Chatham-Kent and the surrounding communities have some work to do when it comes to protecting the environment.
The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority has released its Watershed Report Card, issued every five years to track the impact of urbanization and climate change on the region’s natural resources.
The 2023 report card gave an overall grade of “D” in surface water quality, reflecting the water quality in our watercourses are not meeting the provincial water quality objectives for either total phosphorus or E.Coli.
Chatham-Kent received an “F” grade for forest conditions, the lowest ranking in the region. Most areas along the watershed scored a “B” in ground water quality, and an overall grade of “F” in wetland cover.
The watershed’s key issue has been identified as non-point source pollution, which happens when rain or snowmelt runs off fields, streets, and backyards, carrying soil particles and pollutants to water bodies and groundwater.
Officials say local residents and governments need to work together to improve the quality of their natural environment.
