“Citizens Must Reclaim the Rivers”
Brossard is so much more than a typical commuter town where it’s pleasant to shop. It is also a city blessed with magnificent bodies of water where a growing number of people congregate to partake in water sports. The Nautical Fest, taking place on July 4th and 5th at Radisson Park, is the perfect time for citizens to reclaim the river banks.
In Brossard, enthusiasts have access to the Seaway and St. Jacques River free of charge. These bodies of water cater to several activities: boating, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, water skiing and wake boarding and… perhaps one day swimming.
The Nautical Fest offers Brossard residents the chance to discover these aquatic treasures. Such is the hope of Richard Marois, Chairman of Accès fleuve ZIP Ville-Marie and Director General of the South Shore Nautical Station.
“We want to make sure that cities maintain public access to water sports,” explains Mr. Marois who nostalgically remembers the 50s when a beach hugged the River in Longueuil.
Mr. Marois recognizes the efforts Montreal and Longueuil have made for their beaches but also those of Brossard with the St. Jacques River. “Brossard is lucky to have this river and collaborates closely with the Conseil régional de l’environnement and our organization to promote access. There are several valiant initiatives in the Agglomeration but, in general, there is still work to be done.”
Water Sports: More than Just Boating
With constant developments in water sports, easy access is essential to ensure that enthusiasts flock to the riverbanks.
“Users of the St. Lawrence River are the best ambassadors to sensitize governments and encourage them to decontaminate certain areas of the River,” maintains Richard Marois.
Sense of Citizenship: the Basis of Cohabitation
Sense of citizenship is the golden rule to welcome small watercraft and boards to the Seaway according to Richard Marois.
“There is sensitization work to be done. We must all think about our actions and respect other watercraft.”
Michel Lajoie, manager of Enviro Kayak, believes that different activities can take place at the same time but has noticed that inexperienced recreational boaters can be reckless.
“Several municipalities prohibit non-residents from accessing the launching ramp, which makes the Léon Gravel Park ramp a hub for boat and PWC owners,” explains Mr. Lajoie. “More and more of them jet into the river without knowing that it’s prohibited. It can prove dangerous for kayakers, especially the children. It is also terrible for the river because it causes erosion and the muskrats are paying the price.”