The provincial government is kicking in $180,000 to help improve water quality and strengthen natural habitats on Manitoulin Island.
The funding, announced on Tuesday, will be put toward two water restoration projects led by the Manitoulin Streams Improvement Association. The bulk of the money - $100,000 - is from the Great Lakes Program and will be used to rehabilitate Blue Jay Creek. Work will include the removal of invasive species and plastic waste. It will be done with the help of school groups and First Nations communities. There will also be an effort to promote increased recreational activities and tourism on the island, which would strengthen the local economy.
The remaining $80,000 from the Ontario Community Environment Fund is earmarked to support the planting of native trees and shrubs, stabilization of stream banks, enhanced aquatic habitat, and restoration of the Manitou River. A portion of that money has already gone toward the installation of fencing to keep livestock from entering Grimesthorpe Creek, which the province said helps protect local ecosystems and water quality.
“Clean water is vital to the health and well-being of Manitoulin Island’s communities, waterways and ecosystems, and all of Ontario,” Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks Todd McCarthy said in a statement. “Our government is proud to support the work of local experts to restore these creeks, streams and rivers that benefit aquatic ecosystems and local fisheries — creating cleaner, healthier spaces to live, work and enjoy nature, while protecting Ontario’s environment for generations to come.”
Manitoulin Streams Improvement Association Project Coordinator Seija Deschenes said the group is grateful for the funding from the two provincial programs.
"These funds have allowed us to restore and protect important coldwater streams that contribute to the ecological, economic and social health of Manitoulin Island," said Deschenes.
The Ontario Community Environment Fund will be accepting applications for funding until 5 p.m. on September 24. Since 2010, fund has invested more than $3.8 million from penalties paid by polluters into 108 projects across the province.