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Toronto's Paddle the Don May Return After Years Away
12 May
Summary
- Paddle the Don, a Toronto tradition since 1993, may return in 2027.
- Major flood protection and river restoration work has prepared the Don River.
- The event promotes watershed awareness and environmental stewardship.
Toronto is considering the return of Paddle the Don, a popular event that began in 1993. The city is asking the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) to explore reviving the tradition, potentially in 2027. This move follows extensive flood protection and river restoration projects in the Port Lands, which have created a new river mouth.
The event, which annually attracted hundreds of participants canoeing and kayaking along the Don River, was paused starting in 2020. Reasons for the hiatus included the COVID-19 pandemic, construction related to the Port Lands Flood Protection Project, and other operational, safety, and financial considerations.
Supporters highlight the event's unique perspective, blending Toronto's wildlife with its urban landscape, and fostering community. The Port Lands Flood Protection Project, a billion-dollar initiative, aimed to reshape the lower Don River into a more naturalized waterway, reduce flood risk, restore wildlife habitat, and enhance public access. Reviving Paddle the Don is seen as an opportunity to showcase these improvements.
