The Kahnawà:ke Environment Protection Office (KEPO) wishes to inform the community that, beginning on Monday, August 25th, KEPO will supervise the removal of boulders from a roadbed left over from the construction of the Saint Lawrence Seaway. This work will create a small channel through the roadbed to promote water flow through the middle of Tekakwitha Bay.
The objective is to improve habitat conditions for fish and other aquatic species by reducing stagnation, particularly during periods of low water levels. This initiative is part of the larger project Entewahnekahserón:ni’: We are Rejuvenating the Water, funded through Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Fund.
The Ontario-based contractor RS Construction will carry out the work in collaboration with local and external subcontractors. Barges will be used to float excavators to the work zone and to transport materials back to the staging area on the island. Usable stone will be stockpiled for future use. The work is expected to continue until early October.
KEPO staff will be present on site throughout the project to supervise operations and ensure minimal disturbance to wildlife. Periodic bike path closures and temporary restrictions in the bay will be necessary during the work. Later this fall, KEPO will re-seed the excavation zone with eelgrass to support the growth of native aquatic plants.
The community’s patience and cooperation are greatly appreciated as this important restoration work is carried out.
For questions, comments, or concerns, please contact KEPO at environmentprotection@mck.ca or call 450-635-0600.
