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Read the latest stories, updates and news releases about community science, water monitoring, and more.
The hidden history in Toronto beach names
Rouge Beach. Woodbine-Ashbridge's Bay. Cherry Beach. Hanlan's Point. Every beach name has a story behind it. Learn about the name, and the unique history of the place seems to come alive. Maybe it’s because I’m from Toronto, but I feel like the city’s beaches have some of the most fascinating backstories. And since Toronto is still Swim Guide’s biggest market, I have a hunch I am not the only one who loves this city’s beaches.
Toronto Island Lake Swim 2015: Celebrating a Swimmable Toronto
Lake Ontario’s waters were so polluted in the 1950s and 1960s that it consistently made people ill. That's no secret. But water quality is like the weather – it constantly changes. And to help break the stigma that Toronto’s waters are unswimmable, an enticing opportunity was created for Torontonians to get them back in the water.
Community Cases: Why Waterkeeper strives to create leaders out of ordinary citizens
This year, we’ve received more Pollution Reports than ever before. More community members are finding reasons to be engaged and involved – which is great. But after pollution is reported, what happens next? President and Waterkeeper Mark Mattson took time to talk about community cases and explain why they are so important for creating a future where we can all swim, drink, and fish.
Wet weather and bypass advisories are finally coming … What happens next?
It took a lot of work to get to this point, but it was worth it! After a year-long investigation prompted by Waterkeeper, the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change made their decision – and it's great news for Torontonians!
Toronto to start issuing updates when wet weather affects Lake Ontario; Government releases response to Waterkeeper’s legal application (Press Release)
Wet weather alerts are coming to Toronto! Following a year-long investigation, Ontario’s Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change says that the public should receive more information about water quality following heavy rains and snow melts. Even partially-treated sewage in the water means that people who are paddling, surfing, and boating could get sick - and they don’t even know it. Government monitoring showed elevated levels of bacteria offshore in Lake Ontario. Expect to see Toronto’s new communications kick-in soon.
BREAKING NEWS: Wet weather water quality updates are coming to Toronto, Ministry of the Environment decides
The Ministry of the Environment has decided that Torontonians should have more information, including water quality advisories for non-beach areas and real-time bypass updates. Here's the official decision.
CASE UPDATE: Federal Gov't Move to Ban Microbeads
Yesterday, the Government of Canada announced its intention to ban plastic microbeads in personal care products. While it's clear this a great first step for the country, Waterkeeper Mark Mattson deciphers if it's enough for Canada's waterways.
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