Public Notice

Partial Wharf Demolition, Lake Despair, Ontario – Public Comments Invited

May 31, 2024– Fisheries and Oceans Canada must determine whether the proposed Partial Wharf Demolition, located at Lake Despair Small Craft Harbour is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

To help inform this determination, the Fisheries and Oceans Canada are inviting comments from the public respecting that determination. All comments received will be considered public and may be posted online.

Written comments must be submitted by July 1, 2024 to:

Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Small Craft Harbours Branch

Attn: Chris McDermid

501 University Cresent

Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N6

431-335-7530

Chris.McDermid@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

 

The Proposed Project

Fisheries and Oceans Canada - Small Craft Harbours (DFO-SCH) are proposing to demolish part of the existing wharf and supporting structure at the Lake Despair Small Craft Harbour. The timber cribs supporting the timber decking have started to deteriorate to the point where the integrity of the wharf is no longer sound. Approximately twenty (20) metres of the east principal wharf's timber decking, timber cribs and the ballast rock will be removed and leveled to the lakebed. The floating wharves currently attached to the east wharf will be relocated. Following the removal of the cribs, an additional area (approximately 24 metres squared) of lakebed will be exposed and reshaped to match natural conditions. 

It is anticipated that the contractor will use the hand power tools including chainsaws, as well as various pieces of heavy equipment (i.e., an excavator, small crane, skid steer, and trailers). The wharf decking will be released from the timber cribs and pulled apart in sections where it will be stockpile on land. The ballast rock and timber cribs disassembled. All timber wharf materials and ballast rock will be hauled by the contractor to a disposal location off site.