What is Pelee Island's geographical significance within Canada?

Pelee Island is notable for being the southernmost populated point in Canada. It is also the largest island in Lake Erie, covering an area of 42 square kilometers (16 square miles).

How does Pelee Island's location influence its climate?

Due to its southerly position in Lake Erie, Pelee Island experiences a slightly milder climate compared to inland areas. This moderating effect of the lake contributes to one of the mildest climates in Canada outside of British Columbia, featuring the longest frost-free season in Ontario.

What agricultural activities are prominent on Pelee Island?

Pelee Island is an agricultural-based community that cultivates significant hectares of soybeans, wheat, and grapes. It also grows specialty corn, reflecting its suitability for viticulture and other crops due to its climate.

What role does Pelee Island play in migratory bird patterns?

Pelee Island is a crucial stopover point on major migratory bird routes, specifically the Atlantic Flyway and the Mississippi flyway. This makes it an important location for birdwatching and conservation efforts.

What is the historical significance of Pelee Island regarding indigenous peoples?

Archaeological evidence indicates that indigenous peoples occupied Pelee Island as far back as 10,000 years ago. Artifacts such as projectiles and ceremonial objects have been found, demonstrating a long history of human presence on the island.

When did European settlement begin on Pelee Island, and who was involved?

European settlement on Pelee Island commenced in 1788 when the land was leased to Thomas McKee by the Ojibwa and Odawa tribes. The McCormick family later purchased the island in 1823 and established a permanent settlement in 1834.

What were the early economic drivers for Pelee Island's inhabitants?

In addition to subsistence agriculture, early inhabitants of Pelee Island relied on its natural resources for economic support. These included lumber, stone quarries, and fishing industries.

When did wine-making begin on Pelee Island, and what is its recent history?

Wine making on Pelee Island started in the 1860s. While it declined in the early twentieth century, the practice was revived in the 1980s by the Pelee Island Winery.

What is the significance of the Pelee Island lighthouse?

Pelee Island features an original lighthouse built in 1833, which historically served to guide ships through the treacherous rocky waters of the Pelee Passage. This area is known for numerous shipwrecks.

What historical conflict involved Pelee Island?

Pelee Island was the site of a battle during the Patriot War in 1838. This conflict involved groups from both sides of the Michigan-Ontario border attempting to influence the political status of Upper Canada.

What are the key characteristics of Pelee Island's climate classification?

Pelee Island has a humid continental climate, classified as 'Dfa' under the Köppen climate classification system. It also falls into USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 7a, indicating relatively mild conditions for its latitude.

What is the average January temperature on Pelee Island?

The average daily mean temperature in January on Pelee Island is -5.0 degrees Celsius (23.0 degrees Fahrenheit). This reflects the cold winter conditions experienced on the island.

What is the average July temperature on Pelee Island?

During the summer, the average July high temperature on Pelee Island is 27.5 degrees Celsius (81.5 degrees Fahrenheit), with an average low of 18.9 degrees Celsius (66.0 degrees Fahrenheit). This indicates warm, humid summer conditions.

How does Pelee Island's precipitation compare to other parts of Ontario?

Pelee Island and Point Pelee receive fewer days with measurable precipitation in Ontario, averaging approximately 75 days per year. Drought-like conditions can occur on the island every four to five years.

What was the population of Pelee Island in the 2021 Canadian Census?

According to the 2021 Census of Population, Pelee Island had a population of 230 residents. This represented a slight decrease from the 2016 census figure.

What is the population density of Pelee Island based on the 2021 census data?

In 2021, Pelee Island had a population density of 5.6 people per square kilometer (14.5 people per square mile), based on its population of 230 and a land area of 41.03 square kilometers.

What is the cultural makeup of Pelee Island's population?

Pelee Island was settled by a mix of Canadians and Americans, and the text notes that many Americans still reside on the island today, suggesting a continued cross-border connection in its population.

What makes Pelee Island a destination for ecotourism?

Pelee Island is recognized as an ecotourism destination due to its status as Canada's southernmost inhabited point and its location on major migratory bird flyways. It has been designated a globally Important Bird Area (IBA).

Which organizations are involved in conserving and studying birds on Pelee Island?

