Goderich
2016 Community Profile A Five-Bloom Community
Bee Gardens
Playgrounds
Edible Gardens
Butterfly Garden
(To preserve the bee population)
(Food for Families & Food Banks)
(New Rotary Cove Playground)
(To bring back the Monarch Butterfly)
Town of Goderich, 57 West Street, Goderich, ON, N7A 2K5 Tel: 519-524-8344 • Fax: 519-524-8344 www.goderich.ca • Email: townhall@goderich.ca CIB Email: cibgoderich@gmail.com
Table of Contents Section 1
Municipal Information Form
pages 3 - 5
Section 2
New Initiatives
pages 5 - 9
Section 3
Tidiness
pages 10 -12
Section 4
Environmental Action
pages 13 -17
Section 5
Heritage Conservation
pages 18 - 21
Section 6
Urban Forestry
pages 22 - 25
Section 7
Landscape Areas
pages 26 - 31
Section 8
Floral Displays
pages 32 - 35
GENERAL INFORMATION MUNICIPALITY: Town of Goderich POPULATION: 7,600 MUNICIPAL BUDGET: $25,535,251.00 PARKS BUDGET AS A % OF MUNICIPAL BUDGET: 7% TOTAL AREA: 1,638 acres
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Sub 1
Winter Life
pages 36 - 39
Sub 2
Master Garden List
pages 40 - 41
Sub 3
Membership Pamphlet & Website
page 42
Sub 4
Evaluation Grid Summary
page 43
Goderich Gardens Map
Back Page
(662.88 hectares)
PARKS AND GREEN SPACES AREA AS A % OF TOTAL AREA: 492 acres or 30% PARKLAND: 21% maintained parks, 44% Natural Parks, 18% sports fields and 17% water parkland
Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
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Municipal Information Form About our Community of Goderich The Communities in Bloom Committee meets twice a year with a number of sub-committees meeting as required. The average turnout is 25 to 35 people including council representation, service clubs and citizens. The CIB Committee has 7,600 volunteers since everyone participates in one way or another, some are more active than others. In the fall a meeting is held to discuss the year’s successes and how to implement the judges’ suggestions for improvement. A plan is developed at this time for the next season highlighting any new town projects. Garden plans are developed, our flower order is established and collated to be sent to tender. The registration for participation in CIB for the coming year is formally approved. In the spring there is a meeting to determine the timetable for the arrival and planting of the flowers. The list of all volunteers is reviewed and updated and new volunteers are recruited. New initiatives are presented and committees are formed. Current initiatives include: The Goderich Garden Collective, advertising and promoting committee, a new garden recognition program and efforts to increase involvement of families and youth. On Arbour Day the CIB committee take part in tree plantings at the schools and organizes the pitch-in cleanup as well as the Town wide clean up. All participants are encouraged to take pictures, preferably in digital format during the whole year. For many years CIB Goderich, the Town of Goderich and Goderich Lions Club have hosted the CIB Volunteer Appreciation BBQ, held during the judges’ visit. This event takes place at a home of a CIB volunteer. Our feature garden programs begin as the gardens come into bloom with different gardens being recognized every other week through our ‘Pay It Forward’ Program. Several volunteers sort out the flower order when it arrives at the Parks Department and the volunteers are telephoned and asked to pick up their flowers. New signs are ordered as required to acknowledge those who maintain the public flowerbeds and to identify plant material in the flower gardens. New in 2015 Sixteen categories were developed – including shade gardens, best spring flower display, water feature, edibles and grasses. One garden from each category is selected and receives a sign to be displayed for the summer. A photo appears in the local paper. New in 2016 We have been selected to participate in the Miracle Gro Best Garden Selection from Scotts Canada. We will be choosing six spectacular gardens and each will receive a sign provided by the program.
TIDINESS (CLEAN-UPS, LITTER & GRAFFITI REMOVAL, ETC)
Goderich and its citizens pride themselves on living and working in a clean well-kept community on the shores of Lake Huron. The commercial/industrial/institutional sectors of our economy play an important role in maintaining the appearance of the “Prettiest Town in Canada”. Our two elementary schools, one secondary school, service clubs and community organizations volunteer their time and efforts in regular cleanups throughout the Town. Graffiti has not been a major issue in the past although some “artists” have started to show their hand. In every Parks vehicle there are graffiti removal wipes. Parks staff are instructed, upon the discovery of graffiti, to stop what they are doing and remove it immediately. Within a day of the conclusion of the many events occurring in Goderich, one would never know an event took place because all of the litter has been picked up and disposed of by the event organizers and Town staff. Every year the Business Improvement Association hires a student to sweep and clean the downtown during the busy summer months. Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS (COMPOSTING, RECYCLING, SHORELINE AND WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AND OTHER PROGRAMS)
Goderich has been a leader in environmental efforts to reduce landfill deposits and increase recycling and composting. Situated on Ontario’s West Coast, Goderich has been at the forefront in efforts to ensure that every effort is made to prevent further pollution of the Great Lakes including spending millions of dollars to upgrade its sanitary sewers, storm sewers and pollution control plant. Many community organizations play an active role in protecting our environment. The industrial sector has undertaken major environmentally friendly initiatives to protect the environment and reduce or recover some of their costs. Current initiatives include: Wheelie bins, clear bags, LED lighting, Compost Yard, the sale of rain barrels at cost and Retrofitting of Municipal and Heritage Buildings.
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COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT (GROUPS, ORGANIZATIONS AND INDIVIDUAL CITIZENS)
Goderich is a community of volunteers. With the hundreds of events that occur in Goderich each year, it seems that every citizen must volunteer to ensure that each event is a success. It is not unusual for a person to be involved in four or five volunteer operations at the same time, perhaps helping to fundraise for a new community facility, planting and maintaining a community garden, delivering “meals on wheels”, coaching a sports team or acting in a little theatre production. Goderich’s service clubs are all very active in the community, operating events, assisting with functions, building projects in the Town while still supporting their national and international projects. Goderich is privileged to have many community organizations such as the Maitland Trail Association, the Menesetung Bridge Association, the Hospital Auxiliary and many others that add to the quality of life in Goderich. We are working hard to try to increase the youth involvement in Communities in Bloom. The Communities in Bloom Committee recognizes one of its own each year for his/her dedication to the programme.
2011-2012, following the August tornado, a preliminary survey of heritage damage was conducted and a booklet published entitled In the Path, which contained more than 300 pictures taken within a week of the disaster. In the months that followed the tornado, the Municipal and Marine Heritage Committee worked with residents, town officials, architects and many others to help with our recovery. It is a testament to the citizens of Goderich, to see how important it was to them to preserve or replace as many of the heritage elements that they could and often for the most part at their own expense. Many came to the committee seeking advice even though they were not required to obtain a heritage permit for their non-designated buildings. Restoration of one building in the commercial core often inspired the neighbours to take on work to improve their properties as well. 2013 saw Goderich participating on the 100th anniversary of the Great Storm of 1913. Post 2011 tornado a joint venture between the Town of Goderich and Goderich Lions Club created beautiful tree carvings where stumps used to reside.
TREE/URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT NATURAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION (ARCHITECTURAL, CULTURAL LANDSCAPE DESIGNATIONS, PROTECTION OF NATURAL AREAS, TREES, ETC.)
In 1823, John Galt and a group of investors formed the Canada Company and were granted, by the British Government, 1,100,000 acres of unexplored wilderness known as the Huron Tract. In 1827, John Galt recruited Dr. William “Tiger” Dunlop to lead a party of surveyors through the primeval forest from what is now Guelph to Goderich and hence Goderich became a historically significant town on the shores of Lake Huron at the mouth of the Maitland River. Goderich has remained the pivotal community in Huron County since its founding. The earliest structures, still in existence, date from the 1830’s and include some magnificent homes and commercial buildings. The Town and the citizens of Goderich take pride in its history and work hard to ensure that architecturally significant buildings are protected. The Town has had an active programme of re-forestation and the purchase of woodlots to enhance the image of Goderich. Through many community organizations such as the Heritage and Cultural Partnership, the Goderich Cooperative Gallery, local theatre companies and the Friends of the Museum, Goderich’s heritage and culture is showcased throughout the year. The Reuben Sallows Gallery, a section of our Public Library…….
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(MANAGEMENT PRACTICES, PLANTING PROGRAM, PROTECTION OF TREE CANOPY, HERITAGE TREE PROGRAM, MAINTENANCE)
For over 125 years, the municipality has had an active tree planting programme throughout the community. The citizens of Goderich are keen to replace dead or damaged trees and annually the Town fulfills about 100 requests to replace trees on boulevards. The Town has held Arbour Day tree planting ceremonies at the elementary schools for over 40 years. For the past 16 years, Union Gas has supplied the trees for this programme. Prior to Confederation in 1867, a number of significant trees species were planted in Goderich including many trees that were planted in Courthouse Park. A Wych Elm near the South Street entrance to Courthouse Park, a 300 year old Red Oak on the north side of the Maitland River, a fruitless Baumannii Horse Chestnut at St. Patrick and Wellington, a Black Locust at the west end of Cobourg Street that was planted in 1899 by the grandmother of the current property owner and a Purple Beech at South and Elgin Streets. A major setback occurred in 1995 when a cyclone spun through Goderich and destroyed over 1,000 trees. This resulted in the Town accelerating its planting programme as a result 2,000 trees have been replaced. In 2011, an F3 Tornado ravaged the urban trees again. With all but 4 trees reduced to stumps, many thousands of dollars were spent to replace the hundreds of trees lost on the Courthouse Park. Hundreds of trees were planted along Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
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boulevards to replace tornado stricken trees. 24 acres of the Maitland woods have been replanted because of wonderful funding programs and interested service groups, residents and other municipal communities.
Many commercial establishments have installed new landscaped areas or improved their former plantings to improve the appearance of their businesses. A Landscape designer re-designed the Gateway Sign gardens on Highway 21 south soften the edges.
LANDSCAPED AREAS
In 2015 the old iron fence that surrounded Victoria Park was replaced by an historically accurate, period wrought iron fence designed and installed by a local arstisan and ironworker.
(DESIGN, PLANTING, MAINTENANCE AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES)
As a result of the damage the Downtown suffered after the Tornado, millions of dollars have been spent to re-build. The entire Courthouse Park has had a facelift, with beautiful 35’ planters, a cenotaph garden and new lighting, new sod and an eye catching water feature. Hundreds of large caliper trees have been planted by PAO (a large landscaping firm that specializes in the digging and planting of large caliper trees) Harbour Park has also been transformed in the past few years. Prior to the tornado a brand new band-stand and washroom facility had been built. After the Tornado, hundreds of trees were planted there to replace the huge tree canopy that was lost. One of the major landscaping projects over the past several years in Goderich has been the re-development of the Main Beach. In 2005, hard services (sewer, water, curbs and paving) were installed. In 2006 the planting of grass, trees, shrubs and flowers in 10 different parkettes at the waterfront was completed. With the installation of metal benches in Courthouse Park, citizens of Goderich have an opportunity to have In Memoriam or recognition plaques installed by the Town at their expense. In 2016, a new Waterfront Master Plan is moving forward. www.goderich.ca/en/townhall/Waterfront-Master-Plan.asp for more information.
Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
FLORAL DISPLAYS (DESIGN, PLANTING, MAINTENANCE AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES)
The residents of Goderich are extremely proud of their front and back yard gardens. 170, 24” hanging baskets adorn the square. An additional 50 baskets were added in 2013. 28 iron planters and over 70 concrete planters decorate the central downtown core with colourful floral displays. The flowers are planted and maintained by Parks Staff, Service Clubs and CIB Volunteers. 2016 will see an increased focus on putting edibles into our public gardens and planters.
TURF AND GROUNDCOVERS (MAINTENANCE AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICES)
Grass cutting and trimming is a never-ending responsibility for many Parks Staff as they cut over 200 acres of grass on a weekly basis. The Town is a strong supporter of the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programme that has been adopted by the commercial lawn care companies. In 2013, the courthouse park was hydro-seeded and is establishing nicely. In 2014 additional seeding and sodding was done and an irrigation system added.
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Section 2
Section 2
New Initiatives New CIB signage has been placed at both entrances into Goderich TIDINESS: The New Courthouse Square Park has been installed with decorative garbage and recycling Containers. Beautiful iron benches and picnic style tables have been positioned throughout the park for everyone to enjoy. New wider sidewalks were part of the Courthouse Square rebuild. They reduce the amount of damage done during winter snow removal. New street sweeper has been purchased by the Works Department. Streets are being cleaned and maintained more frequently. BD Sharps Collector boxes have been installed in the beach and uptown washrooms. In 2015, Goderich initiated the Butt Free Beach Program. For more information visit lakehuron.ca *See additional material for sample ashtray New Communities in Bloom signs have been ordered for our gateways in to Goderich.
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS: Town of Goderich through, a partnership with the Lake Huron Centre for Coastal Conservation, planted dune grass around the play set at the Main Beach. High School students from Goderich and Wingham were involved with the planting. Goderich is implementing Bee and Butterfly friendly gardens throughout the community to promote healthy habitat and food sources for our struggling friends, the bees and monarchs. We have been designing and implementing these gardens since 2011. It started at the new butterfly park (Bingham Park) in 2011. Gardens where created and a new playground was installed with a butterfly theme. Since then, existing gardens have been enhanced with pollinating friendly perennials and milkweed have been left in the gardens to help the butterflies. New gardens have been designed and planted at Harbour Park, the beach and the Museum. Communities in Bloom volunteers have taken Bee Garden seed packs to continue this initiative at they’re homes and business throughout the town of Goderich. We are presently making plans to create more gardens with this purpose. (Harbour beach hill) Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
The Horticultural Club has created a new butterfly garden at Harbour Park. Apart of the ‘Sun Country Highway’ program the Town installed two electric car charges – one at the Tourism Centre and the other Kingston St just off the Square. This program promotes the use of ‘green’ electric vehicles and tourism, across Canada. A formal energy conservation and demand management plan has been approved by Council. The plan includes lighting upgrades like LED streetlighing, education for staff etc. – It is reviewed annually. New signage has created to highlight the amenities at each of Goderich’s three beaches. These signs also include education and waterfront protocol information i.e. the importance of dune grass, water quality and rules like no feeding the birds or camping. Council continues to support the Sustainable Municipal Water Management Framework designed by the Great Lakes St Lawrence Cities Initiative. The Town’s Environmental Committee continues to work on items, outline as ‘needing improvement’ from the framework. With the redesign of Courthouse Park more recycling bins and bicycle racks were installed to promote greener living. The redesign also increased the biodiversity of the Park – the variety of trees is truly wonderful. In fall of 2014 another area of Dune grass was planted at Main Beach to stop the wind erosion of sand around the playground. A group of passionate families created the Goderich Garden Collective. They were given a strip of boulevard in a very prominent location to plant their vegetables. The fresh produce, all organically grown – over 180 kgs annually - is donated to our local food bank. Goderich is trying to use natural methods in the environment. We have started using barley straw to suppress algae smell on the water front. There is an educational sign about the algae To address and educate the public on the serious issue of the declining monarch butterfly population, a local group has
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developed the Milkweed to Monarch campaign. Educational materials are available and workshops can be arranged. A Bat House Building Workshop is held sponsored jointly by the Town of Goderich, Goderich & District Horticultural Club, Maitland Trail Association and the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority. The workshop is held at the Parks Department. The Goderich Lions Club takes the remaining supplies from the Bat House workshop and arranges to go into every Grade 3 classrooms in Goderich and facilitated birdhouse workshops complete with an education component. This will be an ongoing initiative. To address the declining bee population crisis, Communities in Bloom in conjunction with the Town handed out an information package to each school involved in the Arbour day and Earth Day activities. The package included a seed pack containing bee friendly seeds. These packages were made available to each teacher as well. A link containing bee friendly trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials has been posted to the Town website.
NATURAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION: Heritage Goderich has submitted, through Parks Canada, The Square for listing on the Canadian Register of Historic Places as “The Market Square Heritage Conservation District in Goderich”. A new facade refurbishment program has been developed for local businesses. Beautiful tree carvings have been created throughout Harbour Park after the devastation of the F3 Tornado. 8 carvings encircle the entire park. An iron sculpture featuring a tree been blown in the wind was created by local artisan, Jim Wallace. The sculpture was a joint project with the Lions Club and the Town. A wonderful commemoration took place. The family of Norm Lafarge, a miner who was killed during the tornado attended the ceremony. Hundreds of resident were also in attendance, In 2013, the town participated in the 100th anniversary commemoration of the 1913 Great Storm. 1913storm.ca A stunning iron sculpture commemorating the Great Storm and created by a local artist was unveiled. Goderich writer Paul Carroll’s new book The Wexford: Elusive Shipwreck of the Great Storm, 1913 comes on the heels of a heritage award. Carroll,
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who documents Great Lakes history, was awarded the SOS Marine Heritage Award. The award is presented by Save Ontario Shipwrecks, a provincial heritage organization dedicated to the study, preservation and promotion of marine heritage In 2014, a brochure highlighting the new tree plantings in Courthouse Park as an Arbor Walk with plaques identifying the species was produced and made available. 2014, the Parks Department began the restoration of Octogenarian Park (the smallest registered park in Canada) which was severely damaged during the 2011 tornado. The Park officially reopen in July 2015. 2013 Heritage Certificates of Appreciation were issued to residents and business owners who have made a significant contribution to preserving or enhancing the town’s heritage. This program has taken place during February heritage week for more than 10 years. Normally less than ten certificates would be issued but due to the large amount of work that needed to be done, this year 31 owners were recognized. Significant work has taken place with the owner of the former CPR station during its move to its new location and the subsequent restoration and refurbishment. The Beach Street Station opened in 2015.
TREE AND URBAN FORESTRY: • IN TOWN •
As a result of the Tornado of 2011, literally thousands of trees have been planted all over the Town. Two hundred trees were planted as street trees, hundreds in the Parks and thousands in the Maitland Cemetery. 20 acres were cleared at the Maitland Cemetery after the F3 Tornado. Re-planting has been ongoing since 2012. The harsh winter of 2014/15 was very hard on a number of the new and more mature trees that line our streets and parks. A significant number of replantings have already occurred. Every year 80 trees are planted along boulevards and in public parks with another 45 planted each fall. • CEMETERY •
An Arboretum has begun with replanting to educate the public who walk through the area. This will be an on-going project A tree inventory program has been developed.
Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
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In 2015/16 we have applied for more grants and have been awarded additional funding for trees. 26 acres of damaged woodland (by the tornado) have been adopted by groups. These groups fundraised and planted plots with native trees, shrubs and wild flowers. Groups include the Girl Guides, Wellington County, Horticultural Society, local businesses and families. *See Map of Tree Grove donors The Horticultural Society was awarded a grant of $2500 to plant a plot with wildflowers and rare native trees.
LANDSCAPED AREAS: New Playground at Rotary Cove. Child Centred vegetable garden at the Huron County Museum. The Courthouse Park has beautiful new planters, 35’ long and 5’ wide. All are designed with beautiful flowering trees and shrubs. The Courthouse Cenotaph received a facelift with 2 massive gardens on either side. The Cenotaphs soldier has new lighting. If you drive by in the evening or early morning the lighting will cast an inspirational shadow of the solider on the Courthouse wall. It will make you stop and remember. A new historically accurate wrought iron fence has been designed and erected by local ironworker, Jim Wallace, at Victoria Park Splash Pad
FLORAL DISPLAYS: Addition of pollinator friendly plants in specific town gardens and plots. Complete makeover of the large garden on Harbour Hill. At our Municipal Daycare Centre, a planter box has been transformed into a stunning perennial bed. Wooden planter boxes have been made for the children to plant veggie gardens in the playground. Two large concrete and asphalt islands have been replaced with stunning floral displays at our major intersection. All annual gardens are re- designed yearly by our CIB Floral Committee and the Parks Superintendent. CIB members join Parks staff and attend Flower Trials each year. A new water truck has been purchased by the Parks Department. With a larger truck the Parks Department is able to carry a larger water tank. Fewer fill ups are helping the water truck operator get to more gardens, making us better prepared for drought. A back up tank and pump is ready on a secondary vehicle. One of our new garden recognition program profiles 10 different garden categories from shade gardens, water features and perennials to boulevard gardens and spring bulb gardens. A list of the categories was published in the local paper in an article outlining the program. The recipients are selected by a small committee and have congratulatory signs placed in their gardens. These signs remain there for the summer. Photographs appear in the local paper. The Pay it Forward program is still happening although no new signs have been printed. There are currently 50 Pay it Forward signs circulating around the town. We have been selected to participate in the Miracle Gro Best Garden Selection program.
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CIB Goderich has focused on Social Media Awareness and has created an Online Presence to inform Our Current Volunteers and attract New Volunteers. Visit www.goderichinbloom.com or visit Facebook/Twitter @CIBgoderich Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
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Section 3
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Tidiness Clean-ups, Litter & Graffiti Removal As one enters the Port of Goderich from the North (Highway 21) and crosses the Maitland River the grand sweep of the valley as the Maitland River flows out to Lake Huron is a first impression that is unrivalled by few other towns of this size. Then as one enters the town proper, the wide streets, neat lawns and gardens give one the impression that this is a town that prides itself in wanting to maintain its “Prettiest in Canada” honour. Entering from the East or South may not offer the same spectacular view, but even the industrial buildings and commercial Mall areas that are often the bane of small towns like ours, show evidence of care and attention to cleanliness and tidiness. There are very few houses or businesses that show a want of attention. Its wide streets, numerous parks and attractive properties make Goderich a unique and pleasant place to live!
MUNICIPALITY/PUBLIC PROPERTIES The Town of Goderich has weekly curbside garbage and recycling bi-weekly pick-up for commercial and industrial waste. Wheelie bins are used to collect recyclables and have an automatic arm pick up system. A town managed compost area is available for Goderich residents from April til the end of October. Leaves, brush, plant material, twigs and small branches can be dropped off and is then sent to Try County Recycling for additional composting. The Parks Department maintains the Beach front regularly, from painting washrooms to replacing boardwalk boards. Extra garbage pick-up is done at the beach, public parks and the core business area during the busy tourist season. Covered containers for garbage have been installed at the Beach and along the boardwalk to allow for waste disposal. They also prevent seagulls and raccoons from getting at the garbage. The Town purchased a new vacuum street-sweeper (unique for a town of this size) to clean debris, leaves etc. from streets in both the commercial and residential areas. New In ground trash receptacles have been installed along the waterfront to help with litter control during the tourist season. The Town of Goderich has many parks and parkettes that are maintained by a combination of Town employees and the over 60 Communities in Bloom volunteers. They are kept neat and tidy and provide the local residents with an opportunity to showcase their gardening skills by planting and maintaining floral displays and shrubbery. Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
The Parks Department’s weed steamer removes weeds along sidewalks and pathways by wilting them away. The Butt Free Beach program is new to Goderich in 2015. Graffetti Policy: In every Parks vehicle there are graffiti removal wipes. Parks staff are instructed, upon the discovery of graffiti, to stop what they are doing and remove it immediately. Goderich has a “Clean Yards” by-law that is regularly enforced and an annual inspection conducted by the town ensures there are no abandoned vehicles or old relics that would detract from the appearance that the town wishes to impart on its visitors. The Town’s Building Department must approve all additions and major renovations to structures when issuing permits, and do inspections to ensure that the completed work meets community as well as safety standards. When a new residential development is proposed, council insists that a certain amount of green space must be included. Often the ownership of this “green space” will revert to the town upon completion of the project.
