Feds earmark $15 million to help Caldwell with marsh dyke

The federal government has announced an investment of over $15 million to assist Caldwell First Nation in upgrading the southern dyke along the edge of vulnerable land near Hillman Marsh called Hillman Marshland.

The dyke is a crucial element for protecting low-lying areas from flooding, especially in regions prone to heavy rainfall, storm surges, or rising water levels. 

The Caldwell community is reinforcing their dyke to prevent potential flooding of over 3,440 hectares, which includes numerous buildings, businesses, and infrastructure on both First Nation and municipal land.

The project is being funded through the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF). 

Essex Region Conservation Authority’s CAO Tim Byrne says they are happy to help in any way they can.

“We are pleased to be able to assist in facilitating this protection system partnering with the Federal Government, the Municipality of Leamington and most importantly, Caldwell First Nation and the local ratepayers within this watershed basin area of the Hillman Marsh,” he said. “We collectively have struggled for many years with attempting to mitigate the impacts of climate change and flood and erosion hazards on the polders area and now, have fortunately, with the strong partnership of all of the above, have secured funding to proceed with a protection system that will be sustainable.”

“Protecting and stewarding lands and waters for the benefit of all beings, especially our citizens, is a priority for Caldwell First Nation,” said Chief Mary Duckworth of the Caldwell First Nation. “This dyke repair is one of many essential actions we are taking with our partners during this time when we are all experiencing the impacts of climate change in Southwestern Ontario.”

“The improvements to the dyke in Hillman Marshland will provide Caldwell First Nation with better protection and safety from flooding,” added The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “Climate change is a significant challenge for the community and the dyke will help combat erosion from more severe weather events.”

The Municipality of Leamington is also grateful for the boost to the fight against erosion in that area, with many homes and businesses at peril if the dykes ever give way.

“The Municipality of Leamington is always appreciative of funding that improves the quality of life and safety of its residents, and the reinforcement of the southern dyke at Hillman Marshland is a critical step in the protection of our community,” says Hilda MacDonald, Mayor of Leamington and Warden of Essex County. “We are also proud to continue to support and partner with our friend and neighbour, Caldwell First Nation, in their stewardship of the lands on which we live, play and work.”