1. Water quality monitoring
·Spring phosphorous levels in Oxbow Lake have been monitored by volunteers since 1981 and remain steady within the acceptable range for our type of lake. Lakes with less that 10 μg/L TP (like Oxbow) are considered oligotrophic. These are dilute, unproductive lakes that rarely experience nuisance algal blooms. Increases in phosphorus will decrease water clarity by stimulating algal growth. ·Water clarity remains good. Fluctuations are within normal range. (Differences between East Arm & West Arm results could simply be due to the eyesight capabilities of the East & West volunteers!) ·Results of in-depth testing of Oxbow Lake’s chemical composition by the District in 2007 found that our lake is in good shape. (Full report can be found at http://muskoka.fileprosite.com/contentengine/launch.asp?ID=6602 ) 2. Keep our lake great! We are blessed to live and play on a lake near the top end of the watershed, so we have little threat from upstream runoff. Our lake is deemed “restrictive sensitivity” in the District of Muskoka’s Official Plan. We have the both ability and the responsibility to keep it in its clean and natural state. How? 2.1 Keep phosphorous out of the lake: ·Maintain your septic system ·Avoid using fertilizer ·Maintain a buffer zone along your shoreline. ·Use native plants for sustainable landscapes. They’re best adapted to the climate and conditions, and therefore avoid the need for fertilizer, pesticide and watering (and therefore leave a LOT more time to enjoy the cottage!) ·Use phosphate-free detergents ·Limit use of dishwashers ·Avoid washing anything in the lake – dogs, kids, etc. ·Even “biodegradable” soap won’t cut it—- biodegrading process absorbs oxygen, and oxygen loss is bad for the lake. ·Take the opportunity to help others learn 2.2 Avoid transporting invading species into our lake environment: ·We know we have spiny water fleas already. ·Two new threats are bloody red shrimp, and a disease called the “Ebola of the fish world” – viral hemorraghic septicemia. ·The key message here is the same one we’ve been saying for years—don’t move baitfish around, and power wash or thoroughly dry (5 days in sun) your boat and fishing equipment before moving from one body of water to another. 2.3 Preserve the tranquility ·Be conscious of speed – for safety and to minimize shoreline damage from wakes. ·Keep the noise in check.
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June 2020
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Oxbow Lake Cottagers' Association
Respecting, Preserving, Enjoying! |
Pollution Reporting for the Public
Please report immediately if you witness any of the following:
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