Niagara River Ecosystem Indicator Status Change

A recent assessment report indicates that all water quality and remediation goals have been met! In March 2023, the NPCA received official confirmation that the status of the 'Beach Closings' indicator has been changed to not impaired.

Partners working together on the Niagara River Remedial Action Plan (RAP) program to improve the Niagara River's water quality and ecosystem health are pleased to share that recent actions have improved the conditions at Queen's Royal Beach. The RAP's indicator status change is a tremendous achievement for the entire region and signals improved environmental conditions thanks to many collaborative actions. For example, water quality monitoring, microbial source tracking studies, storm sewer investigations, and more.

A report completed in 2021 summarized key findings showing the improved water quality and recommended the status change. The NPCA sought feedback on the recommendation from the community, Indigenous partners, and U.S. RAP representatives through comprehensive outreach efforts from June 2021 to May 2022. Support for the status change was received before submitting the recommendation to the governments of Canada and Ontario for final approval and removal of the BUI.

While this news brings RAP partners one step closer to delisting the Niagara River, there is more work to be done. Progress continues to be made on implementing priority actions to restore four remaining impairments related to fish consumption, sediment quality, habitat, and fish and wildlife populations. Learn more about these efforts and more at www.ourniagarariver.ca

Watch this short video for a full summary of issues and findings.

Thanks to the following RAP partners that made this project possible: Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Niagara Region, and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority.