Videos:
Shoreline Protection and Erosion Prevention Project:
Details of the project, including costs, background information, and quotes from Mayor Dilkens and Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) Director of Conservation Services, were announcedÂ
in this news release regarding the project highlighted in the three shoreline protection videos linked above.
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The City of Windsor partnered with the Essex Region Conservation Authority to protect the shoreline of Peche Island. Roughly 20 percent of the island had been lost to erosion by best estimate since record keeping began. So Mayor Dilkens and his council colleagues committed to preserving this natural gem in the Detroit River.
Peche Island provides critical habitat for fish and migratory birds, but experts say more than 95 per cent of Detroit River’s coastal wetlands have been lost. The Detroit River area is designated a Binational Area of Concern under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. It is also the only river in North America with both Canadian and American Heritage River designations.
Three years of work to provide long-term erosion protection for Peche Island are now complete. In collaboration with the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA), City staff oversaw the creation of natural barriers, in the form of nine sheltering islands and a 600-metre revetment wall, installed in the water along the north and northeast sides of the island aimed at preventing erosion damage and enhancing fish habitat.
Tours:
Tours for the 2022 season have now concluded. Hope to see you in 2023!
2022 Peche Island Tour Information
Island information:
Peche Island, a 86-acre island was purchased by Hiram Walker in 1883. Walker used the island for a summer place, and his buildings included a stable, large home, greenhouse, and icehouse. The property was sold in 1907. The City of Windsor acquired the land from the Province of Ontario in 1999. It is now a naturalized park with walking trails and can be accessed by boat.
Highlights:
- Naturalized island park with walking trails
- Docking facilities