Photo of Deputy Mayor Todd Noble, Mayor Andrew Sloan, Mike Wigzell (Manager of Parks and Facilities), Dan Vandevyvere (Assistant Recreation Superintendent), Councillor Morgaine Griffin, Jason Vowel (Recreation Superintendent), and Councillor Michelle Graham.
Port Stanley Main Beach has once again received the internationally recognized Blue Flag designation for 2025, marking its 15th consecutive year of the highly sought-after distinction.
Awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education and administered in Canada by Swim Drink Fish, the Blue Flag designation acknowledges the beach’s high standards in water quality, safety, environmental management, and services.
In fact, Port Stanley was the first beach on Lake Erie to receive the Blue Flag, earning the distinction in 2010.
“This recognition highlights Central Elgin and our community’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, safety, and the responsible stewardship of our beautiful shoreline,” said Central Elgin Mayor Andrew Sloan, who credited municipal staff, beach rescue teams, and respectful beachgoers for helping maintain the standard year after year.
To retain Blue Flag status, beaches must undergo regular water testing and meet strict criteria for accessibility, lifeguard presence, and environmental education.
In 2025, just 16 beaches and 9 marinas in all of Canada received the designation.
Written by: K. Freeman
