Dear Friends of Kingston Inner Harbour
Crows are simply so amazing! And Hilbert’s friendships with all of Belle Island’s creatures is also so amazing. Have a look at this fascinating new use of AI to understand the way crows communicate.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KG9GdpV4adU
And thanks Crow Watch KIngston on FB for the pic. Not sure whose it was. Sorry not to have acknowledged.
Also, have a look at Aerosnapper’s recent video of progress on the new housing development on the eastside of the river in the old quarry. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8WP2HwNWgOs
And, finally, it looks as if our long-term wishes for a stand-alone “Fourth Crossing” multi-use bridge will not happen. Instead, the city will integrate it with the new car bridge over the railway at Division and John Counter. See map of study area above. Sadly, there is always more money available for cars than parks and trails – despite the fact that survey after survey shows that citizens would be willing to pay more taxes for more money put into parks and trails! But better something than nothing!
LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, AND ISSUES
1. New K&P Pedestrian and Cycling Crossing at Division and John Counter to be Tied to New Car Bridge
2. Gather, Connect, and Celebrate for Free at Select City of Kingston Facilities
3. Providence Care, University Hospitals Kingston Foundation Announce Completion of Kingston’s First Hospice House
4. Feds Announce over $3.4 Million Investment in Eastern Ontario Life Sciences Sector
5. New Public Art Opportunity to Add Vibrancy to Downtown Kingston
6. Winter Parking Ban in effect until Friday, March 7
7. Coalition of Kingston Communities Recent Public Report on City’s Openness and Transparency
8. Multi-Sport Facility to open in East End in late 2026
FROM FARTHER AFIELD
9. Petitions to Block Musk’s Canadian Citizenship and Refuse Trump’s Entry to Canada
10. High Levels of Microplastic Particles – Great Lakes Watchdog Calls for Canada and US to Act
11. Film Explores “Human Tenacity” in saving Great Lakes from Sea Lamprey
12. Michigan Appeals Court Upholds Permits for Great Lakes Pipeline Tunnel Project
13. Use of Unauthorized Chemicals for Ballast Water Management Systems
14. Canadian Youth Climate Action Award
OF GENERAL INTEREST AND FOR FUN
15. Indoor Growing Guides for Chocolate, Lemon, Lemongrass, Ginger and Turmeric
16. Great Lakes Museum Free March Break Fun
17. 25 Things to Do in Kingston in March
18. Conservative Accusations about Carney
19. The Maps behind our Hard-Hitting Campaigns
20. Arctic Territories Unite Against U.S. Annexation Threats
21. Canada’s Disaster Funding Finally Embraces “Build Back Better.”
LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, AND ISSUES
1. New K&P Pedestrian and Cycling Crossing at Division and John Counter to be Tied to New Car Bridge
Received from the City of Kingston, Feb 21, 2025
– Danny Potts, Project Manager
The Study
The City of Kingston initiated this study to identify alternative solutions for a new pedestrian and cycling crossing over John Counter Boulevard and the CN Rail line. This crossing is expected to provide a north-south connection for the existing Kingston and Pembroke Trail (K&P Trail) between Division Street and Elliott Avenue. The Study Area is illustrated on the Key Map above. The need for this crossing was identified in the City’s Active Transportation Master Plan (ATMP), and the initiation of this study was committed to in the City’s Five-Year Active Transportation Implementation Plan (ATIP).
Study Area Key Plan
The Process
The study was conducted in accordance with Schedule ‘B’ of the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) process. It confirmed and documented the existing conditions of the study area and identified alternative solutions that best support a potential new pedestrian bridge crossing. A Project File Report (PFR) has been prepared in accordance with the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment process (October 2000, amended in 2023).
Preferred Alternative Solution
Based on the findings of the study and extensive consultation with agencies, stakeholders, First Nations, and the public, City is proposing to replace the Division Street Bridge and improve active transportation facilities by enhancing connectivity, safety, and overall quality of life for residents of Rideau Heights and Kingscourt Communities, as well as K&P Trail users.Improving active transportation along John Counter Boulevard will also provide a safer, more efficient route, with the potential for an elevated MUP/Trail that separates pedestrians and cyclists from vehicular traffic, enhancing safety and K&P Trail connectivity.
