalized and implemented for the spring 2013 monitoring season (see RA #16).

References: Robichaud-Leblanc and O’Neil (2013); Themelis et al. (2014)

DFO, BPSC, BCAF, Native Council of Nova Scotia, NSDFA, Nova Scotia Power Incorporated (NSPI), (former) South Shore Naturalists Club

Under the Nova Scotia Environment Act, a water withdrawal approval is required for certain surface water withdrawal activities. DFO reviews all water withdrawal applications for compliance with the Fisheries Act and Species at Risk Act.

Results:

• Through the water withdrawal approval renewal process, fish passage downstream of Hebb Dam on the Petite Rivière was improved in the fall of 2016 at a small dam associated with an agricultural operation.

1 - Conserve, protect and manage the species and its habitat

2 - Increase the number and range of viable populations

5 -Human activities permitted by this recovery strategy continue to not jeopardize the survival or recovery of the Atlantic Whitefish

7 - Anadromy has been established on the Petite Rivière

Large boulders located at the base of the Hebb Dam sluiceway presented a risk of harm to Atlantic Whitefish and other species migrating downstream on the Petite Rivière. Accordingly, BPSC moved as many of the boulders as possible from the base of the sluiceway in April 2015, thereby reducing the risk of fish mortality during downstream migration.

A backpack electrofishing survey was conducted on July 12, 2012 below Hebb Dam, in the area between Weagle's Dam and Fancy Lake in the Petite Rivière watershed, to determine whether Atlantic Whitefish were using the area as habitat prior to the start of road repaving and bridge reconstruction work by Nova Scotia Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal (NSTIR^b). This activity was undertaken as part of BCAF’s Atlantic Whitefish Recovery Project.

Results:

• Fifteen fish from five species were observed during the electrofishing survey.
• No Atlantic Whitefish were captured or observed.
• The road repaving and bridge construction work was completed in fall 2012.

References: BCAF (2012)

The DFO Fisheries Protection Program (FPP; referred to as the Habitat Management Program prior to 2013 and as the Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program since 2018) undertook regulatory reviews of works, undertakings, or activities in the Petite Rivière watershed to ensure compliance with SARA and the Fisheries Act.

Results:

• FPP provided advice to proponents through Letters of Advice to avoid and mitigate impacts on four projects during the reporting period.
• No Fisheries Act Authorizations were issued for works in the Petite Rivière or for the destruction of Atlantic Whitefish habitat

Meetings of the AWCRT were ongoing during the reporting period.

Results:

• Meetings were held in April and October 2012, February and May 2013, May 2014 (conference call), and February 2016.
• Members of this multi-stakeholder team provided updates on recovery activities and plans related to the Atlantic Whitefish and discussed issues concerning the species survival and recovery.

Meeting notes were produced and distributed to recovery team members following each meeting.

12 - An adaptive communication plan has been developed, engaged stewards are active, and public awareness and acceptance of the Atlantic Whitefish has increased and been expanded to new areas selected for introductions

The Nova Scotia Angler’s Handbook contains information about fishing regulations and is provided annually to each recreational fishing licence holder. It includes a description of Atlantic Whitefish, the regulations in place to protect it, and contact information to report sightings to DFO. The handbook also includes general information about aquatic invasive species, including Chain Pickerel, and how to help stop their spread.

Weblinks:

• Nova Scotia Sportfishing Laws and Regulations

4 - The threat posed by Smallmouth Bass and Chain Pickerel is understood, and appropriate mitigation and management measures are in place to control their abundance and ensure the survival of Atlantic Whitefish in the Petite Rivière

Several National and Regional media features have showcased Atlantic Whitefish over the last five years, including:

• Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) Land and Sea – “Vanishing Whitefish” Episode 13, 2017 Season, February 5, 2017 which highlights Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation’s (BCAF^b) Atlantic Whitefish Recovery Project and DFO’s monitoring efforts, the closure of the Mersey Biodiversity Facility (MBF) and conclusion of the Atlantic Whitefish captive rearing program, and the threat posed by invasive fish species to the survival and recovery of the Atlantic Whitefish

