Discover How to Protect and Enjoy the Beautiful Okanagan Lakes: A Guide for Nature Lovers

We all share responsibility for keeping our lakes clean. Every property sits within a larger watershed that affects local water quality. Here are some simple ways you can help protect our lakes:

**Choose Natural Solutions:**

If you garden or maintain a lawn, skip toxic chemical fertilizers and pesticides. These products harm our lakes. Embracing native plants, especially near water, is an excellent alternative. They thrive in our climate, need less water, and support local wildlife like birds and butterflies.

**Opt for Permeable Surfaces:**

When building patios and driveways, consider using pavers or gravel instead of solid pavement. Rainwater flows more freely through these materials, filtering into the ground. This helps refill groundwater and can reduce flooding, while solid surfaces carry harmful chemicals straight into our lakes.

**Harvest Rainwater:**

Set up rain barrels to catch water from your roof. In places like Vernon, you could collect thousands of liters in a year! Not only will this reduce your water bill, but it also helps prevent erosion around your property.

**Store Chemicals Safely:**

Keep toxic substances, like old vehicles and farm equipment, away from water bodies. Ensuring these items are well stored helps reduce contamination risks.

**Advocate for Clean Water:**

Support local initiatives that impose strict penalties for pollution. David Schmalz, a local environmentalist, highlights the importance of community action. “Every small step counts. Neighborhood watch programs can make a difference,” he says.

**Communicate with Leaders:**

Let your local mayor, city council, and other representatives know you care about clean water. Many storm drains empty directly into lakes without treatment, which is alarming. Keeping driveways clear of debris and opting for a broom instead of a hose can improve stormwater quality.

**Understand the Water Cycle:**

Water constantly moves between the environment and the living world. Learning about this cycle can deepen your appreciation for water conservation. Many neat illustrations are available online to explore this concept further.

By taking these steps, we can protect the beauty of our Okanagan lakes and ensure they remain healthy for all to enjoy. For more tips, visit makewaterwork.ca.

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lakes|Okanagan|Water Conservation