Sustainable Management Strategy for Southeast Leamington

There are serious and longstanding concerns about the sustainability of the shoreline in areas of East Leamington. In spring of 2004, the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) observed significant damages to breakwalls and other unusual activities, adding to the concerns about the stability of the shoreline which have been documented for more than two decades. Additionally, during a significant rainfall event in spring of 2004, the stability of the dykes in the area was compromised, raising further concerns about the long-term safety of residents and property in the affected area. It was determined a study was required to develop a comprehensive sustainability strategy for these areas of Southeast Leamington.

This study is progressing, and on June 7, 2006, the Essex Region Conservation Authority, together with their partners in the development of the Sustainable Management Strategy for Southeast Leamington - the Province of Ontario, the Municipality of Leamington, Environment Canada and Parks Canada - hosted a public workshop to receive information from landowners pertaining to the future management of the study area. About 100 residents attended the two sessions to provide their thoughts and ideas on future management options.

This latest effort complements the nearly 900 surveys that were mailed to each of the landowners in the affected area. A total of 262 surveys were returned, which is an outstanding response rate and attests to the community support of the study. Of the returned surveys, 74% of respondents felt there would be consequences if a plan for the conservation and protection of the area land resources was not developed. They noted that their greatest areas of concern included declining property values, increased maintenance costs, lost investment in property, inability to sell, reduced safety from storms (flood and erosion hazards), and unreliable infrastructure, such as roads.

In terms of lifestyle choices, 75% of respondents indicated that the lifestyle they enjoy in the area is important, yet interestingly, only 10% agreed strongly to paying additional taxes to improve the safety and services required. 80% of respondents agreed that the environment should be protected and enhanced, while 46% felt is should be part of the evaluation criteria. The agricultural respondents indicated a very high percentage of land is in production and the crop mix includes corn, soybeans and vegetables.

Some general comments that were submitted expressed the importance about balancing the needs of people with natural and environment protection. They stressed the need for attainable, economical solutions, noting that the public and ERCA should work together to find these solutions. A complete overview of the survey and workshop results should be available by the end of July, 2006.