The Pelee Island Bird Observatory is located on the island and works to conserve and study birds. It offers visitors opportunities to participate in tracking, tagging, and photographing bird species.

What natural features contribute to Pelee Island's botanical significance?

Pelee Island's glacial history has created diverse habitats, including wetlands, sand dunes, and alvars (limestone areas with thin soil). These varied environments support a rich array of flora and fauna, making it botanically significant.

What protected natural areas are located on Pelee Island?

Pelee Island is home to several protected natural areas, including sites managed by the Nature Conservancy of Canada and two Provincial Nature Reserves: Lighthouse Point Nature Reserve and Fish Point Nature Reserve.

What types of species at risk can be found on Pelee Island?

Pelee Island is home to numerous species at risk, encompassing a wide range of life forms. This includes various plants (flora), animals (fauna), insects, snails, mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

How is the Township of Pelee governed?

The Township of Pelee is governed by a mayor, deputy mayor, and three councillors. It operates as a separated township, meaning it is not administratively part of any county, although it is treated as part of Essex County for census purposes.

How many islands constitute the Township of Pelee?

The Township of Pelee is comprised of nine islands in total. Pelee Island is the largest and the only one that is inhabited.

What is the approximate duration of the ferry journey to Pelee Island?

The ferry journey to Pelee Island from the mainland can take between one and a half to just over two hours, depending on the specific departure route.

What happened in January 2004 involving air travel to Pelee Island?

In January 2004, a Cessna 208 Caravan aircraft crashed shortly after taking off from Pelee Island Airport. The accident resulted in the deaths of eight pheasant hunters and the pilot and his girlfriend, with the Transportation Safety Board of Canada suggesting the plane may have been overloaded and ice-laden.

What is the capacity of the MV Pelee Islander ferry?

The MV Pelee Islander ferry has the capacity to carry 196 passengers and 14 vehicles.

What investment was made by the Ontario Government for a new ferry?

In June 2015, the Ontario Government announced a $40 million investment to replace the MV Pelee Islander. This led to the construction of the MV Pelee Islander II.

What is the capacity of the new MV Pelee Islander II ferry?

The MV Pelee Islander II, the replacement ferry for the MV Pelee Islander, has a larger capacity, able to carry 399 passengers and 34 vehicles.

How does Pelee Island provide emergency medical services?

Pelee Island has a medical clinic operated by the Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) with regular summer hours, but it does not respond to emergencies. For emergencies, residents and visitors are instructed to call 911, and Essex-Windsor EMS provides paramedic services year-round. Air ambulance services are also available.

What is the role of the Pelee Island Volunteer Fire Department?

The Pelee Island Volunteer Fire Department is staffed 365 days a year and responds to 911 calls on the island. It is composed of a fire chief, a deputy fire chief, and volunteer firefighters.

How are police services provided on Pelee Island?

Police services are provided by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). Officers are present on the island during specific periods, such as four days a week in the summer, during the fall pheasant hunt, and on the May long weekend. During winter, OPP officers respond to emergency calls only.

How do students on Pelee Island continue their education beyond Grade 8?

Students on Pelee Island can choose to attend high school on the mainland or complete their high school courses online with support from teachers at Pelee Island Public School.

What is the typical size of the student body at Pelee Island Public School?

Pelee Island Public School typically serves between 10 to 20 pupils at any given time, with a staff of two to three teachers.

What is the history of the school building on Pelee Island?

The classes at Pelee Island Public School are conducted in a traditional three-room schoolhouse that was constructed in 1927. This historic building is situated on the northwest corner of the island.

How do students at Pelee Island Public School fund their annual field trips?

The students at Pelee Island Public School raise funds for their annual field trip by organizing and holding a raffle during the island's fall pheasant hunt.

What is the significance of the Pelee Island Half Marathon?

The Pelee Island Half Marathon is an event that draws runners from both the United States and Canada. It is promoted as Canada's southernmost and most exclusive half-marathon, with a limited registration of approximately 350 runners.

What is the Köppen climate classification for Pelee Island?

Pelee Island is classified as having a humid continental climate, specifically 'Dfa' according to the Köppen climate classification system.

What USDA Plant Hardiness Zone does Pelee Island fall into?

