‘We now have a practical, scalable set of measures – rooted in science and local realities – that can get Lake Simcoe back on track,’ says official
NEWS RELEASE
RESCUE LAKE SIMCOE COALITION
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The Rescue Lake Simcoe Coalition (RLSC) has just released its 2025 Year-in-Review, showcasing an important year highlighted by the introduction of a significant new policy report and a growing demand for tangible, science-based improvements regarding the health of the Lake Simcoe watershed. At the heart of this year’s efforts is Protect Our Plan: From Good Goals to Practical Progress, a thorough, ready-to-use guide aimed at regaining momentum under the Lake Simcoe Protection Plan (LSPP). “The report is our clearest call yet for moving beyond fragmented efforts and into coordinated, enforceable, transparent action,” said Executive Director Jonathan Scott. “We now have a practical, scalable set of measures – rooted in science and local realities – that can get Lake Simcoe back on track.” The report outlines 13 recommendations including specific phosphorus targets for sub-watersheds, an updated Phosphorus Reduction Strategy, a province-wide Road Salt Reduction Plan, dedicated federal funding under the Freshwater Action Plan, tax incentives for landowners restoring streams and buffers, transit expansion that protects watersheds, open-data reporting tools, and investments in climate-ready infrastructure linked to flood prevention. Tackling Road Salt Pollution Through the Ontario Salt Pollution Coalition, RLSC helped push forward a united resolution advocating for a provincial liability-limiting framework along with standardized training for winter maintenance contractors. This year saw Georgina, Bradford West Gwillimbury, Newmarket and Brock endorse this resolution as they joined Muskoka and others as early supporters. “Municipalities have been clear: chloride levels are rising, infrastructure is corroding, and freshwater ecosystems are at risk,” said Scott. “Local governments stepped up – now provincial action must follow.” Defending Federal Freshwater Funding When leaked communications hinted that Ottawa might reduce funding to the Freshwater Action Fund, RLSC quickly rallied public support urging the federal government to restore funding rather than cut it for Lake Simcoe. “Lake Simcoe protection is not optional,” said Scott. “Communities cannot afford a decade of backsliding.” Community Engagement and Education The Coalition broadened its presence throughout the watershed this year by engaging students in research about phosphorus and climate impacts while also joining local volunteer activities like cleaning up Hot Box Huts roadside. A major highlight was RLSC’s Lake Defenders education program being recognized by Blue Community Schools-a global network focused on youth involvement in water protection. This recognition emphasizes how vital the program is in promoting watershed knowledge among kids, families, and schools across the area. The annual Laugh for Lake Simcoe fundraiser once again brought community members together for an evening dedicated to connection and environmental care. A Year of Transition and Renewal In mid-2025, RLSC experienced an important leadership change as long-serving Executive Director Claire Malcolmson stepped down after nearly ten years. Her commitment to scientific accountability significantly shaped regional environmental advocacy. The Board appointed Jonathan Scott as the new Executive Director which signals renewed attention on research and reporting practical solutions that can be applied right away. “Claire built the foundation,” said Board Chair Jennie Ucar. “Jonathan is now helping us grow our capacity to turn concern into coordinated action.” Looking Ahead to 2026 The priority for RLSC next year is clear: ensure federal, provincial, and municipal partners come together around actionable steps outlined in Protect Our Plan. “The science is clear; the tools exist; municipalities are ready,” said Scott. “2026 must be the year we convert goodwill into measurable results.” The Coalition is actively fundraising aiming to reach its year-end goal of $60,000. Supporters can donate at www. rescuelakesimcoe. org/donate. ************************
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RESCUE LAKE SIMCOE COALITION
************************
The Rescue Lake Simcoe Coalition (RLSC) has just released its 2025 Year-in-Review, showcasing an important year highlighted by the introduction of a significant new policy report and a growing demand for tangible, science-based improvements regarding the health of the Lake Simcoe watershed. At the heart of this year’s efforts is Protect Our Plan: From Good Goals to Practical Progress, a thorough, ready-to-use guide aimed at regaining momentum under the Lake Simcoe Protection Plan (LSPP). “The report is our clearest call yet for moving beyond fragmented efforts and into coordinated, enforceable, transparent action,” said Executive Director Jonathan Scott. “We now have a practical, scalable set of measures – rooted in science and local realities – that can get Lake Simcoe back on track.” The report outlines 13 recommendations including specific phosphorus targets for sub-watersheds, an updated Phosphorus Reduction Strategy, a province-wide Road Salt Reduction Plan, dedicated federal funding under the Freshwater Action Plan, tax incentives for landowners restoring streams and buffers, transit expansion that protects watersheds, open-data reporting tools, and investments in climate-ready infrastructure linked to flood prevention. Tackling Road Salt Pollution Through the Ontario Salt Pollution Coalition, RLSC helped push forward a united resolution advocating for a provincial liability-limiting framework along with standardized training for winter maintenance contractors. This year saw Georgina, Bradford West Gwillimbury, Newmarket and Brock endorse this resolution as they joined Muskoka and others as early supporters. “Municipalities have been clear: chloride levels are rising, infrastructure is corroding, and freshwater ecosystems are at risk,” said Scott. “Local governments stepped up – now provincial action must follow.” Defending Federal Freshwater Funding When leaked communications hinted that Ottawa might reduce funding to the Freshwater Action Fund, RLSC quickly rallied public support urging the federal government to restore funding rather than cut it for Lake Simcoe. “Lake Simcoe protection is not optional,” said Scott. “Communities cannot afford a decade of backsliding.” Community Engagement and Education The Coalition broadened its presence throughout the watershed this year by engaging students in research about phosphorus and climate impacts while also joining local volunteer activities like cleaning up Hot Box Huts roadside. A major highlight was RLSC’s Lake Defenders education program being recognized by Blue Community Schools-a global network focused on youth involvement in water protection. This recognition emphasizes how vital the program is in promoting watershed knowledge among kids, families, and schools across the area. The annual Laugh for Lake Simcoe fundraiser once again brought community members together for an evening dedicated to connection and environmental care. A Year of Transition and Renewal In mid-2025, RLSC experienced an important leadership change as long-serving Executive Director Claire Malcolmson stepped down after nearly ten years. Her commitment to scientific accountability significantly shaped regional environmental advocacy. The Board appointed Jonathan Scott as the new Executive Director which signals renewed attention on research and reporting practical solutions that can be applied right away. “Claire built the foundation,” said Board Chair Jennie Ucar. “Jonathan is now helping us grow our capacity to turn concern into coordinated action.” Looking Ahead to 2026 The priority for RLSC next year is clear: ensure federal, provincial, and municipal partners come together around actionable steps outlined in Protect Our Plan. “The science is clear; the tools exist; municipalities are ready,” said Scott. “2026 must be the year we convert goodwill into measurable results.” The Coalition is actively fundraising aiming to reach its year-end goal of $60,000. Supporters can donate at www. rescuelakesimcoe. org/donate. ************************
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