The Government of Canada is investing in two projects in the Thunder Bay area to help improve the water quality in Lake Superior.

The announcement was made by Health Minister Patty Hajdu on behalf of Environment and Climate Change Minister Jonathan Wilkinson.

“We rely on the Great Lakes for our drinking water and food, our transportation, and our traditions,” said Hajdu. “Our region understands the important role Lake Superior plays in our everyday lives. I’m pleased to announce federal funding for these two local projects that are helping to protect this beautiful lake and region for generations to come.”

Pays Plat First Nation will receive $99,431 over two years for its Protecting Gitchigumi project. The project will focus on water, soil, and sediment sampling and continued monitoring of the First Nation’s traditional territory on Lake Superior and surrounding watersheds. It will also involve documenting flora and fauna in the area to help determine if there are any populations of native species at future risk.

Confederation College will receive $75,000 over two years for its Riparian Habitat Rehabilitation project. This project will improve and create 10-hectares of habitat along the McIntyre River, which flows through the college campus, within the Thunder Bay Area of Concern. Planned activities include planting trees, shrubs, grasses, and perennials; installing bird boxes, a log pile, and a low-impact trail; establishing permanent no-mowing zones; and creating pollinator gardens.

“Taking care of our shared freshwater resources requires working with local communities, who have a first-hand understanding of the challenges facing the Great Lakes,” said Wilkinson. “I’m pleased that the Government of Canada continues to support innovative, results-driven projects that will benefit these iconic lakes and the millions of Canadians who depend on them.”

These are two of several projects being funded this year through the Great Lakes Protection Initiative. Funded projects will address key Great Lakes priorities including cleaning up areas of concern, preventing toxic and nuisance algae, reducing releases of harmful chemicals, and engaging Indigenous Peoples.

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