Project File Report
The PFR is being placed on public record for a 30-day review period from February 21 to March 24, 2025. The PFR is available for review through the ‘Get Involved City of Kingston’ website (https://getinvolved.cityofkingston.ca/) and on www.cityofkingston.ca.
If you have any questions, comments or concerns regarding this study, please contact one of the Project Team members below by March 24, 2025:
Danny Potts Project Manager, Transportation / Transportation Infrastructure City of Kingston 216 Ontario Street, Kingston, ON, K7L 2Z3 613-546-4291, ext. 3186 dpotts@cityofkingston.ca
Lisa Marshall, P. Eng. Consultant Project Manager Egis 750 Palladium Dr, Suite 310 Kanata, ON K2V 1C7 1-613-714-0815 lisa.marshall@egis-group.com
In addition, a request may be made to the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks for an order requiring a higher level of study, or that conditions may be imposed, only on the grounds that the requested order may prevent, mitigate or remedy adverse impacts on constitutionally protected Aboriginal and treaty rights. Requests on other grounds will not be considered.
Requests should include the requester’s contact information and full name for the ministry. Requests should specify what kind of order is being requested, how an order may prevent, mitigate or remedy those potential adverse impacts, and any information in support of the statements in the request. The request should be sent in writing or by email to the project contacts noted above and the following:
Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks 77 Bay Street, 5th Floor Toronto, ON M7A 2J3 Minister.mecp@ontario.ca Director, Environmental Assessment Branch Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks 135 St. Clair Ave. W, 1st Floor Toronto, ON M4V 1P5 EABDirector@ontario.ca
2. Gather, Connect, and Celebrate for Free at Select City Facilities
Received from the City of Kingston, Feb 21, 2025
| As part of the City’s new Free Space Initiative, ethnocultural, community and neighbourhood groups can now book rooms in three City of Kingston recreation facilities free of charge. The initiative emerged out of a Council motion in May 2024 directing staff to coordinate a pilot program to make underused municipal recreation spaces available to emerging ethnocultural groups in Kingston to support their growth as community organizations. The two-year pilot project, launching Feb. 21, 2025, was endorsed by City Council at its Feb. 18 meeting. “I am incredibly proud to witness Kingston take a significant step towards providing greater access for both emerging and established ethno-cultural community organizations to celebrate their heritage, build meaningful connections, and share their traditions,” says Jimmy Hassan, Trillium District City Councillor. “As I mentioned when I first presented this motion to Council in May of 2024, this Pilot Program is more than just a space—it’s a commitment to creating a safe, inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to celebrate their diversity, forge new friendships, and contribute to the rich tapestry of our community.” This initiative is propelling Kingston forward as a progressive leader not only in Ontario but across Canada.” “I want to thank City staff and the EDI Advisory Committee for their dedicated work and consultation on this program,” adds Hassan. “With the creation of the new Free Space Initiative, Kingstonians now have an inclusive and welcoming space that meets the diverse needs of our vibrant community.” “The intent of the Free Space Initiative is to build capacity for community groups to gather, connect and strengthen relationships,” says Ruth Noordegraaf, Director of Community Development & Wellbeing and IIDEA (Indigenization, Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility). “Staff have been supporting previous space requests through other existing City programs; we’re pleased to launch the initiative to make these spaces more accessible to both emerging and existing groups.” Groups can book space in the following facilities pending availability: Artillery Park Aquatics Centre (382 Bagot. St.)Matthew Cahill GymnasiumMulti-purpose RoomRideau Heights Community Centre (85 McCauley St.)Multi-purpose RoomLarge HallMeeting roomsFull gym and half gymKitchenCataraqui Community Centre (1030 Sunnyside Rd.)Sunnyside HallCloverdale HallGroups looking to book a community space for a free event, program or meeting that aims to strengthen community connections in Kingston are encouraged to apply. The event, program or meeting must align with the City of Kingston’s commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Advance booking is required to accommodate other requests and scheduled programming. View