City of Brampton secures $2.5 million for wetland enhancements

The Voice of Canada News:

BRAMPTON, ON (March 4, 2024) – Today, the Province of Ontario announced $2.5 million in funding for the City of Brampton from the Province’s Wetlands Conservation Partner Program (WCPP) to support the Etobicoke Creek Wetlands Enhancement Project.  

This investment allows the City of Brampton to 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).  

Protecting, enhancing and restoring wetlands is a priority of Brampton’s Natural Heritage and Environmental Management Strategy (NHEMS). Wetlands are vital ecosystems providing essential services including flood control, water filtration and habitat for wildlife. 

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.  

The Etobicoke Creek Wetlands Enhancement Project plays a crucial role in safeguarding wetland ecosystems by enhancing wetland function and improving connectivity within the Etobicoke Creek watershed. 

The project will focus on:

• 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 and the City’s ongoing commitment to becoming more healthy, resilient and environmentally sustainable, visit www.brampton.ca/growgreen. 

Quotes

 “This is an incredible investment by the Province of Ontario to support the enhancement of Loafer’s Lake. 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 MacGregor for his outstanding work on this project and I look forward to enjoying the new trails and viewing platforms with the community.” – Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton

“This is an important investment in the City of Brampton. Loafer’s Lake is a community hub and by enhancing the shoreline and protecting wildlife that live there, we are ensuring the lake remains a welcoming place for residents to frequent and home to many species to flourish in their natural habitat. Investing in the environment is critical and I encourage residents to follow the progress of the project and visit the new and improved spaces once they are complete.”– Michael Palleschi, Regional Councillor, Wards 2 and 6; Chair, Planning and Development Committee, City of Brampton 

“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. 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.”– Andrea Khanjin, Ontario Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks