Recreational impacts

The Lake Simcoe area has always been a place to play - for permanent residents and visitors alike. From cottages to skiing to swimming to fishing, either on the ice or in the water, tourism creates prosperity for the region and enjoyment for countless more. But the troubling signs we already see will get worse without stepping up current efforts to reduce phosphorous use. Natural fish stocks in Lake Simcoe have declined over time and the lake currently does not replenish its own fish population naturally. A big problem is Phosphorus, which is found in detergents or fertilizers and which artificially increase weed and algae growth in Lake Simcoe . As the weeds grow, they choke off the lake's oxygen and contribute to the murky, cloudy muck we see at the bottom of the lake.

Over the last decade, Phosphorous runoff into Lake Simcoe has more than doubled. (We have tips on how to reduce Phosphorous use here)

Each summer, there's a rash of beach closures largely due to e.coli contamination of the lake, yet around the lake there is a hodge-podge approach to such basic lake protection measures as common sewage plans. At the same time, Simcoe's skiing and ice fishing industries are under increased pressure from climate change that poorly planned development makes worse. The rich abundance of walking trails, bike-friendly countryside and local parks also need to flourish, but they need green space protection to remain healthy.

If we don't act now to protect Lake Simcoe and Nottawasaga River from poorly planned development, the kinds of activities that make the area so attractive to call home, and so popular to visit, will be harmed. Quality of life doesn't just happen – it needs to be protected.

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CopyRight@Campaign Lake Simcoe, coordinated by Environmental Defence
317 Adelaide Street West, Suite 705 Toronto , ON M5V 1P9
Tel: 416-323-9521 Fax: 416-323-9301