the full program guidelines and requirements on the Free Space Initiative webpage. https://www.cityofkingston.ca/activities-and-recreation/community-access-programs/free-space-initiative/ How to apply Interested groups can apply online through Mykingston.ca. If you need the application in an alternate format, please contact us by phone at 613-546-0000 or by email at ContactUs@CityofKingston.ca. 3. Providence Care & University Hospitals Kingston Foundation Announce Completion of Kingston’s First Hospice House Received from the Kingstonist, Feb 26, 2025 Editor’s Note: In brief, Kingston area residents needing hospice care will soon be welcomed at the newly named AB Smooth Homestead House on the grounds of Providence Village Full article: https://www.kingstonist.com/news/providence-care-uhkf-announce-completion-of-kingstons-first-hospice-house/ 4. Feds Announce over $3.4 Million Investment in Eastern Ontario Life Sciences Sector Received from the Kingstonist, Feb 20, 2025 – Michelle Dorey Forestell Editor’s Note: In brief, the money will offer the Kingston Life Sciences and Helix Funding Initiatives and establish a new wet lab space at Providence Care Hospital Full Article: https://www.kingstonist.com/news/feds-announce-over-3-4-million-investment-in-eastern-ontario-life-sciences-sector/ 5. New Public Art Opportunity to Add Vibrancy to Downtown Kingston Received from the City of Kingston, Feb 24, 2024 The City has launched a call for a new, permanent public artwork located in the heart of downtown Kingston and is seeking Expression of Interest from Kingston and surrounding area-based artists and artist teams. The artwork will be installed on the exterior of the Robert Bruce Memorial Parking Garage on Bagot St., between Brock St. and Princess St. The new public artwork will be installed across 10 flat concrete panels on the second level of the garage and will be visible from street level. Once completed, the artwork will become a permanent addition to the City’s Civic Collection. “This parking garage is in the centre of a highly visible location next to the public transit transfer point in downtown Kingston,” says Danika Lochhead, Director of Arts and Culture Services with the City of Kingston. “With so much activity, movement and gathering of people along those streets, it’s an ideal location for a public artwork that celebrates the character of the area and creates a sense of connection and community.” The selection of the artist and artwork will be made following a two-stage process. A Selection Panel made up of citizens, local artists and arts professionals will shortlist three artists or artist teams to submit a detailed proposal. There will be an opportunity for public engagement and feedback on the shortlisted proposals before an artist and artwork is selected for installation. The deadline to submit an Expression of Interest is Friday, March 28, 2025 at 5 p.m. A virtual Artist Information Session will be held online on Friday, March 14 at 2 p.m. where an overview of the project will be provided. Advance registration is required through contacting PublicArt@CityofKIngston.ca by March 11 at 5 p.m. Interested artists can view the project details and online application form for Expressions of Interest at CityofKingston.ca/ArtistOpportunities 6. Winter Parking Ban in Effect until Friday, March 7. The ban on overnight on-street parking in Kingston will remain in effect due to extended snow cleanup and forecasted winter weather. The ban will be in effect until Friday, March 7, at which time the City will re-evaluate snow removal operations and weather conditions. While the ban is in place, parking on all city streets is prohibited between the hours of 1 a.m. and 7 a.m. and from 12 a.m. to 7 a.m. on the streets that surround Kingston General Hospital. Vehicles parked on the street overnight during a ban are subject to being ticketed or towed. The ban will remain in place until the City deems it no longer necessary. When the ban is revoked, notice will be posted on our website and social media. For Updates? https://www.cityofkingston.ca/roads-parking-and-transportation/parking/winter-parking/ 7. Coalition of Kingston Communities Recent Public Report on City’s Openness and Transparency Editor’s Note: In brief the following grades were assigned: Opportunities for the Public to Provide Input: Grade: C- Continuing Erosion of Public Involvement: Grade C- Follow-through on Council Decisions: Grade C Action on the Challenges of Climate Breakdown: Grade D Do have a look at the reasons for these sad grades! Coalition’s Conclusions: The Coalition’s annual assessments of the City’s commitment to transparency and accountability have indicated a consistently downward trend. • We consider 2024 to have been a year of further decline, exemplified by the new procedural bylaw that shows disrespect for the people to whom Council are accountable. Further work directed by Council for 2025 threatens only to exacerbate this. • This would be troubling enough in a healthy global democratic environment. However, democracies at all levels around the world are under attack from forces which are sowing mistrust in democratic institutions. In Kingston this is enabled by a failure to demonstrate a genuine commitment to opportunities for public input or to follow through on important commitments such as mitigating climate breakdown. Full Report: https://coalitionofkingstoncommunities.