A little bird has changed the way South Bruce Peninsula looks after the sand at Sauble Beach.
Ministry of Natural Resources Species at Risk Biologist Jodi Benvenuti says because Piping Plovers are nesting on part of the beach, the Endangered Species Act prevents the town from raking and clearing wood debris from the area.
The town’s By-Law Enforcement Officer has received numerous complaints and questions from beach visitors about why the sand isn’t being cleared.
Benvenuti says the wood debris is used by the birds for shelter and is critical for their survival.
Councillor Dan Kerr says there needs to be a way to ensure garbage is removed from the beach and that signs should be posted to educate the public about the wildlife habitat.
Councillor Mark Wunderlich says he’s received 28 calls about the condition of the beach and the presence of the plovers and believes there needs to be a balance between protection and recreation.
He says the beach can’t go back to a totally natural state but needs to be there for everyone to enjoy — including the plovers.
Councillor Art King says the area should be left alone because it encourages birdwatching and related economic spinoffs.
Benvenuti says Conservation Officers have visited one property owner attempted to clean up the section of beach, but no fines have been issued because the MNR likes to begin by taking an educational and stewardship approach to situations.
She believes awareness will improve as years go on and enhancing public education will lead to better understanding.
Mayor Gwen Gilbert says the MNR came to council just to inform them about how the town is affected by the Endangered Species Act.
She says nine Piping Plover chicks, along with their parents are living on Sauble Beach this year and the town wants the habitat to be successful.