Widder St. E Naturalization Area Project
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In collaboration with the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) and the Green Advisory Committee, a proposed project has been put forward to naturalize 90,000 square feet of land and to extend the existing Eric Taylor Trail walking path by 400 metres.
This project aims to enhance the local ecosystem by introducing native plant species, which will support biodiversity and provide a habitat for local wildlife. The naturalization of the land will also help in improving air and water quality and offer an educational resource for the community to learn about sustainable practices and conservation efforts.
This multi-year initiative focuses on developing a naturalized area along Trout Creek, located south of Widder St. E. Furthermore, the project will include an eastern extension of the existing Eric Taylor Trail walking path, which will connect to St. Andrew St. N and Huron St. N.
The map below illustrates the proposed concept for the naturalization plan. After gathering public feedback, Council will make a decision regarding the final design of the project.
Click the map to expand the photo.
Documents/Resources
We want to hear from you!
You can submit your feedback on the proposed Widder St. E Naturalization Area Project by:
- Take our community survey online, opening on Monday, February 10 to Monday, February 24 at 12:00 p.m. (noon).
- Submit your written comments to publicworks@town.stmarys.on.ca.
- Drop off your written comments to the Municipal Operations Centre (408 James St. S).
Your insights are invaluable in shaping a project that benefits the community and the environment.
Project Benefits
| Flood mitigation |
| Trees absorb and slow down rainwater, reducing the risk of flooding. |
| Improved water quality |
| Trees filter pollutants from runoff before that reach the river, in turn enhancing water quality. |
| Habitat creation |
| Trees provide habitat for various localized wildlife species, promoting biodiversity. |
| Climate regulation |
| Trees sequester carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate climate change and offset to Town's carbon footprint. |
| Expanding the Town's tree canopy |
| The Town has been actively working to expand the urban canopy that will provide shade, improve air quality, and enhance the overall aesthetic of the community. |