Update to Shoreline Policies
Maitland Conservation’s shoreline policies regulate development within the various natural hazards of the Lake Huron Shoreline. An amendment to these policies was approved at the June 17, 2020 membership meeting.
This update allows shoreline landowners with primary structures at the bottom (toe) of the bluff to apply for retaining walls higher than 1 metre. This work still requires an assessment from a coastal specialist or engineer but reduces the need for a full coastal study. Retaining walls higher than 1 metre may only be proposed to protect an existing primary structure (cottage or house) and/or existing septic system. Please note that this applies for structures at or below the toe (bottom) of the bluff NOT on the bluff.
It is important to note that retaining walls are only a short term erosion fix to. Landowners should not expect these walls to prevent the loss of structures in the future. Maitland Conservation encourages landowners in these situations to move their structures away from the shoreline. Please contact us for options regarding decommissioning or relocating structures off these properties if erosion persists.
To view the shoreline policies please click the link below:
Maitland Conservation Shoreline Policies
View Presentations
We’ve added voice-overs to recent shoreline presentations and posted then on You Tube. Click the links below to view them:
- Lake Levels – factors impacting lake levels and projections for summer 2020
- Shoreline Erosion – erosion processes along our stretch of Lake Huron
Want more shoreline information?
- Check out the factsheets that have been posted on this page.
- Due to the COVID-19 situation staff are currently working remotely but Cottage Associations and landowners are welcome to reach out to us for on-line presentations on coastal processes and lake levels. We can provide these presentations in a variety of formats and staff are also available by phone and Zoom video conferencing. In addition, recent aerial photos are available to landowners if you would like to see the state of your shoreline without travelling. If you’re interested in an on-line presentation or shoreline photo, please contact Shannon Millar at coastal@mvca.on.ca or call 519-335-3557 ext. 240.
Flood Outlook for Port Albert
Lake Huron is nearing the peak of its seasonal rise from spring precipitation. The water level is currently 13 cm above the monthly record high for June and 89 cm above the long-term June average. The lake level is expected to remain high throughout the summer.
This means there will be a heightened risk of flooding around the mouth of the Nine Mile River for the next several months. The high lake level combined with wave action may cause material to build up at the mouth of the river. When this occurs, the Apple Lane and Maple Lane areas may flood rapidly. This flooding may impact structures and result in a loss of access to these areas. Given the current level of the lake, flood levels could be higher than those experienced in past years.
Residents in the area should remain prepared for periodic flooding and are reminded that it is dangerous to attempt to drive or walk through flood waters. Children and pets should be kept well away from flooded areas. Residents are encouraged to call 519-357-0890 if they notice that flooding is occurring.
Because the high lake level is expected to persist for the next several months, this message is in effect until September 30, 2020 or until sufficient changes to local conditions warrant further updates.
Contact:
Stephen Jackson, Flood and Erosion Safety Services Coordinator
sjackson@mvca.on.ca
519-357-0890
Media Contact:
Jayne Thompson, Communications Coordinator
jthompson@mvca.on.ca
519-335-3557 ext. 226 Cell: 519-357-6670
