July 23, 2022 06:00
Three years after Ojibway National Urban Park was first proposed at a public meeting, there will be another to update the public on next steps.
Since that meeting in 2019, Ojibway Shores has been transferred to Parks Canada, and a private member’s bill to create the park has passed second reading in the House of Commons.
The new park will include Ojibway Park, Spring Garden Natural Area, Black Oak Heritage Park, Tallgrass Prairie Park, Ojibway Prairie Provincial Nature Reserve and Ojibway Shores.
Within these 900 acres, hundreds of endangered species depend on migration through local parks for their survival.
Windsor West MP Brian Masse, accompanied by Caldwell First Nation Chief Mary Duckworth and Ward 9 Councilor Kieran McKenzie, announced the public meeting on Wednesday.
“Caldwell First Nation has been involved with Point Pelee National Park for some time, and we have supported the creation of Ojibway National Urban Park from the very beginning,” Duckworth said. “Protecting and preserving our environment in this region is essential for all of our future.”
Masse said Caldwell First Nation will co-manage the park.
“This upcoming Town Hall will be an opportunity for residents to discuss next steps with our partners, Caldwell First Nation, City of Windsor and the Wildlands League,” he said.
“Co-management of national parks is the type of action that represents true reconciliation,” Duckworth added.
The meeting is scheduled for August 25 at the Capri Pizzeria Recreation Complex in South Windsor. It will start at 6 p.m.
