Spotted Gar (Lepisosteus oculatus): Progress report on recovery strategy implementation 2017 to 2022

i.  Refine population and distribution objectives.

Refined population and distribution objectives determined by 2015.

ii.  Ensure adequate protection of critical habitat.

Completion of activities outlined in the schedule of studies for the complete identification of critical habitat within the proposed timelines.
Critical habitat protected where identified.

iii.  Determine long-term population and habitat trends.

Monitoring program established by 2015.
Current distribution and density of Spotted Gar in 3 extant Great Lakes coastal wetland populations is maintained or enhanced.

iv.  Identify threats, evaluate their relative impacts, and implement remedial actions to reduce their effects.

Relative significance of threats evaluated by 2014.
Initiate implementation of remedial actions to address priority threats by 2015.

v.  Enhance efficiency of recovery efforts.

Quantification of Best Management Practices (BMPs) (for example, number of Nutrient Management Plans [NMPs] and Environmental Farm Plan [EFPs] completed; hectares of riparian zone established) implemented by Essex-Erie Recovery Team (EERT) and other interest groups to address threats within the 3 occupied Lake Erie coastal wetlands by 2016 (ongoing).

vi.   Enhance quality and extent of available habitat.

Report on habitat improvements as detected by the monitoring program 5 years after the initial baseline data collected (by 2020).

vii.  Improve overall awareness and appreciation of Spotted Gar and the coastal wetland habitats that support it.

Document any changes in public perceptions and support for identified recovery actions through guidance identified in the communications strategy (by 2015).

viii.  Engage landowners, communities, First Nations and organizations in stewardship actions that minimize/eliminate identified threats to Spotted Gar and its habitat.

Landowners engaged in stewardship actions from 2012 to 2016.

Conduct targeted surveys of preferred habitats at Turkey Point, Tremblay Beach wetlands (mouth of the Thames River, Lake St. Clair) and Lake Ontario (Bay of Quinte, Hamilton Harbour, East Lake).

Research and Monitoring; R1. Background surveys – new/suspected and historical locations

While a single individual was confirmed from East Lake in 2007, subsequent surveys, including trawling by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (OMNRF) in 2021, failed to detect Spotted Gar. Therefore, a reproducing population is unlikely at this location.

Additionally, no subsequent detections of Spotted Gar have occurred since the single capture in Lake St. Clair in 1962, a system where regular fish surveys occur, including surveys by DFO in 2018 and 2019. Also, annual non-targeted surveys in Jeanette’s Creek and the Thames River from 2017 to 2021 did not capture any Spotted Gar.

Spotted Gar have continued to be detected at Turkey Point, most recently in 2018, and the species was detected for the first time in Cedar Creek in 2019. Annual non-targeted surveys in Cedar Creek by DFO from 2017 to 2021 failed to detect any individuals. Further sampling is required to determine if there is a reproducing population in Cedar Creek, or if the individual was a migrant. The same situation exists at Muddy Creek and Hillman Marsh, where 1 Spotted Gar was captured at each location in 2011 and 2020, respectively. Surveys by the University of Windsor in 2017 at both Hillman Marsh and Muddy Creek did not detect the species. It is important to note that no voucher specimens were collected from Cedar Creek, Muddy Creek, and Hillman Marsh, making it difficult to rule out the possibility that they were introduced Florida Gar.

An unverified specimen was captured in Frenchman’s Bay (coastal inlet of Lake Ontario) in 2018, which may have been the invasive Florida Gar. Annual non-targeted surveys by DFO in 2017 and from 2019 to 2021 in Frenchman’s Bay did not capture any Spotted Gar, making it unlikely that an undetected reproducing population exists there.

Non-targeted surveys via mamou trawl were conducted in East Lake in 2021 by OMNRF. No Spotted Gar were detected (LeBaron and Reid 2023).

i

DFO, Academic Institutions (AI), OMNRF, University of Windsor

Complete targeted surveys of extant populations.

Research and Monitoring; R2. Background surveys – extant locations

In 2019 and 2021, DFO conducted fish community sampling in Point Pelee National Park to evaluate the composition of the fish community and to estimate population size of select SARA-listed species, including the Spotted Gar (Barnucz et al. 2021; Barnucz et al. in review). Sampling conducted in 2019 and 2021 detected Spotted Gar in West Cranberry Pond (2 specimens), East Cranberry Pond (3 specimens), Lake Pond (3 specimens), and in a new location, Girardin Pond (1 specimen). Passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags were inserted into 6 individuals in 2019. No recaptures of tagged individuals occurred and population size could not be estimated. Habitat sampling was conducted and included an assessment of macrophytes.

Single detections occurred at Big Creek (2021) and Long Point (2017) National Wildlife Areas (NWA) as part of 2 separate surveys completed by external SARA permit holders. 

