There is cautious optimism about the water quality in Oak Lake.
Tuesday Quinte West’s Public Works and Environmental Services Committee will see a report that states that Oak Lake’s water has improved since the rerouting of an agricultural tile drain decreased runoff into the lake from nearby farms.
The report says phosphorus and ammonia levels are down from the past and algae wasn’t a problem last year.
Residents living along the lake agree the water has improved.
At its meeting Tuesday the committee will see a staff report recommending consultants continue monitoring the lake through the winter of next year to confirm the trends.
The consultants, with help from volunteers living on the lake, have been monitoring levels and testing quality since late in 2018.
Agricultural runoff hasn’t been the only cause of poor water quality as several old, malfunctioning residential septic systems have also been a contributor over the years.