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COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL SECTOR: Both large retail malls has maintenance and clean-up programs to maintain their parking areas and properties, keeping them litter-free as much as possible. The downtown central Square and its environs boast an active Business Improvement Area (BIA) that hires summer students to pick up litter and clean up the sidewalks around The Square on a daily basis. The two largest industries in our town have in recent years added landscaping, flower gardens and treed areas to improve the appearance of their business areas and parking lots. Goderich has a very busy scrap yard located within the town limits encouraging recycling of all scrap metal. In 1997, all sidewalks on The Square were widened by 2 meters and new concrete and interlocking brick were laid to allow for the development of sidewalk cafes for better use of the public space. Local organizations and service clubs are encouraged to join the “Adopt-a-Highway” program to help maintain a neat and refuse free highway in and out of town. The suitability of signage on public highways and in the down-town “Heritage Core” is controlled through local bylaws. Businesses must get council’s permission to erect signs, which must be in keeping with the Heritage District goals. Gateway signs have been constructed at the two main entrances to the town.
SERVICE CLUBS, SCHOOLS, CHURCHES, NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS: During Canada Pitch-In Week, local elementary schools and high school are involved in a large “Clean-up Campaign” to pick up garbage and litter from the beach and other public areas. Tim Hortons treats the students to refreshments. Almost 1000 students and staff participate. Local Service Clubs (Goderich Lions and Knights of Columbus) have provided large, attractive metal garbage bins and blue re-cycling containers for the public’s use as they stroll around The Square. The Goderich Lions Club conducts regular “work parties” to help maintain and spruce up Lions Harbour Park, and the Lions Look-out on the North Harbour Hill overlooking the Maitland river valley. The Maitland Trail Association conducts regular clean-up hikes on the trail system.
RESIDENTIAL/CITIZENS: Local residents are encouraged, through newspaper articles and Communities in Bloom announcements, to keep their properties neat and tidy and to utilize environmental friendly methods for their lawns and gardens. During the last week of April each school has trees planted on the school grounds in recognition of Arbour Day. The trees are donated by Union Gas. When walking the beachfront boardwalk you will often see local community members cleaning up litter while they take their morning stroll.
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Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
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Environmental Action Composting, Recycling, Shoreline and Waterway Management MUNICIPALITY / PUBLIC PROPERTIES: All street lamps are being recycled resulting in the prevention of hazardous metals contaminating the landfill. Goderich has achieved total separation of storm water from sanitary sewers. In addition, upgrades at the Pollution Control Plant have eliminated by-passes at the plant into Lake Huron. Sewer Separation – This 4.5 million dollar program to upgrade the Pollution Control Plant has been on-going for 40 years and is now completed. The upgrades eliminate storm water bypasses and the improved collection system stops overflows by cross connections. Integrated Geese Management Plan – An innovative plan to discourage the majority of Canada geese (Branta canadensis) from feeding and nesting along the Goderich lakefront using non-lethal means. The plan will also improve the ecology of the Goderich lakefront by diversifying plant species, preventing erosion, educating the public regarding Canada geese and the ecology of the Town of Goderich. Dune Grasses – five plots of native dune grasses in place at Rotary Cove Beach and two plots at the Main Beach. Signage educates the general public regarding the ecological importance of the Dune grass project. The planting of dune grasses occurred in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2013 In an attempt to counteract high salt levels, natural lime is applied to all municipal gardens. Erosion control – Shoreline hardfronts and groynes have been placed along the lakefront to ensure that 100 % of the Goderich Lakefront is protected from erosion. Parks staff have also planted dogwoods on the waterfront bluffs. In addition, dogwood and sumac have been planted along several of the park banks to aid with erosion prevention. For the last nine years, the Town has required storm water management ponds and systems in commercial and industrial areas Pollution Prevention (P2) Plan – This plan removes chlorine from wastewater discharging into the lake, thus protecting the aquatic ecosystem from potentially toxic compounds. Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
This state-of-the-art UV light system to remove chlorine from wastewater was put in place during the Fall of 2009. In 2013, the Town’s Parks Department was asked to assist a group of families who wanted to plant a co-operative garden within the Town. A suitable piece of land was found and prepared for the group. The garden is totally organic and all produce grown is donated to local food banks. The group is entering year three of this project and continue to increase both variety of vegetables and yield. We currently have two butterfly gardens in Town. Educational material is available through the Parks Department as well as through a local physician, who spearheads the Milkweed to Monarchs campaign. We have embarked on a Pollinator Friendly program. Information was shared at the Earth and Arbour Day activities and seed packs containing bee friendly seeds were distributed to the public. These seed packs were also handed out at our spring Communities in Bloom meeting.
WASTE MANAGEMENT & DIVERSION: The Town of Goderich has been a leader in south western Ontario in environmental efforts. Since 1989, the Town of Goderich has made recycling part of our waste management practices due in part to the Goderich Citizens for Recycling program. In 1991 the Town bought shares in the Bluewater Recycling Association (BRA), a municipally owned and operated recycling co-operative and we continue to be active members in this co-operative to this day. Goderich is a member of the Mid-Huron Landfill, along with 5 other municipalities, developed according to the latest and highest standards set by the Ministry of Environment. The Mid-Huron Landfill is used as an example of how to construct a safe and environmentally secure landfill site. All users of the landfill (including Goderich) must use transparent waste disposal bags. Clear garbage bags prevent recyclables and hazardous waste from entering the landfill site. The Town of Goderich has a zero tolerance policy for poor waste management practices.
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Yard waste is sent to Try Recycling (located in London) for composting. Maitland Cemetery – Small-scale composting of leaves is occurring. Waste diversion efforts have resulted in a 70 % reduction in landfill garbage since 1987 when records were first compiled. Public education, sales of compost units, hazardous waste collection, user fees for garbage pickup and bag tags, and Christmas tree chipping have all contributed to this reduction. An annual garbage collection calendar is produced and sent to every household informing residents of their garbage and recycling schedule, including special yard waste pick up dates, as well as related information regarding acceptable materials to put in or beside the blue recycling bin.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH: Conservation brochures and educational materials are made available by the Town. Informational plaques have been installed along the waterfront. The Town of Goderich works with the Lake Huron Centre for Coastal Conservation to promote healthy beaches and community involvement. Currently, one of the public awareness programs involves installation of cigarette receptacles to reduce the amount of cigarette butts along the waterfront
WATER: Some Town parks and gardens use automated sprinkler systems, thus ensuring that the correct amount of water is applied with little waste. If water usage capacity is adversely affected at the Water Treatment Plant, the public is quickly notified that they must conserve their water usage. A list of water conservation tips can be found on the Town of Goderich website. May through August, Town by-laws restrict lawn watering from 7 AM to 9 AM & 7 PM to 9 PM, according to address. Automatic sprinkling systems can only run from 2:30 AM to 6 AM, also according to address. The Town of Goderich sells rain barrels to encourage residents to use ‘natural’ water for their garden plants over treated municipal water. These barrels are sold for cost recovery only.
Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
Deb Shewfelt (past mayor of Goderich) is an active member of the Great Lakes St Lawrence Cities Initiative. The participants of this group, mainly from Ontario, Quebec and the United States of America (9 States), work to promote and protect the Great Lakes and St Lawrence River.
ENERGY CONSERVATION: The Town has converted all of its streetlights to energy efficient LEDs, including the Town’s Christmas lighting. Goderich Hydro offers a variety of energy conservation programs for residential, commercial and industrial customers. The Town has participated several times in many of the Save On Energy programs outlined by the IESO. By conserving electricity, these programs also reduce greenhouse gas emissions! Coupons for energy efficient lighting alternatives, as well as other energy conservation products, can be picked up at the front desk of Town Hall and used at the local Home Hardware and TSC Store. The Town Hall is heated and cooled by a geothermal system, reducing natural gas consumption. The Maitland Recreation Centre, in partnership with the Federal government, has implemented an innovative energy efficient refrigeration system and a waste heat recovery system. As a result, the Centre has become a model for other communities.
TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES: The Millennium Trail, Goderich Auburn Rail Trail, and the Maitland Woods Trail are all under continual improvement. Volunteers are able to access technical training through Town. In 2011, Council approved a Green Transport Plan to support the Port to Point Trail Group. Goderich is home to the only deep-sea port on the eastern shore of Lake Huron. Shipping is the most economical and environmental friendly method of transporting goods. With the Harbour expansion, even more products will be transported to and from Goderich.
AIR QUALITY PROGRAMS: Large landscaping project at main beach- trees, shrubs, and perennials have been planted. Increased landscaping is underway at the Water Treatment Plant, specifically around the new chlorine contact chamber.
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Since the 2011 tornado, the Town of Goderich continues to work diligently to restore its tree canopy
PESTICIDES: The Town of Goderich has not applied pesticides to grass on Town property since 2002. Weed Man is a local licensed applicator that uses IPM (Integrated Pest Management) and organic alternatives. They are IPM accredited. They are required by the IPM/PHC Council of Canada’s Code of Ethics to explain and recommend IPM and organic alternatives to customers. Forming a partnership with the customer, they explain how improved cultural practices (i.e. mowing heights, blade sharpness, watering, and aerating) lead to a healthier lawn, therefore reducing pesticide use. In addition, Weed Man has a Green Program which uses no pesticides. The program promotes aeration and fertilization throughout the year. Approximately 5% of Goderich customers are participating in this Green program. Customers can switch back and forth with the IPM program, when necessary. In the summer, lawns are visually inspected and carefully monitored for weed, disease, and insect problems. Turf management is based on observed information, including the customer’s cultural practices.
COMMERCIAL / INDUSTRIAL SECTOR: All commercial and industrial properties have recycling through a private contractor or the municipal system. Commercial and industrial properties have metered water and sewage. Irrigation systems have been donated to public buildings (such as the library) to conserve water. Just north of Goderich, in Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh Township, EPCOR has built 22 wind turbines to date, with more planned for future development. In accordance with the terms of the South Pier Extension, the Goderich Port Management Corporation has allocated $75,000 for fish habitat improvement in 2007. The Harbour Expansion will contribute over $1 million to improve fish habit along Lake Huron. Local restaurants have implemented grease interceptors to stop grease from entering water pipes, resulting in blockages and other environmental problems.
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In response to Environment Canada’s Code of Practice for the Environmental Management of Road Salts, Sifto Salt has been very proactive and initiated a Road Salt Management Plan to be used by all Ontario municipalities. A new wide sidewalk around the outside perimeter of the Courthouse Park allows the Farmers Market and Goderich Flea Market vendors to put up their display tents/stalls without stress or damage to the new trees planted on The Square.