In 2018, DFO conducted targeted sampling at 356 sites in Rondeau Bay (and 2 tributary agricultural drains) for larval Spotted Gar (Gáspárdy et al. 2021). The sampling program involved the use of dip nets and quatrefoil light traps in 2 habitat types (tributary drains and coastal areas of the bay) and 2 sampling zones within each habitat type (nearshore and offshore/channel). A total of 37 larval Spotted Gar were captured in the dip net samples, while none were captured in light trap sets. Of the larval Spotted Gar detected, 95% were from the nearshore sampling zones (68% agricultural drains, 27% bay), while 5% were captured offshore in the agricultural drains. Habitat sampling was conducted and included an assessment of the aquatic vegetation. Milfoil was the dominant vegetation at 60% of larval Lepisosteus sp. capture locations. Further analyses of this dataset showed that larval Spotted Gar strongly prefer shallow (0.5 to 1.0 m) nearshore habitat with submerged vegetation (McAllister et al. 2022). The dependence of young-of-the-year (YOY) on submerged vegetation decreased as fish increased in size (McAllister et al. 2022).

In 2022, a 5 year study was initiated by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and the University of Toronto (U of T) and involved PIT-tagging and radio-tracking of adult Spotted Gar, and dip-netting for larval Spotted Gar in Rondeau Bay. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of habitat restoration activities on spawning habitat. 10 adults were tagged and tracked during the spring and summer while 16 larval Spotted Gar were captured from 4 drains in 2022 (McLean Drain, Bates-Bloomfield Drain, Holdaway Drain, and Branch 1 Drain).

i, iii

DFO, Parks Canada, University of Toronto, Parsons Corporation, TRCA

Establish and implement a standardized index population and habitat monitoring program for all extant locations.

Research and Monitoring; R3. Monitoring – populations and habitat

A standardized index population and habitat monitoring program has not been developed or implemented at this time, but evaluation of sampling gear continues.

Richardson and Flinn (2019) investigated the effectiveness of gar capture (including Spotted Gar) with gill nets. They recorded a greater rate of capture with multifilament (versus monofilament) gill nets at temperatures above 15°C. Impact of net orientation and habitat type on rate of capture was also considered.

Although sampling occurred in an area without Spotted Gar, Gardner Costa et al. (2020) evaluated the sampling efficacy of passive gear in Phragmites stands in the St. Clair River delta. Fyke nets (compared to large-mesh and small-mesh gill nets, and Windermere traps) were found to be most effective for sampling the fish assemblage in Phragmites stands. These results may be useful for future sampling for the species in Phragmites-dominated habitats.

ii, iii

DFO, AI

Determine the seasonal habitat needs of all life stages of the Spotted Gar. These investigations should determine the role that adjacent riparian and terrestrial/semi-aquatic habitat may play in the overall habitat needs of the species.

Research and Monitoring; R4. Research – habitat requirements

Based on a variety of previous research projects, DFO (2020) summarized the current understanding of Spotted Gar habitat needs. Briefly, adults prefer diverse patches of aquatic macrophytes, which may include invasive species (for example, Myriophyllum spicatum); adults show seasonal preferences for shallow (< 0.5 m) and deep (> 2.5 m) areas of available habitat; spawning occurs predominantly
< 30 m from shore, but is associated with greater water depth; and plants of the genus Potamogeton are associated with spawning activity, though other species may also support egg development. Larval Spotted Gar are found primarily in the shoreline margins of tributaries (including agricultural drains) and lakefront areas, but secondarily may be found offshore of these areas; larvae associate with sparse through heavy aquatic vegetation, and are commonly found in areas that include Myriophylum and/or Ceratophylum sp. Juveniles were associated with the shallowest depths available and moderate turbidity levels (50 to 149  NTU^{b ).}

ii

DFO, AI, OMNRF

Confirm the significance of the threat factors that may be impacting extant populations. Identify the primary causes and take steps to mitigate immediate threats based on severity.

Research and Monitoring; R5. Threat evaluation and mitigation

Montgomery et al. (2020) investigated the extinction debt of fish in Lake Erie wetlands. Extinction debt is the time lag between habitat loss and local extinction. Seven wetlands containing Spotted Gar were identified as being in extinction debt for the species and, hence, are in need of restoration. The authors determined that 178 km² of additional wetland habitat across 29 wetlands are needed to reduce the risk of biodiversity loss, while an additional 29 km² of wetland habitat are required to maintain viable Spotted Gar populations. The authors of this study concluded that Rondeau Bay is in extinction debt and requires an additional 9.02 km² of wetland restored to support Spotted Gar (Montgomery et al. 2020).

In light of climate change, understanding temperature impacts on Spotted Gar is valuable. Long et al. (2020) investigated the effect of temperature on the early development of the Spotted Gar (and Alligator Gar, Atractosteus spatula) in a laboratory setting using broodstock from Oklahoma. An inverse relationship between temperature (water temperature treatments of 15.5, 20.0, 23.8, 27.5, and 32.2°C) and the timing of hatch and advancement to free-swimming fingerlings was observed for Spotted Gar, while hatching and development of Spotted Gar were optimal at 23.8°C. In contrast to what was observed for Alligator Gar, no developmental abnormalities were observed for Spotted Gar.

