Dino Kubik : “River Society Revamps Wharves”

– River society upgrades century-old wharves
– Society plans enhancements to historic waterfront structures.

Accident – Death – Obituary News : A not-for-profit watershed group is currently embarking on a significant project to revitalize several historic steamboat wharves along the St. John River that have fallen into disrepair over the years. The St. John River Society has secured $970,000 in funding from the federal government’s Canada Community-Building Fund to restore and enhance its 13 century-old wharves situated along the river and near the Washademoak Lake.

The restoration work has already commenced, with recent upgrades completed at the MacDonald’s Point, Wickham, and Gerows wharves. Dino Kubik, the executive director of the society, highlighted the project’s objective of preserving these iconic structures for future generations to enjoy various recreational activities on the river, such as boating, paddling, swimming, fishing, and waterfowl hunting.

Kubik emphasized the importance of the ongoing efforts, stating, “We believe that the work we are undertaking now will significantly extend the lifespan of each of these wharves. Over the years, these structures have endured the impact of floods and ice runs, resulting in severe damage. Some of these wharves extend up to 100 feet into the water and are frequently struck by ice during the spring, causing the hardwood sheathing to deteriorate and the rocks underneath to be washed away.”

Originally constructed in the 1800s and early 1900s to accommodate steamboats that traversed the river, these wharves were later converted to concrete structures and transferred to community groups in the 1990s after being under federal government ownership. The St. John River Society is now taking proactive measures to restore and preserve these historical landmarks, ensuring they remain accessible to the public for years to come.

Kubik noted that while there may have been up to 50 such wharves at one point, approximately 30 to 40 wharves are still in existence, with many under municipal ownership. The society currently holds the deeds to several wharves, including those at Maugerville, Burton, MacDonald’s Point, Belyea’s Cove, Lower Cambridge, Queenstown, Lower Gagetown, Wickham, Hampstead, Kingston, Long Reach, and Public Landing. Efforts are underway to secure public easements for these wharves, guaranteeing continued public access regardless of ownership. One such easement has already been established for the White’s Bluff wharf in Long Reach.

Looking ahead, Kubik highlighted the urgent need for attention to be directed towards the Colwells wharf in Lower Cambridge, along with the Queenstown and Hampstead wharves, White’s Bluff wharf, and the Public Landing wharf. These aging structures represent vital community assets that have garnered increased interest from locals, especially amidst the current pandemic.

“The significance of these wharves to their respective communities cannot be understated, as they hold a rich history and serve as cherished gathering spots for residents,” Kubik stated. “Many of these wharves were at risk of falling into private hands following the government’s divestment, but the St. John River Society stepped in to secure their preservation and ensure continued public access. Through past funding partnerships with the provincial and federal governments, we have been able to carry out essential maintenance work. Our ultimate goal is to safeguard these wharves for future generations to enjoy and appreciate the beauty of the river.”

Stay connected and share this informative article across your social networks to raise awareness of the St. John River Society’s vital conservation efforts and the historical significance of these iconic steamboat wharves along the St. John River..

1. River society plans upgrades to century-old wharves renovation
2. River society upgrades century-old wharves restoration.