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/report-on-city-government-2024-2feb2025.pdf 8. Multi-Sport Facility to open in East End in late 2026 Received from the Kingstonist, Feb 25, 2025 – Bill Hutchins and from kingstondaily.ca Editor’s Note: This will be an $18 million to $20 million enclosed turf field in the city’s east end located on 4.4 acres of land at 735 Innocation Drive in the St. Lawrence Business Park to be built by the Kingston Multisport Investment Group Ltd. (KMIG) Chasing the victory: Kingston investor aims to open city’s newest multi-sport facility in late 2026 – Kingston News New indoor sports facility coming to Kingston – Kingston Daily FROM FARTHER AFIELD 9. Petitions to Block Musk’s Canadian Citizenship and Refuse Trump’s Entry to Canada Received from Martine Bresson, Feb 26, 2025 -Thanks Martine Block Musk’s Canadian Citizenship – Petition e-5353 – Petitions Refusing Donald Trump Entry to Canada – Petition e-5345 – Petitions 10. High Levels of Microplastic Particles – Great Lakes Watchdog Calls for Canada and US to Act. https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/high-levels-of-microplastic-particles-great-lakes-watchdog-calls-for-canada-and-us-to-act/ar-AA1zdXe4 |
February 17, 2025. Scientists advising a cross-border organization that reports on Great Lakes water quality are calling on the U.S. and Canadian governments to designate microplastics a Chemical of Mutual Concern under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, and improve monitoring and risk assessment for them. Microplastics, measuring under 5 millimeters in length – or smaller than a pencil eraser – are considered a pervasive problem in the Great Lakes.
11.. Film explores ‘human tenacity’ in saving Great Lakes from sea lamprey, WDIO, February 17, 2025. A new film explores the massive effort on the part of scientists, governments, and small businesses to save the Great Lakes from the invasive sea lamprey. “The Fish Thief” was released on January 31. In the 1920s, the lamprey accidentally swam into Lake Erie through shipping canals. By 1940, they were in Lake Superior and threatening commercial fishermen’s way of life. 12. Michigan appeals court upholds permits for Great Lakes pipeline tunnel project, WXYZ Detroit, February 20, 2025. Enbridge Energy’s plans to build a protective tunnel around an aging pipeline that runs beneath a channel connecting two Great Lakes can continue, a Michigan appeals court ruled. The state Public Service Commission properly issued permits for the $500 million project, the Michigan Court of Appeals ruled Wednesday in rejecting arguments from environmental groups and Native American tribes that commissioners failed to consider the overall need for the pipeline.
12. Michigan appeals court upholds permits for Great Lakes pipeline tunnel project, WXYZ Detroit, February 20, 2025. Enbridge Energy’s plans to build a protective tunnel around an aging pipeline that runs beneath a channel connecting two Great Lakes can continue, a Michigan appeals court ruled. The state Public Service Commission properly issued permits for the $500 million project, the Michigan Court of Appeals ruled Wednesday in rejecting arguments from environmental groups and Native American tribes that commissioners failed to consider the overall need for the pipeline.
13 Use of Unauthorized Chemicals for Ballast Water Management Systems, United States Coast Guard News, February 20, 2025. The Coast Guard has been made aware of instances of the use of unauthorized chemical products in Ballast Water Management Systems (BWMS). Companies and vessels must ensure they use chemicals that are listed in the Operations, Maintenance, and Safety Manual (OMSM) for their particular BWMS. Use of the incorrect chemical product for treatment invalidates the type approval for the BWMS and could result in ineffective treatment.
14. Canadian Youth Climate Action Award
Received from Pivot Green (Heather Wilson) via Jerri Jerreat, Feb, 14, 2025
Hello, past recipients of the Canadian Youth Climate Action Award!
