Lake Levels REPORT

Eric Millar

For decades, many Kawagama Lake residents felt that they had been neglected by government and the hydro electric generating industry when it came to the significant amount of annual water level fluctuation, compared to the larger lakes in the Muskoka watershed.

"While the original 1940 agreement focused primarily on lake regulation for waterpower production, the 1969 Addendum took the needs of recreational users, fisheries and flood control into account`` ( Muskoka River Water Management Plan 2006) Ownership and responsibility for operation of the dam was transferred to the MNR in 1969.

In spite of the above, it was still felt by the KLCA in 2002 that a number of issues could be improved upon. Eg. The 1969 planned annual lake level fluctuation of 1.56 m was felt to be excessive and unnecessary. In 2006 the new targeted annual fluctuation was established at 1 meter. ( 354.6 - 355.6m) . In addition the fall drawdown now begins on Sept. 15 th instead of Sept. 1 st.

The role of the Director for Lake Levels is to monitor lake levels, especially during the spring and summer seasons, and maintain close communication with the MNR to insure that the Plan for Kawagama Lake is being optimally implemented.