Provincial funding announced Wednesday will support restoration of the Lake Margaret habitat.
The $23,000 investment from the Great Lakes Local Action Fund will allow for the removal of six invasive species around the lake.
In addition, 500 native trees and shrubs along with 1,000 wildflowers will be planted.
The work will be undertaken by the Kettle Creek Environmental Trust, the Kettle Creek Environmental Youth Corps and area residents.
“Invasive trees, shrubs, and plants pose a serious threat to natural areas in the Great Lakes region, out-competing native plants and damaging wildlife habitat,” explains Betsy McClure, Kettle Creek Conservation Authority Stewardship Program Supervisor.
“We are thrilled to tackle this problem so the invasive species don’t restrict outdoor recreation opportunities around Lake Margaret by growing over trails and access points,” adds Adrienne Griffin, Supervisor of Parks and Forestry for the City of St. Thomas.
This project is among 38 community-based projects to receive $1.9 million in funding from the Great Lakes Local Action Fund.
Since 2021, the province has invested $3.8 million through the Great Lakes Local Action Fund to support 82 projects in communities across Ontario.
The city assumed ownership of Lake Margaret in 2017 from Doug Tarry Homes.
At that time, the aim was to strike an environmental stewardship committee which would report to city council.
It would include members of council, city staff, developers, the KCCA and members of the public who would, among other things, develop an action plan and pursue funding opportunities for stewardship.
Written by Ian McCallum
