WC134 JanFeb 2024 - Magazine - Page 16
FRESHWATER
Fostering a
Greener Waterfront
Uniting communities for shoreline conservation
BY ROBERT PYE
Robert Pye
Robert Pye is the executive
director for Watersheds Canada
16
AKE LIFE. Two words that send waves of leisurely thoughts
of swimming, fishing, paddling, or just reading on the dock.
The most relaxing times are always sunny days against the
backdrop of nature. Today, however, our rural waterways
and the people who enjoy them are under a cloud of stress
from major (re)development plans as well as the impacts of climate
change.
Seasonal cottages are increasingly becoming three-story, permanent homes, situated on the same lot where an A-frame and
an outhouse were built in the pre-baby boom era. Family foundations, however, are still shaped by outdoor experiences. Families
started and joined lake associations which were born out of respect
for our shared environment. It was a natural shore that drew a
generational commitment to the lake and to organizations like
Watersheds Canada that have never been prepared to let unsustainable practices wash it all away.
L
Shoreland stressors
Evidence of property erosion and floods due to weakened
shorelands is invariably linked to the changed aesthetic preference
for a highly manicured waterfront. The natural armour that
protected shores for centuries was gradually felled, mowed,
and trimmed right down to the water’s edge. Unfortunately,
meticulous lawn care at the shore is fashion over function. Perhaps
that explains why the aftermath of intense and sustained winds,
tornados, derechos, or floods—all symptoms of climate change—
are obvious along the shorelands of our rural lakes and rivers.
Properties were left defenceless.
Thankfully Canada’s water quality, fish and wildlife populations,
outdoor recreation, and other freshwater values can be protected
through shoreland preservation and restoration and caring landowners who understand the ecological services their properties provide.
Anyone who enjoys Canada’s two million lakes and rivers benefits
from healthy shores, either public or private.
Waterfront residents have always been admired for their lakeside
views, but what is more important is their view on freshwater
stewardship. Residents are encouraged to see beyond their own
dock and share Watersheds Canada’s message that freshwater
protection takes a community approach. From our grassroots
perspective, everyone can help take on the heavy lifting to achieve
environmental net gain.
WATER C AN ADA • JANUARY/ FEBRUARY 2024
Watersheds Canada
Seasonal cottages
are increasingly
becoming threestory, permanent
homes, situated on
the same lot where
an A-frame and an
outhouse were built
in the pre-baby
boom era.
