Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Brampton will receive $2.5 million from the province for the Etobicoke Creek Wetlands enhancement project.
Work will improve the shoreline at Loafer’s Lake and enhance pocket wetlands within Loafer’s Lake Park and Conservation Drive Park, in partnership with the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA).
In June 2021, Brampton City Council endorsed the Brampton Lake Enhancement Strategy to revitalize Brampton’s lakes into city-wide destinations with rich recreational and environmental opportunities.
“This is an incredible investment to support the enhancement of Loafer’s Lake,” said Mayor Patrick Brown. “Investing in the restoration and preservation of wetlands is an investment in the future of our city, ensuring the protection of countless species, like the fish and turtles that call Loafer’s Lake home.
“Many thanks to Brampton North MPP Graham McGregor for his outstanding work on this project and I look forward to enjoying the new trails and viewing platforms with the community.”
The Etobicoke Creek Wetlands enhancement project is essential to protect wetland ecosystems by improving wetland function and improving connectivity within the Etobicoke Creek watershed by:
- enhancing shoreline habitats
- relocating trails
- installing viewing platforms and habitat structures
- managing invasive species
- planting aquatic and terrestrial species
In addition, the project will provide education and awareness opportunities for the Brampton community, emphasizing wetland ecology and the significance of restoring and protecting local habitats.
To learn more about the project visit http://www.brampton.ca/growgreen.
“Wetlands are incredibly important to our communities: they make up the hard-working natural infrastructure that protect us from drought and flooding, while keeping water clean and providing homes for many at-risk species of plants and animals,” said Environment Minister Andrea Khanjin. “Working with partners like the City of Brampton and conservation organizations, our government has supported the restoration and enhancement of an estimated 7,500 acres of wetlands in the first three years of the program – that’s about eight times the size of the Toronto Islands.”