The leader of the Save Peche Island group on Facebook expressed his delight at Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens’ request for the city to explore dredging the canal on the island. Howard Weeks has been advocating for action since last September when sediment buildup blocked the channel, preventing canoe and kayak travel. Weeks is optimistic about the deadline set by Dilkens for a report on the matter, anticipating potential channel restoration in the near future.
Peche Island, situated in the Detroit River east of Windsor, is public property owned by the city. Mayor Dilkens utilized his increased authority under Ontario’s strong mayors legislation to commission a report on various aspects related to Peche Island, including erosion protection, soil excavation under the pedestrian bridge, and the use of dredged material for island elevation.
Dilkens emphasized the importance of restoring water flow to prevent the transformation of inland ponds into wetlands. The mayor’s initiative follows a previous request by Councilor Angelo Marignani for a comprehensive management plan for the island, which Weeks deemed insufficient in addressing the channel blockage.
Both Marignani and the chief administrative officer of the Essex Region Conservation Authority praised Mayor Dilkens’ directive, emphasizing the ongoing battle against erosion on Peche Island and the need for canal restoration. The artificial construction of the canals and lagoons by the island’s former owner has led to natural material accumulation over the years, prompting calls for action from concerned citizens and advocacy groups.