• Canadian Television Network (CTV) News – “Concerns over invasive species of fish”, 2017 which focused on the threat invasive fish species pose to the survival and recovery of the Atlantic Whitefish and other species at risk
• Articles in CBC News:
• “Search for endangered Atlantic Whitefish comes up empty in Dartmouth lake”, November 24, 2016, about DFO’s fall 2016 monitoring in Anderson Lake
• “Endangered fish in 'dire trouble' without DFO program, scientists say”, June 24, 2016, about the potential contributions of an Atlantic Whitefish captive breeding program to the species’ survival and recovery
• “Atlantic Whitefish young discovered in Bridgewater lake system”, May 14, 2016, about the young-of-the-year Atlantic Whitefish captured in the rotary screw trap (RST) in Hebb Lake at the Milipsigate Dam outlet area
• “Endangered Atlantic Whitefish faces new threat”, March 25, 2014, about the discovery of Chain Pickerel in the Petite Rivière watershed and the threat to Atlantic Whitefish posed by this invasive species
• “Endangered Atlantic Whitefish could be on the comeback”, October 26, 2012, about the capture of adult Atlantic Whitefish in the Hebb Dam Fish Passage Facility in fall 2012
• “N.S. fishway created to save endangered species”, May 1, 2012, about the construction of the fishway at the Hebb Dam Fish Passage Facility
• Articles in The Chronicle Herald:
• “Tracking the rare Atlantic Whitefish”, July 31, 2016, about DFO and BCAF’s Atlantic Whitefish monitoring activities in the Petite Rivière and Anderson Lake

A variety of outreach and education activities were carried out by DFO and BCAF each year during the reporting period to provide Canadians with information about the status of the Atlantic Whitefish and recovery efforts.

BCAF activities:

• Atlantic Whitefish presentation were provided to several local community groups such as: schools, Girl Guides, Camp Mushamush, and the Fancy Lake Home Owners Association
• An Atlantic Whitefish Recovery Project informational display was set up at a number of community events and locations such as provincial parks, youth fishing derbies, farmer’s markets, festivals, boat shows, White Point Beach Resort, Lunenburg tall ships celebrations, the Mahone Bay Regatta and Pirate Festival, the Kejimkujik Mi’kmaw Celebration, and World Oceans Day and World Water Day celebrations
• An AWCRT tour of the Hebb Dam Fish Passage Facility was hosted in fall 2012

DFO activities:

• The Atlantic Whitefish display at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia (NS) was updated. It provides information about threats and recovery activities
• Informational displays about aquatic species at risk, including the Atlantic Whitefish, were set up at a number of public events including Science Odyssey 2016 and the annual Oceans Day event in Halifax, NS
• DFO Conservation and Protection (C&P) officers continued to regularly engage with local fishers and the public for the purposes of education and stewardship
• Species at risk awareness was raised by C&P officers during ongoing regular patrols and dockside conversations
• C&P officers also visited schools to talk about their role in Atlantic Whitefish conservation
• Awareness signs about Atlantic Whitefish were created, and posted at Rissers Beach and Anderson Lake

References: BCAF (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016)

12 - An adaptive communication plan has been developed, engaged stewards are active, and public awareness and acceptance of the Atlantic Whitefish has increased and been expanded to new areas selected for introductions

From 2014 to 2016, several fish habitat assessment and restoration projects were carried out within streams connected to the Petite Rivière lakes, which may provide habitat for Atlantic Whitefish or whose water quality may impact Atlantic Whitefish habitat. These projects included:

• Wildcat Brook Stream Restoration Project: Historically, Wildcat Brook, a tributary to Hebb Lake, was straightened and widened as part of mining operations. The restoration project aimed to restore the brook to a more natural state by installing digger logs and deflectors. In 2014 and 2015, BCAF assessed the sub-watershed of Wildcat Brook for habitat restoration opportunities and completed in-stream restoration work. A total of eight digger logs and eight deflectors were installed to enhance fish habitat.
• Wildcat Shale Pit Remediation and Wetland Expansion Project: Acidification of freshwater habitat is recognized as a threat to Atlantic Whitefish. This restoration project aimed to reduce the acidic runoff from an abandoned shale pit into the adjacent Wildcat Brook, a tributary of Hebb Lake, and to create a wetland habitat for wildlife. In 2015 and 2016, BCAF and East Coast Aquatics covered 1.10 hectares of the Wildcat shale pit with organic wetland material and seeded and planted it with native wetland plants.
• Stream assessments: Stream assessments were conducted to search for potential restoration opportunities to improve fish habitat and to document the current health of the Petite Rivière watershed. In 2015, BCAF completed stream assessments of the sub-watersheds of Birch, Wallace, and Fredericks brooks and an assessment of Brown Brook was partially completed.

Weblinks:

• Habitat Restoration in the Petite Rivière Watershed (2014 and 2015 reports)
• Wildcat Brook Shale Pit Remediation and Wetland Expansion Project

Evaluate the spatial and temporal distribution of Atlantic Whitefish in the Petite Rivière watershed for all life history stages, including the population within the three lakes and the anadromous component (contingent on the provision of fish passage and their usage of such).

