Minimizing the impact of culverts on Atlantic salmon habitat Phase 2

Description: In phase 1, a multi-criterion analysis method in geomatics which was based on a spatial analysis approach made it possible to identify and characterize river crossings that can pose a risk for Atlantic salmon habitat. Such an approach aims to guide the efforts and the efficiency of on-site inventories, taking in consideration the large number of culverts in the watershed. Then, a proportion of the culverts considered as a priority were itemized on site using a questionnaire on the ArcGIS 123 Survey application. With the results of phase 1, we developed a tool to establish priorities for on-site inventories and repairs. Those activities led to a better understanding of the distribution and the condition of the river crossings in four salmon areas of Québec, which is helpful to value and restore the salmon habitat. The goal of phase 2 of the project is to:

1. Continue the inventory of river crossings done in the watersheds during phase 1.
2. Use the geospatial analysing method developed in phase 1 in other watersheds of salmon rivers and initiate the inventory of river crossings in new areas.
3. Continue to integrate on site data with the data base and interactive maps.
4. Cooperate and exchange information and data regarding culverts in partnership with various actors.
5. Collect, standardize and share data on river crossings in the watersheds of salmon rivers of Québec.

Once these two phases are completed, the project will provide a geomatic tool to guide priorities related to the inventory, the repair and the development of river crossings, taking in consideration the Atlantic salmon habitat. Generated data will be used to provide an overview of the distribution and condition of river crossings in the watersheds of salmon rivers in Québec.