SERVICE CLUBS, SCHOOLS, CHURCHES, NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS: The following are mission statements or mandates of each group. Communities in Bloom - Committed to “fostering civic pride, environmental responsibility and beautification through community participation”. Lower Maitland Stewardship Group - a group of valley landowners, volunteers, and representatives from surrounding municipalities who share common interests in the development, use and protection of this natural river valley ecosystem. This group formed in 1998 and works closely with the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority and Huron Stewardship Council. Together they have sponsored many field outings. Lake Huron Centre for Coastal Conservation - “Founded in 1998 with the goals of protecting and restoring Lake Huron’s coastal environment and promoting a healthy coastal ecosystem. While many environmental advocacy groups address local issues within the region, the Coastal Centre is the only grassroots organization focused on protecting the coastal environment lake-wide.” Maitland Valley Conservation Authority - “Determined to lead the way in efforts to protect and enhance water, trees and soil of the Maitland and Nine Mile river watersheds. Our services are community based, cost-effectively administered and supported by our municipalities, the provincial government and local initiatives.” Bluewater Recycling Association - Goderich owns stock in this association. It is a rural based non-profit organization developing and maintaining facilities on behalf of, and in cooperation with the municipal sector that provides integrated waste reduction and environmental services ranging from collection and processing to marketing superior quality products and services.” “Our mission is to provide ethical, innovative, effective, quality resource management services. Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
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We will carry out our mission efficiently, safely, and in an environmentally responsible manner, ultimately enabling our members to meet their environmental commitments.” Maitland Trail Association - Maitland Trail Association was formed in 1975 and has developed and maintained over 50 km of trails along the Maitland River, mostly with the generous agreement of private landowners, and a 2.5 km trail through the Maitland Woods in our town. In partnership with the Colborne Snowmobile Club, MTA maintains a 12 km multi-use trail on the abandoned rail trail from Goderich to Auburn (GART). In 2002, the Millennium Trail was built with the help of various service clubs. Oversees creation and maintenance of trails on Town property. Plants trees in Maitland Woods and stewardship initiatives. Maitland Trail Association (MTA) is an environmental & recreational group which adheres to these guiding principles: Protecting the natural environment of the Maitland River Valley Providing safe, and where possible, handicapped accessible opportunities for physical activity, nature appreciation and recreation for the community. Fostering community involvement and stewardship.
Menesetung Bridge Association - Maintains the bridge and provides stewardship initiatives. Menesetung Bridge Association has installed a bike corridor to the stairs at the end of Waterloo Street to encourage the use of bicycles and to prevent possible bank erosion. Service Clubs – All of our active service clubs are involved with Communities in Bloom. Involvement ranges from representation on CIB, making donations toward local CIB initiatives, planting trees at the beach, planting and maintaining gardens, operating the waterfront concession stands and looking after the Rotary Cove Arch. Maitland Valley Anglers – Operates the trout hatchery on Cemetery Creek (Town property) Hindmarsh Environmental Trust Fund - Funded the dune grass project at Cove Beach. Grass has been transplanted for the dune grass project at the Main Beach.
RESIDENTIAL / CITIZENS: There is an annual lake bank and beach cleanup organized by the Communities in Bloom committee and Pitch in Canada. Local schools also participate in cleaning up schoolyards and parks. This year, over 900 students and teachers participated by cleaning up garbage in public places and along our waterfront. For the past 15 years, a Community Clean-Up Day has been held the last Saturday of Earth Week. Local residents and Parks Department staff meet at Tim Hortons where they are treated to coffee and muffins before heading out in teams to clean up the Town. This year volunteers were able to fill three pickup trucks with garbage! During Earth Day Week, Arbour Day is held and trees donated by Union Gas are planted at each elementary school and the local high school. Residents enjoy participating in the Christmas tree chipping program provided by Bluewater Recycling Association. The resulting wood chips are made available to local citizens. We have a very active Compost Yard, open during the months of April to November, Monday through Friday and Saturday mornings. Town residents are able to drop off leaves, plant material and small twigs/branches for composting.
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Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
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Section 5
Section 5
Heritage Conservation Architectual, Cultural Landscape Designations & Tree Protection It is a testament to the citizens of Goderich, to see how important it was to them, after the 2011 tornado, to preserve or replace as many of the heritage elements that they could and often for the most part at their own expense. Many came to the committee seeking advice even though they were not required to obtain a heritage permit for their non-designated buildings. Restoration of one building in the commercial core often inspired the neighbours to take on work to improve their properties as well.
In recognition of the importance of Goderich’s unique history and culture the Town of Goderich established in the past, two committees of council dedicated to preserving and celebrating the town`s heritage. Heritage Goderich (formerly L.A.C.A.C. committee of citizens) worked diligently since 1975 to ensure that heritage is maintained and enjoyed by the people of Goderich and visitors to our town. In 1999, the town acknowledged the tremendous importance of our nautical roots and formed the Marine Heritage Committee to promote interest in the marine dimension of Goderich as a thriving lake port. After the election in October 2010, the two committees were merged to form the present Municipal and Marine Heritage Committee.
ACTIVITIES OF THE MUNICIPAL AND MARINE HERITAGE COMMITTEE (AND ITS PREDECESSORS) INCLUDE: The creation and management of two Heritage Conservation Districts under Part V of the Heritage Act. HCD-The Square was approved by Council in 1984 and HCD-West Street in 1992. These districts include 71 properties within their boundaries. Currently, the town and MMHC are participating in a year-long study of the districts by Bray Heritage and Associates of Kingston and Toronto in order to update the guidelines and possibly expand the district boundaries. Advising the Town of Goderich on heritage matters and assisting property owners with Heritage Designation of their properties under Part IV of the Heritage Act (38 designations are current). Bronze plaques have been placed on these properties. 2000, commissioning of a Millennium Wall Hanging or
Throw featuring historic buildings in the town. These are currently still being sold with profits going to the Goderich Heritage Enhancement Fund .
Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
2006, expansion of the Architectural Walking Tour into Four Heritage Walks and production of a brochure package which has been updated each year since. The current version of these self-guided tours is now in full colour. They are available free at the Town Hall and the Tourist Information Office as well as many other public buildings and some retail stores. 2007, production of a Guide to Marine Heritage Signage
which outlines three waterfront walks along the bluff, the boardwalk and the Harbour. Spaced along these walks are 40 signs illustrating and describing significant marine events in our history. (Five additional signs are currently inaccessible due to ongoing re-organization by the mine after the 2011 tornado but will be re-introduced when appropriate.) 2009, creation of a Municipal Register of Cultural Heritage
Properties which includes the two districts, the 38 individually designated properties, more than 200 listed or significant properties, and over 100 heritage plaques and street furniture. 2009, participation in the University of Waterloo, Heritage Resource Centre study of older heritage districts which resulted in the publication by HRC of Heritage Districts Work!
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2010, production of a 25-page booklet, Architectural Styles in the Port of Goderich, showcasing 125 heritage buildings representing 16 architectural styles. The booklet was updated following the tornado and is still being sold with profits going to the Goderich Heritage Enhancement Fund. 2010, participation in the University of Waterloo, Heritage
Resource Centre study of the Goderich Harbour area as a Cultural Heritage Landscape. 2010 and 2011, organization of summer-long, Heritage Hunt
Contests in which participants travelled around the town searching for the location of architectural details pictured on the hunt brochures. 2011-2012, following the August tornado, a preliminary survey of heritage damage was conducted and a booklet, entitled In the Path, was published, which contained more than 300 pictures taken within a week of the disaster. In the months that followed the tornado, the MMHC worked with residents, town officials, architects and many others to help with our recovery. Where normally the committee would deal with less than 10 applications for heritage permits in a whole year, there were 42 from August 2011 to the end of that year, then another 43 in 2012 and 19 in the first half of 2013. Difficult decisions had to be made about demolitions, rebuilding, restorations, repairs and signage, all in consultation with owners who had suffered incredible property damage and emotional trauma. It is a testament to the citizens of Goderich, to see how important it was to them to preserve or replace as many of the heritage elements that they could and often for the most
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part at their own expense. Many came to the committee seeking advice even though they were not required to obtain a heritage permit for their non-designated buildings. Restoration of one building in the commercial core often inspired the neighbours to take on work to improve their properties as well. 2012, participated in the planning workshops and public
deliberations involving more than 500 local residents were conducted by The Planning Partnership of Toronto. This resulted in the Master Plan for recovery in the downtown core which will guide town decisions for the next several years.
2012-2013, worked with the Rebuild Oversight Steering Committee in the decision-making process for the replanting and rebuilding of Courthouse Park in the middle of the HCD-The Square. 2013, updated the heritage website, making it accessible
through the town’s site.
2013, assisted financially in the production of a DVD promoting Goderich by Dr. Christopher Cooper of ibroadcast TV. Profits from sales go to the Goderich Heritage Enhancement Fund. 2013 issued Heritage Certificates of Appreciation to
residents and business owners who have made a significant contribution to preserving or enhancing the town’s heritage. This program has taken place during February Heritage Week for more than 10 years. Normally less than ten certificates would be issued but due to the large amount of work that needed to be done, last year 31 owners were recognized.
Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
Section 5
CULTURAL HERITAGE Our community celebrates its roots through a number of festivals. The Celtic Roots Festival is celebrating its 25th year in 2016 The Celtic College is a week of classes where participants learn the art of celtic song, dance, drumming, harp, fiddle, weaving, sculpting, metal work all taught by renowned artists from around the county, continent and world. The West Coast Blues Festival is celebrating its 10th year in 2016 The Celtic Blue Highlanders pipe the sun down every Friday night down at the beach from July 1st to Labour Day. Riverhouse Concerts are monthly events that take place in a private home and are by donation. A wide range of artists and genres entertain the guests. The Multi Cultural Festival is a free annual event held in Couthouse Park and features music, dance and performance arts from around the world. A wide variety of ethnic foods are also available The first Salt Festival is being held in 2016, recognizing the 150 year anniversary of the discovering of salt in Goderich. The Childrens’ Festival is held annually and is a free event for families and children of all ages. It provides music, drama, activities and food for all who attend. We also celebrate fitness in Goderich. The Goderich Triathlon is celebrating its 25th year. This event attracts participants from all over Ontario and some of our southern neighbours. The Bad Thing is in its 5th year and features 25 and 50 km park to point trail runs. In the past few years both of these events have sold out well before registration closes! The Run Around the Square is an 800 meter childrens’ run around the Square followed by 5 and 10 km runs through town. Funds raised are used to purchase defibrillators which are placed in public spaces throughout the town and county.
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Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
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Section 6
Section 6
Urban Forestry Planting Programs, Protection of Tree Canopy & Heritage Trees. WOW…. Where do we begin? In 1995, a cyclone devastated our Town. In 2011 a F3 Tornado was determined to do the same. We love our trees whether it is the lucky ones that have survived or the new varieties recently planted. The visitors to our town wouldn’t know two damaging storms have come and gone. Our community is strong and was determined to bring the trees back and maintain their health. We just kept on planting; watering, fertilizing, mulching, pruning and helping them grow. Everyone was planting trees; home owners, the Parks Department, volunteer groups, service clubs and communities that reached out to us to help.
