Work is underway to restore the Nottawasaga Bay Lighthouse. Geoff Regan, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans was in Collingwood on Thursday August 18th to meet with town officials and to announce funding of $230,000.00 for the stabilization of the historic Nottawasaga Lighthouse. "I am extremely pleased to be able to contribute towards the preservation of our country's cultural legacies which is illustrated by landmarks like the Nottawasaga Lighthouse" said Minister Regan. "It is my objective, and the objective of my department, to work with all interested parties towards finding innovative ways to ensuring the ongoing preservation of our marine heritage across Canada" Regan added.

The Nottawasaga Bay lighthouse was one of the first of its kind to operate in Georgian Bay and was one of six imperial towers built between 1856 and 1858. A large portion of the outer protective wall fell to the ground last December, prompting Collingwood Harbourmaster Jim Kilgour and Collingwood Councilor Rick Lloyd to step up their efforts to secure Federal funding to speed up much needed repair work to the 32-metre stone tower.

As a part of the stabilizing work to be completed, a metal band will is being placed around the upper portion of the tower. In addition, loose rock will be scaled away, exposed inner rubble will be coated to prevent further deterioration and the space between the inner and outer walls will be sealed to prevent moisture from getting in.