This year, we have again collaborated with the Small Change Fund to offer the Canadian Youth Climate Action Award to celebrate youth-led climate action projects.
We know there are more great projects like yours out there that we would like to identify, celebrate, and amplify for the benefit of the wider community. We would appreciate it if you could share the information about our award with your networks.
If your group has a new initiative, please feel free to submit an application for the 2025 award. The guidelines and application form for the Canadian Youth Climate Action Award are on our website. The deadline is March 17, 2025, and we will announce the winners on April 15, 2025.
We would also love to hear from you by providing an update on your projects. We would love to know what receiving the award meant to you and your organization.
If you have any questions, I would be happy to answer them. Please feel free to reach out to me at 416.276.9015 or by replying to this email.
Heather Wilson
Founding Member, Pivot Green
OF GENERAL INTEREEST AND FOR FUN
15. Indoor Growing Guides for Chocolate, Lemon, Lemongrass, Ginger and Turmeric
Received Feb 24, 2025
ashleyadamant@substack.com
16. Great Lakes Museum Free March Break Fun
Received from the Great Lakes Museum, Feb 27 – Claire Notman, Visitor Experience Manager
Dive into the Great Lakes Museum this March Break for some fin-tastic experiences! From Monday, March 10th through Friday, March 14th, search the galleries for hidden surprises, discover what’s living in the Great Lakes, and learn about the power of steam. This family-friendly event is cost free.
We are pleased to be hosting special guest workshops from:
- LodgePole Arts Alliance – lodgepolearts.ca
- Kahwá:tsire Indigenous Programs – mbq-tmt.org/kahwatsire-indigenous-led-child-and-family-programs
- Paddling Puppeteers Registration is required for the Paddling Puppeteers event. Follow this link to save your spot at docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FApQLSel4cb4j7lMontnz75u5sG87usVnJeQ7gKb0u0llw_BPlfpwyA/viewform
Visit www.greatlakesmuseum.ca for the full schedule.
17. Twenty-five Things to Do in Kingston in March
https://www.visitkingston.ca/category/top-25-things-to-do/
18. Conservative Accusations about Carney
Editor’s Note: I don’t normally dive into federal party politics.
This is a first and last! Couldn’t resist!
Both received from colenotcole@substack.com
The Conservatives have recently accused Mark Carney of relocating “his company” from Toronto to New York, claiming he prioritized profits over Canadian jobs. However, this accusation lacks context. Here’s the breakdown:
- Brookfield Corporation, the parent company of Brookfield Asset Management, remains headquartered in Toronto.
- Brookfield Asset Management moved its headquarters to New York to access a larger investment pool, but this was largely a paper move.
- No Canadian operations or jobs were affected. The Canadian office remains fully operational, just as the New York office was before the move.
With over 250,000 employees worldwide, Brookfield’s decision was strategic, not anti-Canadian. The Conservative narrative seems to be more about scoring political points than presenting the full picture.
Conservatives’ Carbon Tax Ambiguity Raises Questions.
One intriguing moment from today was when Conservative MP Michael Barrett was asked whether a Conservative government would remove the industrial carbon price. Notably, he refused to give a straight answer.
This raises an important question: If the Conservatives have been chanting “Axe the Tax” for two years, why won’t they clarify whether that applies to industrial carbon pricing as well? It seems Pierre Poilievre’s criticism of Mark Carney’s “sneaky” carbon tax might actually reflect his own party’s ambiguity.
If the Conservatives plan to keep the industrial carbon pricing system, they’ll need to explain why it’s necessary for trade with major global economies. If they plan to scrap it, they’ll have to justify the potential economic consequences. Either way, their lack of clarity is concerning.
18. What is Nitrate Pollution, and How Does it Affect Drinking Water
Received from Forloveofwater.org, Feb 27, 2025
Published on February 25th, 2025 by FLOW Editor – Blog Posts
Nitrate pollution might not be a familiar term, but it could be affecting your drinking water more than you realize. Nitrates are a naturally occurring form of nitrogen found in soil and water, but human activities, particularly industrial agriculture, have significantly increased nitrate levels in rivers, lakes, and groundwater. This invisible, odorless, and taste-free contaminant poses potential health risks, making it an important issue for communities that rely on these water sources.