TREE AND URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT: The Town of Goderich has always been proud of its trees and has been actively planting trees throughout the Town since the late 1800’s. A great number of trees were planted around the turn of the century. These trees are now reaching the end of their lives and are being replaced by an aggressive tree planting program. MUNICIPAL/PUBLIC PROPERTIES: July 15th, 1995, the town’s tree population was devastated by a cyclone that destroyed approximately 1000 trees on private and public lands. Within the span of a month the devastation was cleared up and plans were under way to re-plant the Town. In the fall of 1995 many Parks Professionals gathered in Goderich and planted 400 trees in one day. Since that planting day in 1995, the Town has planted approximately 2000 more trees of 1 ½” to 2” caliper. On August 21st, 2011, a F3 Tornado devastated the trees on the banks, in parks, the downtown square, the Maitland woods and riparian zone. The Town and volunteers have been busy replanting. Hundreds of trees have been planted in town and thousands in the Maitland Woodland. We will continue to rebuild. Tree water bags were installed on 300 trees planted in town and 2 water trucks have been busy making sure they will survive tough drought years and an irrigation system was installed in the Courthouse Park. Large caliper trees were planted throughout town because of the emptiness left by the tornado. It is also the Policy of the Town that trees are required to be planted by the developers in all subdivisions. The Town has learned, through the years that certain trees do better in some parts of Town while other trees will prosper in Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
different areas. Coniferous trees are not planted on boulevards as they are affected by salt spray from the roadways. Certain trees are not permitted to be planted on public property where sewers exist; these varieties include Soft Maple, Poplar and Willow. Birch is also not considered due to the problem with Birch Leaf Minor and Bronze Birch Bore. Care is taken to choose enough varieties so that low growing trees can be planted under wires and columnar type trees can be planted adjacent to wires. The Town has attempted, over the last few years, to plant more native trees such as Hackberry and Sugar Maple rather than t he introduced species such as the popular Norway maple. In the fall of 1998 the Town collected seeds from an Ossage Orange Tree (a native, but not common in the area) and a volunteer is growing a few trees for specimens. Similarly the town is aware of its heritage and attempts to plant trees that were introduced by the early settlers, trees such as the “Wych Elm”. Seed was collected by the Parks Department and sent to a tree seedling nursery for propagation. Wych Elm appears to be resistant to Dutch elm disease and research will be done on this variety. Some of the seedlings will be returned to us for planting in the future. To further encourage reforestation, the Town plants trees, provided by the Town from its budget, on municipal boulevards at the request of the home owner. Approximately 80 trees are planted every year. Many of these trees are planted with the gator bags attached to give the young trees a good start after planting. The Town is fortunate to have large tracts of forested areas within the Town. Recently the Town has set aside a fifty (50) acre tract of forested area in the Industrial Park, to be preserved in its natural state. The tract known as the Maitland Woods has been developed by the Maitland Trail Association with a walking trail. Strict enforcement is carried out for anyone damaging trees on public property. Similarly there is a County Tree By-Law which regulates the cutting of trees on private property. As previously stated, the
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Town requires all developments to submit landscaping plans to ensure that adequate trees, shrubs and landscaping are provided in every new development. The Town also has a policy about the removal of trees on public property. Only those trees that are dead or diseased are removed. If a private person wants a tree down in front of their property, they are responsible for all costs including removal and replanting and are only allowed to remove trees for good reasons. This policy reduces the requests immensely. Trees are planted each spring by the Town’s Parks Department. Orders are taken from the public who wish trees to be planted on their boulevard, open spaces, etc. We have found, through this process that the public evenly distribute the trees throughout the community. However, where it is noted by Parks’ staff that a deficiency of trees exists, the staff will plant trees in that location. In particular, after a street has been reconstructed the Town will visit that street a year after the reconstruction and fill in any gaps in the urban forestry landscape. A wide variety of trees exist on private properties throughout the Town. The Town encourages private owners to plant trees on their properties. The Town also requires planting through the use of development agreements.
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Young Trees - The Parks Department and Works Department plant and maintain all the trees within the Town and are very good at their job. When the trees are planted they are planted with a water holding saucer and staked. The trees are then periodically inspected. Grass etc., is not encouraged at the base of young trees. A protective (Big “O”) is always placed around the base of the young trees to protect it from grass trimmers. Trees are pruned and checked for girdling roots. When girdling roots are found they are removed. Mulching around young trees is done where appropriate. Mature Trees - The Town’s Work’s Department maintains mature trees including cabling, fertilizing, pruning, removal etc. The Town does not severely trim any tree unless required for safety purposes. The Town removes about 100 dead or damaged trees each year and replants approximately 200 trees. The Town has a tree reserve account of about $50,000 for special circumstance and is used only to augment the normal tree budget. The Park’s Department works with a local nursery and is able to obtain bare root trees at wholesale prices. Trees can be dug one day Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
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SERVICE CLUBS, SCHOOLS, CHURCHES, NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS and planted the next. These trees are also grown in the same climate as Goderich; therefore our loss of young trees is very small. The Town has a very proactive tree maintenance program. Large trees are looked after by the Works Department who has a bucket truck, chipper etc. The Parks and Works staff are well trained through ”in house” training as well as outside training and university courses. The smaller trees are planted and maintained by the Parks Department and volunteers. The Town has an IPM Program and this extends to trees. The Town will not spray large trees and will only spray small trees when absolutely necessary. The Town has identified several trees in the Town as heritage trees and regularly maintains and protects these trees. A new partnership is in place with Heritage Goderich to designate Heritage Trees under the Municipal Act in order to protect them. Several trees have been identified and the work is in progress. The harsh winter of 2014/15 was extremely hard on a number of trees both on public and private properties. The Parks staff has been working with homeowners to advise them on the best way to heal their distressed trees. Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
RESIDENTIAL AND CITIZENS AND COMMERCIAL/ INDUSTRIAL SECTOR
For over forty (40) years the Town has held an Arbor Day where the Town plants trees in the school yards and has tree planting ceremonies which include poetry and songs performed by the students from the schools. For the past twenty years, Union Gas has donated the trees. You will see the results of these Arbor Days by looking at the large number and variety of trees in our schoolyards. Beautiful tree carvings were created in Harbour Park to remember the trees destroyed by the tornado. This project was partially funded by the Goderich Lion’s Club. The Lower Maitland Stewardship Group holds educational workshops on woodlot management. The Menesetung Bridge Association has designated the Red Oak as a heritage tree. A demonstration woodlot project has been created at St. Mary’s school with co-operation of the School Council and the Town. It is a small plot planted to represent how a woodlot works with the smaller trees and bushes at the edge and the larger trees in the middle.
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Section 7
Section 7
Landscape Areas Design, Planting, Maintenance and Management Practices MUNICIPAL/PUBLIC PROPERTY: Goderich has 35 municipal parks from the smallest designated park in North America, the Octogenarian Park, to its largest, Agricultural Park which is 15 acres. Agricultural Park is the former site of harness racing, has horses stabled there and the track is used to exercise the horses. The park also has soccer fields and two baseball diamonds. The plans to re-design Agricultural Park are in the consultative stage at Council..
grasses are doing well. The currants are being replaced with willow and spirea. The currants are suckering and proving to be hard to maintain. The low gro-sumac has been removed as they are getting covered with sand.
Parkland/open space represents 30% of the total area of the Town. Many parks now have mixed perennial/shrub beds.
In 2016, a new Waterfront Master Plan is moving forward. www.goderich.ca/en/townhall/Waterfront-Master-Plan.asp for more information.
Goderich is very fortunate to have the commitment of time and money of many groups and service clubs including Goderich Lions, Goderich Rotary Club, Goderich Legion Branch 109, Kinettes, Goderich IODE, Goderich Knights of Columbus, Communities in Bloom and the Goderich Horticultural Society.
INSTITUTIONAL: The vision for the Main Beach is for a sustainable, commercial harbour, lakeshore and beach areas that contributes to the enjoyment and education of residents and tourists. The first phase of the project included an improved parking area, a beach house and plaza, a central spine walkway through the central civic green, and landscape improvements throughout the site. Phase Two – in consultation with The Planning Partnership and involving a number of community input meetings will begin shortly. The landscaping includes colourful displays of daylilies and daffodils, which provide accents throughout the landscape. The main central island in the parking lot includes hardy, salt tolerant shrubs, and two perennial display gardens to provide seasonal colour. Other areas surrounding the parking area include trees and shrubs that are tolerant of the salt conditions on the site, but also have showy flowers, such as forsythia, catalpa and serviceberry. Masses of ornamental grasses such as Huron Sunrise reed grass will wave in the wind to simulate the movement of water. In 2013, we began revamping the Main Beach Shrubs. Due to blowing sand and maintenance reasons old varieties are being removed and new shrubs planted. The daylilies, perennials and Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
The landscape is designed to survive the urban and industrial conditions of the site, while providing accents of colour and showy flowers to generate year round interest.
The Alexandra Marine & General Hospital, Historic Gaol and Library have extensive landscaping including green areas for special events. Gardens at these sites are planted and maintained by the Goderich Horticultural Society. The Livery Theatre has a flowerbed beside their building and a memorial rose garden that has been created to replace the previously existing shrub bed. This acts as a buffer between the parking lot and the sidewalk. This garden has been totally revamped for 2015 and has been named The Dorothy Wallace Memorial Garden. For many years the Harbour Hill garden has been planted and maintained by a group of dedicated volunteers from Communities in Bloom and the Lions Club. This garden has continual colour throughout the seasons. 2016 will see a complete rebuild of this landscaped area to remove aging shrubs, invasive goutweed and to stabilize the bank. The Water Treatment Plant has undergone an extensive landscaping renovation since the Town took over the site from the former Public Utilities Commission. The fence was moved back from the road to allow the trees to be visible, the barbed wire was removed and new trees and other planting s were installed in addition to an irrigation system to ensure water conservation as it operates at off-peak hours. This was a major renovation as approximately 6m tall evergreen trees were transplanted so the fence could be moved. The Dutch Fountain and the Tourist Information Centre have overflowing perennial beds carefully maintained by volunteers.
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Irrigation systems have been installed throughout the town.
and donated funds for tree carving projects in Harbour Park.
Refurbished Victoria Park has been transformed into a beautiful splash pad with a large playground installment that will cater to all ages. An ornamental grass, shrub and perennial design was installed to add colour.
The Hindmarsh Environmental Fund planted dune grasses at The Cove and have expanded this demonstration project to Main Beach.
COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL: The Business Improvement Area (BIA) has been in existence for over 25 years and contributes to improvement projects in the downtown core. Many businesses on The Square have added shrubs and window boxes to the front of their stores. The downtown parking lots have been screened by the use of shrub beds. Many businesses have developed flowerbeds on their properties and participate in our garden recognition programs.. Many of Goderich’s Bed & Breakfast Inns are wonderful garden ambassadors with front gardens overflowing with invitation and respite.
SERVICE CLUBS, SCHOOLS, CHURCHES, NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS: The Goderich Lions Club, Goderich Rotary Club and the IODE have consistently been strong supporters both in time and money to build and enhance landscaped areas throughout the Town. The Goderich Lions Club have re-constructed the stairs leading from Harbour Hill Road up to Lions Harbour Park
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The Dutch Community built a fountain to thank the community for the Canadian efforts in liberating their country during World War II. This has become a popular spot to take pictures. In spring there is a beautiful display of tulips and in summer, Communities in Bloom volunteers plant and maintain the gardens. The Dutch Community built a gazebo in the Dutch style to mark the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Holland. The IODE plant a garden depicting the Canadian Flag. This garden has a proud place at one of our main intersections.
