While Jackfish Lake is a popular recreation lake, it is also an ecosystem in crisis. With approximately 60 per cent of the

shoreline developed, Alberta Environment considers Jackfish Lake to be at high risk of water quality and natural habitat

deterioration. In 2015 we had our first large toxic blue-green algae bloom and a winter fish kill. Heavy use of the lake including

boating in shallow areas—which stirs up the lake bottom—has amplified these issues.

The Jackfish Lake Management Association asks all visitors and residents to do your part to help ensure the lake’s long-term viability and environmental sustainability.

— DO —

• Stay out of shallow areas when boating.
• Pursue watersports in deeper areas. Surfing in deeper areas creates better waves and doesn’t stir up the bottom or expose propellers to damage.
• Properly clean and dry your boat before coming in from another lake. Don’t bring in Zebra Mussels.
• Buy and use phosphate-free and biodegradable products.
• Maintain a natural shoreline; it helps absorb nutrient over-loading, especially phosphorus. Keep access to water as narrow as possible.
• Fill gas and oil containers away from water and always use a funnel.

— DON’T —

• Don’t bath or shampoo in the lake even if the label says enviro-friendly; that goes for pets too.
• Don’t use fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, or garden care products anywhere near the lake.
• Don’t allow any wastewater to bypass your septic system.

Please be aware that Alberta Environment has strict guidelines restricting any lakeshore modifications or development. For more information about these restrictions visit the Resources section of our web site or contact the Government of Alberta. Please note that all landowners are expected to be fully familiar and to abide by regulations; ignorance is not an excuse for noncompliance and there are significant penalties and remediation requirements for violations of regulations.