Rodríguez et al. (2021) investigated the responses of vulnerable fishes to abiotic environmental stressors (that is, turbidity, water velocity, temperature, and dissolved oxygen) in the Canadian Great Lakes basin using a hierarchical joint species distribution model. Patterns of habitat use inferred by the model suggest the Spotted Gar have a tolerance for elevated turbidity, but are intolerant to low oxygen levels and higher water velocities, while no relationship to water temperature was detected.

Updated guidelines for the removal of aquatic vegetation within Spotted Gar critical habitat have recently been drafted in the proposed recovery strategy and action plan (DFO 2020). The guidelines are designed to minimize harm to Spotted Gar in areas where vegetation removal occurs. The best management practices are based on knowledge accumulated on the importance of vegetation to Spotted Gar throughout their life history, and the availability of aquatic vegetation features throughout its critical habitat. The authors showed that small- scale vegetation removals, especially of diverse macrophyte beds, can jeopardize the species if undertaken in nearshore areas or in tributaries during spawning and nursery periods.

There were also a few studies that helped to improve understanding of the threats impacting Spotted Gar but were more focused on life history. This includes studies by Snow et al. (2017) and Long and Snow (2018) that validated daily increment deposition of otoliths, which allows for estimates of daily age of juvenile Spotted Gar. Age estimates have the potential to allow for the back calculation of hatch dates, estimating early growth rates, and to correlate environmental factors with spawning success, which has the potential to improve understanding of the threats facing the species. Furthermore, Buckmeier et al. (2018) evaluated age estimates of Spotted Gar (and Longnose Gar,L. osseus) based on sagittal otoliths, pectoral fin rays, and branchiostegal rays. The authors found that ages derived from sagittal otoliths can be reliable through age 10, and that past age estimates from branchiostegal rays and pectoral fin rays should be considered suspect (also see King et al. 2018).

A recently published stable isotope study was also useful for future research that could help in better understanding the threats to Spotted Gar. Stable isotope analysis (SIA) is a useful tool for investigating trophic ecology and energy fluxes through an ecosystem. Fredrickson et al. (2022) evaluated the feasibility of using fin tissue as a nonlethal alternative to using muscle tissue for SIA in Spotted and Alligator gars. Their results suggest that fin tissue can be used as a nonlethal surrogate for muscle tissue for SIA, for both gar species.

iv

DFO, AI, OMNRF, U.S. agencies

Conduct radio-tracking studies to monitor habitat use and to determine home range size of individuals in the Lake Erie wetlands.

Research and Monitoring; R6. Research – home range and habitat use

A radiotelemetry study in Rondeau Bay and tributaries in 2017 identified spawning sites. Results indicated that preferred spawning sites occur close to shore (within < 10 m of shoreline preferred), typically contain pondweed species (Potamogeton spp.), occur over silt and detritus, and are of greater stream depth (0.8 to 1.6 m preferred) than surrounding areas (Drake pers. comm. 2023).

Midwood et al. (2018) outlined a unique approach to surgically implanting electronic tags in the body cavity of gars, with a focus on the Longnose Gar. King and Stein (2020) investigated effective anesthetic dosage and recovery from specialized surgical methods in Shortnose Gar (L. platostomus). Low mortality and minimal postsurgery effects were observed, suggesting that the surgical technique can be applied to gar populations with minimal risk of harming the overall health of the population. Their findings will help researchers to safely utilize internal implantation of transmitters (for example, for long-term biotelemetry studies) in primitive fishes with ganoid scales, which includes the Spotted Gar.

In 2019 and 2021, DFO conducted fish community sampling in Point Pelee National Park and a total of 9 Spotted Gar were captured (Barnucz et al. 2021; Barnucz et al. in review). Passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags were inserted into 6 individuals in 2019. No recaptures of tagged individuals occurred and population size could not be estimated.

ii

DFO, Parks Canada, AI

Identify point sources of nutrient and sediment inputs and their relative effects.

Research and Monitoring; R7. Point source contamination

Recent research has complemented previous studies on Great Lakes water quality, showing that agriculture and urbanization have had negative impacts on water quality in Great lakes coastal wetlands (Harrison et al. 2020). The authors recommend that best management practices be used to minimize nutrient application rates and run-off. Examples include the use of soil testing and riparian buffers.

ii

AI

Investigate the degree of connectivity between and within Spotted Gar populations (field surveys/research, genetic analysis), as well as population viability.

Research and Monitoring; R8. Threat evaluation and mitigation – investigate connectivity/ viability

David and Wright (2017) investigated genetic variation and biogeography of Spotted Gar. Similar to Glass et al. 2015, the authors found that genetic diversity was highest in the Mississippi River basin and lowest in the Great Lakes basin, the location of Canadian populations (their analysis included a specimen from Rondeau Bay). The authors speculate that the low genetic diversity of the northern Spotted Gar may make them highly susceptible to local extinction.

iv

DFO, University of Windsor

Evaluate the impacts of incidental harvest on Spotted Gar populations (for example, surveys of fishermen).