RESIDENTIAL/CITIZENS: More and more residents are creating accent gardens in their front yards with flowers and shrubs on the boulevards. In 2013, the “Main Beach Gorilla Gardeners” was formed. Many Volunteers came out each year to weed the massive gardens at Main Beach.
GENERAL AREAS: The ditches at the entrance to the Town on Highway 21 north have been planted with crown vetch. The bluff stabilization program at the lakefront has utilized hardy grasses and low growing bushes such as Dogwood to maintain the re-graded slopes. Wildflowers are also being introduced to provide Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
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greater biodiversity and increase the habitat for wildlife. The Town and the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority with bio-engineering and conventional landscaping have undertaken to re-vegetate and stabilize the lake bank slopes, which were bare due to lake erosion. Goderich encourages the use of naturalization as a valuable landscaping tool. Several homeowners have created a natural area where they used to have turf. A homeowner on the lakefront has reclaimed a natural pond in front of his property that was removed when the road was built. This pond contains bull rushes, aquatic plants and is home to a wide variety of wildlife. A naturalized garden was created at the bottom of the Harbour hill as a demonstration for interested citizens. The Town uses and promotes Integrated Pest Management (IPM) through monitoring rather than chemicals to control pests and diseases by keeping the stock healthy; with mulching, watering, etc., this enables the stock to withstand the occasional infestation.
LANDSCAPE DESIGNS: The many park areas include a great amount of turf and ground cover areas which are maintained by the Towns Park Dept. Landscape architects are hired as new parks are developed or older areas are improved. When any landscape designs are submitted to the Town, these qualified staff looks them over and make plant selection changes if needed. Due to our environment and maintenance requirements tree and shrub selections are crucial. Geotextiles and wood chip mulch are used in many areas to deter weeds and reduce maintenance. Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
We have many constructed elements in our community. The boardwalk at the beach is a joint project between the town and Rotary Club. This area was landscaped as funds were obtained and groynes were built to protect the area. The steps from the top of the bank down to the Cove Beach have been replaced and include a bike rail for better beach access. Shrubs are utilized in areas such as Harbor Park, town parking lots and Rotary Cove. Great care is taken to make sure the ornamental characteristics are taken into account. Goderich is fortunate to have a great number of talented volunteers and professionals willing to assist in the design and selection of the plantings. The Communities in Bloom Floral Committee assists with selection of a theme, plant selection and garden planning. The committee attend at least one Flower Trial each summer for inspiration when planning next years’ gardens.
TREE PLANTING The Town provides trees free to town residents for planting in the boulevards. The residents choose from a pre-selected tree list and trees are planted by the Parks staff. The homeowner has a choice but varieties are limited due to height restrictions from overhead wires. Tree ID and care cards are given to home owners to help them maintain tree health.
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Section 7
SHRUBS Shrubs are used in a wide variety of areas such as berms around parking lots, separations between turf and paths such as in Lions Harbour Park and in commercial, industrial and residential areas. All new plantings are watered regularly throughout the growing season by Parks staff Rotary Arch and boardwalk plantings are pruned to promote flowering. Hedging at Harbour Park is trimmed to maintain density and form. Many low maintenance shrubs such as sumac, weigela and spirea have been used to reduce labour.
We have lawn seed blended for out soil conditions (30% Aberdeen creeping red fescue, 35% Shadow II Chewing fescue, 10% Aurora Hard Fescue, 15% IQ Perennial Ryegrass, 5% PoaTrivialis, 5% Sheeps Fescue – 100% Mixed) In 1998 the Town officially adopted the Healthy Plant Care Program (IPM) which is a system of regular aeration, over seeding; increasing the height the turf is cut, utilizing more fescue grasses and integrated pest management. This has resulted in healthier turf, less use of pesticides and less cost. This method was promoted to the community with a flyer that was prepared by a committee of citizens, environmentalists and our local lawn care professionals. No spraying has occurred since 2008. We continue to send Town staff to courses and further our education on IPM. TURF TYPES
TURF AND GROUNDCOVERS: MUNICIPALITY/PUBLIC PROPERTIES
There is a total area of 200 acres of turf in Goderich, consisting of 100 acres of cemetery lawns and another 100 acres of playing fields, boulevards and park areas. The mow and trim operation of the entire area takes approximately one week to cut with three (3) personnel at forty hours of actual mow time and another three (3) line trimmers doing all the fine trim work. We have a total of sixteen (15) Parks Staff made up of full-time, seasonal and part-time students. Depending on weather conditions the majority of work time is actual cutting time.
Most of our maintained areas now consist of Chewing Fescue, Red Fescue and Perennial Rye type of grasses. Kentucky Blue Grass is no longer planted IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
Over the past few years irrigation systems have been installed in our more used and prominent parks. There are now systems at the Dutch Fountain, Soccer Field, Lions Harbour Park, Court House Park, Water Treatment Plant and the 2006 re-development at the Beach. The Town follows its own water restrictions bylaw and the irrigation systems come on in the middle of the night when there is less demand on the water system. They contain a sensor that cuts the circuit if there has been rain.
FERTILIZING AND PEST MANAGEMENT
Three applications of fertilizer are used during the course of the season. These three applications will give three pounds of actual nitrogen for uptake by the grass plant. It is mainly derived of Mitorganite, which is high in organic iron and has many micro nutrients which help to build carbohydrates in the grass plant. The Town generally fertilizes in September to set the stage for the hardiness of the plant. This helps the grass to get ready for the dormant months to come. HEALTHY PLANT PROGRAM (IPM)
Goderich turf care: gypsum is added to tie up salts and help the pH levels. Agricultural Sulfur is added for disease control. We have fertilizer blended to meet the needs from the yearly soil tests (24-4-10 and 10-18-12)
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Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
Section 7
COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL SECTOR: Our commercial/industrial areas take great pride in the appearance of their places of business.
the integrated pest management strategy. This is accomplished by sharing turf information through various fact sheets and networking on areas of shared concern.
RESIDENTIAL/CITIZENS:
Home lawns are individually managed and cared for by the owners. The home lawn has great importance. It serves as a setting for the home, trees, shrubs and landscaping. It can provide great aesthetics as well as monetary value to a home and to the community. Each lawn is different and accentuates the many different architectural designs and areas in Goderich. In general our community works together with pride in keeping their lawns manicured. Private lawns experience similar effects from drought if they have Kentucky Blue Grass. The older homes did not have as much damage due to a larger proportion of native grasses.
HEALTHY LAWNS AND THE ENVIRONMENT:
The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) initiative by Lawn Care Professionals and supported by the Town of Goderich is providing healthier lawns for their customers with less reliance on pesticides. In addition to healthier lawns, the result is a better lifestyle for families and a healthier environment for all.
Some home owners have planted ground cover to reduce maintenance and the need for chemicals.
IPM is an ecological approach to plant health care based first and foremost on good horticultural practices. IPM operates within a framework of protecting human health, respect for the diversity of ecosystems and the protection of the environment. When pest problems arise, IPM aims to reduce and manage the pest populations rather than to eradicate them.
Residents, take great pride in the boulevard trees planted by the Town and Goderich Trees Volunteer group. They water, weed the tree rings and let Park staff know if they need additional attention.
Frequent monitoring of the lawn and careful diagnosis of problems are crucial to an IPM program. Proper cultural practices including mowing, watering, fertilizing, aeration and over seeding serve to minimize pest problems.
Watering restrictions are in effect from May-Sept. Homeowners only water on the days and times permitted.
IPM is a responsible and professional approach to maintaining a healthy, attractive lawn while respecting the health of people, pets and the environment.
The Town of Goderich has developed a mutually beneficial relationship with lawn care professionals such as the “Weed Man” to keep up to date with the turf technologies in support of
Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
Parks staff are sent to IPM courses put on by the Ministry and Landscape Ontario.
•
31
Section 8
Section 8
Floral Displays Originality, Balance, Colour & Environmental Initiatives MUNICIPALITY/PUBLIC DISPLAYS: DIVERSITY OF DISPLAYS
The town of Goderich uses a multitude of garden mediums including: flower beds, raised beds, planters, hanging baskets, carpet and mosaic beds. Flowerbeds are located throughout the town with particular emphasis placed on our gateway signs, Harbour Hill, Harbour Front, major intersections and the Tourist Information Centre.
In addition to these primary areas, flowerbeds are scattered throughout neighbourhoods and public parks creating a continuous flow of colour and interest. Raised planters are used extensively to provide colour and interest. The most noticeable are on the Square and West Street. Planters are also located on all of the traffic islands to add splashes of colour to the asphalt and concrete.
The Town encourages private citizens and businesses to plant and maintain flower beds on public boulevards at their own expense. Those that register with Communities in Bloom receive recognition with a sign indicating that the garden is maintained by the citizen or business.
Raised beds are used at Jubilee Park and the IODE Garden for added impact.
Over 35 volunteers assist Town Parks’ staff in the planting and maintenance of over 60 municipal flower beds and the construction and planting of new beds and gardens. The volunteers are given recognition with a sign in the garden indicating that the garden is maintained by the citizen or volunteer group and lists the plant material in the garden. Please see attached list. Sub 2 Master Garden List
In 2006 all hanging baskets were increased to 24”. This improvement decreases stress on the plant material, as the larger baskets more efficiently hold moisture. Also, the larger basket size creates a more striking and uniform floral display. 120 Baskets are hung around the Square. In 2013, an additional 50 baskets were added to the square courthouse park, 170 baskets in total.
As mentioned in the New Initiative section, Communities in Bloom has 3 volunteer and garden recognition programs . Tourism Goderich, in co-operation with the many restaurants, bed and breakfasts and other tourism establishments, actively promote Goderich and Ontario’s West Coast through multimedia advertising and extensive use of web sites.
The IODE Maple Leaf Chapter plants and maintains a mosaic garden depicting the Canadian Flag.
The planting of our town gardens is achieved through a cooperative effort. Parks Department employees prepare the gardens in the spring and community volunteers plant and maintain many of the beds thereafter. Every year summer students are hired to help with the ongoing maintenance of town parks and gardens including daily watering of hanging baskets and raised containers.
The Town encourages the active participation of all of its citizens in community programmes and events and recognizes the contribution of the Horticultural Society planting and maintaining flower gardens at the hospital, library, Historic Gaol and the MacKay Centre for Seniors.
Irrigation systems are gradually being installed to ease the burden of hand watering.
Local businesses are placing urns, flower boxes and other displays in front of their establishments.
The Harbour Front underwent an extreme facelift with the addition of curbs, walkways and lighting. The Harbour Front redevelopment continued in 2006 with the installation of irrigation, plant material, benches and mulch. Approximately 145 assorted trees, 669 shrubs, 1367 individual perennials, 279 grasses and over 2000 daffodil bulbs have been planted to create a most stunning floral display.
The BIA sponsors a number of projects and programmes each year including music in the park, hanging baskets and flowers, large ir on planters, banners on street lamps and pewter Christmas ornaments. Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
Kind neighbours allow hose hook up to water large flowerbeds that do not have sprinkler systems.
