The pond at St. George Park has been a cherished part of the area's landscape, but after a condition assessment last year, staff have determined that its retaining walls have reached the end of their service life. The City of Welland is committed to listening, and we've heard your environmental concerns surrounding the removal of the pond.

The concept below was developed by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) and City of Welland staff; it was recently presented to City Council for information on February 25, 2025. A link to a recording of the General Committee meeting can be found here including the presentation from the NPCA and the accompanying staff report.

As part of the next steps in this project, and before another report goes back to Council for consideration, we're sharing this information with you to provide an opportunity for review and additional comments on the potential park redevelopment project.

The proposed wetland project would create 4.7 acres of new habitat, including:

• 1.6 acres of open water marsh with 0.86 acres of wetland buffer
• 2.24 acres of supporting habitat, including tree planting and upland habitat
• A maximum depth of 2 metres, with an average depth of 1 metre
• Approximately 500 metres of crushed gravel walking pathways

This project aims to enhance the ecological value of the park while ensuring long-term sustainability.

The key feedback from the first round of engagement highlighted the following priorities:

• A ground rink for skating or recreational hockey
• An open play space for activities like picnicking and informal games
• Natural green space with additional trees

Your feedback is invaluable, and your continued input will help guide the next steps in shaping an inviting and accessible space for everyone to enjoy.

Your voice matters in shaping the future of St. George Park, and we invite you to share your thoughts by completing the new survey below.

Please be aware the survey will close Friday, March 14 at 4 p.m.

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UPDATE

St. George Wetland Project Update

The City and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) are collaboratively working on the St. George Wetland Project. Detailed design has been completed, and the project has been issued for tender, with submissions closing on October 20, 2026.

As part of the planned work, the existing pond will be decommissioned. In preparation, trained professionals are currently undertaking fish salvage activities to safely relocate fish and other aquatic specimens to suitable wetland habitat within 5km of the project.

Fish salvage activities are being carried out by qualified professionals under an approved permit for the work. The salvage must be completed before October 15, 2026, ahead of the next stages of the project.

Further updates will be shared as the project progresses. Thank you for your patience and understanding as this work moves forward.