Evaluation of the spatial and temporal distribution of Atlantic Whitefish in the Petite Rivière watershed was accomplished by Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation (BCAF^b) and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) during the 2012 to 2017 reporting period through annual monitoring activities (see recovery activity (RA) #15).

Results suggest that the spatial distribution of Atlantic Whitefish in the Petite Rivière watershed may be decreasing. During this reporting period, Atlantic Whitefish were not observed in the Hebb Dam fishway after 2012; however, a school of adult-size Atlantic Whitefish were observed swimming around sampling gear in Hebb Lake in 2014. Young-of-the-year Atlantic Whitefish were captured in the rotary screw trap (RST) in the Milipsigate Dam outlet area of Hebb Lake in 2015 and 2016, suggesting that mature Atlantic Whitefish continue to persist in the Petite Rivière Lakes.

Bathymetry surveys of the three Petite Rivière lakes were initiated and ongoing during the previous reporting period. Coarse-grid bathymetric maps were produced for both Hebb and Milipsigate lakes (DFO 2016). During this reporting period these surveys were completed and a coarse-grid map for Minamkeak was also produced. More comprehensive bathymetry surveys are required to provide additional information about the features and attributes of the critical habitat identified for the Atlantic Whitefish, and estimating available Atlantic Whitefish habitat during each season, including determining possible locations of cold-water refugia. 

Although not all were undertaken with the specific purpose of targeting Atlantic Whitefish, live trapping and electrofishing surveys were conducted in several of the streams that feed into the Petite Rivière lakes:

• backpack electrofishing surveys: between Weagle's Dam and Fancy Lake on July 12, 2012 (see RA #32), in Wildcat Brook to the north of the Petite Rivière lakes on September 23, 2015 (see RA #9), and in the Caribou Lake area south of Minamkeak Lake on August 22, 2016 (see RA #13)
• a fyke net was deployed at Weagle’s Dam outlet of Hebb Lake in spring 2013 (see RA #15)

No adult or juvenile Atlantic Whitefish were captured or observed during these surveys.

Additional streams to be surveyed include Birch Brook with flows into Milipsigate Lake and the outflow of Frederick Lake (unknown stream name) that flows into Minamkeak Lake.

Completion of the Hebb Dam Fish Passage Facility in 2012 enabled upstream fish passage for Atlantic Whitefish at Hebb Dam (see RA #27), and annual monitoring of the fishway has been conducted by BCAF in subsequent years (see RA #16). A total of 19 Atlantic Whitefish were observed in the fishway in fall 2012; however, no additional Atlantic Whitefish have been intercepted in the fishway since that time or observed during any monitoring activities below the Hebb Dam (RA #15). No targeted assessments of river, estuarine and marine habitats are planned at this time because there is no indication that anadromy has been re-established on the Petite Rivière despite the provision of fish passage (see Performance indicator #4 in table 5).

Critical habitat is considered identified when it is published in a final recovery strategy. During this reporting period, critical habitat was identified in the proposed version of the amended recovery strategy (Recovery Activity (RA) #19), but the final version was not published until 2018 (DFO 2018a).

Critical habitat protection for the Atlantic Whitefish was accomplished through the making of a Species at Risk Act (SARA) critical habitat order, as required by subsection 58(4) and (5) of SARA, which invoked the subsection 58(1) prohibition against the destruction of the identified critical habitat. The critical habitat order was not in place until September 2018 which was outside this reporting period.

Three studies identified in the critical habitat schedule of studies are currently in progress and one has not yet started. For more information, see table 4 and RA #9, #12 to 13, #15, #1 to 22, #27, and #31 in table 3.

Next steps/recommendations:

• Continue habitat research activities outlined in the schedule of studies until all studies are completed, with priority aimed at localizing spawning habitat and defining habitat requirements (study #1)
• Initiate study #4 upon the successful establishment of anadromy on the Petite Rivière

The monitoring activities undertaken during this reporting period did not provide the information needed to estimate population abundance. Despite ongoing monitoring activities, primarily focused on Hebb Lake (for example, Hebb Dam Fish Passage Facility, Milipsigate Dam outlet area - RA #15 and #16), the number of adult-sized Atlantic Whitefish observations declined since the last reporting period.

Observations of adult-sized Atlantic Whitefish during this reporting period include those 19 intercepted in the fishway in 2012 (RA #16), two individuals incidentally captured in Hebb Lake during invasive species mitigation work (RA #11), and a school of Atlantic Whitefish near the rotary screw trap (RST) in 2014 (RA #15). Several young-of-the-year Atlantic Whitefish were also captured in the RST in Hebb Lake in 2015 and 2016 (RA #15).

