Tekakwitha Island and Bay Project set to launch tomorrow

04/22/2021

The Kahnawà:ke Environment Protection Office (KEPO) is pleased to inform the community that work on the Tekakwitha Island and Bay Project will be resuming in the coming days.

On Friday, April 23rd, the contractor, Rice Mohawk Landscaping, will be on-site trimming a few trees near the Turtle Nesting Ground to create an access path for equipment. In early May, crews will be on-site preparing for the upcoming season by repairing fences and setting up the construction trailer.

Priority areas for work this spring include the Turtle Nesting Ground, Wild Chervil restoration area (on the natural island remnant) and the beach area. Topsoil will be imported to these three areas and planting and seeding will take place.

Other project components, including access points, shoreline naturalization, and rest areas will be worked on as we move into summer, with the aquatic plant harvesting beginning in late July and dredging in early August. The dredged sediment will then be blended with sand to create topsoil to be used in finishing the Linear Pond and Marsh feature with improvements on the mainland side of the bay taking place in the fall.

The schedule is subject to change based on weather and logistical considerations; however, KEPO will continue to provide regular updates on progress throughout the field season. KEPO staff will be on-site throughout the work to monitor progress and answer any questions that community members may have.

Questions or comments can also be directed to the KEPO office at 450-635-0600 or by emailing bayproject@mck.ca.