Pelee Island falls into USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 7a, which indicates a relatively mild climate suitable for a wider range of plant species compared to colder zones.

What is the average annual snowfall on Pelee Island?

The average annual snowfall on Pelee Island is 76 centimeters (29.9 inches), with snowfall typically occurring from November through April.

What is the record high temperature ever recorded on Pelee Island?

The highest temperature ever recorded on Pelee Island was 41.1 degrees Celsius (106.0 degrees Fahrenheit), which occurred on July 24, 1934.

What is the record low temperature ever recorded on Pelee Island?

The lowest temperature ever recorded on Pelee Island was -31.5 degrees Celsius (-24.7 degrees Fahrenheit), registered on January 20, 1985.

What is the average annual precipitation on Pelee Island?

Pelee Island receives an average annual precipitation of 891 millimeters (35 inches), which is distributed relatively evenly throughout the year, with January and February being the driest months.

What is the significance of the Pelee Island Bird Observatory?

The Pelee Island Bird Observatory is dedicated to the conservation and study of birds on the island. It provides opportunities for visitors to engage in bird tracking, tagging, and photography, contributing to ornithological research and public education.

What is the official name of the township that encompasses Pelee Island?

Pelee Island constitutes the majority of the Township of Pelee, which is a single-tier municipality in Ontario.

What is the total land area of all islands within the Township of Pelee?

The combined land area of all nine islands that make up the Township of Pelee is 41.84 square kilometers (16.15 square miles).

What is the name of the ferry that was built in Erieau, Ontario, in 1960?

The MV Pelee Islander ferry, which continues to operate, was built in Erieau, Ontario, in 1960.

What is the primary purpose of the fall pheasant hunt on Pelee Island?

The fall pheasant hunt on Pelee Island attracts hunters from various countries and serves as a significant source of tourism revenue during a time when few other activities are available, thus generating important offseason income for the island.

Pelee Ontario Wiki: Pelee Island: Canada's Southernmost Oasis

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Introduction

Canada's Southernmost Point

Pelee Island is an island located in the western basin of Lake Erie, within the Canadian province of Ontario. It is notable as the southernmost populated point in Canada. With an area of approximately 42 km², it holds the distinction of being the largest island in Lake Erie. An Ontario Historical Plaque commemorates its historical significance.

Geographic Significance

While Pelee Island is the southernmost inhabited point, the nearby Middle Island is the southernmost landmass in Canada. The island's unique location influences its environment and accessibility.

A Glimpse into History

Indigenous Roots and Early Settlement

Archaeological evidence suggests human occupation dating back 10,000 years. European settlement began in 1788 when the island was leased to Thomas McKee. William McCormick purchased the island in 1823, and his family established a permanent residence in 1834. Early inhabitants relied on subsistence agriculture, lumber, stone quarries, and fishing.

Maritime Heritage and Conflict

An original 1833 lighthouse stands as a testament to the island's maritime past, guiding sailors through the treacherous Pelee Passage, known for numerous shipwrecks. The island was also a site during the Patriot War in 1838, witnessing a brief battle involving forces seeking to challenge British rule.

Wine Making Tradition

The island's favorable climate has supported viticulture since the 1860s. Although local wine production waned in the early 20th century, it was revived in the 1980s by the Pelee Island Winery.

Island Geography

Location and Size

Pelee Island is situated in Lake Erie, covering approximately 42 km² (16 sq mi). Its position makes it the largest island in the lake and the southernmost inhabited landmass in Canada.

Natural Habitats

The island is part of the Carolinian forest region, characterized by diverse habitats including wetlands, sand dunes, and alvars. These varied environments support a rich array of wildlife, including numerous species at risk.

Island Climate

Mild Conditions

Benefiting from the moderating influence of Lake Erie, Pelee Island experiences one of Canada's mildest climates outside of British Columbia. It boasts the longest frost-free season in Ontario, supporting its agricultural activities, particularly vineyards.

Climate Data Overview

The island has a humid continental climate (Koppen: Dfa), falling into USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 7a. Winters are cold, with average January temperatures around -5.0 °C (23.0 °F), and summers are warm and humid. Precipitation is distributed relatively evenly throughout the year, with occasional drought conditions.

