LEAMINGTON, ON – Caldwell First Nation, in partnership with the federal government, is set to upgrade the Hillman Marshland’s southern dyke, a critical infrastructure project aimed at safeguarding over 3,440 hectares of vulnerable land from potential flooding. This significant initiative is supported by a federal investment of more than $15 million.
The Hillman Marshland’s southern dyke serves as a vital barrier against flooding for low-lying areas, which are increasingly at risk due to climate change. Reinforcing this dyke is essential for protecting not only Caldwell First Nation lands but also municipal areas that include homes, businesses, and key infrastructure.
Minister of International Development, Ahmed Hussen, speaking on behalf of Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, Sean Fraser, emphasized the importance of this project in addressing climate change-related challenges. “The improvements to the dyke in Hillman Marshland will provide Caldwell First Nation with better protection and safety from flooding,” Hussen said. “Climate change is a significant challenge for the community, and the dyke will help combat erosion from more severe weather events.”
The project underscores the federal government’s commitment to making strategic investments that protect communities from climate-related disasters. Irek Kusmierczyk, Member of Parliament for Windsor—Tecumseh, highlighted the broader benefits of such investments, stating, “The upgrades to Hillman Marshland’s dyke are vital for protecting our community and farmland, as climate change has intensified flooding risks. These enhancements are crucial for safeguarding thousands of acres and ensuring the future resilience of our region.”
Caldwell First Nation Chief Mary Duckworth stressed the importance of the dyke repair in the broader context of environmental stewardship. “Protecting and stewarding lands and waters for the benefit of all beings, especially our citizens, is a priority for Caldwell First Nation,” she said. “This dyke repair is one of many essential actions we are taking with our partners during this time when we are all experiencing the impacts of climate change in Southwestern Ontario.”
The project is the result of a collaborative effort between Caldwell First Nation, the federal government, the Municipality of Leamington, and the Essex Region Conservation Authority. Councillor Douglas Heil of Caldwell First Nation praised the partnerships that made the project possible. “We were able to create this opportunity because of the strong and mutually beneficial relationships we have fostered,” Heil noted, emphasizing the collective commitment to ensuring the safety of those living near the dyke.
Hilda MacDonald, Mayor of the Municipality of Leamington, echoed the importance of the project for local residents. “The reinforcement of the southern dyke at Hillman Marshland is a critical step in the protection of our community,” she said. “We are also proud to continue to support and partner with our friend and neighbour, Caldwell First Nation, in their stewardship of the lands on which we live, play, and work.”
Tim Byrne, CAO/Secretary-Treasurer of the Essex Region Conservation Authority, highlighted the long-standing challenges faced by the region and the significance of the funding secured for this project. “We collectively have struggled for many years with attempting to mitigate the impacts of climate change and flood and erosion hazards on the Polders area,” Byrne stated. “Now, with the strong partnership of all involved, we have secured funding to proceed with a protection system that will be sustainable.”
The dyke upgrade is expected to provide long-term protection and economic benefits to the region, reinforcing the community’s resilience against the growing threats posed by climate change.
