Continuing Research in Skootamatta!

My name is Anders Holder.  I am a ecosystems program officer and a 3rd generation cottager on Skootamatta Lake.  I have spent the better part of my life interested in nature, specifically aquatic communites.  Over the years I have noticed changes in the lake and made it a focus of my Master's thesis to study the changes in fish communities on Skootamatta .  I spent several weeks in 2016 sampling fishes along the shoreline to obtain the necessary data. 

One of the more interesting outcomes was the discovery of a species that was not documented in the lake before.  Discoveries like this, along with the incredible support from cottagers, fishermen (and women), and fellow researchers, made me want to continue my research in 2017. 

My top priorities with this fundraising campaign are:

- 100% of the funds raised go directly towards equipment, supplies, and some lab analysis.

- My time and effort is 100% voluntary.  I will not obtain any personal income from this campaign.

Important items which funding would go towards:
- Nets (OSAP dip nets, seine net, gillnet)
- GPS
- Fish viewers (for documentation of species)
- Water sampling kits
- Fish voucher bags/containers
- Gas for boat motors
- Chest waders (replace heavily patched ones)
- Write in the rain paper for field notes

* I do have a long term goal of purchasing a boat motor.  I have been fortunate to have great neighbours who provide free use of theirs in the meantime

Why do we need the research?

Over the past decade, there has been a growing concern that Skootamatta Lake has been changing.  These concerns include fish population changes, water quality degradation and climate change effects.  While there has been studies conducted in the past, it is difficult to identify a trend in the data due to irregular sampling. There is concern around the abundance of introduced Rainbow Smelt and associated effects on Walleye,  Lake Whitefish and Cisco populations.  Beyond game fishes, I am interested in the changes in the smaller fishes that predominantly thrive in the nearshore communities.  These smaller fishes have great impacts on the health of these larger game fishes.

Last year saw a decline in water levels, low precipitation, and high temperatures.  All these factors will be considered when analyzing the sampling data.  To add to the data from 2016,

I would like to thank everyone who has been incredibly supportive, encouraging, and willing to donate their time, effort, and equipment to help support my goals.  I have always believed that while this is my goal to conduct this research, I believe that we all will benefit greatly from the results. 

Please vist, like, and share my facebook group to help promote my research.  I am always greatful to get inquiries, comments, suggestions, etc.