The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA), in collaboration with the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, is advancing a science-based initiative focused on improving understanding of the Four Mile Creek watershed and supporting informed decision-making related to flooding, erosion, water quality, watershed function, and future land use considerations under changing climate conditions.
The Four Mile Creek watershed drains a large landscape extending from the City of Niagara Falls in its headwaters through the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake before it outlets to Lake Ontario. The watershed area primarily consists of agriculture and two urban areas in St. David’s and Virgil.
The multi-year initiative includes several interconnected projects and activities designed to better understand watershed conditions throughout the Four Mile Creek watershed area and inform future actions to address impact of flooding and erosion, including:
- Enhanced surface water quality monitoring;
- Background characterization study;
- Geomorphic studies; and
- Floodplain mapping update
“This work is about reducing risk to people, property, infrastructure, and the natural environment - both now and into the future,” said Tara Gaade, Program Coordinator, Integrated Watershed Strategies, NPCA. “While the technical studies are complex, the outcomes are practical and will help partners improve flood resilience, protect and enhance watershed natural infrastructure, and inform stronger land-use planning decisions.”
“Four Mile Creek has been identified as a priority area for addressing flooding and erosion concerns, and we have heard the community’s feedback regarding the challenges in this area. The studies and assessments underway now and in the future will help guide informed, actionable solutions to better protect residents, infrastructure, and the natural environment.” - Kassie Burns, Climate Change Coordinator, Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
The initiative is being delivered collaboratively by the NPCA and the Town through a phased approach that will continue through 2029. Technical studies, environmental monitoring, and other scientific data collection currently underway will help experts better understand environmental conditions across the watershed and identify opportunities for proactive, long-term solutions.
"This project reflects what can be achieved when municipalities and conservation partners work together toward a common goal," said Leilani Lee-Yates, NPCA CAO & Secretary-Treasurer. "By investing in the health of our watershed today, we are helping to create a more resilient environment and a stronger community for the future."
The floodplain mapping project, water quality monitoring, geomorphic studies, and watershed characterization are all connected components of the broader strategy to support sustainable growth, climate adaptation, watershed health, and climate resiliency within the Four Mile Creek watershed.
Community input and local knowledge are also important parts of the process. Residents, landowners, and interested parties are encouraged to learn more and participate throughout the project.
You’re Invited: Public Engagement Session / Workshop
NPCA and the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake invite community members to attend a public engagement session/workshop to learn more about the initiative, ask questions, and share local knowledge and feedback.
Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Niagara-on-the-Lake Community Centre - 14 Anderson Ln, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
RSVP: Register to attend here.
To learn more, visit: getinvolved.npca.ca/four-mile-creek-watershed-plan
Additional project information and future engagement opportunities will be shared as the initiative progresses.
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About Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority:
As a community-based natural resource management agency, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority envisions a healthy and vibrant natural environment with shared greenspace and clean water for all. NPCA’s work supports the conservation, enhancement, and sustainability of healthy watersheds with programs and services that focus on drinking water source protection, flood and hazard management, ecosystem restoration, community stewardship, education, and land management.
NPCA is the caretaker of 43 conservation areas within the Niagara Peninsula watershed held in public trust for recreation, heritage preservation, conservation, and education. These natural and shared greenspaces marry nature, culture, and adventure to create limitless opportunities for discovery.
For more info on NPCA: www.npca.ca
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Media inquiries should be directed to:
Jennifer McQuillan
Communications & Marketing Specialist
jmcquillan@npca.ca
905-933-0532