The District’s Water Quality Monitoring Program helps track the health of lakes across the region. The long-standing program monitors key indicators, such as phosphorus, calcium and chloride, to better understand long-term trends and help protect Muskoka’s lakes for future generations.  

Throughout this release, a sampling site is the specific monitoring location where a water sample is collected, and a lake is the larger body of water in which one or more sampling sites are located. 

The 2025 results show three key findings: phosphorus levels remain below the threshold associated with bloom risk, calcium levels continue to decline, and chloride levels continue to rise in many lakes. 

With financial support through Ontario’s Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks, the District’s long-term monitoring helps identify concerns revealed by the annual data and reinforces the importance of maintaining natural shoreline buffers and reducing road salt use where possible to help protect water quality and lake life. Positive trends also highlight the importance of programs like the Natural Edge and Love Your Lake. 

“Ongoing monitoring is the foundation of effective lake protection, and we’re fortunate to have strong long-term monitoring data for Muskoka’s lakes,” said Christy Doyle, Director, Environmental Programs. “That information helps the District make informed decisions about emerging issues, respond where pressures are increasing, and continue working with the community to protect the lakes that define this region.”  

Phosphorus stays below bloom-risk levels 

In 2025, 64 per cent of sampled sites had spring phosphorus levels that were higher than the site’s 10-year average. However, none of the lakes sampled had phosphorus levels at or above 20 micrograms per litre. This threshold is important because algal blooms are more likely to form when phosphorus concentrations exceed this level. 

From 2015 to 2025, phosphorus increased in 27 lakes. Levels decreased or remained stable in the remaining 167 lakes. This means the long-term picture remains generally positive, even though some sites recordedhigher-than-average phosphorus levels in 2025. Continued monitoring will help determine whether those higher readings are temporary or part of a long-term change.  

Calcium continues to drop 

The 2025 results showed an ongoing concern: calcium levels continue to decline in Muskoka’s lakes.  

• In 2025, 31 per cent of sites sampled had calcium levels below 2 milligrams per litre. Levels this low can harm sensitive aquatic life. Over the past 10 years, declining calcium levels have been observed at 94 per cent of sites sampled.
• The District’s long-term data matches the 2025 results and confirms that calcium is declining in lakes across Muskoka. For the period from 2001 to 2025, 80 of 194 monitored sites experienced a decreasing trend in calcium concentration. Although calcium decline appears to be slowing in more recent years, many lakes remain below healthy calcium levels. 

Chloride continues to rise 

Chloride levels are also rising, especially in lakes near highways and commercial areas where road salt is frequently applied.

• In 2025, 28 per cent of sampled sites had chloride levels above 10 milligrams per litre. Levels above this point can harm sensitive aquatic life.
• As well, 72 per cent of sites had chloride levels higher than their 10-year average.

Low calcium and high chloride together can be especially hard on sensitive aquatic life, so tracking these changes helps us better understand how Muskoka’s lakes are changing. 

Where do we go from here? 

Lake water sampling for 2026 is complete.  A total of 90 sites on 72 lakes were sampled The chemical results will be received later this year and will be reported in 2027 in the District’s annual water quality report. 24 sites are sampled annually, so the results from the sites tested annually may clarify the trends discussed above.  

The next sampling season is set to begin May 2027. 

“Each year, our monitoring program gives us valuable insight into the health of Muskoka’s lakes and helps us make informed decisions about where action is needed most,” said David Zilkey, Manager, Watershed Programs. “The 2025 results continue some encouraging trends, while also reinforcing the importance of advancing stewardship across the watershed.” 

Working together: Residents, visitors and property owners all have a role to play in keeping Muskoka’s lakes healthy. Actions such as keeping shorelines natural and using salt carefully in winter can make a real difference over time.  

There are simple ways to help protect Muskoka’s lakes: 

• The Love Your Lake Program supports lake health assessments. 
• The Natural Edge Program helps property owners naturalize their shorelines.
  

More information about Muskoka’s Water Quality Monitoring Program.

Read the 2025 Water Quality Monitoring Program Results.

The post Muskoka’s Lake Monitoring Program Continues To Guide Local Action appeared first on Muskoka411.

The Township of Lake of Bays is inviting community members to continue helping shape the future of Logging Chain Park through a new online ideas board.

The post Community Invited To Continue Shaping The Future Of Logging Chain Park In Dwight appeared first on Muskoka411.

“For tow operators and first responders, the roadside is their workplace,” says Teresa Di Felice, assistant vice-president of government and community relations at CAA South Central Ontario. “When drivers see flashing lights, we need them to recognize that there is a trained professional helping someone at the roadside. Slowing down and moving over gives those workers the space they need to do their jobs more safely.”

While most Ontario drivers are familiar with the law, that awareness does not always translate into consistent action on the road.

“Every day, the men and women who respond to emergencies, assist stranded drivers and maintain our highways put themselves at risk to keep others safe,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “That’s why, beginning January 1, 2027, we’re expanding Ontario’s Slow Down, Move Over law to protect more roadside workers on the job because something as simple as slowing down and moving over can save lives and help ensure those who keep our roads safe make it home to their families.”

Toronto Police Service says those protections are critical for officers and other roadside workers who routinely work alongside moving traffic.

“Many police officers have found themselves in situations where they are stopped on the side of the road doing their job, only to have vehicles pass dangerously close by,” says Robert Johnson, Deputy Chief, Toronto Police Service. “When first responders or tow truck drivers have their lights flashing, drivers are legally required to slow down safely below the speed limit and leave space for emergency vehicles.”

