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Small actions. Lasting impact.
The health of Chesley Lake depends on the everyday choices made by those that live, work and enjoy the lake. Stewardship is about understanding how our action affect the lake and taking simple stps to help protect it for future generations.
Why Stewardship Matters
Why Stewardship Matters
Everything that happens on the land surrounding the lake can affect the water.
Runoff from lawns, shoreline alterations, failing septic systems, invasive species, and the loss of natural vegetation can all impact water quality and aquatic habitat.
By making informed choices, residents can play an important role in protecting the health of Chesley Lake.
Natural Shorelines
Natural Shorelines
Natural shorelines help reduce erosion, filter runoff, provide wildlife habitat, and support water quality.
Septic Systems
Septic Systems
Proper septic system maintenance helps protect groundwater and prevents excess nutrients from entering the lake.
Lake Friendly Living
Lake Friendly Living
Responsible boating and waterfront activities help protect shorelines, wildlife habitat, and water quality. Being wake aware and properly disposing of aquatic plants are simple ways everyone can help.
EVERYDAY ACTIONS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE
- Leave Grass Clippings and Leaves on Land
Grass clippings, leaves, and other yard waste contain nutrients that can contribute to algae growth when they enter the lake. Instead of blowing or raking yard waste into the water, compost it or dispose of it appropriately.
- Dispose of Goose Droppings Responsibly
While it may be tempting to sweep or wash goose droppings into the lake, doing so adds nutrients directly to the water. Rake or shovel droppings and dispose of them with yard waste whenever possible.
- Remove and Properly Dispose of Aquatic Plants
If aquatic plants become tangled in a propeller, wash up on your shoreline, or are removed from swimming and boating areas, bring them ashore and dispose of them well away from the lake.
Returning plant material to the water or leaving it to decay on the lake bottom can contribute to the spread of invasive species and may add nutrients back into the lake as the plants decompose.
When in doubt, collect the material and dispose of it with yard waste or compost it away from the shoreline.
- Be Wake Aware
Large boat wakes can contribute to shoreline erosion, disturb wildlife habitat, and impact other lake users.
When operating wake boats or wake-surfing, stay well away from shorelines and other sensitive areas. Whenever possible, wake surf in deeper water near the centre of the lake where impacts are minimized.
- Maintain Your Septic System
A properly functioning septic system helps prevent excess nutrients and contaminants from reaching the lake. Regular inspections and maintenance are an important part of protecting water quality.
- Protect Natural Shorelines
Natural vegetation helps stabilize shorelines, filter runoff, and provide important habitat for fish and wildlife. Maintaining a natural shoreline buffer is one of the most effective ways to support lake health.
- Prevent the Spread of Invasive Species
Clean, drain, and dry boats, trailers, and equipment before moving between waterbodies. Small actions can help prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species.
Native Plants and Natural Shorelines
Native Plants and Natural Shorelines
Native plants play an important role in protecting lake health. Deep-rooted vegetation helps reduce erosion, absorb runoff, filter nutrients, and provide habitat for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife.
Friends of Chesley Lake encourages shoreline naturalization wherever practical and will continue to share information about lake-friendly planting options suitable for the Chesley Lake shoreline environment.
Examples of beneficial shoreline plants include native grasses, sedges, wildflowers, shrubs, and other species adapted to Ontario waterfront conditions.
DID YOU KNOW?
• One bag of grass clippings can contain enough nutrients to stimulate algae growth.
• Goose droppings contain phosphorus and nitrogen that can affect water quality.
• Natural shorelines help reduce runoff and improve water quality.
• Boat wakes can contribute to shoreline erosion, particularly in shallow water and near shorelines.
• Removing aquatic plants from boats and shorelines helps reduce the spread of invasive species.
Stewardship Starts at Home
Stewardship Starts at Home
The long-term health of Chesley Lake depends on the collective actions of everyone who enjoys it.
Small changes made by many people can have a significant positive impact on the lake.
Together, we can help protect and enhance the health of Chesley Lake for future generations.
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