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Respect our lakes : understanding lake legislation

Description

Legislation is in place to manage and conserve our natural resources. By following this legislation, we not only ensure that we can enjoy our lakes today, but also into the future. It is... More ≫

Description

Legislation is in place to manage and conserve our natural resources. By following this legislation, we not only ensure that we can enjoy our lakes today, but also into the future. It is everyone’s responsibility to be aware of regulations. For example, before starting any project that may alter the shoreline areas of a water body, you must have written authorization from all applicable regulators and a copy must be present at the work site.

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Respect our lakes : understanding lake science

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The scientific study of lakes helps us assess lake conditions and monitor changes over time. This is especially important as we are seeing increased pressure on lakes due to shoreline development,... More ≫

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The scientific study of lakes helps us assess lake conditions and monitor changes over time. This is especially important as we are seeing increased pressure on lakes due to shoreline development, agricultural practices, vegetation removal, intensive land-use and increased recreational use. Climatic variability also affects water quality and quantity. Through ongoing lake monitoring, we can track the state of our lakes and inform lake management planning for the long-term benefit of lakes.

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Respect our lakes : aquatic vegetation and lake health

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Aquatic plants along lake shorelines are important for maintaining healthy lake ecosystems. They provide habitat for fish spawning, nesting habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds, rearing sites for... More ≫

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Aquatic plants along lake shorelines are important for maintaining healthy lake ecosystems. They provide habitat for fish spawning, nesting habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds, rearing sites for young fish and wildlife, and they protect shorelines from wave and wind erosion. Aquatic vegetation also performs many important biological functions that maintain lake water quality, such as filtering runoff water that enters the lake.

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Respect our lakes : keeping Alberta's lakes healthy

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Lakes are one of the most treasured aspects of the Alberta landscape. They have become an integral part of many lives, whether you are a long-time lake resident or someone who visits lakes... More ≫

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Lakes are one of the most treasured aspects of the Alberta landscape. They have become an integral part of many lives, whether you are a long-time lake resident or someone who visits lakes occasionally for boating, fishing or wildlife watching. Unfortunately, many lakes and watersheds in Alberta have seen extensive land clearing and development, resulting in large amounts of nutrients entering lakes and settling in lake sediments. Years of reduced rainfall coupled with excess nutrients has resulted in lakes that have many water quality issues, such as extensive blue-green algal (cyanobacterial) blooms.

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Respect our lakes : cyanobacterial (blue-green algae) blooms

Description

Cyanobacteria, often known as blue-green algae, are well adapted to growth in alkaline, nutrient-rich water bodies. During calm conditions, they can congregate near the water’s surface. These... More ≫

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Cyanobacteria, often known as blue-green algae, are well adapted to growth in alkaline, nutrient-rich water bodies. During calm conditions, they can congregate near the water’s surface. These “blooms” are unsightly and produce objectionable odors, and can also induce skin irritation, itchiness and severe rashes upon contact. This pamphlet provides more information on the risks posed by cyanobacteria and steps to take to protect against possible harmful effects.

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Stepping back from the water : a beneficial management practices guide for new development near water bodies in Alberta's settled region [2012]

Description

The question often arises: what is the minimum setback needed to protect aquatic ecosystems from development such as buildings, roads and other permanent structures? This handbook answers this... More ≫

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The question often arises: what is the minimum setback needed to protect aquatic ecosystems from development such as buildings, roads and other permanent structures? This handbook answers this question by providing decision makers with information for determining setback widths and designing effective buffers adjacent to water bodies.

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Caring for shoreline properties : changing the way we look at owning lakefront property in Alberta

Description

The aim of this booklet is to promote the preservation and restoration of the natural state of Alberta's lakes and shorelands while maintaining the value of lakefront properties.

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