Fisheries

Another major natural resource of the area was the fisheries of Bronte Creek. Salmon, trout and cisco herring where listed as being plentiful up until the mid 1800’s. From the days of the First Nation Peoples to today the creek has been fished by its nearby residents, even supporting a small fishing industry for a time. This period of prosperity between 1820 and 1860 brought growth not only to the lakefront ports but also to the inland farming regions. Increasing populations meant hotels, schoolhouses, stores and post offices were needed. A growth cycle still experienced with population developments of today.

The location of the Creek has had a strong influence in shaping what human activity or industry took place near it shores. While not generally navigable today, the creek continues to be a source of wealth in terms of natural resources. Through the previous trail stops we have discovered that settlers utilized the creek as a source of power, harnessing it with sawmills and flourmills. The physical presence and composition of the valley and its stream, allowed for these developments all the while being significantly affected by them. Human activity itself has worked to spoil the fisheries and the forests of Bronte Creek, while urban sprawl has all but destroyed the areas agricultural potential.

Follow the trail up the gravel slope to climb out of the lower valley. Keep to your right to proceed to post 9.