Research and Monitoring; R9. Threat evaluation and mitigation – incidental harvest

Research is underway to test commercial gear types in Long Point Bay. Initial sampling was conducted in 2018 to test gear types, which led to the capture of 4 Spotted Gar (OMNRF Unpub. 2019). Overall, commercial fisheries represent a minor threat to species at risk considering that the gear types used (fyke nets) have low mortality and any species at risk that are caught should be released (OMNRF Unpub. 2019).

iv

OMNRF

In cooperation with the EERT, assess watershed-scale stressors to occupied coastal wetlands.

Research and Monitoring; R10. Assessment of watershed-scale stressors

Water-quality monitoring has been conducted within the watersheds of Rondeau and Long Point bays. Additionally, habitat improvement activities, such as vegetation planting and riparian stabilization, have occurred within the watersheds of Rondeau and Long Point bays to reduce the input of nutrients and sediments.

In 2018 to 2019, the LTVCA produced an aquatic species at risk threat assessment report that summarized environmental conditions and threats affecting aquatic species at risk at a subwatershed level.

iv, vi

DFO, EERT, LTVCA, ERCA, LPRCA, OMNRF

Measure sediment and nutrient loads (and possibly other contaminants) emitted from streams that are connected to wetlands occupied by Spotted Gar.

Research and Monitoring; R11. Water- quality monitoring

A threat assessment by the LTVCA in 2019 stated that the risk of pesticide contamination is low to very low in the Rondeau Bay subwatershed as no-till farming practices and other conservation measures have been in place since the 1980s.

Water-quality monitoring was conducted in 2021 at Big Creek NWA by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). Parameters such as dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity, and water temperature were measured (Grabas [ECCC] pers. comm. 2023). This monitoring is part of the Protected Areas Wetland Monitoring Program (PAWMP) that is repeated every two years at Big Creek NWA and Long Point NWA.

Parks Canada conducts their ecological integrity monitoring program on an annual basis at Point Pelee National Park. From 2017 to 2021, water quality index scores trended upwards while total phosphorus significantly declined (Windsor [Parks Canada] pers. comm.).

iv

DFO, EERT, LTVCA, ERCA, LPRCA, OMNRF, ECCC, Parks Canada

Continue to monitor, investigate, and enforce penalties associated with illegal vegetation removal when it occurs in habitats occupied by Spotted Gar; to be accomplished in collaboration with the Rondeau Bay Aquatic Vegetation Issues Working Group.

Research and Monitoring; R12. Monitoring and enforcement

In 2018, following an investigation by fishery officers, 2 homeowners pleaded guilty in the Ontario Court of Justice to destroying critical habitat of Spotted Gar in Rondeau Bay. This case was the first SARA conviction for destroying critical habitat for an aquatic species in Canada.

In 2019, DFO enforcement officers responded to infilling along the shoreline of critical habitat for Spotted Gar at Long Point as well as in Rondeau Bay.

Rondeau Bay Aquatic Vegetation Issues Working Group has been dissolved but ultimately resulted in a more coordinated regulatory approach between responsible authorities.

iv

DFO, OMNRF

Investigate the response of Spotted Gar to wetland management practices (for example, Common Reed [Phragmites australis] control/management, water level management and other habitat alterations).

Research and Monitoring; R13. Response of Spotted Gar to wetland management practices

Wynia (2019) assessed whether fish and invertebrate communities differed in Phragmites stands versus native emergent vegetation communities (St. Clair River delta). No difference in the fish or invertebrate community was detected, implying that invasive Phragmites provides habitat as valuable for fish and invertebrates as other emergent vegetation types. Similarly, Krzton-Presson et al. (2018) found that fish diversity did not differ among sites (herbicide treated Phragmites, untreated Phragmites, and Phragmites-free), but individual species varied in distribution and abundance between the Phragmites sites and the Phragmites-free site (Clear Creek Wildlife Management Area, Kentucky). Croft-White et al. (2021) demonstrated an alteration in the wetland fish assemblage in relation to Phragmites, while fish species richness and catch-per-unit effort were unchanged among vegetation types (Phragmites, Typha, and Schoenoplectus). Impacts specific to Spotted Gar remain to be investigated, but the species relies on nearshore macrophyte-rich areas. As Phragmites spreads, the areas get reduced in size which decreases the amount of aquatic habitat available for the fish community.

Phragmites control efforts are ongoing; for example, in Rondeau and Long Point provincial parks, MECP is actively engaged in invasive Phragmites management. OMNRF has created a monitoring plan as part of the invasive Phragmites control pilot project in wetland areas of Long Point Bay and Rondeau Provincial Park. Monitoring has included an assessment of the fate and impacts of glyphosate, a herbicide used for controlling Phragmites. Visual monitoring of wetland fishes was also conducted before and after herbicide application at Long Point and Rondeau Provincial Park from 2016 to 2020 (Reid et al. 2023). No dead or distressed Spotted Gar were observed but the authors indicate that aerial glyphosate application adjacent to open-water could increase the risk of mortality (Reid et al. 2023).  Impacts of herbicide application have been noted on macroinvertebrate communities (Robichaud et al. 2022).

