BURLINGTON, ONT. — Ontario’s Greenbelt Foundation and the Municipal Natural Assets Initiative have announced plans to develop a natural asset management plan for Grindstone Creek, which flows into Hamilton Harbour.
The agencies are working with the cities of Hamilton and Burlington, Conservation Halton and Royal Botanical Gardens to develop the plan.
Grindstone Creek is part of Ontario’s Greenbelt and drains a watershed area of 91 square kilometres. The initiative will help the municipalities address local flood risks and water contamination in Hamilton Harbour, noted a May 6 release.
The partners said natural asset management is a cost-effective alternative to such grey infrastructure projects as sewer systems to improve resilience to climate change.
“Given the strain COVID-19 is putting on Ontario’s economy and workers, it is more important now than ever to find cost-effective solutions to the impacts climate change is having on our communities,” said Edward McDonnell, CEO of the Greenbelt Foundation, in the statement. “When managed properly, natural assets like Grindstone Creek can play a critical role in protecting residents and their property from flooding, saving municipalities money and providing much-needed jobs in planning, design and construction for local workers.”
“Natural infrastructure like Grindstone Creek must be preserved and maintained to help protect the surrounding environment against flooding,” said Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward. “Our efforts also enhance the livability of the area for residents and ensure critical habitat for local biodiversity.”
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