A Lakehead University researcher believes returning a creek to its original course will help to restore a once-thriving fish population in Nipigon Bay.

Decades ago, Kama Creek was realigned to protect a railway crossing from erosion. But the move destroyed brook trout spawning grounds and created a barrier to migration up the creek.

Now, the creek is being redirected to its original course.

“You could actually walk down the old channel if you sort of took your time and crawled through the bush a little bit,” said Robert Stewart, who teaches in the Lakehead University geography department.

Before the creek realignment, brook trout populations were estimated as above average for the North Shore of Lake Superior. But after the creek was moved, brook trout populations in Kama Creek and within Nipigon Bay dramatically declined.

By redirecting Kama Creek to its original formation, it is hoped fish like Brook Trout will repopulate the area. (Lakehead University)

After studying the area extensively, Stewart said researchers were confident the creek could be restored to a condition resembling its original pre-1960s configuration.

The restoration project will create four acres of fish habitat and two acres of wetland — and provide a wealth of experience for students.

“By co-ordinating this work through Lakehead University, we are able to provide hands-on, meaningful experiences for our graduate students,” Stewart said.

Graduate students are expected to take part in the ongoing monitoring of Kama Creek. (Lakehead University)

He said he expects that future graduate students will carry out post-monitoring for the Kama restoration.

Throughout the rest of November, R&M Construction will reposition the current delta and channel in Kama Creek. The project is expected to be completed by late fall.