Next steps/recommendations:

• Continue to monitor for the presence of various life stages of Atlantic Whitefish in the Petite Rivière lakes
• Undertake additional monitoring activities in Milipsigate and Minamkeak lakes to confirm the presence of Atlantic Whitefish
• Explore other methods and techniques for estimating population abundance (for example, environmental DNA and acoustic surveys)
• Continue to mitigate threats and implement recovery measures outlined in the action plan (DFO 2018b) aimed at achieving the population and distribution objectives for Atlantic Whitefish in an effort to stabilize and meet the population abundance target

The Hebb Dam Fish Passage Facility became operational in fall 2012 (RA #27) and 19 adult-sized Atlantic Whitefish were observed in the fishway that same fall (RA #16). Despite this initial positive sign, no Atlantic Whitefish have been observed in the fishway since and there is no evidence that anadromy has been established on the Petite Rivière.

Next steps/recommendations:

• Continue monitoring the Hebb Dam fishway each fall for migrating Atlantic Whitefish
• Revisit the existing water control plan for Hebb Dam and evaluate the effectiveness of the Hebb Dam fishway to ensure it has the necessary conditions for Atlantic Whitefish passage (such as stream flow and access)
• Evaluate potential options for re-establishing anadromy on the Petite Rivière (for example, identifying partnering opportunities and propagation mechanisms)
• Implement relevant recovery measures identified in the action plan (that is, recovery measures #4, #12, and #14 to 15 in DFO 2018b), such as improving other impediments to fish passage in the Petite Rivière

A self-sustaining population of Atlantic Whitefish has not been established in another freshwater waterbody. Results of the Anderson Lake stocking activities are summarized in Bradford et al. (2015); see RA #17. Approximately 12,000 captive-bred Atlantic Whitefish were stocked in Anderson Lake during the years 2005 to 2008, with a final allotment in 2012, but no progeny were observed during monitoring conducted in 2006 to 2010, 2012, and 2016. It appears that F1 Atlantic Whitefish (that is, first generation fish resulting from parents bred in captivity) survived to sexual maturity, but there was no indication of spawning activity, or that progeny resulted from any spawning activity within the lake. The Anderson Lake experience yielded useful insights concerning the spawning potential of F1 Atlantic Whitefish, the potential effects of captive rearing on survivability of F1 released to the wild, stocking strategies, and habitat suitability.

Next steps/recommendations:

• Implement relevant recovery measures outlined in the action plan, including:
• identify viable mechanisms and partnering arrangements to support range expansion
• identify priority locations for Atlantic Whitefish introduction initiatives
• develop and implement operational plans for Atlantic Whitefish range expansion activities

Efforts to establish anadromy in other watersheds in Nova Scotia’s Southern Uplands eco-region have not been made. Instead, recovery activities have been focused on supporting survival of the existing population in the Petite Rivière lakes and monitoring in existing locations (RA #8 to 16, #25 to 31).

Next steps/recommendations:

• Identify viable mechanisms and partnering arrangements to support range expansion
• Identify priority locations for Atlantic Whitefish introduction initiatives
• Develop and implement operational plans for Atlantic Whitefish range expansion activities

The feasibility of repatriation to the Tusket River has been evaluated, but repatriation has not been pursued. A PhD thesis completed in 2012 (RA #1; Cook 2012) included a framework for assessing habitat suitability for Atlantic Whitefish introductions and a preliminary evaluation of the feasibility of repatriating an anadromous run of Atlantic Whitefish to the Tusket River. This evaluation assessed habitat suitability for repatriation and translocation of Atlantic Whitefish to various watersheds in the Southern Uplands eco-region of Nova Scotia using the available information on survival in relation to several environmental conditions. The predicted survival rates of Atlantic Whitefish in the Tusket River through the first year of life were among the lowest for the habitats examined in the study.

Next steps/recommendations:

• Do not pursue repatriation of an anadromous run of Atlantic Whitefish to the Tusket River as a priority at this time
• Identify and pursue suitable priority locations for Atlantic Whitefish introduction initiatives within the Southern Uplands eco-region of Nova Scotia

DFO, Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation (BCAF^a), and Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture (NSDFA) carried out studies and monitoring activities to better understand the threat invasive fish species pose to Atlantic Whitefish survival (RA #8 to 13). Studies were undertaken to estimate abundance and distribution of invasive fish species, and to evaluate methods to reduce their abundance including a three year boat-electrofishing study, a directed angling study, and analyses of stomach contents (RA #10 to 12). What should be considered appropriate mitigation and management measures to ensure the survival of Atlantic Whitefish are still, however, unknown.

