Rotary Cove Beach, Goderich.
Goderich council was introduced to a plan that would help maintain and improve the town’s shoreline.
The plan, which is a set of recommendations that range from encouraging the use of native perennial species while avoiding invasive decorative plants and preserving natural areas by planting the correct species.
Lisa Courtney, and Environmental Planner from BM Ross and Associates has drafted a Coastal Environmental Plan (CEP) for council and town staff to consider.
“What the CEP is not… It’s not a development guide, it’s not a master plan – it’s not going into that level of detail,” she explained. “It’s also not looking at specific pieces of infrastructure or specific coastal hazards. That would be something you look at separately.”
It’s recommended in the report to work on restoring and protecting beach grass and dunes, highlighting that the town should consider whether it’s necessary to be overly involved with beach grooming.
“New research has shown that manual spot-raking is really good for our natural beaches, and keeping them healthy and happy.”
Courtney also shared a number of different approaches to public education through social media, while promoting the protection of the natural environment.
Other tips include:
- Monitoring the shoreline area for invasive species (e.g. phragmites) and remove if found
- Limit tree removal along the bluff, and if it is required to leave the root ball to prevent soil erosion
- Consider permeable pavement when rehabilitating parking areas
- Encouraging residents to use rain barrels and other stormwater retention to reduce stormwater flows over the bluff
- Ensure there are sufficient garbage and waste disposal facilities at the boat launches.
She shared that it was also essential for staff to work with residents and industry alike near the shoreline to preserve it, including promoting alternatives to grass lawns, and encouraging tree planting on private property, as well as having a contingency plan to restore areas that might be damaged by storms and shoreline infrastructure.