Fort Erie Sees Early Success with Climate Action Plan

FORT ERIE (March 11, 2026) – The Town of Fort Erie continues to advance its Climate Change Action Plan. It received two environmental grants from the Niagara Community Foundation (NCF) for community projects that will help protect local wildlife, support biodiversity, and expand green space for residents to enjoy.

The first grant provides $13,000 to support a Pollinator Meadow and Naturalization Project at the future park located at the corner of Thunder Bay Road and Butlers Drive. The project will support pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which play an important role in keeping ecosystems healthy.

Also, the Town of Fort Erie and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority partnered to secure a second NCF tree-planting grant for another future park space in the area along the Lake Erie waterfront. Town staff will work with the Bert Miller Nature Club and the Environmental Advisory Committee to recruit volunteers for an Earth Day event in April to plant 500 trees in the new park area. This will establish a natural windbreak for nearby properties, create habitat, and strengthen the shoreline landscape. The site will also provide a stopover area for migratory birds along the Lake Erie shoreline.

“These initiatives show how meaningful progress happens when a municipality works with community partners. By planting trees, creating natural areas, and supporting pollinators, we are investing in the long-term health of our environment and creating spaces that residents can enjoy for generations.”
Mayor Wayne Redekop

“I want to congratulate Town staff and partners for their strong work in securing these grants from the Niagara Community Foundation. Projects like this show how planning policy can turn into real action on the ground. They support the goals of our Climate Change Action Plan while enhancing the natural character of these future park spaces.”
Edward Terry, Manager of Policy and Community Planning

“The Town continues to look for opportunities to generate revenue, attract external funding, and deliver projects in ways that strengthen the community while reducing pressure on the municipal tax base. I commend our staff who have secured these grants and built strong partnerships to advance these important community projects.”
Chris McQueen, Chief Administrative Officer

About the Niagara Community Foundation (NCF)
The Niagara Community Foundation plays an important role in supporting projects that help communities across Niagara grow and thrive. Through partnerships and targeted grant programs, the NCF helps municipalities, organizations, and volunteers bring meaningful community initiatives to life.

About the Climate Change Action Plan
Fort Erie’s Climate Change Action Plan focuses on practical actions that protect the environment while improving the community's quality of life. The plan supports actions such as planting more trees, restoring habitat, supporting pollinators, and protecting biodiversity across the Town. These actions also help address the impacts of climate change. Healthy natural landscapes absorb carbon, reduce heat, manage stormwater, and create stronger ecosystems that support wildlife and local agriculture.

View the Climate Change Action Plan here.

Fort Erie is proud to continue building a greener and more resilient future through partnerships, community action, and thoughtful environmental stewardship.

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