Phragmites is also controlled on federal lands in the Long Point Region through the application of herbicides and by rolling. As part of this control project, Environment and Climate Change Canada conducts monitoring which includes an assessment of the fate and effects of herbicide on wetland fishes. As of 2023, no dead or distressed Spotted Gar have been observed during visual surveys.  Additionally, the Ontario Invasive Plant Council produced a best management practice (BMP) guide that aims to minimize the adverse impacts of Phragmites on species at risk (Nichols 2020).

A baseline monitoring study on Phragmites removal was started by the University of Toronto and the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) in Rondeau Bay in 2022 as part of a 5 year study on the effectiveness of habitat restoration in Spotted Gar habitat.

Parks Canada conducted wetland restoration at Point Point Pelee National Park (PPNP) which included the mechanical removal of 0.14 Ha of invasive Typha x glauca in 2021-2022. A monitoring partnership between PPNP, Trent University and OMNRF showed that fish habitat connectivity increased, and a 15 % increase in submergent vegetation was observed as a result of this activity.

iv

DFO, AI, OMNRF,
OP, WIFN, ECCC, PC, Trent University, TRCA, U of T

Investigate the relationship between Longnose Gar and Spotted Gar in areas where they coexist.

Research and Monitoring; R14.   Interspecific interactions

No known investigations into potential interactions between these 2 species in Ontario have been undertaken at this time. However, a recent study from Bohn et al. (2017) showed that Longnose Gar and Spotted Gar have been known to hybridize in areas of Texas where they coexist.

iv

AI

Conduct a risk assessment on the probability of Florida Gar becoming established in the Great Lakes basin (that is, within Spotted Gar habitats).

Research and Monitoring; R15. Florida Gar risk assessment

No known investigations regarding the likelihood of Florida Gar becoming established in the Great Lakes basin have been conducted at this time.

iv

Investigate the impacts climate change is having, and will continue to have, on Spotted Gar and coastal wetland habitats.

Research and Monitoring; R16. Threat evaluation – climate change

Spotted Gar were scored as highly vulnerable in an assessment of climate change vulnerability in the Ontario Great Lakes Basin (Brinker et al. 2018). Based on their hydrological niche, this assessment concluded that they had greatly increased vulnerability to changing hydrological conditions that are expected in the Great Lakes basin in the future due to climate change.

In light of climate change, understanding temperature impacts on Spotted Gar is valuable. Long et al. (2020) investigated the effect of temperature on the early development of the Spotted Gar and Alligator Gar in a laboratory setting using broodstock from Oklahoma. The hatching and development of Spotted Gar were optimal at 23.8°C. In contrast to what was observed for Alligator Gar, no developmental abnormalities were observed for Spotted Gar. The authors showed that temperature clearly affects development rates of gar embryos and larvae, which indicates a need to better understand the impacts of climate change on Spotted Gar.

iv

DFO, ECCC, OMNRF

Work with the EERT and other relevant groups to share knowledge and implement recovery actions.

Management and coordination;  C1. Coordination with other recovery teams and relevant groups

Although EERT is no longer active, conservation authorities continue to implement stewardship programs, and receive advice from DFO as needed.

v

DFO, EERT, LTVCA, ERCA, LPRCA, OMNRF

Encourage municipalities to protect habitats that are important to Spotted Gar in their Official Plans and to ensure that planning and management agencies are aware of habitats important to the species.

Management and coordination;  C2. Municipal planning –involvement

Municipal public works and planning departments have been included in aquatic species at risk outreach activities conducted by DFO staff. DFO has developed and distributed aquatic species at risk official plan guidance for municipalities to incorporate into municipal official plan updates (via Regional Planning Commissioners of Ontario). This guidance includes providing a review on critical habitat orders to municipal planners and government agencies in 2018, as well as providing species at risk outreach to the Regional Planning Commissioners of Ontario in 2019. In 2021, species at risk outreach has been provided to conservation authorities and their respective municipalities, including the ERCA, LTVCA, QCA, and SCRCA.

vi, vii

DFO

Establish good working relationships with drainage supervisors, engineers, and contractors to limit the effects of drainage activities on coastal wetland habitats.

Management and coordination;  C3. Relationship building –drainage

Through partnerships with watershed-based conservation organizations (CAs in Ontario), DFO staff have promoted the implementation of BMPs via presentations, project reviews, and site meetings with the agricultural community, drainage engineers, and the Ontario Drainage Superintendents Association. In 2019, species at risk outreach was provided to members of the Drains Action Working Group by DFO. Furthermore, education on species at risk legislation is provided to Ontario Ministry of Transportation consultants in training on an annual basis.

vi, vii, viii

DFO

Ensure that existing guidelines on reducing, mitigating, and restoring areas of dredge, fill and vegetation removal impacts take the needs of Spotted Gar into account.

Management and coordination;  C4. Guidelines: dredge, fill and vegetation removal

Updated guidelines for the removal of aquatic vegetation within Spotted Gar critical habitat have recently been published (DFO 2020).

Updated guidelines for mitigating the impacts of watercourse modifications to Grass Pickerel were published in 2021 (Coker et al. 2021). Much of these BMPs are applicable to Spotted Gar habitat as both of these species share common threats, such as habitat modifications, turbidity and sediment loading, and nutrient loading.

