NewsFlash

April 24, 2026

Flood Warning

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) is advising residents that the Flood Warning for the Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound District area has been extended until Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

Water levels on Lake of Bays are very high but have levelled out and begun to decline (see hydrograph image below from the Muskoka GeoHub). Most of the snow is gone from the watershed and no significant rain is forecast, so we can expect levels to continue to go down. However, there is a great deal of debris floating in the lake, many docks are submerged and some shoreline structures have been considerably damaged. If you must go out on the water, please limit your wake to reduce further property impacts and watch for floating debris. Flooded shorelines, rivers, and culverts are hazardous particularly with the very cold water temperatures.

For more information, please read the full Flood Warning. 

2025 Lake of Bays Water Quality Report Now Available

Since the 1970s, LOBA has had a robust volunteer-lead water monitoring program on our lake. The water quality testers follow strict protocols and draw samples from 26 sites around Lake of Bays during the summer months. We appreciate their commitment and diligence as they contribute to this very important database of water quality.

The final report for the 2025 Lake of Bays Water Quality Monitoring Program shows that total phosphorus and bacteria sampling results from summer 2025 were well below provincial guidelines, indicating excellent water quality. The report notes that statistically significant increases in total phosphorus, observed in the past, were absent with the addition of the 2025 data.

The water quality testing program will be in operation in 2026. You will see our dedicated team in the early hours both on a shoreline or in the deep water in the coming months. 

Read: The 2025 report>

Township of Lake of Bays
Septic System Maintenance Inspection Program Approved
The excellent water quality of Lake of Bays can never be taken for granted and LOBA is extremely pleased that the Township of Lake of Bays has approved a sewage system maintenance inspection program. For a number of years LOBA has encouraged the Township to implement such a program as it was last done was over 20 years ago. There are a lot of old septic systems around the lake which may have deteriorated to the point that they are leaking or no longer functioning properly which in turn poses a threat to our water quality. As stated in LOBA's Vision Statement, "we envision a clean and healthy lake environment which supports abundant wildlife and fisheries, is treated with respect by all who enjoy it and is sustainable for generations to come". 

We appreciate that replacing or upgrading a septic system can be a costly undertaking, but it is a fundamental requirement for lake properties and a shared responsibility we all have for maintaining water quality. 

Read: The Township's Media Release>

Lake of Bays Heritage Foundation

Dr. Cathy Charlies Bird Count

Saturday May 2, 8:00 a.m. to noon
Marsh's Falls Nature Reserve

Spring migration is one of the most exciting times of year at Marsh’s Falls Nature Reserve, and the Lake of Bays Heritage Foundation invites you to experience it at the Dr. Cathy Charles Bird Count.

Led by local naturalists Rick and Kelly Stronks, this guided walk offers a chance to observe and listen to the many bird species moving through the area at the height of the season. As we walk the trails together, we will document what we see and hear, contributing to a growing understanding of birdlife in this special place.

No experience is needed and everyone is welcome. Whether you are new to birding or already enjoy it, this is a relaxed and rewarding way to spend a spring morning, and a fun and engaging experience for families.

Please email registration@lakeofbaysheritage.ca to let us know if you plan to attend or have any questions.

What to bring

• Waterproof hiking boots or rubber boots
• Binoculars (a few will be available to borrow, or through the Dwight Library)
• Camera (optional)
• Bug spray
• Your curiosity and sense of adventure

This year's Dr. Cathy Charles Bird Count is led by Rick and Kelly Stronks in conjunction with the Lake of Bays Public Library and the Lake of Bays Garden Centre.

More information: Click here>

photo by Rick Stronks
Cedar Waxwing

Do you have family or friends who would like to keep up to date with LOBA NewsFlashes?

Direct them to the LOBA Homepage

and click the E-NEWS button on the right of the page

photo by Martin Elliott

2024 photo contest submission

Through education, advocacy and engagement, our mission is to foster a

healthy natural environment, responsible waterfront development, a thriving community, and a Lake of Bays shared respectfully and safely by all.