Campaign Lake Simcoe

Protection for Lake Simcoe getting closer

Thanks to the efforts of Campaign Lake Simcoe, the Ontario Government has committed to increasing protection for the Lake Simcoe watershed by passing a new Lake Simcoe Protection Act. A discussion paper outlining steps that could be taken to protect water quality, natural areas and species in and around the lake was released in March. The discussion paper sets out some positive directions, particularly with its emphasis on public involvement in stewardship of the lake. It also makes it clear that the government is putting significant resources into better understanding the science behind restoring and protecting the health of the lake and surrounding areas.

However, the paper also puts a heavy emphasis on reducing phosphorus levels in the lake. While phosphorus levels are a significant water quality issue, they are really a symptom of the broader landscape impacts of runaway development and the loss of natural areas throughout the Lake Simcoe watershed. Instead of a narrow focus on phosphorus, we need to see the Lake and surrounding lands as an integrated system that needs greater care. In particular, the province must significantly strengthen natural areas protection and restoration in the watershed by requiring the development of a Natural Heritage Areas system, similar to what is now in place in the Greenbelt. Protecting and restoring habitat and connections for wildlife, protecting natural buffers around waterways, and curbing sprawling “leapfrog” development should be the key objectives of the new act.

It is important to make your voice heard about what needs to be done to protect Lake Simcoe by participating in the public consultations around the new Act. Check www.campaignlakesimcoe.ca for details and to read our full response to the discussion paper.

Ontario Nature is a partner in Campaign Lake Simcoe with the Rescue Lake Simcoe Coalition and Environmental Defence.

Please also visit www.CampaignLakeSimcoe.ca

Download a copy of the Campaign Lake Simcoe brochure (PDF 669k) for more information.