Water Quality
As a lake association one of our responsibilities is to monitor changes in Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria levels and phosphorus levels in Clear Lake. We take water samples and have them tested through Near North Laboratories which is accredited by the Canadian Association for Analytical Laboratories (CALA). We also conduct lake water testing for phosphorus levels and water clarity through the Lake Partner Program operated by the Ministry of Environment Conservation and Parks.
We report the testing results to the Clear Lake property owners but the CLPOA has no power to enforce water quality standards. Enforcement is done through the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit who do the actual testing of water for public beaches and the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. When E. coli bacteria levels exceed the recreational water quality guideline of 200 E. coli per 100 mL of water the beach may be posted as unsafe for swimming. The maximum acceptable concentration for E. coli in drinking water is zero count detectable per 100 ml.
Between the months of June and September, the CLPOA collects lake water samples from between five and seven locations around Clear Lake, in the bays in-front of beach areas and public access points. Water samples are collected on a monthly basis but may be altered if we received heavy rainfall which impacts lake water quality as it washes ground surface contaminants into the lake.
Clear Lake water testing results are typically in the range of 0-5 cfu per 100 mL of water at the start of testing and may increase to the range of 5-10 cfu per 100 mL towards the end of the summer in the bays which have more activity.
Water sampling may be increased if testing results point to rising E. coli levels due to fecal contamination from either animal or human sources such as leaking or poorly functioning septic systems.
Lake water testing is also conducted to monitor the levels of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous in the lake which can cause blue -green algae, which are microscopic organisms naturally present in lake water to rapidly increase when lake water is warm and slow moving. When this happens dense algae blooms form on the surface of the lake and along shorelines.
Our goal is to better understand and help protect the water quality of Clear Lake through a planned water quality monitoring program.
Fire Rating
The Perry Township Open Air Burning By-law establishes the guidelines surrounding Open Air Burning (campfires and non-recreational burns).
Campfires are to be no larger than 2 feet x 2 feet and are permitted unless the Township is under a Total Fire Ban/Extreme Fire Rating. No Daytime Burning (between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.) is permitted from April 1 to October 31. Visit our Fire Services Page for additional information and Current Perry Township Fire Rating.
Water Quality Update
Visual observations of Clear Lake in July and August 2023 by the Clear Lake Property Owners Association (CLPOA) and Near North Laboratories confirmed that the lake’s water quality remains generally within safe recreational levels. However, the association continues to monitor for potential risks, including blue-green algae blooms.
Regular water sampling is conducted at key locations, including the Boat Ramp, Golden Anchor Bay, Municipal Dock, and Dekonley’s Bay. The results are compared against the Provincial Water Quality Objectives (PWQO) for E. coli and other indicators of water safety.
E. coli Levels (cfu/100mL):
- June 10 2024: 3–7 cfu/100mL
- July 15 2024: <10 cfu/100mL at all locations
- August 12 2024: 0–7 cfu/100mL
- September 16 2024: 0–3 cfu/100mL
These levels are well below the recreational water quality guideline of 200 cfu/100mL, ensuring safe conditions for swimming and other water activities in monitored areas.
Clear Lake remains at risk for blue-green algae blooms during warm, slow-moving water periods. While no confirmed blooms were detected in 2023, vigilance is necessary. Algal blooms may release toxins, such as microcystins, which can pose health risks.
Our commitment is to preserve Clear Lake’s water quality for all residents and visitors. If you notice changes in water clarity or suspect an algae bloom, please report it to the CLPOA immediately.
Watersheds Canada – Lake Protection Workbook for Shoreline Property Owners
Check out the “Lake Protection Workbook: A Self-Assessment Tool for Shoreline Property Owners”. Diagnose any shoreline property problems, and see how you can help your shoreline. You can download an online copy for free, or contact us for a physical copy for $1.50. Printing is funded by Watersheds Canada and the Daniel and Susan Gottlieb Foundation.
Muskoka Watershed Climate Change Presentation
https://www.facebook.com/376226455722369/posts/2848920098452980/
