Incorporated in 2016 as a non-profit organization, the Carson Trout Lepine & Greenan Lakes Association was established by a group of local and seasonal residents and headed by Al Best (Ottawa). Our goals then were to protect and promote the interests of the waterfront residents along our chain of four lakes, to preserve and protect the health of our lakes and surrounding lands for generations to come.
Early concerns included boating conduct on the lake, noise levels, water quality, invasive species and commercial activity just to name a few. Some of these issues then are just as prevalent today. The earliest water quality report was conducted by the MECP in 2003. Since 2016, water quality monitoring continues thankfully with the help and dedication of association volunteers.
What’s In a Name? Even though modern topographical maps show Lepine as Buch and Greenan as Kulas, the original names were kept because of local usage at the time of incorporation. Much like the Madawaska Valley is still recognized as Sherwood, Jones & Burns Townships on surveys and other government records.
Key Initiatives and Activities
- Water Quality Monitoring: We participate in the Lake Partner Program, regularly monitoring water depth clarity, phosphates, chloride, sulphate and calcium levels to track the health of our lakes.
- Habitat Restoration: In partnership with organizations like Watersheds Canada, Federation of Ontario Cottagers Association and the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, we support and deliver projects to restore critical habitats, such as creek restoration and shoreline buffering or riparian zones.
- Invasive Species Management: We actively monitor for and work to control invasive species, including combatting invasive Phragmites, Spiny Waterflea and the Banded Mystery Snail, to protect native ecosystems and property values.
- Education and Advocacy: We strive to inform and educate our members and the public on environmental issues, best practices for shoreline management, and pollution reduction. We also lobby governments regarding environmental laws and land use issues that could affect our lakes.
- Community Engagement: The association hosts social activities, and educational programs (like the “Learn to Fish” program and the “Nature Discovery Backpacks”) to build a strong community and foster a shared sense of stewardship.
- “Get the Lead Out” Campaign: We support initiatives encouraging anglers to use non-toxic fishing tackle to protect loons and other wildlife from lead poisoning.
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