Why It Matters

Key Reasons to Protect Butternut Creek and 630 Gore Road

  • Butternut Creek, as of October 17th 2026, features as a “Wetland of Significance” in Ontario Government Mapping.*
  • The Creek and its adjacent forests are habitat for wildlife and migratory birds, and possibly for species at risk.
  • The Creek is a critical ecological corridor in Kingston’s East End.
  • According to a Conservation Authority report**, 630 Gore Rd is located on potentially and inferred karst features, which may create direct pathways between surface water and local aquifers, potentially affecting drinking water wells’ quality.

Potential Impacts of Development at 630 Gore Road

  • Lead to the loss of irreplaceable ecosystems and possible degradation to Butternut Creek, which is an environmentally protected area.
  • Fragment turtle habitat which may pose serious threats to local turtle populations.
  • Require new sewage infrastructure with pipe waste crossing the Creek, placing local water and aquatic ecosystems at risk.
  • Increase traffic congestion at the Waaban Crossing, Highway 15, and adjacent intersections.
  • Cost taxpayer dollars to build and maintain roads and other infrastructure in an area outside the urban boundary.

Footnotes: *Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. “Wetland.” Ontario GeoHub, 2026, geohub.lio.gov.on.ca/datasets/mnrf::wetland/about. Accessed October 17th 2026. **Cataraqui Conservation. File: OP/CKN/119/2025. June 24, 2025.