Causation Study Update for Stewart Lake
The District Municipality of Muskoka and project consultants have now completed the Causation Studies initiated in 2021 at the direction of Muskoka District Council. The final report for Stewart Lake can be viewed here:
Below are answers to some common questions:
Is my lake still subject to Enhanced Protection Policies?
No. The Causation Studies have confirmed that development was not the cause of the reported water quality indicators on these five waterbodies. As such, all five waterbodies are now considered to be removed from Schedule E2 and are not subject to the Enhanced Protection Policies, as outlined in Section C2.6.6. of the Muskoka Official Plan (MOP).
What happens if my lake experiences another blue-green algae bloom this summer?
The scope of each Causation Study is to determine the cause of one specific blue-green algae bloom and are intended to provide an in-depth review of a snapshot in time to determine why a bloom occurred. However, the results of each report indicate that the primary cause of the reported bloom is climate change.
If you suspect a blue-green algae bloom, call the Pollution Hotline at 1-866-663-8477.
If my lake experiences another blue-green algae bloom, will another Causation Study be initiated?
While the Muskoka Official Plan currently envisions causation studies to be undertaken on all lakes that experience a confirmed blue-green algae bloom, the District is currently embarking on a follow-up study to determine the effectiveness of the existing lake system health policy set and the value in conducting future causation studies.
I have additional feedback I want to provide – is it possible to do so?
While we welcome additional feedback, the reports are now final and no further amendments/revisions will be occurring. The District is undertaking a review of the applicable policies contained in the MOP, and a public consultation process will occur through that initiative, which all are welcome to contribute to.
What are your next steps?
The District is in the process of retaining a consultant to conduct a follow-up study to determine the effectiveness of the existing lake system health policies contained in the MOP, and the value of conducting future causation studies. Any changes to the existing policies will be undertaken as a public process and anyone who is interested in contributing their comments/concerns will be able to do so through the public meeting process that will be initiated – likely in the fall.
I have more questions. Who do I contact?
Please feel free to reach out to Elizabeth Purcell, Manager of Planning, if you have any questions about the Causation Studies. You can email her at Elizabeth.purcell@muskoka.on.ca(External link)(External link).
