A fourth-year environmental engineering capstone project from the University of Waterloo has received provincial recognition after being featured in Ontario Out of Doors magazine. The article highlights the student team’s work on addressing the spread of invasive northern pike in the Kawartha Lakes, an issue with significant ecological and fisheries impacts.
Led by project manager Andrew Swinoga, the team (Ben Aylward, Benjamin Searson and Jason Du) developed a proposed engineering solution aimed at limiting pike movement through the Trent–Severn Waterway’s lock systems while preserving boat navigation and ecosystem balance. The project, inspired by both academic research and personal experience, was supported by a research grant from Muskies Canada and developed in collaboration with Parks Canada, Kawartha Conservation, local Indigenous communities, and fisheries experts.
Being featured in Ontario Out of Doors reflects the project’s relevance beyond the classroom, illustrating how student-led research can contribute to real-world environmental management and conservation discussions across Ontario.
Student group featured in Ontario Out of Doors, Jan/Feb 2026 Edition.
Poster of the groups project at the 2026 Capstone Symposium.
