In collaboration with the Town of Goderich’s Environmental Committee, the Rotary Club of Goderich contributed to bringing the newest water filling station to town.

New water filling stations were installed at the Wheelhouse and Tourist Booth in the spring. Goderich Rotary Club contributed with the most recent installation at the Beach Hut.

In addition to the Rotary Club, Huron Water Ltd. assisted with the sourcing process for new bottle filling stations installed at the beach.

Supporting the newest filling station Rotarian Ann McCauley said this is one of many initiatives to help reduce single-use plastics in the community.

“I thought it was a great collaboration and it adds to public awareness for the reduction of single-use plastics,” admitted McCauley.

“I thought it was a great opportunity for education and awareness that I approached the environmental committee for partnership.”

The Town of Goderich has developed and instituted the Environmental Action Committee, which is engaged in putting forward progressive policies and visions for the community.

Early last week Mayor John Grace officially opened the filling station at the Beach Hut alongside Rotary Club members.

“We have been working with the Rotary Club of Goderich on a single-use bottled water project,” he said.

Mayor Grace added that he believes the environment is at a critical stage across the world and said that with its location to Lake Huron and the shoreline, Goderich is no exception and needs to step up to make a difference.

“It’s about community pride, leadership, moving our community forward and creating a culture of environmental awareness and action,” added Mayor Grace.

“It’s our future.”

Council has recently approved a motion and will bring two more water refill stations to Goderich within the next year.

Additionally, Council has approved the purchase of two electric vehicle-charging systems, with plans to have one located at the main beach and the other behind Town Hall.

Council and the Environmental Committee have stated that they are committed to developing environmental awareness, action and change to the town.

In addition to the water filling stations in locations across town, there are limited, branded re-fillable water bottles available for purchase to limit the amount of plastic used at the beach and in the community.

Bottles are available for purchase at spots where filling stations are located, such as at the Tourist Booth, Beach Hut, Wheelhouse, as well as at Bluewater Cleaners.

Added to the list of refill stations planned for Goderich, it was recently announced that a water filling station would soon be added to Lions Harbour Park in time for the Celtic Roots Festival in August.