Lake Wah-Wash-Kesh

conservation association

Canal Rapids © P. Ferris


The Ministry of the Environment opens in new window (MOE) published Lake Partner Program results that include data from the spring of 2006. The following report is specific to Wahwashkesh Lake. Based on the results, our lake has a healthy nutrient content that is neither too high nor too low. Both nutrient level and water clarity show no overall trends as of 2006.

Please see the Lake Partner Program Web site opens in new window and the 2005 Lake Wahwashkesh Detailed Report for more information.

NUTRIENT LEVEL

Figure 1 shows total phosphorous (TP) concentrations from indicated locations on our lake over time. The total phosphorous concentration of a lake is one of the best indicators of its nutrient level. We can see from the figure that the lake-wide average TP tends to be in the oligotrophic zone.

WWK Lake Phosphorous Levels

Figure 1. Wahwashkesh Lake nutrient level versus time

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WATER CLARITY

Figure 2 shows water clarity readings at indicated locations on our lake over time. Many factors affect water clarity:

  • nutrient level
  • dissolved organic carbon (DOC) level
  • the presence of Zebra Mussels
  • turbidity
  • increased acidity
WWK Lake Clarity Level

Figure 2. Wahwashkesh Lake water clarity versus time

The purpose of tracking clarity is to observe trends that would reflect macro changes in a lakes' overall health. Currently, there are no trends noticed in the clarity of Lake Wahwashkesh waters.

Though the major factors that affect water clarity are largely out of our control, we can contribute to the conservation of our currently healthy nutrient and clarity levels by considering the following actions:

  • Install and maintain approved septic systems
  • Refrain from using soaps or shampoos in the lake; if unavoidable, use environmentally friendly products
  • Limit shoreline development
  • Be aware of your existing shoreline and dock areas for sources of contamination
    • Avoid gasoline spills
    • Keep pressure-treated wood out of contact with lake water
    • Minimize erosion and run-off into the lake

If you have any questions or comments about this report or the Lake Partner Program please e-mail: patferris@rogers.com