Improving the Lower Ottawa Nearshore Aquatic Habitat
The Lower Ottawa Nearshore Aquatic Habitat Improvement project will improve degraded aquatic habitat within a portion of the Ottawa River.
This project was developed to help meet the aquatic habitat restoration goals of the Maumee Area of Concern (AOC) program that will result in additional benefits to the community like:
- Enhanced fish and wildlife habitat
- Improved fishery
- Enhanced kayaking opportunities
- New educational opportunities for students and teachers at Ottawa River Elementary School
Funding
This project is supported by a $400,000 grant from GLRI for engineering and design.
In 2026, we will seek additional funding support for construction.
These improvements will:
- Create a wetland habitat by installing floating wetlands and vegetated berms
- Enhance about 2.5 acres of nearshore river habitat by installing berms and rootwads
- Protect about 1,200 linear feet of shoreline
Timeline
2023 Preliminary Planning and Feasibility
2025 Design and Public Engagement
2026 Construction
December 2025 Update
The City and partners met with the community in November 2025. Late 2025 through early 2026, the team will review the feedback and refine the plans.
Partners
The GLRI funding for the engineering, design and permitting of the in-stream habitat project is focused on the nearshore areas at Harry Kessler Park and Howard Pinkley Landing.
The City is working with Ottawa River Elementary School to design and install trail access and a new dock to supplement this project's recreational benefits.
