Invasive Aquatic Species: The invaders we can and cannot see

by Christopher Dennison, Municipal Policy Intern Most lakeshore residents in Ontario have likely heard of at least one aquatic invasive species and the significant threats they pose to freshwater ecosystems. Some are hard to miss. Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) (not currently established in Ontario but at risk of entering the Great Lakes) are known for their propensity to leap metres out of the water in chaotic frenzies. Zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) are prolific in many ... Read More

by Robert Pye, Executive Director World Rivers Day reminds the world why Canadians should be proud of our watersheds. Over 8,000 river systems define our nation as well as our small towns. The mighty MacKenzie, Yukon, St. Lawrence, Fraser, and thousands of other rivers are the precious places that Watersheds Canada wants people to think about on the fourth Sunday of September.  This year's World Rivers Day, September 25th, flows through the midst of municipal election time in Ontario. ... Read More

by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator Naturally occurring freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams are connected through a dynamic network. Freshwater lakes are typically immobile bodies of water surrounded by land on all sides. Rivers consist of currents that flow down a channel and connect to larger water bodies. Like rivers, streams contain flowing water and often merge forming larger streams and rivers. An ordering framework classifies the streams within watersheds such that a ... Read More

by Jane Pangilinan, Digital Engagement Technician Have you heard of the Freshwater Stewardship Community? The Freshwater Stewardship Community is a virtual community that aims to connect people around Canada who care about freshwater issues. Launched and led by Watersheds Canada, the Freshwater Stewardship Community welcomes you to network, connect, learn, and act.  The Freshwater Stewardship Community Looking for a community that shares a love of nature and a passion towards tackling ... Read More

by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator Algae occur naturally in ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams, growing well in sunlight, warm temperatures, and the presence of nutrients. Freshwater algae can be unicellular microscopic plants that use photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight into oxygen and chemical energy. Although functionally similar, algae are an evolutionarily diverse group of organisms with different classifications (Lowe & LaLiberte, ... Read More

by Alana Coulombe, Education programs administrator Developed shorelines have a higher risk of erosion and often require protection of upland areas. The best way to stabilize your shoreline for long-term protection is by enhancing or creating a natural shoreline buffer consisting of native wildflowers, trees, shrubs, and grasses. If, however, your shoreline requires a stronger approach than plants alone, consider installing vegetated riprap instead of typical retaining walls or gabion baskets ... Read More