Lake Stewardship Reference Guide

The Lake Stewardship Reference Guide is an on-going joint project between the Province of Alberta and ASVA. The Reference Guide gives Summer Village Councilors and Administrators information about evidence-based practices that will preserve and enhance lake environments, along with tools to assist in encouraging residents to engage in effective stewardship practices in their own yards. The Guide describes issues commonly encountered at Alberta lakes, requirements of legislation along with the jurisdictional authority of other levels of government, and potential resolution of the issues. The Guide also provides examples of activities, plans and by-laws of Summer Villages implemented to preserve and enhance our lakes. This Reference Guide will be of interest to all who work to understand our lakes, and who desire to be partners in effective lake stewardship.

There are few who believe our lakes are the same as when we first decided to become lake property owners. The water is not as clear, the weeds seem more abundant, we've noticed blue-green algae the last few years, the fish aren't as plentiful, and there just seem to be more of us around the lake.

There are lakes in Alberta that are improving as a result of the concerted efforts of residents. The actions of interested and committed community groups, Summer Village Councils, individual residents, all working together, have a tremendous positive impact on our lakes.

View individual sections of the Guide by following the links below. To download the Guide or a section place your cursor on the desired document link and click your right mouse button. Choose the 'Save Target As' option.

Please note: Due to an overwhelming demand for printed copies of the Lake Stewardship Guide, ASVA is anticipating a second printing. If you would be interested in obtaining additonal copies of the Guide please send an email to the ASVA Webmaster at: Webmaster@AlbertaSummerVillages.org. Please indicate how many copies you require.