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Wow, what a year 2024 has been! Here are some of our favourite highlights below:
In January, Dr. John Hartig won the Environmental Achievement Award from the Essex Region Conservation Authority for a career dedicated to improving the health of the Great Lakes and the Detroit River Corridor, including roles as the Detroit River Navigator, Refuge Manager for the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, and his current role as Visiting Scholar at the Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research at the University of Windsor.
In February we hosted the annual film screening, showcasing "Paving over Paradise and the Forever Chemicals," produced by The Water Brothers. Missed it? The films can be watched here.
In March, the DRCC received a report from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada highlighting post-construction monitoring results from the Peche Island project. Results show that submerged aquatic vegetation cover increased from 10%-36% Peche Island pre-construction to 59.49% in 2021 and 52.0% in 2023 in the calm water area likely due to decreased wave action. Decreased wave action and the establishment of aquatic vegetation are measurable mitigative processes indicating decreased rates of erosion.
In 2021, 34 fish species were captured (4 species at risk), including 19 native species that were not captured in previous surveys. In 2023, 31 fish species were captured (3 species at risk), of which, 3 are native species not previously caught in the 2021 survey or other previous surveys. Fish from all life stages were caught (i.e., juveniles and adults). Overall, the newly constructed sheltering islands have positively affected fish species by improving habitat suitability around Peche Island.
In April, the DRCC, in conjunction with ERCA and the City of Windsor, removed 425 lbs of accumulated debris and litter along a portion of the Little River corridor and Ganatchio Trail. In addition, 2,000 native trees were planted by volunteers and partners in the Little River watershed in celebration of Earth Day.
In May science agency partners began their planning and in river monitoring and data collection for a variety of BUIs.
In June the DRCC hosted the 13th annual Detroit River Evening, and launched the 2023-24 Annual Report and workplan.
In July, over 80 people joined the DRCC and Just Fishin' Friends at the annual Learn to Fish day at Riverdance Park in LaSalle.
In August wetland sampling on the Detroit River wrapped up, focusing on water quality, submerged aquatic vegetation and marshbird populations at a potential habitat project in the river as well as the Collavino wetland.
In September ADM Agri-Industries and the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) worked with volunteers to remove 140 lbs. of accumulated debris and litter along the shore and within the River Canard. In addition the DRCC and partners spent an unforgettable day on the Detroit River to learn about the successful Peche Island fish habitat and erosion project and to see potential habitat sites on the river. Last, a major announcement was shared regarding the Government of Canada's investment of $76 million to support 50 partner led projects in the Detroit River, Lake Erie watershed as part of the Great Lakes Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative.
In October fifty native hardwood trees were planted by the Ojibway Parkway walking trail by volunteers. Funding for this project was provided by the Gordie Howe International Bridge Community Benefits Plan.
In November the Habitat and Science and Monitoring Work Groups met to discuss the four remaining BUIs that are impaired for the Canadian Detroit River Area of Concern.
In December the DRCC are spending time reflecting on the year, and planning for 2025!
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