THUNDER BAY — Significant changes are planned around the Mountdale/Neste boat launch on the Kaministiquia River.
The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority has received funding from the City of Thunder Bay and the federal government to restore wildlife habitat and manage stormwater runoff at the launch at the end of Mountdale Avenue.
The Riparian Habitat Restoration Project will see the installation of green infrastructure and a riparian buffer using low-impact development techniques, while at the same time improving public access to the river.
Tammy Cook, CAO of the LRCA, said the goal is to increase terrestrial habitat and reduce sedimentation in the Kam by revegetating the nearshore environment.
The project also aims to marry existing recreational uses with stormwater management and enhanced wildlife habitat.
Last fall, LRCA conducted a nearshore habitat assessment of five rivers and streams in the Thunder Bay area.
The Kam River riparian-nearshore area was found to have the highest percentage of imperviousness among the five, and the lowest percentage of vegetative cover.
"With limited public property along the Kaministiquia riverbank," the authority said in a statement, "it is important to re-establish wildlife habitat and improve water quality wherever possible. Adding plants along the bank will also filter pollutants, protect against erosion, and beautify the area."
At this point, funding from the city and from Environment and Climate Change Canada only includes green infrastructure and vegetation work.
However, a concept design will be prepared for public feedback that includes future improvements to the boat launch, viewing platform and parking area.
Consultations are expected to take place between February and April 2022.
