Protecting Our Watershed: Summer Tips for Healthy Lakes and Lands
As summer unfolds, it’s a great time to reflect on how our day-to-day activities affect the health of Lac des Roches and its surrounding watershed. Whether you’re gardening, enjoying the lake, or maintaining your property, here are a few reminders to help protect our shared environment.
1. Water Use and Drought Conditions
Lac des Roches Water Licensees recently received drought information for 2025. You can find the same information in the link below. Drought conditions in our region are becoming more common, putting pressure on both surface and groundwater sources. Conserving water helps maintain natural lake levels and reduces strain on local systems.
Try watering early in the morning, using drought-tolerant landscaping, and installing rain barrels.
Stay informed with up-to-date drought preparation and response. Visit the Drought Information Portal to stay up to date on conditions in our watershed.
2. Fertilizer Use Near Lakes
Using fertilizers near the lake can contribute to algae growth and degrade water quality. Nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen easily runoff into waterways, especially after rain. Please avoid using fertilizers within 30 metres of the shoreline and consider switching to natural soil enhancers or compost.
Learn more about lake-safe gardening practices. And check out the FireSmart Landscaping Hub.
3. Invasive Species: Yellow Flag Iris
Yellow flag iris is a fast-spreading invasive plant that chokes out native species and disrupts wetland ecosystems. It’s especially concerning in shallow waters around Lac des Roches.
This summer, our watershed society is organizing a community removal effort. If you spot yellow flag iris, please take a photo and send it to us, also please advise if you cut the flowers off the plant.
More information and reporting tools in the following email and on our website.
4. Other Invasive Species: Know What to Watch For
Beyond yellow flag iris, our region faces threats from other invasive plants and aquatic species. Early detection and reporting are key to prevention and control.
Beware of the Wildflower Seed Packages - which may include Oxeye daisy, Blueweed, Baby’s breath, Hawkweeds, Knapweed, Bachelors button and more. Some commercial wildflower seed mixes contain invasive species that can spread beyond garden beds and threaten local biodiversity. Always check labels carefully and compare them to the list of invasive species in our area.
The Cariboo Regional District offers excellent support, including identification tools, disposal guidance, and assistance with removal.
Visit the CRD’s invasive species page for a list of invasive species in our area. Also look for the Landowner’s Assistance Program
5. FireSmart – Book your FREE Home Assessment
The CRD is offering FREE professional home assessments through the FireSmart BC Wildfire Mitigation Program. These assessments will evaluate a property’s wildfire exposure, its specific risks and identify ways to reduce them. Residents receive a report with recommendations on the next steps to FireSmart your home and property.
Look for the CRD’s Firesmart Program
By working together and staying informed, we can help preserve the beauty and ecological balance of our watershed. Thank you for being a responsible and caring member of the Lac des Roches community.