The following table provides detailed climate statistics for Pelee Island, sourced from Environment Canada:

Climate data for Pelee Island
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Record high °C (°F)	17.2 (63.0)	18.3 (64.9)	23.9 (75.0)	33.0 (91.4)	37.2 (99.0)	40.6 (105.1)	41.1 (106.0)	37.8 (100.0)	36.7 (98.1)	31.1 (88.0)	24.4 (75.9)	18.0 (64.4)	41.1 (106.0)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F)	−2.0 (28.4)	−0.3 (31.5)	5.1 (41.2)	11.3 (52.3)	18.0 (64.4)	24.2 (75.6)	27.5 (81.5)	26.3 (79.3)	22.7 (72.9)	16.2 (61.2)	8.1 (46.6)	1.8 (35.2)	13.2 (55.8)
Daily mean °C (°F)	−5 (23)	−3.6 (25.5)	1.7 (35.1)	7.4 (45.3)	13.9 (57.0)	19.9 (67.8)	23.2 (73.8)	22.2 (72.0)	18.5 (65.3)	12.4 (54.3)	5.4 (41.7)	−0.9 (30.4)	9.6 (49.3)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F)	−8.1 (17.4)	−7.0 (19.4)	−1.9 (28.6)	3.4 (38.1)	9.7 (49.5)	15.5 (59.9)	18.9 (66.0)	18.1 (64.6)	14.2 (57.6)	8.6 (47.5)	2.5 (36.5)	−3.7 (25.3)	5.8 (42.4)
Record low °C (°F)	−31.5 (−24.7)	−27.2 (−17.0)	−21.1 (−6.0)	−15.0 (5.0)	−1.7 (28.9)	1.1 (34.0)	5.6 (42.1)	5.0 (41.0)	1.1 (34.0)	−5.6 (21.9)	−12.8 (9.0)	−24.5 (−12.1)	−31.5 (−24.7)
Average precipitation mm (inches)	47.2 (1.86)	39.5 (1.56)	67.9 (2.67)	82.0 (3.23)	86.4 (3.40)	92.2 (3.63)	78.9 (3.11)	87.4 (3.44)	86.0 (3.39)	55.5 (2.19)	83.7 (3.30)	84.1 (3.31)	890.8 (35.07)
Average snowfall cm (inches)	23.0 (9.1)	18.3 (7.2)	9.0 (3.5)	2.1 (0.8)	0 (0)	0 (0)	0 (0)	0 (0)	0 (0)	0 (0)	4.1 (1.6)	19.6 (7.7)	76.0 (29.9)
Average precipitation days (≥ 0.2 mm)	6	6	7	8	7	8	7	7	7	6	8	8	84
Average rainy days (≥ 0.2 mm)	2	2	5	7	7	8	7	7	7	6	7	5	70
Average snowy days (≥ 0.2 cm)	5	4	2	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	4	15
Source: Environment Canada

Island Demographics

Population Snapshot

According to the 2021 Canadian Census, Pelee Island had a population of 230 residents living in 122 private dwellings. This represents a slight decrease from the 2016 population of 235. The island maintains a low population density.

Diverse Community

The island's population is characterized by a mix of Canadian and American residents, reflecting its proximity and historical ties to the United States.

Economic Landscape

Agricultural Foundation

Agriculture forms a significant part of the island's economy. Key crops include soybeans (approximately 2,000 hectares), wheat (around 400 hectares), and grapes (200 hectares), alongside specialty corn cultivation.

Viticulture and Wine

The island's mild climate has historically supported vineyards. Wine making, which began in the 1860s, was revived by the Pelee Island Winery, contributing to the local economy and tourism.

Tourism Hub

Seasonal Events

Pelee Island attracts thousands of visitors annually, drawn by its unique charm and events. Key attractions include the Annual Springsong Weekend celebrating birds and books, the Stone & Sky Music & Art Series, and the Saturday Farmer's Market.

Athletic Pursuits

The island hosts the exclusive Pelee Island Half Marathon each June, attracting runners from Canada and the United States. Canada Day is marked with fireworks and a parade.

Ecotourism Destination

Avian Sanctuary

Pelee Island is recognized as a globally Important Bird Area (IBA) due to its strategic location on major migratory bird routes, the Atlantic and Mississippi flyways. The Pelee Island Bird Observatory actively studies and conserves bird populations, offering visitors opportunities for bird watching and research participation.

