Snyder's Flats transforms from aggregate pit to ecosystem

Decades of rehabilitation have transformed Snyder's Flats from an aggregate pit into a vibrant ecosystem with at least 30 species of fish.

Staff from the Grand River Conservation Authority and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestryrecently netted 949 fish as part of a biological inventory of the property, near Bloomingdale.These included small and largemouth bass, yellow perch,pumpkinseed, black crappie,and common carp.

"It tells us, having a variety of fish species there, that it's a healthy system," said Crystal Allan, the supervisor of natural heritage at Grand River. "It's functioning as we hoped it would when that project was created."

Fish are thought to be strong indicators of the health of the ecosystem, somethingAllan sayshas been steadily improving since restoration ofSnyder's Flats began in the 1980s after years of use as an aggregate pit.

Staff caught fish with seine nets andminnow traps. Trained members also usedelectrofishing, a technique that sends an electrical current through the water, stunning the fish for easiercapture and identification. The method isn't considered harmful.

Some species are considered more tolerant of pollution and degraded water, whileothers are less able to adapt.

Frog and bird surveys were carried out earlier this summer, as has an inventory of plants.

"We know it as an area that has transitioned over the years, and we're seeing that in the wildlife and the vegetation community that is starting to be established on the site as well," said Allan.

The conservation authority hopes to conserve and enhance biodiversity of Snyder's Flatsin the coming years, according to Allan, and continue as a convenient way for the public to experience nature.