As part of a Fisheries Act Authorization for Discovery Porcupine’s Dome Mine, a fish habitat offsetting plan was proposed. The plan includes two offsetting activities. The first is a Riparian Planting Program on the shore of Porcupine Lake, the second is an Off-Channel Pond Complex connected to the Porcupine River.

The Porcupine Lake Riparian Planting Program involves the planting of vegetation to enhance the near shore function along a portion of the Porcupine Lake. It is expected to directly improve habitat conditions by preventing erosion, improving water quality and enhancing habitat. Together these factors result in benefits to the productivity of small and large-bodied fish species that support the local fish population within the Porcupine Lake.

Native plant species are being planted. Native plants are naturally adapted to local conditions and support local ecosystems by providing food and shelter for wildlife, including pollinators.

Trail enhancements are also planned as part of the Porcupine Lake Riparian Planting Program. In partnership with the Mattagami Region Conservation Authority, Northern College, the City of Timmins, Friends of the Porcupine River Watershed and local Indigenous communities, the community will soon benefit from the placement of six new park benches, two observation platforms, 1 km of resurfaced trail and culvert replacement.

An Off-Channel Pond Complex is being constructed at the south end of Legion Drive in South Porcupine. It will include a series of three small ponds connected to the Porcupine River. The purpose of the Off-Channel Pond Complex is to provide year-round fish habitat to support all life-history stages of resident fish species. Additionally, the complex will provide habitat for other local and regional aquatic species and species whose life cycles are closely linked to aquatic habitat.

The removal of brush, to facilitate future construction activities for the Off-Channel Pond Complex, started in March 2025. Excavators will be on location clearing brush, seven days a week between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

We want to hear from you! Do you have questions or concerns? We welcome all feedback.

Submit your feedback by email:

[email protected]

Call us: 705-360-2660

Or through mail to:

100 Lakeshore Rd., Timmins, ON P4N 8R5