During project design and preparation, project proponents are directed to assess their projects in accordance with DFO’s Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program guidelines and mitigation, including pathways of effects, to minimize impacts on aquatic species, including species at risk.

iv, vi

DFO, EERT, LTVCA, ERCA, LPRCA, OMNRF

Encourage responsible agencies/jurisdictions to
integrate recovery team recommendations into
planning documents,
including land management
plans.

Management and coordination;  C5. Information
sharing-
land use
planning

Through annual DFO species at risk outreach, responsible agencies are informed about aquatic (fishes/mussels) species at risk within their jurisdiction, and encouraged to incorporate guidance into planning documents, including municipal official plans, with a goal of informing proponents early in the planning stage of any sensitive species in their project area. See Approaches C2 and C3 above for further details.

v, vii

DFO, EERT, LTVCA, ERCA, LPRCA, OMNRF

Collaborate with relevant groups, initiatives, and recovery teams to address recovery actions of benefit to Spotted Gar.

Stewardship, Outreach and Awareness; S1. Collaboration and information sharing

See Approaches C2, C3, and S2 in this table for further details.

v

DFO, OMNRF, ERCA, LPRCA, LTVCA

Promote stewardship among landowners, First Nations and other interested parties (for example, anglers) within watersheds of the occupied coastal wetlands, particularly Rondeau Bay.

Stewardship, Outreach and Awareness; S2. Stewardship and habitat initiatives

Through DFO’s Habitat Stewardship Fund, a number of habitat restoration and outreach projects occurred since 2017 that benefit Spotted Gar. This includes:

• in 2021 to 2022, the LTVCA restored 0.73 hectares of riparian habitat at Mill Creek, Rondeau Bay;
• in 2021, ERCA restored 5.26 hectares of farmland adjacent to Mud Creek to decrease erosion and nutrient loading into Long Point Bay;
• in 2020 to 2021, LTVCA developed and distributed 265 species at risk flyers to landowners in the Rondeau Bay watershed. They also distributed 1,010 combat erosion flyers in the Lower Thames Valley. LTVCA also provided outreach during 13 events that included 418 participants;
• LTVCA improved 21.82 ha of wetland and riparian buffer habitat in 2020 to 2021;
• Watersheds Canada restored and naturalized 1 waterfront property in East Lake in 2020 to 2021;
• from 2019 to 2020, LTVCA conducted an extensive outreach campaign that included 24 events with a total of 3,457 participants, 19 social media posts, and the distribution of 142 flyers that targeted species at risk awareness in Rondeau Bay;
• in 2018 to 2019, LTVCA restored 8.3 ha of riparian and wetland habitats in Rondeau Bay, while the ERCA restored 8.4 hectares of riparian and wetland features at Lake St. Clair

Presentations were delivered to stakeholders and Indigenous communities, including the Métis Nation of Ontario regarding SARA, critical habitat, environmental issues and initiatives in Rondeau Bay (See Approach C2 for further details).

DFO, LTVCA, Watersheds Canada, ERCA

Work with landowners to implement BMPs in areas where they will provide the most benefit. Encourage the completion and implementation of environmental farm plans (EFP) and nutrient management plans (NMPs).

Stewardship, Outreach and Awareness; S3. Stewardship -implementation of BMPs

See Approaches C2, C3, and S2 above for further details

iv, vii, viii

DFO, landowners, OMNRF

Develop and implement a communications strategy that identifies partners, target audiences, approaches, information products, educational and outreach opportunities, stewardship resources and specific BMPs that will assist with the recovery of this species. Should include a focus on awareness of SARA to help ensure compliance with the Act.

Stewardship, Outreach and Awareness; S4. Communi-cations strategy

An outreach strategy was developed for species at risk in southwestern Ontario targeting the following audiences:

• local municipal staff – managers, planners, engineers, field staff, and consultants
• development industries – representatives of local development industries and/or their consultants
• landowners – representatives of the local landowners, farmers, and cottagers, as well as recreational groups such as ATV/trail users
• conservation/environmental/stewardship organizations – fish and game clubs, naturalist and environmental protection organizations, students, and stewardship councils

DFO’s Species at Risk Program delivers outreach on species at risk to partners, including Indigenous Peoples, Conservation Authorities, and the public on an annual basis.

In 2018, DFO conducted a specific outreach information session for Conservation Authorities (Essex, St. Clair Region, Lower Thames Valley, Grand River) that provided a review of the critical habitat order for Spotted Gar.

In 2020 to 2021, the LTVCA hosted 13 outreach events that included messaging about aquatic species at risk, including Spotted Gar, threats to species at risk, projects that can be undertaken to benefit these species, and agricultural best management practices. They also started a social media campaign that aimed to increase public awareness and shift people’s actions in relation to road salt use in winter.

vii, viii

DFO, LTVCA

Facilitate access to funding sources for landowner, First Nations, and local community groups engaged in stewardship activities.

