Lake Erie Coast ~ Stewardship of Our Natural Heritage

Today, by chance, we met the most wonderful group of naturalists.  Albert Garafalo, Lake Erie Coast Project Coordinator, and a handful of resourceful individuals showed up without fanfare on a shoreline near us ~ dressed as one would expect, in gear that would allow exploration of the roughest terrain.  In the few minutes spent with this knowledgeable, dedicated group, we learned more than we have in formal meetings over the years with Toronto consultants contracted to come up with great beautification schemes on how to improve the lake shore.

"The Great Lakes coast supports some of the rarest and most threatened ecosystems in Canada.  Lake Erie, the Southern most Great Lake, is a hot spot for species diversity and supports a number of species at risk including:  Hoptree, Red-headed Woodpecker, and Fowler's Toad." * Just to mention a few.

We came away with a list of preferable "native wild plants" and the names of undesirable non-native plants.   We have a better understanding of the importance of encouraging native trees and plants rather than expropriating lake-shore owners in order to build terraces and pavilions with boulevard trees and planters.  (All recommendations that have been presented to Haldimand County Council and local residents.)

*Contacts: Albert Garofal 905.732.5084  or albert.garofalo@gmail.com

We ask our municipality to consult with naturalists like the Bert Miller Nature Club, P.O. Box 1088, Ridgeway, ON.  L0S 1N0.  Meanwhile, encouraging information can be found at www.bertmillernatureclub.org  *

/Lake Erie Coast Project/Part 1, Part 2, Part 3.