Projects
Tod Creek Flats
Tod Creek drains Prospect Lake and runs north into Tod Inlet. Tod Creek Flats is about one km north of the outlet of the Lake. In summer most of the 75 acres is farmed. In winter it functions as a flood plain.
After a century of farming the agricultural viability of the land is under threat. The land may have subsided and/or the watercourse has been degraded so that it no longer provides enough drainage to support agriculture.
As a winter floodplain, the flats are important to reduce downstream flooding, improve water quality and provide winter habitat for various wildlife.
Historically, Tod Creek provided fish habitat. To improve drainage, Tod Creek was channelized resulting in the loss of fish habitat.
A restored, meandering stream with ponds would provide better functioning conditions for fish and other wildlife.
The purpose of this project is to use an integrated approach:
• To make the land economically viable for agriculture
• To preserve and improve flood plain function, and
• To create a healthy habitat for fish and other wildlife
With the help of many partners a vision has been created. Through the District of Saanich a grant has been obtained from the Ministry of Community Services to hire a consultant to create a concept plan based on our vision and the possibilities of the site. The consultant will also identify any outstanding data or research that may be needed before implementation is possible.
Mouth of Killarney Creek at Prospect Lake
Killarney Creek provides approximately half the flow entering Prospect Lake. It is also prime spawning habitat for cutthroat trout. The creek has been channelized and is choked with yellow iris and other vegetation. The project will restore some of the creek bed and open the entrance for fish and wildlife.