Stewardship, Outreach and Awareness; S5. Stewardship –financial assistance/ incentives

Federal funding is available annually through the Aboriginal Fund for Species at Risk (AFSAR), the Habitat Stewardship Program (HSP), and the Canada Nature Fund for Aquatic Species at Risk (CNFASAR). HSP funding is provided by DFO through contribution agreements to support local stewardship initiatives led primarily by environmental non-government organizations, while AFSAR funding supports the development of Indigenous capacity to participate actively in the implementation of SARA. CNFASAR is aimed at supporting stewardship projects that help recover and protect aquatic species at risk. Collectively, the activities supported facilitate the implementation of conservation measures, such as BMPs associated with water quality improvements, and sediment loading and reduction. HSP funding has resulted in a number of habitat improvement projects in Rondeau Bay and Long Point Bay.

Similarly, the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) administers the Species at Risk Stewardship Program, which provides money for similar stewardship activities to what is described above for HSP. This Program includes the Species at Risk Farm Incentive Program (SARFIP) that provides funding to agricultural landowners interested in completing habitat creation, and enhancement and protection BMPs that support species at risk.

viii

DFO, ECCC, MECP, OFA

Provide a Spotted Gar information package to commercial and possibly recreational fishers. Request avoidance of occupied habitats, and the release and reporting of any Spotted Gar captured.

Stewardship, Outreach and Awareness; S6. Awareness –incidental harvest

An information package has been developed and distributed to commercial fisherman who conduct operations in waters occupied by Spotted Gar in Lake Erie. Annual outreach activities by OMNRF include Boat Captain Days where commercial fishermen are provided information on species at risk that they are likely to encounter, handling techniques that they should adopt to ensure the survivorship of these species, as well as other pertinent information.

vii

DFO, EERT, LTVCA, ERCA, LPRCA, OMNRF

Conduct studies to determine the habitat requirements for each life stage of the Spotted Gar (in particular the habitat requirements of yolk-sac stage, young-of-the-year [YOY]  and juveniles).

2013 to 2015

In progress

Sampling was conducted for larval Spotted Gar in Rondeau Bay in 2018 (Gáspárdy et al. 2021). A total of 37 larval gar, confirmed through genetic analysis to determine species identity, were captured in early June (Gáspárdy et al. 2021). The results of this study demonstrated that larval gar were much more common in nearshore habitats (in many cases < 1 m from shore, but in almost all cases, < 5 m from shore) within tributaries and along the lakeshore when compared to more offshore locations. Specifically, 27% and 68% of the larval Spotted Gar were captured in nearshore tributary areas, respectively, while only 5% were captured in offshore lake and offshore tributary areas defined as areas in the centre channel of a tributary (Gáspárdy et al. 2021). Further analyses of this dataset showed that larval Spotted Gar strongly prefer shallow (0.5 to 1.0 m) nearshore habitat with submerged vegetation (McAllister et al. 2022). The dependence of YOY on submerged vegetation decreased as fish increased in size (McAllister et al. 2022).

DFO, OMNRF, University of Windsor

Survey and map habitat quality and quantity within historical and current sites, as well as sites adjacent to currently occupied habitat.

2013 to 2015

In progress

A fish community inventory of Point Pelee National Park in 2019 captured 8 Spotted Gar from 7 sites and also collected habitat data (Barnucz et al. 2021). At sites where Spotted Gar were present, water temperatures ranged from 18.5°C to 25.9°C (mean = 23.8 °C; summarized from Barnucz et al. 2021). This study captured adults at sites with a mean depth of 1.52 m with a mean dissolved oxygen at 7.53 mg/L and mean turbidity of 6.91 NTU. Median values of aquatic vegetation at sites with Spotted Gar adults were 30% emergent vegetation, 25% submerged vegetation, and 20% open water (summarized from Barnucz et al. 2021). 

Overarching analysis to evaluate habitat quality and quantity among occupied locations has not been undertaken.

DFO, Parks Canada

Conduct additional species surveys to fill in distribution gaps, and to aid in determining population status.

2013 to 2015

Completed in some areas; in progress for others

Surveys for fishes occurred in areas where Spotted Gar detections have been reported but where evidence of reproducing populations is lacking. These surveys include the following locations with the number of sampling events in parentheses from 2017 to 2021: Cedar Creek (259), Frenchman’s Bay (106), Jeanette’s Creek (172), Thames River (Mouth of Thames River to Jeannette’s Creek [141]), and Lake St. Clair (5).

DFO, OMNRF

Create a population to habitat supply model for each life stage.

2015 to 2017

Not started

Currently no known progress has been made in this area.

DFO

Based on information gathered, review population and distribution goals. Determine amount and configuration of critical habitat required to achieve goal if adequate information exists. Validate model.

2015 to 2017

In progress

Recent surveys for Spotted Gar in the coastal wetlands of Lake Erie, as well as research on their habitat use, has allowed DFO to update critical habitat for the species in the recovery strategy and action plan (RSAP) published as proposed in 2022 and finalized in 2024 (DFO 2024).  

The RSAP identified critical habitat for Spotted Gar as the coastal wetlands and connected quiet backwater areas, including interconnected flooded riparian areas and contributing channels of Point Pelee National Park; Long Point Bay (including Long Point NWA) Big Creek NWA, and Turkey Point; and Rondeau Bay.

