Randi Belec
CORNWALL – Thirty years ago, the St. Lawrence River was identified as an international area for concern for industrial pollution. Today, we see the benefit of years of hard work, dedication and patience in the effort to re-establish the ecosystem to Rotary Creek. On Wednesday (Jan. 14), wildlife biologist Dr. Brian Hickey will chronicle the journey of the creek.
When the river was first identified as an area of concern, several organizations within the Cornwall community began working together to set clean-up goals as outlined in the Remedial Action Plan. Some of the problems the river faced, along with pollution, were excess algae and bacteria. In recent years Rotary Creek has become a small urban oasis, filled with several species of fish, reptiles, amphibians as well as plant life.
Dr. Hickey, worked closely with the City of Cornwall, Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, during his time as part of the team at Raisin Region Conservation Authority. Dr. Hickey’s work as an environmental architect was key to the Rotary Creek success.
“With all of the doom and gloom these days with respect to the environment, Rotary Creek is a good news story. It demonstrates what can happen when we combine community effort, time, and some well-placed funding,” said Dr. Hickey. “Today, we can see real positive change.”
Dr. Hickey will chronicle the Rotary Creek journey at Schnitzels European Flavours at 7 p.m. on Wednesday. The reception is free but space is limited. For more information or to reserve a seat call 613-936-6620 or email kcooper@riverinstitute.ca.
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