Dam removal on Campbell Creek, tributary of the Nashwaak River, in Fredericton, New Brunswick, between its confluence with the Nashwaak and Route 8

The NWAI has identified major barriers to fish passage along the Nashwaak River. We recognize that the Campbell Creek Dam, property of the City of Fredericton, has been impeding fish passage to a cold-water tributary for almost a century and is one of the worst barriers to fish passage in the watershed. The City has approved its removal. In 2016, the dam failed. The brook began to restore itself quickly; however, in late 2017 the opening in the dam was illegally blocked through vandalism and the headpond refilled. The dam continues to inhibit fish passage. By removing the dam and restoring access to Campbell Creek, anadromous species like Atlantic salmon will be provided with a net gain of quality spawning and rearing habitat. Water quality will be improved, and cold water will provide salmon thermal refuge both in the brook and at its confluence with the Nashwaak River. Revegetation of the stream banks will provide habitat for terrestrial species and shade the restored stream.

Contact: Marieka Chaplin, 506-261-4664, director@nashwaakwatershed.ca