Where does nitrate pollution come from?
One of the biggest sources of nitrate pollution is agriculture, particularly from Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs). These large-scale livestock farms produce massive amounts of manure, which can seep into groundwater or run off into nearby rivers and lakes. Other sources of nitrate pollution include:
- Fertilizers – Fertilizers used on crops can leach into groundwater, especially after heavy rains.
- Septic Systems – Poorly maintained septic tanks can release nitrates into the surrounding soil and water.
- Industrial Wastewater – Some industrial processes release nitrogen-based compounds that contribute to pollution.
How does nitrate pollution impact drinking water?
Nitrate pollution was once thought to be a human health risk primarily for “blue-baby syndrome.” High levels of nitrates in drinking water can convert hemoglobin (which carries oxygen) into methemoglobin (which does not carry oxygen), causing the baby’s skin to turn bluish from lack of oxygen.
But recent studies have expanded our understanding of the health risks associated with nitrate-contaminated drinking water, revealing potential links to various cancers. Research indicates that long-term exposure to elevated nitrate levels may increase the risk of thyroid cancer. For example, a study published in Epidemiology found that women who consumed water with average nitrate levels exceeding 5 mg/L for more than five years had a 2.6 times higher risk of developing thyroid cancer – even though these levels are below the federal limit of 10 mg/L.
Further research has suggested associations between high nitrate intake and other cancers. The National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Trends Progress Report notes modest evidence linking higher nitrate consumption to an increased risk of thyroid and ovarian cancers in women. A study in the Environmental Research journal estimated that nitrate pollution in U.S. drinking water could be responsible for over 12,500 cancer cases annually, including colorectal, ovarian, thyroid, kidney, and bladder cancers. 
These findings underscore the need to re-evaluate current nitrate standards in drinking water to better protect public health.
What can be done about this problem?
Preventing nitrate pollution starts with better agricultural practices, improved waste management, stronger water protections, and enacting and enforcing effective environmental laws. Individuals can also take action by testing their well water, supporting policies that reduce agricultural runoff, and supporting legislative efforts aimed at reducing nitrate pollution.
Nitrate pollution may be invisible, but its effects on drinking water are real. Raising awareness is the first step toward cleaner, safer water for everyone.
19. The Maps Behind our Hard-Hitting Campaigns
Received from the Wilderness Committee – Cedar George Parker, Tsleil-Waututh Nation Land Protector
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nk-eCD4DeAI
20. Arctic Territories Unite Against U.S. Annexation Threats
Received from Canada’s National Observer, Feb 27, 2025
https://www.nationalobserver.com/2025/02/27/news/arctic-territories-us-annexation-threats?utm_source=National+Observer&utm_campaign=9b91ad4045-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_02_27_01_02&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_cacd0f141f-9b91ad4045-277300613
21. Canada’s Disaster Funding Finally Embraces “Build Back Better”
Received from Canada’s National Observer, Feb 27, 2025
In an era when climate change is intensifying the frequency and severity of many natural hazards, Canada’s recent overhaul of the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) program is a much-needed and forward-thinking step that will contribute to proactive disaster risk reduction.
The changes, announced by Public Safety Canada on January 29, 2025, and taking effect on April 1, mark a significant departure from the limited, reactive, disaster-focused approach of the past which failed to address climate change.
By facilitating climate resilience-building measures, addressing the intangible impacts of disasters, and prioritizing preventative disaster risk reduction for vulnerable populations, the revamped DFAA program better positions Canada to confront its changing ‘hazardscape.’
Full article: https://www.nationalobserver.com/2025/02/27/news/arctic-territories-us-annexation-threats?utm_source=National+Observer&utm_campaign=9b91ad4045-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_02_27_01_02&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_cacd0f141f-9b91ad4045-277300613
22. Making Shiny Rocks Without a Tumbler
Received from Little Pine Learners, Feb 26, 2025
https://littlepinelearners.com/how-to-make-rocks-shiny/
So there we are so far for March.
Cheers,
Mary Farrar, President,
Friends of Kingston Inner Harbour