March 4, 2024 – The Province of Ontario has pledged $2.5 million to Brampton for wetland enhancements, boosting the city’s efforts to improve Loafer’s Lake and surrounding wetlands.
Wetlands are an important part of flood control, water filtration and habitat for wildlife. This initiative not only enhances biodiversity but also provides recreational and environmental benefits to Brampton residents.
Brampton’s Environmental Commitment
The City of Brampton has been advocating for the protection, enhancement, and restoration of wetlands for many years and this investment from the provincial level is a direct result of that work. The city began by making wetlands a priority in their Natural Heritage and Environmental Management Strategy (NHEMS). Then in 2021, Brampton City Council endorsed the Brampton Lake Enhancement Strategy to further cement and articulate their commitment to revitalizing Brampton’s lakes.
Mayor Patrick Brown expressed gratitude, highlighting the importance of protecting species like fish and turtles. “Investing in the restoration and preservation of wetlands is an investment in the future of our city, ensuring the protection of countless species, like the fish and turtles that call Loafer’s Lake home.” He also thanked Brampton North MPP Graham McGregor for his work on the file.
MPP McGregor shared his fond memories of Loafer’s Lake and thanked the government for its investment. “I have fond childhood memories of sitting on the hill and walking around the pond and those are memories I cherish. Thanks to our government and the leadership of Minister Khanjin, we are giving Loafer’s Lake the love and appreciation it deserves so my generation and future generations can continue to enjoy it.”
Regional Councillor Michael Palleschi emphasized the significance of this announcement: “Loafer’s Lake is a community hub and by enhancing the shoreline and protecting wildlife that live there, we are ensuring the lake remains a welcoming place for residents to frequent and home to many species to flourish in their natural habitat.”
Wetlands Conservation Partner Program
The project is one of many project supported through the province’s Wetlands Conservation Partner Program. While this project aims to enhance wetland function and biodiversity across the Etobicoke Creek watershed, wetlands across Ontario are collectively receiving $11 million from the program this year.
Andrea Khanjin, Ontario’s Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks, stressed the value of wetlands in safeguarding communities and biodiversity. “Wetlands are incredibly important to our communities. They make up the natural infrastructure that protect us from drought and flooding, while keeping water clean and providing homes for many at-risk species of plants and animals.”
18 organizations have received funding for 335 projects across the province. In the first two years alone, it is estimated that the program prevented an estimated $6 million in flood damage and created over 170 green jobs.
Since the Ford government has formed government, there has been $31 million dollars of total investment helping to restore the Great Lakes watersheds.
Overall, this project underscores Brampton and the province’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community well-being.
