Friends of the Muskoka Watershed (FOTMW) is a charity with a focus on protecting Muskoka watersheds forever. We identify environmental threats, develop practical science-based solutions, and connect with policy-makers to put these solutions in place. We also cultivate an awareness of these threats and solutions through educational outreach within the Muskoka community. Friends of Muskoka Watershed is about science driving solutions. With input from advisors, the board, local experts and using published literature, FOTMW announced at our 2023 AGM, seven plans for FOTMW’s focus for the future. The threats were evaluated for: severity, extent and trend; current government actions; and potential for local community action to help resolve the threat. 1. Calcium decline has damaged Muskoka forests. We plan to involve the community in restoration using wood ash. 2. Calcium decline has reduced forest carbon capture. Working with university researchers, we will determine what impact healthier forests could have on climate change. How much more carbon will forests capture after ash additions? 3. Calcium decline in forests may increase the risk of spring floods. We will determine if an increase in calcium will increase forest transpiration, reducing the severity of spring floods. 4. Road salt is damaging many Muskoka lakes. We are identifying the source and raising awareness of the issue 5. Hazardous algal blooms are on the rise. We plan to study their causes so we can better predict occurrences and investigate solutions. 6. Novel toxic chemicals may be damaging our lakes. We will determine if aquatic life is threatened and action is needed. 7. Public will and action are needed to protect the environment. Through Citizen Science and other projects, we will motivate, educate and provide opportunities for the community to participate in protecting Muskoka. For more information visit https://fotmw.org/our-major-programs/
