Some Issues in the Bayfield River Watershed

• Tree coverage is low in the watershed
• Loss of riparian vegetation (buffer strip) along water courses
• Development in wetlands
• Loss of wetlands
• Development in Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI)
• Four municipal sewage treatment plants release flow into the river increasing phosphate, nitrate and bacteria load
• Agricultural runoff
• Low lake levels (Climate change)
• Species at risk
• Cosmetic pesticide use contaminates aquifers
• Improper use and care of septic systems contaminates water courses and aquifers.
• Limited financial support for landowners to make required changes to enhance the environment
• Effective legislation to protect the environment