33
Section 8
DIVERSITY OF PLANTS
Annuals, tropical, vines, perennials and edibles have been used extensively throughout our gardens with specific attention paid to colour, height and texture. Many volunteers have utilized perennial plantings in our large flowerbeds citing ease of care and cost savings as important considerations. In the fall, bulbs are planted in some of our large flowerbeds giving them an early shot of colour in the spring. In 2012, over 5000 daffodils and tulips were planted down the beach hill and 500 tulips were planted at the Pillar Garden. Many of our gardens now play host to ornamental grasses giving them vertical height and winter interest. 2016 will see more edibles find their way into planters and town gardens. Extensive use of hardy shrubs and perennials is evident as you drive along the beachfront. Daylilies, yuccas, spireas and ornamental grasses embellish the roadside and island gardens. These plants are heat loving and drought tolerant making them excellent choices for the beachfront.
MAINTENANCE, QUALITY AND BEST PRACTICES
The garden crews at the Parks Department continue to use a premium perennial garden mix in all beds. Maintenance of town gardens falls on both the Parks Department and the army of CIB volunteers who avidly maintain their gardens with frequent weeding and deadheading. Initial inspection of annuals upon receipt from growers helps ensure a high level of quality. Expedient planting by CIB volunteers and faithful watering by the Parks Department ensures success. Soil testing enables park employees to amend the soil according to each garden’s requirement.
COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL SECTOR: Many businesses have incorporated window boxes and planters into their storefront displays while others have introduced gardens to their boulevards. A co-operative effort between The Shopper's Square Association and local artisan Jim Wallace was developed. Mr. Wallace designed and constructed window boxes in his signature iron work. These were available to businesses around the Square. Jim's window boxes continue to add continuity and beauty to the downtown core. Window boxes are purchased and planted by individual business owners. It is this same artisan who created the period fencing around Victoria Park and the benches and tables that grace Courthouse Square park. The Medical Centre has been landscaped with blue spruce, daylilies, spreading junipers, grasses, spireas, assorted perennials and hardy shrubs. An irrigation system has been installed, mulch added to the gardens and the parking lot paved. The Goderich Community Credit Union has recently landscaped their property; now the building is surrounded by lovely shrub gardens. It is also adorned with stunning hanging baskets. They are a true example of a commercial business working to make the town of Goderich a more beautiful place. A number of our commercial and industrial areas have been professionally landscaped and are maintained in the same fashion. Pride of ownership is evident throughout the town. Most apparent is in the industrial areas of town where considerable effort has been made to pave, sod and landscape in an effort to soften and beautify these areas.
CONTRIBUTION TO OVERALL FLORAL PROGRAM Local businesses have made a significant impact on the overall appearance of the town. By incorporating landscape plans on their properly keeping grass and shrubs trimmed and by planting pots and gardens of flowers these civic-minded businesses have helped make Goderich beautiful. From the smallest pot of flowers outside an entranceway to the largest boulevard garden the pride in being called Canada's Prettiest Town is most apparent. Any new commercial development within the town must include a landscape plan approved by the town.
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Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
Section 8
SERVICE CLUBS, SCHOOLS, CHURCHES, NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS Goderich is most fortunate to have a very strong CIB organization that has partnered with many local service clubs. The Lions and Lioness both maintain gardens within local parks and are an integral part of the planting and maintenance of several larger gardens in town. The Lions Club also generously supports our year end volunteer appreciation barbecue. In 2006, CIB was very pleased to have the Rotary Club join forces with them. The Rotary Club has long played an extensive role in the ongoing development, funding and maintenance of the park lands at the Rotary Cove. In addition, the Rotary Club adopted the forget-me-not garden and has committed to the planting and maintenance of this garden. The Goderich Lions Club plants and maintains the Harbour Hill gardens. The Horticultural Society plants and maintains gardens at the hospital and our local seniors’ centre. They recently embarked on a project to create a natural bog down at the Maitland Cemetery. The Kinette Club plants and maintains a garden at one of our busy business intersections. The IODE have two stunning beds, planted and maintained by their members. The Goderich Garden Collective plants and harvests vegetables which are donated to our two local book banks. Goderich CIB is fortunate to have the full support of many service clubs and organizations, thus enabling CIB to play an integral and essential role in the ever increasing public gardens that adorn Goderich.
RESIDENTIAL/CITIZENS: Boulevard gardens have been very strongly encouraged by the town and as a result there is hardly a street that does not have a boulevard garden. From naturalized settings to formal design our boulevard gardens run the gamut. Beds can be created on town lands but the homeowners are responsible for all preparation, cost and maintenance of these additional plots. CIB of Goderich has a floral committee made up of Parks staff and CIB volunteers. The objective of this committee is to select plant material for the community gardens playing close attention to colour, continuity, flow and site requirements. This committee is invited to attend annual Flower Trials with Parks staff.
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Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
35
Sub 1
Sub 1
Winter Life In the Town of Goderich From November through March, the Town of Goderich delivers many activities to keep our local citizens and visitors active and enjoying the outdoors. Winter life in Goderich is a great celebration because our service groups, municipal organizations and commercial enterprises all work together to initiate exciting opportunities. Goderich takes pride in ensuring people of all ages can experience locally the best winter has to offer.
HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS Our celebrations begin each November eleventh with Remembrance Day. Later in the month, there is an IODE Christmas House Tour. Then, our retailers offer the BIA Ladies Night, an evening of shopping for women only, with extras such as free gift-wrapping. Speaking of shopping locally, the Huron County Museum partner with local food producers, and crafters, to give us the Makers Market every Saturday morning in December. Continuing throughout the holiday season, many regional musical groups have concerts; the artists at the co-op gallery have a gala; and the Livery Theatre amateur actors keep the artistic holiday celebrations alive and flourishing with performances. The Municipality of Goderich arranges the Festival of Lights and the Santa Claus Parade as magical treats to complete the celebrations. REMEMBRANCE DAY involves local clergy, Royal Canadian
Legion Branch 109, the Goderich Laketown Community Band and the 532 Maitland Air Cadet Squadron. These groups participate in this longstanding, thoughtful, and wellattended event at our beautifully landscaped cenotaph.
IODE HOUSE TOUR is a favourite winter outing for town people and others from the surrounding areas. During this two-day event, you can see Christmas decorations that have been professionally arranged in six different homes each year. Many local businesses donate the decorations and tastefully display them. The money raised is used by the Maple Leaf Chapter IODE Goderich to improve the quality of life for children, youth and those in need. FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS takes place throughout Goderich
from the last week of November until January. Seasonal lighting displays are attached to lampposts on all the main arteries of the town including all eight entrances to the town square. Both Harbour Park and, the Court House Square, are filled with lights strung in trees, which compliment the freestanding displays. These displays can be viewed when riding in your car, or by walking amid the glittering lights.
Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
THE JOYS OF WINTER The Town of Goderich boasts a wide range of seasonal offerings that support extensive community participation in indoor and outdoor activities throughout the winter months. These include sports and recreation programs such as skating, curling, hockey, and sports’ competitions. As well, arts and heritage events and celebrations such as film festivals, local amateur theatre, and concerts occur. In February our celebration of winter, Winterfest is held. We are also pleased to offer a skating carnival, trail walks, wellness programs such as yoga and tai chi. WINTERFEST incorporates events both indoors and out with a broad appeal to young and old. This annual festival began almost 30 years ago. Ahead of the candlelit evening winter walk through our urban forest, many citizens take part in workshops to make colourful lanterns to display along the path. During the Winterfest weekend, a wide variety of activities are offered throughout the community including Goderich Makers Market with locally sourced produce and crafts, a Snow Pitch Tournament organized by our slow pitch teams, a full day curling bonspiel, the Make and Take Craft time, a lunch Chili Cook-off competition, entertainment throughout the town, a free family skate, and theatre presentations. “Snowflake Trail” scavenger hunt is held throughout the downtown businesses and ice sculptures that invite participation including a very popular luge track, a tic-tac-toe board, and an ice-log table for maple taffy making are constructed. The fun continues into the evening with a fireworks show and a Winterfest dance. This celebration of community involves partnerships between the Town of Goderich, business owners, and Huron County organizations such as the museum and library. As well, many community groups including the Maitland Trail Association, Goderich Makers Market local growers, Maitland Curling Club, YMCA Maitland Recreation Centre, Rotary Club, Children's Theatre Company, and Goderich Flyers Hockey take part.
37
Sub 1
YOUNG CANADA HOCKEY WEEK is hosted by the Goderich
Lions Club. This year marks the 67th Annual Young Canada Peewee Hockey Tournament. The community is proud of its broad spectrum of local sponsorship for this tournament that attracts many teams of boys and girls from Southwestern Ontario over a two-weekend competition. The tournament's success is testament to the many volunteers, players, coaches, parents and fans that love Canada's game of hockey.
GODERICH AND DISTRICT MARINERS' SERVICE is the annual event that pays significant tribute to the town's marine heritage. For over 100 years the Mariner’s Service has offered the opportunity for residents “to wish safe passage on the Great Lakes” and to remember those residents of the community lost in the Great Storm of November 1913. The 100th anniversary of Black Friday when stormy waters on Lake Erie sank four ships and took the lives of 51 sailors was marked in 2016. A very special tribute to our Great Lakes Heritage was made by the Goderich Laketown Band in their premier performance of “Songs of the Karegnondi” written by acclaimed composer Jeff Christmas. In addition, Goderich's male chorus, The Harbouraires made their 62nd musical contribution to this service.
MAITLAND TRAIL ASSOCIATION (MTA) hosts dozens of hikes and ski/snowshoe outings throughout the winter months. In addition, there is a weekly group, the Tuesday Trompers, which offer an opportunity to hike, ski or snowshoe near Goderich. The MTA encourages hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and nature study as a form of recreation along the network of trails. The trails are built largely on private land through the generosity of the landowners. For the community's enjoyment all winter, volunteers maintain over 80 kilometres of trail
COMMUNITY OUTREACH The Town of Goderich benefits from the many charitable and supportive efforts from a wide variety of community organizations and individuals. Throughout the winter months a variety of events and programs are scheduled as a result of volunteer commitment to the health and wellbeing of town residents. Many corporate and community organizations offer social support groups that aid socially isolated and 'at risk' residents. Food banks, meals such as Fishes and Loaves dinners offered at local worship centres, Christmas Bureau co-ordination, Hats and Mats Project and Healthy Kids’ Community Challenge are just some of the outreach programs in our area. WELCOME PROJECT is the Goderich community enthusiastically sponsoring refugee families over the winter months. Many volunteers focus their efforts on building relationships with the community to welcome both Sudanese and Syrian refugee families. The new members of our town have required education and basic skills programs, social and spiritual support, language introduction, integration into community life, housing, and transportation. Goderich has embraced these families through their fundraising and community capacity building opportunities to increase community awareness of refugees and their needs in a new country.
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Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
Sub 1
HURON COUNTY CHRISTMAS BUREAU is a donation funded, volunteer run program that has been helping families with children since 1967. The Bureau collects new clothing, new toys, gift cards and monetary contributions for children newborn to 18 years of age. Many local businesses give large discounts if items are being purchased for the Christmas Bureau. Every year, over 1000 children have a Christmas made merry through the community's generosity. Every child’s family is also offered a grocery gift card. The five distribution centres in the county co-ordinate families' needs through active volunteer commitment. The Christmas Bureau is independent, but it could not function without the support of the Huron-Perth Children's Aid Society. SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL volunteers ‘fill the
gaps’ that are not covered by other social programs. Their food hampers, gift cards, loan of medical aids such as a cane or walker, home visits and assistance with rent/hydro bills are custom-fit to ensure that each person is treated as the individual that they are. Wintertime and the Christmas season bring special opportunities to assist for example, a senior in hospital or a mentally challenged adult, who is alone. The soup pot is always on for anyone ‘to come in out of the cold’!
