West Lincoln awarded $11K for Smithville Nature Path enhancements

The Township of West Lincoln is pleased to announce it has received $11,054 in funding from the Niagara Community Foundation (NCF) in support of the Roots for Resilience: Smithville Nature Path project.

The Environmental Grant will fund the planting of 38 native trees along the Smithville Nature Path, located at the end of Wade Road on the south side of the walking bridge. The initiative supports ecological restoration efforts and aims to improve the long-term stability of the adjacent creek bank.

“This project reflects our commitment to protecting and enhancing West Lincoln’s natural spaces for current and future generations,” says Cynthia Summers, Director, Community and Protective Services. “We’re grateful to the Niagara Community Foundation and to the dedicated volunteers of the West Lincoln Green Team who have committed to helping bring this important environmental initiative to life.”

The planting site was identified as a flood-prone area. The selected native tree species will be well suited to riparian environments, with the ability to tolerate periodic flooding and wet soil conditions.

Once planted, the trees will provide multiple environmental benefits, including stabilizing the creek bank, reducing erosion, increasing water absorption during storm events and enhancing local biodiversity. Over time, the growing canopy will help shade the creek, improve wildlife habitat and reduce the risk of localized flooding along the trail.

Tree planting is expected to be completed in June in partnership with the West Lincoln Green Team and students from Smithville Christian High School.

The Township gratefully acknowledges the financial support of NCF, a public foundation serving the people of Niagara since 2000. NCF connects donors to causes and communities to resources through permanent endowment funds, providing grants to eligible charitable organizations in culture, health, education, environment, recreation and social service sectors. NCF turns intent into impact.

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