Coastal wetlands along Lake Ontario are increasingly vulnerable to climate-driven water level fluctuations, invasive species pressures, and ongoing habitat degradation. At Lynde Shores Conservation Area, a multi-phase restoration initiative is underway to enhance wetland resilience through large-scale habitat creation, improved hydrological function, and targeted vegetation management. This presentation will highlight the planning and implementation of new wetland features designed to support fish habitat, increase interspersion, and provide climate refugia. A key component of this work is the strength of partnerships across conservation authorities, federal agencies, non-government organizations, and Indigenous communities. Collaborative planning has supported technical design, funding alignment, and long-term stewardship of the site. Although monitoring is not the primary focus of the current phase, the project integrates established coastal wetland monitoring frameworks to inform adaptive management and evaluate ecological outcomes over time. Lessons learned from project design, procurement, and implementation will be shared, with a focus on practical considerations for delivering large-scale restoration in highly valued public landscapes. This case study offers insights for practitioners seeking to advance resilient coastal wetland restoration through coordinated partnerships and applied science.
