Lake Huron Forever hosted a successful One Water Gathering event on Friday, October 3, 2025, in Goderich, Ontario—bringing together Canadian and U.S. partners, foundations, municipalities, conservation authorities and environmental groups to strengthen collaboration and inspire waterrelated solutions across the Lake Huron basin.
This international event offered a full day of programming, learning, and connection focused on protecting water quality and supporting healthy, sustainable communities on both sides of Lake Huron. The day included presentations, networking, and a shoreline walking tour.
A highlight of the event was the celebration of the Town of Goderich becoming the first Canadian municipality to sign the Lake Huron Forever Pledge—a commitment to act towards a healthier Lake Huron ecosystem.
The pledge ceremony featured remarks from Mayor Trevor Bazinet and Deputy Mayor Leah Noel, with recognition to the town’s sister-city relationship with Bay City, Michigan, which
inspired Goderich to join this growing cross-border movement for Great Lakes stewardship.
Participants also took part in an engaging walking tour along the Goderich shoreline, where local experts showcased innovative approaches to protecting Lake Huron. Erin Gouthro of the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) opened the tour by discussing how healthy forests build resilient ecosystems. Daniela Klicper (MVCA) followed with an overview of the Southern Lake Huron Coastal Adaptation Strategy and the Goderich Sediment Restoration Complex, a pilot project using nature-based solutions to strengthen the shoreline.
Meredith Watson from the Lake Huron Coastal Centre shared findings from over a decade of plastic pollution data and highlighted the success of the annual Goderich beach clean-Up.
The tour concluded at the Town of Goderich Water Treatment Plant, where staff
outlined recent system upgrades and climate adaptation measures that helps to safeguard local drinking water.
The afternoon sessions inspired reflection on how closely our well-being is tied to the natural world. Dr. Justina Ray shared insights on the One Health approach, reminding participants that the health of communities depends on the health of ecosystems.
Attendees also learned about The Natural Edge, an initiative helping communities across Canada restore their shorelines and build resilience through native planting. Locally, this program has already taken root through a partnership with the Aki Guardians at Bagida’waad Alliance.
A lively ‘Lunch and Learn’ showcased local organizations working for a sustainable Lake Huron, and the day wrapped up with a friendly social at the Park House—a fitting end to a day centered on collaboration, connection, and care for the lake we share.
This event was made possible through the support of Lake Huron Forever partners and sponsors, including: Lake Huron Coastal Centre, Sunset Community Foundation, Community Foundation Grey Bruce, The Sustainability Project, Huron Pines, The Conservation Fund, Community Foundation of Northeast Michigan, Maitland Valley Conservation Authority, Huron Pines, Town of Goderich, Culberts, Dreamz Inn, and Cowbell Brewing Co. Special thanks to the Huron County Museum for providing an
excellent venue for the day’s programming.
To learn more about Lake Huron Forever, events and learning opportunities,
visit www.lakehuronforever.org and sign up for email updates.
