Winter 2025 Newsletter
Guardians of Nicola Lake and Watershed Society
A Message from the President
As President of the Guardians of Nicola Lake and Watershed Society, I want to share a message with our community:
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Welcome & Gratitude
We thank all our new members. Your commitment helps our work to protect Nicola Lake.
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Your Important Support
Your support is essential for protecting Nicola Lake and its watershed, keeping it beautiful and healthy for the future.
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Stay Involved
We encourage everyone to stay involved and learn about our work to study and protect this important area.
John Arnold
President, Guardians of Nicola Lake and Watershed Society
Algae: The Foundation of Lake Life
Algae form the critical foundation of our lake's entire food web. These remarkable organisms convert nutrients into organic matter and oxygenate the water through photosynthesis, creating the conditions necessary for all aquatic life to thrive.
Without algae, there would be no fish swimming in our waters. They serve as the primary food source for microscopic animals, which in turn feed larger creatures, creating a complex and interconnected ecosystem that depends entirely on these tiny but mighty organisms.
From the smallest zooplankton to the largest lake trout, every creature in Nicola Lake ultimately relies on algae for survival, making them truly indispensable to our watershed's health.
AlgaePerfect Conditions for Algae Growth
Algae flourish in environments that provide the ideal combination of warmth, nutrients, and sunlight. Understanding these conditions helps us predict when and where algae blooms are most likely to occur in our watershed.
Shallow Waters
Near shorelines and in bays where water depth allows maximum sunlight penetration for photosynthesis.
Slow-Moving Areas
Protected coves and areas with minimal water circulation where algae can establish and multiply without being dispersed.
Warm Temperatures
Late summer and fall conditions when water temperatures reach optimal levels for rapid algae reproduction and growth.
Visible algae blooms most commonly occur during late summer and fall when these environmental factors align perfectly.
Six Key Factors Influencing Algae Growth
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Light Penetration
The amount of sunlight that reaches algae determines their ability to photosynthesize and produce energy for growth and reproduction.
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Nutrient Concentration
Phosphorus and nitrogen levels in the water directly control how rapidly algae can multiply and form visible populations.
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Water Temperature
Warmer temperatures accelerate algae metabolism and reproduction rates, leading to faster population growth and bloom formation.
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Food Chain Dynamics
Microscopic animals and fish that graze on algae help control population levels through natural predation and consumption.
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Disease and Parasitism
Bacteria and fungi can limit algae growth by causing disease outbreaks that reduce population density and bloom intensity.
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Plant Competition
Aquatic plants compete directly with algae for the same nutrients, helping maintain natural balance in healthy lake ecosystems.
Human Impact: Nutrient Sources
Household Detergents
Phosphate-containing cleaning products that enter waterways through wastewater discharge can fuel excessive algae growth and bloom formation.
Septic System Leaks
Failing or improperly maintained septic tanks release nitrogen and phosphorus directly into groundwater, eventually reaching our lakes.
Fertilizer Runoff
Excess lawn and garden fertilizers wash into storm drains and streams during rainfall, carrying nutrients that promote algae blooms.
These human-generated nutrient sources can dramatically increase algae growth and bloom frequency. By controlling these inputs, we can help maintain healthy algae levels in our watershed.
Identifying Blue-Green Algae Blooms
Visual Identification
Dense blue-green algae blooms create distinctive appearances that are easy to recognize once you know what to look for:
  • Water resembles thick green pea soup
  • Turquoise paint-like surface coating
  • Thick, scummy surface mats
  • Strong, unpleasant odor
Immediate Action Required
If you suspect a blue-green algae bloom, report it immediately to the Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060. Quick reporting helps protect community health and wildlife.
CRITICAL SAFETY REMINDER: Do not swim, drink, or eat fish from areas with suspected blue-green algae blooms. Boiling water will NOT remove these dangerous toxins.
For additional tips about recognizing suspected blue-green algae and detailed fact sheets, visit the Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Association resources at foca.on.ca/fact-sheets-videos/.
Why Clearing the Shoreline is Harmful to a Lake
The input of excess nutrients from shoreline disturbances, combined with other human impacts, fuels an overgrowth of algae. This algal bloom reduces water clarity, decreases dissolved oxygen when the algae decomposes, and ultimately harms fish and other aquatic species.
When natural vegetation is removed from the lakeshore, it exposes the soil to erosion. Every rainfall or wave event can wash loose soil, fertilizers, and organic debris directly into the lake. This runoff is rich in phosphorus and nitrogen—nutrients that algae thrive on. The result? Rapid algae growth that reduces oxygen in the water, harms fish and aquatic life, and makes the lake less enjoyable for boating, swimming, and fishing.
