What We Do

The Muskoka Lakes Association’s mission is to promote the responsible use, enjoyment and conservation of the unique Muskoka environment.

Our efforts are concentrated in four areas:

• We protect and promote water quality – The MLA operates the most comprehensive water monitoring program of any lake association in Canada.  Known as the Water Quality Initiative, this program focuses on near shore testing, where members really use the water near their residences.  The MLA shares this data with district and municipal governments, and when issues arise, we work with a variety of stakeholders to find solutions.
   
• We advocate for responsible government and fair taxation – The MLA believes fair taxation depends on responsible, efficient spending by district, municipal and provincial governments. We invest an enormous amount of time and resources into active monitoring of council meetings and local initiatives.  
   
• We promote responsible land use – The MLA advocates for strong environmental standards and smart, forward-thinking land use and development planning that respects, and to the extent protects, the unique character of Muskoka's communities. 
   
• We lead on important Muskoka issues - The MLA participates in the efforts of Muskoka's district and municipal governments, reporting back to members and taking action on issues that affect waterfront property owners.

The fun side of cottaging

Serious issues are important, but let’s face it, a trip to the cottage is all about having fun with family and friends.  That’s why the MLA supports, funds or operates a variety of cottage-focused events, including our annual aquatic regatta, sailing regattas, a winter curling bonspiel and seedling day.  We also host in a bi-annual antique boat show, produce an annual, high quality yearbook, and keep our members up-to-date on Muskoka happenings with a regular newsletter.
 

Recent Actions on Your Behalf:

In response to your concerns about large wakes and shoreline protection, we launched a Speed/Radar sign program to educate boaters about their speed vs. the 9km speed limit when traveling within 30 meters of shore. We collected water samples from and monitored 175 sites in Muskoka for clarity, phosphorus, eColi, dissolved organic carbon and calcium. Read more about our actions
here.