Working Towards Improvements in Southeast Leamington

ERCA is continuing to work in partnership with the Municipality of Leamington to search for funding to undertake projects in the Southeast Leamington area. The Sustainable Management Strategy for Southeast Leamington was a comprehensive study conducted by Baird and Associates Coastal Engineers to address the major flooding and erosion issues in this area.

"ERCA continues to work diligently to assist the municipality and the landowners find funding to implement projects that will help address the major flooding and erosion issues in this area," explains Ken Schmidt, ERCA General Manager. "We have had dialogue with representatives from Small Crafts and Harbours regarding sand management at Wheatley Harbour, and as a result of Baird's findings and these discussions, an engineering firm has been contracted to review sand management at the harbour." He notes that the investigations will include options for future placement of dredge materials and the potential for bypassing existing sediment that has been trapped on the east side of the harbour.

"As well, ERCA has secured 50% funding for a study addressing the existing stability of the portion of the East Marsh Drainage Scheme flood protection dyke that is located along the south side of Hillman Marsh, "Schmidt goes on to say. "We have also been in negotiations regarding sand nourishment at Hillman Beach, and are attempting to secure funding to construct a protection structure in this area."

The Authority has also conducted meetings with senior levels of government to identify federal and provincial responsibilities and to encourage rapid action. One of these meetings was with Federal Minister of the Environment John Baird, as well as MP Jeff Watson and MP Dave Van Kesteren.

In addition, ERCA has also been in contact with the Ministry of Natural Resources to obtain confirmation of the 1% chance flood elevation for this section of the Lake Erie shoreline and adjacent flood fringe areas.