Biodiversity Hotspot

The island is a significant site for biodiversity in Ontario, featuring Nature Conservancy of Canada areas and Provincial Nature Reserves like Lighthouse Point and Fish Point. Its varied habitats support numerous species at risk, encompassing flora, fauna, insects, reptiles, and amphibians.

Island Governance

Township Structure

Pelee Island forms the core of the Township of Pelee, which operates with its own mayor, deputy mayor, and three councillors. It functions as a separated township, administratively independent but treated as part of Essex County for census purposes. The township encompasses nine islands, with Pelee Island being the largest and only inhabited one.

Infrastructure & Transport

Ferry Services

The island is accessible via ferry services operated by the Pelee Island Transportation Company. The MV Pelee Islander II, the largest ferry on the route, connects the island to Leamington and Kingsville on the Ontario mainland, and seasonally to Sandusky, Ohio. Service typically runs from early spring to mid-December.

Air Access

During winter months when ferry services are limited, air travel to Pelee Island Airport provides essential connectivity to the mainland, typically from Windsor.

Essential Services

Healthcare

A medical clinic operated by the Victorian Order of Nurses is available on the island, with regular hours during the summer. For emergencies, residents and visitors are directed to call 911, with Essex-Windsor EMS providing year-round paramedic services. Air ambulance services are also available.

Public Safety

The Pelee Island Volunteer Fire Department is staffed by volunteers and responds to emergency calls. Law enforcement is provided by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), with officers present on the island during peak seasons and for emergency response during off-peak times.

Island Education

Local Schooling

Pelee Island hosts a single school, part of the Greater Essex County District School Board, serving students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8. Students can opt for mainland high school attendance or online courses. The school, housed in a historic three-room schoolhouse built in 1927, typically has a small student population and staff.

Related Information

Further Exploration

For additional context and related topics, consult the following:

List of townships in Ontario
Lake Erie Islands
Essex County, Ontario

External Resources

Official Website

For the most current information and visitor resources, please refer to the official website of the Township of Pelee.

Township of Pelee Official Website (opens in new tab)

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Pelee, Ontario Wikipedia page

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Pelee Island Oasis

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Introduction ℹ️

🏝️ Canada's Southernmost Point

📍 Geographic Significance

A Glimpse into History ⏳

🏺 Indigenous Roots and Early Settlement

🚢 Maritime Heritage and Conflict

🍷 Wine Making Tradition

Island Geography 🗺️

🌍 Location and Size

🌳 Natural Habitats

Island Climate ☀️

🌡️ Mild Conditions

📊 Climate Data Overview

Island Demographics 👥

🔢 Population Snapshot

🤝 Diverse Community

Economic Landscape 💰

🌾 Agricultural Foundation

🍷 Viticulture and Wine

Tourism Hub ✈️

📅 Seasonal Events

🏃 Athletic Pursuits

Ecotourism Destination 🌳

🐦 Avian Sanctuary

🌿 Biodiversity Hotspot

Island Governance 🏛️

🏘️ Township Structure

Infrastructure & Transport 🚢

⛴️ Ferry Services

✈️ Air Access

Essential Services 🚑

⚕️ Healthcare

🚒 Public Safety

Island Education 🏫

📚 Local Schooling

Related Information 🔗

➡️ Further Exploration

External Resources 🌐

🔗 Official Website

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction

Canada's Southernmost Point

Geographic Significance

A Glimpse into History

Indigenous Roots and Early Settlement

Maritime Heritage and Conflict

Wine Making Tradition

Island Geography

Location and Size

Natural Habitats

Island Climate

Mild Conditions

Climate Data Overview

Island Demographics

Population Snapshot

Diverse Community

Economic Landscape

Agricultural Foundation

Viticulture and Wine

Tourism Hub

Seasonal Events

Athletic Pursuits

Ecotourism Destination

Avian Sanctuary

Biodiversity Hotspot

Island Governance

Township Structure

Infrastructure & Transport

Ferry Services

Air Access

Essential Services

Healthcare

Public Safety

Island Education

Local Schooling

Related Information

Further Exploration

External Resources

Official Website

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice