Unity Island

Unity Island, in the Upper Niagara River, lost coastal wetland habitat due to both industrial development and the construction of docks, marinas, and water control structures. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers used 43,000 cubic meters of dredged sediment to create 2 hectares of emergent and submerged wetland habitat and reconnect 4 hectares of backwater habitat to the main stem of the Niagara River. This created a diverse native wetland plant community on the island, and has enhanced fish, reptile, amphibian and bird populations. This project has increased eco-tourism in the area and increased local property value.