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