Stewart Lake Causation Study Public Survey

Introduction

Hutchinson Environmental Sciences Ltd. (HESL) is pleased to have been selected by the District Municipality of Muskoka (the District) to perform a causation study for water quality indicators on Stewart Lake. HESL is a small team of highly qualified aquatic scientists with extensive experience working on lakes in Ontario and Muskoka in particular. They have partnered with EcoVue Consulting, a firm with extensive public consultation experience, who will lead the public engagement activities related to the study. 

A causation study is a way to determine why the water quality of a lake may be vulnerable based on key indicators (such as a confirmed blue green algae bloom). Determining which causes are affecting water quality is essential for protecting Muskoka’s lakes. 

Project work will include summarizing and analyzing existing information and completing additional water quality sampling and analysis to inform the likely causes of water quality indicators and determine the need for additional sampling, analysis or management activities. Findings will be documented in a detailed technical report to the District, which will be shared publicly. 

The intent of this survey is to introduce HESL and EcoVue to residents, business owners, and others interested in the Stewart Lake area.  The primary goal is to gather information on the public’s lake use and their observations of water quality in the lake and how it has changed over time. This survey is an important opportunity for lake residents to provide historical or other relevant information to HESL and the District to inform our understanding of the lake’s history. 

The survey is anonymous unless you choose to provide your contact info at the end, which is completely optional.