As climate change contributes to more frequent and extreme rain events, excess nutrients, sediments, harmful chemicals and pollutants are increasingly washed into local waterways through our storm systems. This contributes to increased aquatic weed growth, more toxic algae blooms and an overall decline in watershed health. 

In summer 2022, RVCA staff and volunteers from the Big Rideau Lake Association conducted a sampling and monitoring pilot program in Portland, targeting an urban drain in the village as well as a non-agricultural rural drain outside the village. This research helped staff recommend sustainable drainage practices to protect water quality. Since then, a number of resources have been developed to help landowners across the watershed embrace best practices for sustainable drainage on their properties.

• Reduced algae blooms and excessive weed growth in our lakes and rivers
• Improved water quality for local ecosystems
• Better water quality for local tourist industries including recreational fishing and seasonal rentals
• Safer drinking water for residents with surface water intakes
• Improved knowledge of sustainable drainage best practices can be applied across the watershed