Population and distribution objectives were also revised in the RSAP for Spotted Gar in Canada (DFO 2024). The objectives are very similar but specifically include new areas in the vicinity of Long Point Bay. However, further refinement of the critical habitat description should be revisited in future studies.

DFO

Refined population and distribution objectives determined by 2015.

Met, ongoing

Population and distribution objectives were recently refined in the recovery strategy and action plan posted as proposed in 2022 and finalized in 2024 (DFO 2024); however, quantifiable objectives still need to be developed.

Completion of activities outlined in the schedule of studies for the complete identification of critical habitat within the proposed timelines.
Critical habitat protected where identified.

Not met, underway

As a result of recent surveys and tracking of Spotted Gar, additional critical habitat has been drafted to include new areas in Point Pelee National Park, Rondeau Bay, and also at Long Point and Turkey Point. This recent scientific work has resulted in updated attributes of the biophysical features that comprise critical habitat. This critical habitat has been identified in the updated recovery strategy and action plan (DFO 2024).

Monitoring program established by 2015.
Current distribution and density of Spotted Gar in 3 extant Great Lakes coastal wetland populations maintained or enhanced.

Not met, underway

A standardized monitoring program for Spotted Gar in Lake Erie has not been developed or implemented in all occupied locations.

In 2019 and 2021, DFO conducted fish community sampling in Point Pelee National Park to evaluate the composition of the fish community and to estimate population size of select SARA-listed species, including the Spotted Gar (Barnucz et al. 2021). No recaptures of tagged individuals occurred and population size could not be estimated.

In 2018, DFO conducted targeted sampling at 356 sites in Rondeau Bay (and 2 tributary agricultural drains) for larval Spotted Gar (Gáspárdy et al. 2021). Of the larval Spotted Gar detected, 95% were from the nearshore sampling zones (68% agricultural drains, 27% bay), while 5% were captured offshore in the agricultural drains.

A radiotelemetry study in Rondeau Bay and tributaries in 2017 identified spawning sites. Results indicated that preferred spawning sites occur close to shore (within < 10 m of shoreline preferred), typically contain pondweed species (Potamogeton spp.), occur over silt and detritus, and are of greater stream depth (0.8 to 1.6 m preferred) than surrounding areas (Drake pers. comm. 2023).

Relative significance of threats evaluated by 2014.
Initiate implementation of remedial actions to address priority threats by 2015.

Not met, underway

Remedial actions to address threats are ongoing through water quality improvement programs and projects (for example, constructed wetlands, grassed waterways, and tree/shrub planting to reduce erosion and sedimentation, a significant threat to Spotted Gar). This effort includes actions funded through the Aboriginal Fund for Species at Risk (AFSAR), the Habitat Stewardship Program (HSP), and the Canada Nature Fund for Aquatic Species at Risk (CNFASAR). 

Remedial programs are offered through conservation authority stewardship programs that offer financial incentives to local landowners to protect and restore habitat, improve watershed quality, and reduce nutrient and sediment inputs into waterways and the Great Lakes, thereby addressing 2 threats of highest overall concern to Spotted Gar.

Updated guidelines for the removal of aquatic vegetation within Spotted Gar critical habitat have recently been published (DFO 2020). The guidelines are designed to minimize harm to Spotted Gar in areas where vegetation removal occurs.

A threat assessment report affecting species at risk, including Spotted Gar in LTVCA watersheds, has been published.

Quantification of Best Management Practices (BMPs) (for example, number of Nutrient Management Plans [NMPs] and Environmental Farm Plan [EFPs] completed; hectares of riparian zone established) implemented by the Essex-Erie Recovery Team (EERT) and other interest groups to address threats within the 3 occupied Lake Erie coastal wetlands by 2016 (on-going).

Met ongoing

A number of habitat improvement activities representative of BMPs have been conducted through cooperation with conservation groups that benefit Spotted Gar within coastal wetlands of Lake Erie. The spatial extent of these activities has been quantified and is listed in the stewardship section of table 2. 

Report on habitat improvements as detected by the monitoring program 5 years after the initial baseline data collected (by 2020).

Not met, underway

A comprehensive report on habitat improvements has not been prepared at this time; however, with support from species at risk funding programs (for example, HSP), habitat improvements within the distribution of Spotted Gar have been undertaken and reported individually.

Parks Canada conducts their ecological integrity monitoring program on an annual basis at Point Pelee National Park. Their most recent report (2022) indicates that water quality index scores have trended upwards and total phosphorus significantly declined since 2017 (Windsor [Parks Canada] pers. comm.).

Document any changes in public perceptions and support for identified recovery actions through guidance identified in the communications strategy (by 2015).

Not met, underway

Through species at risk outreach programs conducted by DFO, OMNRF, and conservation authorities, public perception and understanding of the presence and significance of Spotted Gar has been raised; however, no known progress has been made to quantify and document this perception and understanding at this time. 

Landowners engaged in stewardship actions from 2012 to 2016.

Met ongoing

Stewardship activities that benefit Spotted Gar have been ongoing through the HSP, and the CNFASAR by working with groups such as NGOs, conservation authorities, and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (OMNRF).