Winter Reading for Water Lovers

Winter comes with many great activities: winter surfing, snowshoeing, skiing and snowboarding, skating and winter walks are all great ways to get outside and get active! But when it's -30C, dark and windy, we don't blame you for wanting to stay inside curled up with a book. 

Here are some recommendations for books from our staff:

For the concerned community scientist:

The Devil's Element: Phosphorus and a World Out of Balance by Dan Egan 

Dan Egan’s description of phosphorus– one of the main elements driving algal blooms in lakes such as Lake Erie provides intriguing insight into a common and much maligned element.

The Death and Life of the Great Lakes by Dan Egan

A classic read for science enthusiasts passionate about the Great Lakes, Dan Egan's The Death and Life of the Great Lakes helps put into perspective the sheer size and importance of these immense bodies of water. 

For the fish fanatic:

Walleye: A Beautiful Fish Of The Dark by Paul J. Radomski

A fish by many names: walleye, pickerel, dore, glass-eye, pikeperch, or jackfish are often sought after by anglers in freshwaters. This book takes a deeper look at this fish of the dark.

A Fish Guide To Freshwater Fishes Of Ontario by Erling Holm, Nicholas E. Mandrak, Mary E. Burridge 

The first step after catching a fish is identifying what it is! The Guide to Freshwater Fishes of Ontario is a great resource for identifying and learning about the fish in our local waters. Whether you see them online, or on your line, you can learn more about the hundreds of species that call Ontario home.

For the advocate:

Silent Spring by Rachel Carson

Originally released in the 1960s, Silent Spring exposed the growing threat of chemical contaminants to local wildlife.  Rachel Carson’s book triggered a public outcry, which laid the foundation for decades of environmental advocacy work. This novel is a must-read for any environmental enthusiast, advocate, or history buff.

For the intrepid traveller:

Eastern Ontario Fishing Mapbook by Russell Mussio

 For adventurers who like to fish, this map book is a key resource. With launches, species lists and lake inventories it will take even the most seasoned anglers on new and exciting adventures in their own backyards.

Lonely Planet Best Road Trips Midwest & the Great Lakes by Lonely Planet 

For the roadtripper, Lonely Planet’s Best Road Trips of the Midwest & the Great Lakes provides endless adventure and tourism ideas. While this guide is great for those looking to explore the area, it is also great for residents looking to take a day trip or see their local waters in a new light.