Since the 2013 discovery of Chain Pickerel in the Petite Rivière lakes, monitoring suggests that native fish abundance and diversity in Hebb Lake changed over a relatively short period of time (for example, RA #9). As of February 2017, over 3,200 Smallmouth Bass and nearly 400 Chain Pickerel were removed from the system by boat electrofishing and other control methods (RA #8 to 13). Preliminary results of boat electrofishing and angling surveys indicate that they have the potential to be efficient methods of controlling Smallmouth Bass and Chain Pickerel abundance and production (RA #10 to 11).

Next steps/recommendations:

• Review results of invasive fish surveys to evaluate appropriate next steps and future mitigation options
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the mitigation measures used to date (boat electrofishing and angling) as well as additional tools and mechanisms for removing invasive fish (for example, nest destruction, altering boat electrofishing protocols to sample earlier in the year when Smallmouth Bass are spawning) and implement them as needed
• Increase the total invasive species mitigation effort applied and expand efforts into all three lakes
• Continue invasive species mitigation in the Petite Rivière lakes and undertake an adaptive approach while the most effective approach is evaluated and implemented
• Pursue efforts to establish a self-sustaining population of Atlantic Whitefish in a waterbody free of invasive fish species as a priority. This will include securing a viable range expansion mechanism and partnering arrangement to support implementation
• Pursue efforts to establish anadromy on the Petite Rivière (see PI #4)

Progress has been made in addressing knowledge gaps of importance to recovery planning and recovery strategy implementation (see tables 3, 4 and 5). Information is now available or forthcoming in the following areas:

• phylogenetic status and population status of the species (RA #1 and 15)
• genetic health of the remaining members of the species (RA #1)
• accurate field identification of living specimens using external characteristics (RA #2)
• genetic markers to support enforcement efforts and future assessments of species distribution (RA #1)
• captive breeding and rearing protocols (RA #6)
• feasibility of establishing additional freshwater resident populations using seed stock reared in captivity (RA #5, #7, and #17)
• life-history stage specific assessments of susceptibility to acid (rain) toxicity, thermal preferences, and salinity tolerance (RA #1)
• trophic position of Atlantic Whitefish residing in lakes
• potential threat to survival or recovery resulting from the presence of invasive species (RA #8 to 13)
• fish passage requirements around dams (RA #16 and #27 to 29)

Next steps/recommendations:

Continue to undertake studies to address knowledge gaps identified in the recovery strategy (DFO 2018a).

Continue or undertaken action plan (DFO 2018b) recovery measures aimed at addressing knowledge gaps:

• assess the status of the species in the Petite Rivière lakes
• undertake habitat research identified in the schedule of studies
• evaluate the applicability of the residence concept under SARA for the Atlantic Whitefish against new national level guidance and criteria
• explore mitigation options for addressing invasive fish species in the Petite Rivière lakes

Various organizations such as BCAF, BPSC and NSDFA, and other members of the Atlantic Whitefish Conservation and Recovery Team (AWCRT), have demonstrated their continued commitment and dedication to Atlantic Whitefish public awareness and stewardship efforts (see table 3). Outreach and education activities carried out by DFO and its partners (RA #36), as well as extensive media coverage during the reporting period (RA #35), helped raise public awareness about the status and plight of the Atlantic Whitefish. An adaptive communication plan has not been developed.

Next steps/recommendations:

• Continue existing communication efforts and explore new opportunities to engage stewards and increase public awareness and acceptance of Atlantic Whitefish
• Develop and implement an adaptive communication plan as identified in the action plan (DFO 2018b)

Human activities permitted by the recovery strategy (that is, authorized scientific conservation and recovery activities led by DFO, authorized electrofishing, and authorized fishing activities for other species that result in incidental capture of Atlantic Whitefish) have been managed (for example, by application of the conditions set in the recovery strategy) throughout the reporting period to ensure that they do not jeopardize the survival or recovery of the Atlantic Whitefish.

Next steps/recommendations:

• Continue to manage human activities permitted by the recovery strategy such that they do not jeopardize the survival or recovery of the Atlantic Whitefish

A proposed action plan for the Atlantic Whitefish was completed and posted to the Species at Risk (SAR) Public Registry in 2016 (RA #20). The final version was published outside this reporting period in 2018 (DFO 2018b). The action plan outlines 26 recovery measures that will be undertaken by DFO, partners, and/or other jurisdictions or organizations to implement the four broad strategies for recovery described in the recovery strategy.

Next steps/recommendations:

• Work collaboratively with partners to implement the recovery measures identified in the action plan for the Atlantic Whitefish