FISHES AND LOAVES meal program was started by Trinity Church, Goderich approximately eight years ago to help meet the needs of those lacking food security or dealing with social isolation. There are several partners in this program today. By working together, volunteering food and time, each taking responsibility for cooking a community meal, other people in our area look forward to socializing and sharing a meal every Tuesday evening. This free meal program is attended by all ages, from infants to grandparents. Everyone is welcome, whether struggling financially or for the opportunity to socialize and be among other people.
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Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
39
Sub 2
Master Garden List Goderich Communities in Bloom Gardens
40
#
GARDEN
VOLUNTEER
CONTACT# PLANT MATERIAL
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50
Highway 21 North Gateway Sign Salt Cairn Lions Club - Ken Hunter 524-8895 Lions Rock Stan Paquette - Lions Lions Lookout Lions Club - Ken Hunter 524-8895 Forget Me Not Rotary Club - Anne McCauley 524-6231 Historic Gaol Horticultural Society (George Sager) 524-6582 Cambria Road and Gloucester Parks Department Gloucester Terrace (Dancy 2) Parks Department Medical Centre Parks Department Hospital Horticultural Society 524-6582 Dancy’s Bank Moynihan Bench Patricia Moynihan-Morris 905-820-3446 St. Vincent & Bruce Street Shelley Peet, Karen Mero, Steve Machan 524-8895 Nelson and Waterloo Roger and Sandy Goddard 612-1236 McKay Centre Horticultural Society 524-6582 Tourism Information Centre Barb Allen 524-4658, 7475 Liberation Memorial Park John and Barbara Kane Meyers 524-6355 Tourist Information Sign 524-6572 Perennial Gardens at Tourist Booth 524-6572 Town Victoria Park annual bed Glenna Houston 524-4994 Nelson & Cambria Road Nelson Street Neighbours (B. Allen) 524-4658 St. George’s Garden Bev and Brian Jeffray Octogenarian Park Helen Riehl 524-8143 Trail Bench Parks Department Harbour Street Butterfly Garden Sandy Sowerby 524-8404 Mineral Springs Shrubs Parks Department Beach Street Gates Peter Spain 524-6936 Sampling Building Berm Parks Department Sampling Building Island Parks Department Northwest Chainlink Fence Garden Parks Depatment Sampling Building West Fence PD Boardwalk South of Beach Hut PD Red & Black Anchor Garden PD Ship’s Wheel Garden PD Beach Hut Garden PD Hosta Bed Marilyn Elgie and Marion Duquette 440-0019 Peace Garden Irene and Roy Straughan 524-7669 Curb beds at main beach PD Spirea Bed at Main Beach Shrubs at St. Christopher’s Beach PD Harbour Street Beach Garden Lion Club – Ken Hunter 524-8895 Chlorine Tank Gardens - Road Side PD Chorine Tank Gardens - Lake Side PD Gardens at Water Plant- Road Side Roy Straughan 524-6281 Gardens at Water Plant - Lake Side PD Weigela Bed PD Rotary Arch PD Shrub Beds at The Cove PD Garden at The Cove 524-8185 Shewfelt Garden @ The Cove PD 524-7669
Town Town Town Town Hort Society Town Town Town Hospital Town Volunteer Town Town Hort Society Town Town Town Town Volunteers Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town
Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
Sub 2
#
GARDEN
VOLUNTEER
CONTACT# PLANT MATERIAL
51 Scruton Garden PD 52 Harbour Street Rock Garden Lions Club 53 Harbour Park Lions Club (George) 524-6582 54 Lighthouse Park Janet Taylor 55 The Lighthouse PD 56 Lighthouse Street Anchor Mary Lou Matthias and Carolle Moore 524-6481/2792 57 Great Storm of 1913 Sherri Clark 524-7706 58 Lighthouse Street Hanging Baskets Marg Bushell 524-7734 59 NW Corner - West & Waterloo Glenna Houston 612-1952 60 SW Corner - West & Waterloo 61 NE Corner - West & Waterloo Dave and Doreen McConnell 524-8685 62 SE Corner - West & Waterloo Marilyn Elgie and Marion Duquette 440-0019 63 Town Hall John Hessels 64 Gazebo PD 65 Planters on the couthouse park PD 66 Cenotaph (2 beds) PD 67 Livery The Livery 68 Lighthouse St. Parking Lot Shrubs Parks Department 69 Library Sherri Clarke 524-7706 70 Waterloo, Elgin & Montreal Streets Janette and Doug Henry 612-1952 71 Elgin Avenue & South Street Kinnette Club – (Kim Edward) 440-0617 72 Elgin Avenue & South Street 73 Elgin Avenue & Stanley Street Goderich Gardening Collective - Amy Zoethout 524-5141 74 Lady Diana (Britannia & Bayfield) Sherri Clarke 75 NE Corner - East & Victoria Jean Merkley (Private) 524-1660 76 Moody Garden Erica Moody 524-7934 77 The Pillars Shelley and Rachel Peet 524-4393 78 Martha Street Commons Assoc. 79 Shrubs at Delbar Park 80 Jubilee Park Allyson Austin and Liz Redmond 81 Knights Park (Parsons Court) 82 Columbus Park PD 83 Southcove Garden Colleen and Hugh McGregor 84 Gateway Sign CIB Volunteers 85 YMCA 86 Cemetery Gates Ray Hurd 524-7883 87 Mosolium Parks Department 88 Soldier and Sailer Beds Parks Department 89 Columbarium Parks Department 90 Baby Cemetery Collins Family 91 Daycare Planter 92 Daycare parkette Parks Department 93 Fire Hall Planter 94 Elgin Island Beds Parks Department 95 IODE Park (5 Points) IODE (Mary Ellen Jasper) 524-4969 96 Planters on The Square Doug and Millie Bundy 97 Hamilton Street Planters Doug and Millie Bundy 98 Planters on West Street Doug and Millie Bundy 524-5972 99 Planters - Kingston & The Square Doug and Millie Bundy 100 Planters at the Five Points Parks Department 101 Planters - Britannia & Victoria PD 102 Planters - Britannia & Bayfield PD 103 Baskets inside PD 104 Baskets outside PD 105 Baskets on West 106 Baskets on Hamilton Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Volunteers Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Martha st. N/A Town N/A Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town
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Sub 3
Membership Pamphlet Handouts for Farmer's Market, etc
CIB Goderich Website www.goderichinbloom.com
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Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
Sub 4
Evaluation Grid Summary Communities in Bloom Goderich 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Tidiness Effort 116 points 139.5 139.5 N/A 132 135.5 136.5 Environmental Effort
104.25 points
134.25
132.5
N/A
136.5
136
134.25
Community Involvement 117 points N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Natural and Cultural Heritage Conservation
113.75 points
141.25
140.75
N/A
138
138
139.5
Tree/Urban Forestry Management
114.25 points
154.5
155.25
N/A
158
157.75
157.75
Landscaped Area 114.5 points 186.75 185.25 N/A 179 180 178.5 Floral Displays
118.25 points
159.5
161.25
N/A
160.5
160.5
161.5
Turf and Ground-covers 112.75 points N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Total Points out of 1,000 910.75
915.75
Mark
91.60% 91.45% N/A 90.85% 90.8 90.8
91%
914.5
N/A
905
908
908%
Blooms Awarded 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Award Recognition
2010
2011 2012
CONTEST
Circle of Excellence
Circle of Circle of Excellence Grand Grand Circle of Excellence Excellence non-evaluation Champions Champions non-competitive
Waterfront Management of Development Floral Program
SPECIAL
MENTION
CATEGORY Lighthouse
2013 2014 2015
Goderich Arboretum Recovery Prog. in Courthouse Tornado Square
Community Community Heritage Award Involvement of Gardeners at provincials Home Hardware "Mark Cullen for the day"
AWARD
Community Profile Book • Goderich, Ontario • 2016
First Community in North America to Receive the Gold Status
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GARDENS Goderich’s
Gardens Maintained by Volunteers
Gardens Maintained by Goderich Parks Department
Gardens Available for Adoption
Picnic Area
Picnic Area
Golf Course
Curling Rink
Hospital
School
Baseball Diamond
Library
Beach
YMCA Rec Centre
Free Parking
Marina
Tennis Courts
Historic Gaol
Medical Clinic
Place of Worship
Soccer Field
Splash Pad
Hockey Rink
Courthouse
HIGHWAY 21 NORTH TO KINCARDINE
HIGHWAY 21 NORTH
GLOUCESTER
NAPIER
B
HAR
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MONTCALM
U
GLO
IER
CAMBRIA
TH NOR
OUR
For more accurate & up-to-date locations of Goderich Gardens… Please see printed Profile Book NT
INCE
NORTH
TRAFALGAR
BRUCE
NELSON
LTO N
PICTON
PICTON
BRITANNIA
BRITANNIA
BRITANNIA
HORTON
TO RO N
NIA
TO
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PICTON
TON
ELGIN
ELGIN
PIC
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TAN
STANLEY
SOUTH
VICTORIA
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PARK
MA
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RD OX FO
HINCKS
WA LN
GIBBONS
CAMERON
KEAYS
MCDONALD
ELDON
ELIZABETH
WIDDER
WARREN
WELLINGTON
PALMERSTON
RY
MA
STRANG
S
SOUTH
NE
T
TILT
JONES
WA LNU
BAYFIELD
T OA S NC SU
MIL L
DELBAR
WALNUT
GIBBONS
DAWNROSE
ST
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SUN
S
LEE
BALVINA
MAC EWAN
BALVINA
BAYFIELD ROAD (HIGHWAY 21)
ELDON
KHROMER
SOUTH
YOUNG OAK
JOHN
VALERIE
SUNCOAST
)
SUNCOAST
BALVINA BETHUNE
WA Y8
BENNETT
UTH
HUCKINS
MITCHELL
MOONEY
BETHUNE
BENNETT
SO
BETHUNE
GH
DOOLITTLE BIELBY
SUNCOAST BRIMICOMBE
(HI
PARSON
WARREN
COMOX
RO AD
GE
LEONARD
RTH A
RID
RICH
SUNSET
RO N
MA
MB
BENNETT
BENNETT
HU WELLS
CHRISTINA
SHORE
BLAKE
CA
CATHERINE
BINGHAM
BLAKE
A
RTH
MA
BLAKE
LAKESIDE
ESSEX
ESS
PR
STONEHOUSE
CY
GE
WILSON
RID
MB
CA
RAGLAN
JO
LAKE HURON
EAST
COURTHOUSE SQUARE
LIGHTHOUSE
G UR
BO
CO
NEWGATE
BRI
WELLINGTON
ST. PATRICK
WEST
BROCK
AND
T
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AR
HA
S
GE’
RN
R
LBO
CO
OR
GE
MAITL
ST. ANDREW’S
NELSON
S T.
CAMBRIA
ST. V
ANGLESEA
ALBERT
IA
DON
CALE
WOLFE
VICTORIA STREET (HIGHWAY 21)
P NA
HIGHWAY 21 SOUTH TO BAYFIELD
Goderich, Ontario, Canada "Prettiest Town in Canada"
HIGHWAY 8 EAST TO CLINTON