The Cycle of Eutrophication
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1. Nutrient Overload: Excess nutrients from uncontrolled runoff enter the lake.
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2. Algal Blooms: Increased algal growth creates dense blooms that block sunlight in deeper waters.
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3. Oxygen Depletion: Dying algae and plants are decomposed by bacteria, consuming large amounts of dissolved oxygen.
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4. Dead Zones Form: Oxygen-deprived areas, or "dead zones," form, killing fish and other aerobic aquatic life.
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5. Internal Loading: Decomposition and anoxia release even more nutrients from bottom sediments, further intensifying the cycle.
Native Plants: Nature's Shoreline Solution
Why Grass Isn't the Answer
While a neatly manicured lawn might seem appealing, grass is one of the least effective plants for protecting water quality at the lake's edge. Its shallow root systems offer minimal erosion prevention, especially against wave action and heavy rainfall.
Furthermore, grass often requires frequent watering, fertilizing, and mowing. These practices can significantly increase runoff, carrying excess nutrients and contaminants directly into Nicola Lake. Instead of acting as a natural filter, a lawn often behaves like a conduit, channeling pollution straight into the water.
Benefits of Native Plant Species
In contrast, native plants, shrubs, and trees are perfectly adapted to the Nicola Valley's unique climate and soils. When planted along the shoreline, they create a robust natural buffer zone with multiple environmental advantages:
Reduces Nutrient Runoff
Native plants absorb excess phosphorus and nitrogen, preventing them from reaching the lake and fueling algae blooms.
Prevents Erosion
Their deep, strong root systems stabilize the soil, offering superior protection against erosion from waves and rain.
Improves Water Quality
By filtering runoff, these plants naturally reduce pollutants that enter the lake, leading to clearer, healthier water.
Supports Local Ecosystems
A natural shoreline provides essential habitat for birds, insects, and aquatic life, fostering a thriving lake ecosystem.
Low Maintenance
Once established, native plants are drought-tolerant and hardy, eliminating the need for chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
Recommended Native Species for Nicola Lake Shorelines
Here are excellent native trees, shrubs, and groundcovers suited to the Nicola Valley’s climate and shoreline conditions, organized by planting zone:
Closest to the Water’s Edge
(Wet soils, wave splash, periodic flooding)
Trees:
  • Willows (Salix spp.) – Ideal right at the waterline; dense roots stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
  • Black Cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) – Fast-growing, provides shade and bank stability.
  • Water Birch (Betula occidentalis) – Thrives in moist soils directly along streams and lakeshores.
Shrubs & Groundcovers:
  • Red-osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea) – Strong roots prevent erosion; provides berries for wildlife.
  • Native Sedges and Rushes (Carex and Juncus spp.) – Excellent for filtering runoff at the water’s edge.
Mid-Bank Zone
(Moist but not constantly wet, occasional flooding)
Trees:
  • Scouler’s Willow (Salix scouleriana) – Tolerates slightly drier soils higher up from the shore.
  • Douglas Maple (Acer glabrum) – Hardy native maple, thrives in semi-moist soils.
Shrubs:

  • Saskatoon Berry (Amelanchier alnifolia) – Attractive shrub, provides food for birds and people alike.
Upper Bank & Upland Transition
(Drier soils, less water contact)
Wildflowers & Groundcovers:
  • Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) – Hardy, drought tolerant, and pollinator-friendly.
  • Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) – Attracts monarchs and other pollinators; thrives in drier soils.
  • Nodding Onion (Allium cernuum) – Beautiful blooms, thrives in well-drained upland soils.
  • Other Native Wildflowers and Grasses – Stabilize upper slopes and blend with landscaping.
The Power of Our Membership
The strength of our organization lies in our numbers. A robust membership not only provides essential resources but also significantly amplifies our influence when advocating for the health and preservation of Nicola Lake with authorities and stakeholders.
Amplified Advocacy
A larger membership demonstrates undeniable community support, giving us a more powerful voice when engaging with local authorities and decision-makers. This ensures that Nicola Lake's protection and sustainable management remain a top priority.
Growing Our Impact
Every new member strengthens our collective efforts. More individuals mean more hands for vital conservation projects, more innovative ideas, and greater reach for our educational initiatives, all contributing to a healthier lake ecosystem.
Help us protect Nicola Lake for generations to come. Please consider inviting your family, friends, and neighbours to join our mission today! Go to www.guardiansofnicola.ca