Algae - the good and the bad

Algae are an important component of a healthy ecosystem. They are a large group of diverse plant like organisms that use photosynthesis to produce their own food. Algae form the foundation of aquatic food webs, which support an abundance of life. They are the most important photosynthesizing organisms on Earth. They capture more of the sun's energy and produce more oxygen (a byproduct of photosynthesis) than all plants combined.

Some algae know as blue-green algae can produce toxins that are harmful to both humans and animals.

When conditions are favourable, the algae population can rapidly increase to form a large mass or scum called a bloom. Dense blue-green algae blooms may make the water look like bluish-green or green pea soup or turquoise paint; however, olive-green and red blooms have been reported.  Take a cautious approach with blue-green algae blooms, although many varieties are harmless, some can produce toxins. Only laboratory analysis can determine whether or not a bloom is toxic.

More about blue-green algae blooms

Lake Plan Questionnaire

The DLPOA has been involved in the stewardship and enjoyment of Desert Lake since 1976, and is currently developing a Lake Plan for Desert Lake.

The Lake Plan is a public document that will report on the current condition of the lake and offer recommendations for the unimpaired enjoyment of the lake into the future.  It will serve as a guide to users, property owners, township planners and councillors when making decisions that could affect the lake and its surroundings.

Work on the lake plan started more than five years ago.  Progress has been slow, as almost all of the work is being carried out by volunteers, many of whom do not live at the lake year round.  However, this year has seen great progress and we anticipate a great deal of public input into the plan so that it can be completed over the next year.

Here  are the next steps:

• Collection of information from the general public through distribution of a survey questionnaire.
• Open workshop to review survey findings and to develop recommendations
• Compilation of the information and preparation of a draft report
• Distribution and receipt of comments
• Final report and distribution

We welcome your input. There are two ways you can participate:

1. Download a copy of the survey, fill it out, and drop it off to John Sherbino at 7901 Canoe Lake Road (adjacent to the Mitchell Creek bridge). There will be a sign on the mail box.
2. Fill out the survey on-line (recommended).

Effect of Nutrients on Lake water

Have a look at this brief report which describes the effects of different levels of nutrients on water properties.