Phase Three Projects – How do we currently monitor the Watershed?

Phase three projects continue to gather information and data to monitor the Watershed we live and play in. This Phase will begin in August 2021 and continue until January 2023. This phase of projects includes retaining consultants to carry out the projects described below. The results of these projects will be posted on the District of Muskoka website.

Project 9 - Develop Watershed Health Indicators

The watershed health indicators will build on existing information and studies available for the Muskoka River Watershed and provide the environmental and ecological metrics necessary to support the implementation of Integrated Watershed Management.

Expanded scope of work to include:

1. Consultation with local experts to narrow the longlist of recommended indicators to a manageable list.
2. Research indicators to assess the effects of boating activity on the watershed.
3. Prepare a report on the implementation of shortlist indicators.

Project 10 - Develop Water Quality Indicators

The water quality indicators will build on existing information and studies available for the Muskoka River Watershed and will reflect emerging threats to the aquatic ecosystems of the Watershed, including:

• Impacts of climate change on air and water temperature, soil moisture, seasonality of precipitation, winter patterns, and ice behaviour; and

• A plan for monitoring the water quality indicators

Expanded scope of work to include the development of:

1. Watershed-based Citizen-science bloom watch program to collect and archive detailed data on cyanobacteria and other nuisance algal blooms.
2. Guidelines to support lake associations and other coalitions participating in water monitoring.
3. Development of a monitoring strategy for emerging contaminants, including pharmaceuticals and pesticides.
4. Guidance on implementation of recommendations made in the Water Quality Indicators Report.

Project 11 - The Erosion Survey

Identify locations throughout the Muskoka River Watershed where shoreline erosion has occurred as a result of fluctuating water levels. This survey includes:

• A mapped inventory of locations where erosion has or could occur; and

• The development of strategies or techniques to remediate and limit shoreline damage.

Project 12 - The Public Access Inventory

Identify public access points in the Muskoka River Watershed, including:

• A mapped inventory of existing and potential public access points; and

• The development of local policy options that support environmental, social, and economic priorities

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