Bradford urges York Region to expedite plan to cut phosphorous runoff in Holland River, Lake Simcoe

Newmarkettoday.ca
Sept. 9, 2021

Last night, the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury council unanimously passed Councillor Jonathan Scott’s motion to reduce phosphorous pollution in the Holland River and Lake Simcoe by calling on York Region to expedite planning and construction of the proposed Holland Marsh Phosphorous Recycling Facility.

The motion also called on the provincial government to help fund the project.

The facility would reduce phosphorous runoff into the Holland River and Lake Simcoe by up to 40 per cent, protecting the Lake's watershed from algae growth, which will better protect the region's aquatic habitat, increase ecosystem biodiversity, and protect drinking water sources.

“I’m thrilled our council showed our commitment to environmental sustainability by passing this motion unanimously,” said Scott. “This facility is vital to protecting the health of our watershed, and improving the lake’s habitat, which is critical to sustaining our tourism and recreational industries, as well as reaching our commitments under the Lake Simcoe Protection Plan.”

"I think it's a win-win for everybody," said Deputy Mayor James Leduc, who said he was looking forward to the motion carrying through the province. "To me, this is a project that should have been looked at a long time ago."

Councillor Peter Ferragine who is also vice-chair of the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority also supported the motion, noting the organization is "constantly looking for ways to reduce phosphorous in our water system and protect the lake" and that the facility's ability to reduce phosphorous by 40 per cent is a positive.

"I think this is important for the protection of our lake, and I hope other municipalities will support this," added Councillor Raj Sandhu.

Mayor Rob Keffer thanked Scott for bringing the motion forward.

"It is important, it is a good project, and the health of Lake Simcoe is very important to the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury and area municipalities," he said.

An identical copy of the motion will be debated on Sept. 17 in Georgina, sponsored by Councillor Dave Neeson, and will be discussed this week by the East Gwillimbury environmental advisory committee, which is chaired by Councillor Loralea Carruthers.