News & Events

July 2026

Friends of Chesley Lake has been selected as one of only eight lake organizations in Ontario to participate in the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Pilot Program. More than 90 lake associations applied for this opportunity, making this a significant achievement for our lake community.

The program is funded through a joint grant secured by the Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Associations (FOCA) and Green Shovels, and is designed to help participating lakes better understand and manage aquatic invasive species.

As part of the program, a professional aquatic biologist will visit Chesley Lake to:

• Conduct an assessment of aquatic invasive species present in the lake.

• Collect and analyze samples.

• Identify areas of concern.

Provide recommendations and practical next steps toward developing an Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan.

This initiative represents an important step in protecting the long-term health of Chesley Lake. It will provide valuable scientific information to help guide future stewardship efforts and ensure our decisions are based on sound science.

We are honoured to have been selected and look forward to sharing updates as the project progresses.

May 2026

Following member feedback and a review of our organization's mission and priorities, the Chesley Lake Cottage Association has officially returned to its original name: Friends of Chesley Lake (FOCL).

The change reflects our ongoing commitment to lake stewardship, environmental protection, education, and community engagement. While our membership includes both seasonal and year-round residents, our work extends beyond cottage ownership to focus on the long-term health and sustainability of Chesley Lake.

A member survey conducted in 2025 demonstrated strong support for the change, with 65% of respondents selecting Friends of Chesley Lake as their preferred name.

The name also represents a return to our roots. The organization originally operated as Friends of Chesley Lake before becoming the Chesley Lake Cottage Association.

Along with the name change, the organization has adopted a new logo and visual identity that better reflects our stewardship-focused mission.

June 2026

Members are invited to attend the 2026 Spring Meeting to receive updates on lake health initiatives, stewardship activities, Lake Lung operations, membership matters, and projects planned for the coming year.

The meeting provides an opportunity for members to ask questions, share ideas, and learn more about ongoing efforts to protect and enhance the health of Chesley Lake.

Date: Saturday June 27, 2026
Time:  10:00 AM
Location: Chesley Lake Camp - Basement Meeting Room

We look forward to seeing you there.

June 2026

Friends of Chesley Lake has applied to participate in a provincial Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Lake Assessment Pilot being delivered through the Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Associations (FOCA) and the Green Shovels Collaborative.

Aquatic invasive species can impact biodiversity, fish habitat, recreation, and overall lake health. Like many Ontario lakes, Chesley Lake has experienced increasing concerns regarding invasive aquatic plants and their effect on recreational use and the lake ecosystem.

The pilot program will select eight lakes for assessment during this phase of the project. If selected, Chesley Lake would receive an assessment to help identify invasive species present, evaluate potential risks, and provide recommendations to support future stewardship efforts.

We do not yet know when successful applicants will be announced, but we will keep members informed as updates become available. FOCL is encouraged that this pilot may continue in future years, creating additional opportunities for lakes to participate.