A series of ponds above Metler Road in Pelham are the source of  the Effingham Branch of Twelve Mile Creek.  Formed by dams long ago, these ponds act as heat sinks, raising the temperature of the entire watershed.  To lower the temperature, the Chapter converted two of the outflows from surface water to bottom draw, significantly enhancing the watershed downstream with the goal of reintroducing Brook Trout to the stream.  The three landowners on whose property these ponds are situated are to be congratulated for their vision in permitting this work for the enhancement of the entire watershed.

The work was completed in January of 2016 and our partners, the Niagara College Environmental Programs, have installed continuous temperature sensors along the length of the creek to monitor its effect.  The true measure of our success will be the presence of Brook Trout in the stream all the way up to Metler Road.  We hope to continue to make such improvements with the co-operation and participation of landowners along the watershed.