Lily Lake Shoreline Cleanup Celebrate World Water Day

Restoration event paired with BioBlitz and expansion of freshwater monitoring.

In recognition of World Water Day, the Loon Foundation is organizing a shoreline cleanup at Lily Lake from 1 to 3 p.m. this Sunday, March 22. The community is invited to attend this family-friendly restoration event, where participants will help remove debris through Tyner Park and along the highway.

The Loon Foundation staff will also bring water quality testing kits and lead a “BioBlitz” species identification activity to raise awareness and inspire community members to better understand and protect freshwater ecosystems.

In honour of World Water Day, the Loon Foundation is expanding its freshwater monitoring program to inspire environmental stewardship within the community — especially among youth. Shoreline cleanups and restoration projects are just a few of the initiatives included in this new program. Additional opportunities will include lake water quality monitoring, native species planting, biodiversity monitoring, and a youth engagement program launching this year.

Freshwater is one of Earth’s most precious resources, making up less than three per cent of the planet’s total water supply, with less than one per cent readily accessible for human use. Protecting freshwater on the Sunshine Coast is essential for healthy ecosystems and resilient communities.

Climate change is also placing increasing pressure on freshwater systems through changing weather patterns, altered lake dynamics, biodiversity loss, algal blooms, and invasive species. “In our changing climate, becoming an environmental steward, and advocating for ecosystems that cannot speak for themselves is an integral part of maintaining ecosystem health and community prosperity,” says Brigid Patterson, environmental education and events coordinator at the Loon Foundation.

The Sunshine Coast community is invited to get involved as environmental stewards by helping monitor local freshwater habitats. The Loon Foundation is currently developing volunteer monitoring groups at several local lakes to conduct monthly water quality assessments, made possible through the generous support from BC Hydro and the Government of Canada’s EcoAction funding. Community members interested in participating can contact Jenn at Jenn@loonfoundation.org.

All ages are welcome—we hope to see you there!