Nipigon Bay in northern Ontario is no longer designated as a Great Lakes Area of Concern, Canada announced on August 28 after nearly four decades of restoration work.
The bay was placed on the list in 1987 because industrial and municipal wastewater, development and old logging debris had damaged water quality and ecosystem health.
Restoration included improving wastewater treatment, strengthening pollution rules, bringing back wetlands and spawning grounds, and creating new aquatic habitat. Fish populations and water quality have since improved.
The work brought together the governments of Canada and Ontario, Indigenous partners, local communities and other Great Lakes groups. The Red Rock Indian Band said caring for the bay will continue now that the official designation has been removed.
