When the Point Clark lighthouse received nearly $500,000 to restore its historic tower, lighthouse workers were thrilled. This, of course, was before they began work and realized the structure would have to be shut down because its exterior was crumbling.

“My initial reaction was just ‘ugh,’ ” said Mike Fair, director of recreation and facilities for the Township of Huron-Kinloss. “It was a real sinking feeling.” The tower, located on the east shore of Lake Huron, is owned by Parks Canada but operated by the township.