ENVIRONMENT

Stoney Lake is a cherished natural resource, and the Upper Stoney Lake Association (USLA) is committed to preserving its health and beauty for future generations.

How we advocate for protection of the local environment:

Shoreline Protection and Restoration

Promoting natural shorelines to prevent erosion and reduce runoff, which protects water quality and aquatic habitats.

Habitat Conservation

Initiatives to maintain and restore habitats for native species, especially following natural disturbances like the Derecho.

Invasive Species Prevention

Educating residents on identifying and controlling invasive plants and aquatic species.

Noise and Light Pollution Reduction

Advocating for responsible use of lighting and minimizing noise to protect the lake’s tranquility and wildlife.

Septic Systems Compliance

Encouraging regular inspections and maintenance to prevent leachate from contaminating the lake.

Water Quality Testing

Supporting ongoing water testing to monitor and protect against contaminants.

Collaboration and Advocacy

Partnering with organizations like ASLC, the Environment Council for Clear, Stoney, and White Lakes, and the Kawartha Lake Stewards Association to coordinate efforts and share resources.

RESOURCES

The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks is a provincial body responsible for protecting Ontario's air, land, and water. MECP sets environmental policies, enforces regulations, and oversees conservation initiatives across the province, including the Stoney Lake area.

Otonabee Conservation is one of Ontario's 36 conservation authorities which manages natural resources within the Otonabee Region watershed, which encompasses Stoney Lake. They focus on watershed management, environmental protection, and conservation education.

The Environment Council for Clear, Ston(e)y and White Lakes is a volunteer, non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the sustainability of the local watershed, including Stoney Lake. They engage in environmental advocacy, education, and conservation projects to protect water quality and natural habitats.

Kawartha Land Trust: Collaborates with local communities to protect ecologically significant lands in the Kawarthas, including shoreline assessments and conservation projects on Stoney Lake. They work to preserve natural habitats through land stewardship and conservation easements.

Friends of the Fraser Wetlands: A group of concerned citizens focused on protecting the Fraser Wetlands area near Stoney Lake. They often collaborate with other local organizations to oppose developments that may harm the environment and advocate for the preservation of wetland ecosystems.

Stony Lake Heritage Foundation: Established in 1996, this foundation aims to protect the historic and environmental character of Stony Lake. They support various conservation initiatives, including heritage preservation and environmental education programs.

The Association of Ston(e)y Lake Cottagers (ASLC) is an organization representing the interests of cottagers on Stoney Lake. They engage in environmental stewardship and advocacy, partnering with other local groups to address environmental concerns and promote sustainable practices.

Abandoned Docks

The USLA (Upper Stoney Lake Association) is taking a proactive approach to tackle the growing issue of improper dock disposal in the area. As the number of dock permits continues to rise on Upper Stoney Lake, many older docks are being replaced, raising the question of what happens to the old ones. While some are responsibly dismantled or sold, others are being abandoned in remote locations, creating safety hazards, unsightly debris, and contributing to environmental damage. To help cottagers handle their old docks responsibly, USLA is providing clear guidelines to ensure proper disposal or transfer of ownership. Whether selling or giving away a dock, or paying a contractor to dismantle it, there are steps you can take to avoid contributing to this issue. If You Are Selling or Giving Away Your Dock: 1.Take comprehensive photos of the dock from all angles, highlighting its unique features. 2.Obtain the buyer's information, including their full name, address, phone number, and dock permit number. Also, request a photograph of their driver’s license for verification. 3.Verify the dock’s destination. Get the physical address where the dock will go and visit the location on a sunny day to ensure it arrived safely. 4.Keep a copy of all transaction paperwork for your records, including the bill of sale, as proof of responsible disposal. If You Are Hiring a Contractor to Dismantle Your Dock: 1.Take photos of the dock from all angles to document its condition. 2.Mark the dock clearly with bright paint, ensuring it’s visible from a distance. 3.Request full documentation from the contractor, including: oA receipt listing the dock disposal. oPhotos showing the dock being transported by boat across the lake. oPhotos of the dock being dismantled and placed in a trash receptacle (e.g., dumpster). oReceipts showing delivery to an appropriate waste disposal facility (e.g., landfill). 4.Keep all documentation and photos for your records as proof that the dock was disposed of properly. These steps are essential to prevent docks from being discarded in secluded bays or islands, where they can become safety hazards or contribute to the growing waste problem on the lake. By following the above guidelines, you can play an active role in maintaining the beauty and safety of Upper Stoney Lake. Should an abandoned dock be found in the future, the documentation you have gathered will help identify the responsible party and ensure the dock was disposed of appropriately. Why This Matters: Proper dock disposal helps protect the lake's environment, ensuring it remains a safe and beautiful place for everyone to enjoy. By taking responsibility for the proper disposal or transfer of your old dock, you can help prevent future problems, such as the illegal dumping of debris and creating safety hazards. Let's work together to preserve the integrity of Upper Stoney Lake for future generations.

#WakeAware

Join our #WakeAware campaign to help protect loon nests, swimmers, kayakers, and reduce shoreline erosion by minimizing near-shore wake. Here is more information on Loon nesting: In Ontario, the common loon nesting season typically starts in late April or early May and lasts until late June or early July. Here’s a closer look at the loon nesting season in Ontario: •Arrival and Nesting: Loons return to their breeding grounds in Ontario during late April or early May. •Nesting Period: Nesting usually takes place between mid and late May, though some nests can start as early as May or as late as mid-July. •Nest Location: Loons build their nests on the ground, typically along the shores of islands or the mainland, in quiet, protected, and hidden areas. •Incubation: Both parents take turns incubating the eggs for 28-29 days. •Chicks: Loon chicks rest, feed, and grow within their territory during June, July, and August. •Chick Development: Chicks use the summer months to build strength before migrating south in late October or November. •Threats: Boat traffic can cause loons to abandon their nests, leaving eggs exposed to predators. •Re-nesting: If a nest is disturbed, loons may attempt to re-nest, but they can only do so a limited number of times before the season ends. •Site Fidelity: Loons have strong site fidelity, meaning they often return to the same lake each spring to breed. •Migration: Loons that breed in Ontario migrate to the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic coast for the winter. By reducing wake near shorelines, we can help ensure these beautiful birds continue to thrive in Ontario’s lakes. Let's all work together to protect loon nests and support a healthy, balanced ecosystem.