In a world where environmental preservation and biodiversity are more important than ever, our team of experts is committed to designing and implementing innovative solutions to improve how fish transit through aquatic ecosystems.
The goal of AECOM’s fish passage service is to find ways around the obstacles that interfere with the natural migration of aquatic species, like dams and other obstacles acting as water infrastructure. Informed by groundbreaking technical expertise in hydraulic engineering, aquatic ecology, and numerical modelling, our designs account for the unique needs of each environment. These designs include creating fish passages, rivers, and improving natural habitats to promote biodiversity. By incorporating technology and sustainable practices, AECOM projects not only meet regulatory requirements but also positively impact the health of aquatic ecosystems.
On December 31, 2019, AECOM welcomed the expertise and employees of MILIEU Inc., in an effort to affiliate with the industry’s most knowledgeable resources. AECOM is thus able to continue the legacy of this Quebec-based company, whose achievements include the development of various climbing ramps designed specifically for eels. Technological development is also an area of focus, with a photoelectric counter tracking the number of migrations.
Indigenous Engagement
Since 2018, collaborations with the Indigenous communities and First Nations have also seen much success, building on shared strengths and expertise to restore the connectivity of aquatic habitats. Projects have focused on the free passage of fish in general while aiming to increase habitats in the upstream areas of watersheds for brook trout, Atlantic salmon, and American eel. These restoration projects have sought not only to set up eel migration passages but also to positively modify the watercourse beds in order to restore a water level that is compatible with anthropogenic structures (various kinds of culvert).
Our Services:
- Migration passage design
- Fish passage studies
- Wildlife habitat developments and improvements to existing structures (habitat restoration)
- Expert studies on migratory species
- Fish age readings
- Tagging and monitoring of fish movements
