Swim Drink Fish Blog
Read the latest updates and news releases about community science, water monitoring, Artists for Water, and more.
Gala Blog #4: 4 surprising ways the Waterkeeper Gala has changed the future (so far)
What makes the Waterkeeper Gala the highlight of our year? The event raises funds for swimmable, drinkable, fishable water. But the true impact is much greater than the dollars-raised tally. Unexpected relationships. Behind-the-scenes moments. They have a big impact.
5 Things You Need To Know for a Swimmable Summer
The workshop entitled "5 Things You Need To Know for a Swimmable Summer," focused on helping recreational water users identify and address pollution problems that pose health and safety risks. By explaining water quality standards and rules that protect your right to swimmable water, water-lovers can safely enjoy summer along Toronto's waterfront.
4th Annual Waterkeeper Gala and Art Auction to Feature Wade Davis, April 23 in Toronto (Press Release)
The 4th Annual Waterkeeper Gala Toronto will take place Thursday, April 23, 2015. Wade Davis to anchor the star-studded charity gala at the CBC building. RBC returns as presenting sponsor of fundraiser for swimmable, drinkable, fishable water.
Conservation groups ask Government of Canada to classify microbeads “toxic” (Press Release)
Environmental Defence, Lake Ontario Waterkeeper, and Ottawa Riverkeeper, represented by counsel at Ecojustice, have submitted a formal request to Hon. Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment, asking the government to place microbeads on the Priority Substances List. The request, if accepted, would prompt a review on a priority basis of whether microbeads should be classified as a toxic substance.
Being a Waterkeeper is hard. Artists make it easier.
From the inception of Lake Ontario Waterkeeper, no group stepped up more than the writers, musicians, actors, poets, painters, and photographers. And this year's series of Waterkeeper Galas is proof. Artists are often the most active and visionary validators for swimmable drinkable fishable water.
Protecting Toronto’s Recreational Water Users
I grew up in Oshawa, right along the shores of Lake Ontario. Like many Canadians, exploring the outdoors came naturally. But the one place I frequently avoided was the lake.
Snowmelt – Washing away winter’s dirty remains
Finally, it’s warming up! Use caution near the water this time of year. Water quality may be poor, and sampling doesn't start at city waterways until June. In the meantime, help prepare for a swimmable summer. Keep your watershed clean by disposing of waste and litter properly, even in areas far from the waterfront.
Consuming Microbeads
"Microbeads are appearing all over the Great Lakes, destroying habitat, fish, and wildlife. They needlessly contaminate our food and water supply. The way government, business, volunteer organizations, and individuals respond to the microbeads crisis will send a signal. It will tell the world and future generations just how much we value our freshwater heritage."
Gala Blog #3: Food, glorious food (from your watershed!)
The single best day preparing for the gala is Tasting Day. That’s when our caterers invite us into their kitchen to plan the menu for the event. And by “plan,” I mean “taste everything they serve the night of the gala.”
Gala Blog #2: The storm before the storm
Gala day is nearly three months away, but the late nights have already started. What are we up to?