As part of its continuing road safety work, CAA is piloting Variable Message Signs (VMS) technology on tow trucks across Ontario to determine whether enhanced visibility and directional messaging can help motorists recognize roadside incidents sooner and respond safely.

Research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found drivers were 95 per cent more likely to change lanes when a VMS was active. CAA’s pilot will assess whether the technology can help motorists identify a roadside response earlier and encourage them to slow down and move over.

“Drivers are processing a lot of information when they approach a roadside incident,” said Di Felice. “A clear, visible message may help them understand what is happening sooner and give them more time to slow down, check surrounding traffic and move over safely.”

Putting drivers in the worker’s shoes

Technology is one part of the solution. CAA is also using public education to help drivers understand the people Ontario’s SDMO law is intended to protect.

CAA’s SDMO public service announcement puts motorists in the shoes of the people who assist stranded drivers every day. Rather than focusing only on the rules of the road, it highlights the individuals behind the flashing lights and the risks they face while working just feet from live traffic. Watch the PSA here.

Ontario expanding slow down move over law to protect more workers

Starting January 1, 2027, drivers must also slow down and move over for certain work vehicles stopped at roadside with flashing amber lights activated.

Work vehicles under the expanded law include highway maintenance vehicles, public utility vehicles (such as electricity, water, natural gas, telecommunications), waste collection vehicles (such as garbage, recycling or organic waste trucks) and roadside assistance vehicles (like CAA or other providers).

CN Tower to shine for roadside safety

On Saturday, October 17, the CN Tower will be illuminated in yellow and black to mark National Slow Down, Move Over Day, commemorated by all the CAA clubs across the country, and in honour of the tow operators, emergency responders and other roadside workers who assist motorists every day. A standard light show will run for 5 minutes at the top of every hour, followed by another light show on the half hour.

To learn more about SDMO laws, please visit: www.caasco.com/SDMO

The post CAA And Road Safety Partners Urge Drivers To Slow Down And Move Over appeared first on Muskoka411.

Moonlight Shopping Party and Street Festival
Friday, November 20 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Kick off the holiday season with a late-night shopping celebration! Stroll through downtown shops, ride the holiday train, drop letters off for Santa, marvel at the living holiday window displays courtesy of Bracebridge School of Dance Arts, enjoy hot chocolate, and take part in family-friendly activities. The sky will light up with a dazzling fireworks show at 8 p.m. After the fireworks, take your own photos with Santa inside D&R and Associates at Forest Hill Real Estate Inc. Don’t forget to bring a new, unwrapped toy for the toy drive.

Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt
November 20 to December 21

Explore Downtown Bracebridge in search of hidden holiday elves during the Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt. Spot them all in select businesses for your chance to win one of three $50 Shop the Bridge gift cards.

Santa Claus Parade
Friday, December 4 at 6 p.m.

Santa Claus is coming to town! Presented by the Rotary Club of Bracebridge/Muskoka Lakes, the parade begins at 6 p.m. and will make its way along Manitoba Street, filling downtown with lights, floats, and festive cheer.

The post Bracebridge’s Festival Of Lights Returns To Downtown On Nov. 20th appeared first on Muskoka411.

The appointments come as Explorers’ Edge continues to evolve its work in destination development, visitor transportation, tourism packaging, community partnerships and the development of new domestic and international markets.

Martin is a Senior Partner at Skift and has spent his career understanding how travel consumer behaviour is evolving and what it means for the places people choose to visit. He has worked with over 100 destinations, airlines, tour operators, hospitality groups and investors in Canada and around the world, advising on destination development, market development, seasonality and investment attraction. He brings a pan-Canadian and international perspective to the Board.

Tabobondung brings experience in education, community economic development, tourism operations and financial administration, together with strong regional relationships. Her experience also includes work connected to Indigenous education, youth pathways, culture and tourism.

At the AGM, the Board discussed how the organization’s mandate and operating environment have become increasingly complex and recognized that a broader mix of experience can strengthen governance while maintaining strong representation from tourism operators throughout the region.

“Our Board has always benefited from people who understand what it means to operate, invest and build something in this region,” said Sarah North-Harris, Chair of Explorers’ Edge. “As our work expands, we also need perspectives that help us think differently and ask better questions. Dawn and Oliver bring very different but complementary experience, and both will add considerable value to the conversations around our Board table.”

For Explorers’ Edge CEO James Murphy, the appointments reflect where the organization is heading as it explores new approaches to rural destination development.

“The work in front of us is considerably different than it was even a few years ago,” said Murphy. “We are building transportation partnerships, selling bookable experiences, developing direct relationships with travellers, working more deeply with communities and looking beyond traditional tourism marketing models. We also believe that if you are at the table, you should have both a voice and a vote in helping shape our destination and the communities within it. Oliver brings a national and international lens to those conversations, while Dawn brings an important community, education and regional perspective. Their addition strengthens the Board at exactly the right time.”

Vice-Chair Brent Ellerson said the appointments complement the practical industry experience that has long been central to the organization’s governance.

“There is real value in having a Board grounded in tourism operators who understand the realities of doing business in this region, and we want to preserve that,” said Ellerson. “At the same time, good governance means continuing to broaden the experience around the table as the organization grows. Oliver and Dawn bring knowledge that complements the strengths already on the Board and will help us make better-informed decisions about where Explorers’ Edge goes next.”

The Board approved the current slate of directors, including Martin and Tabobondung, at the September 29 Annual General Meeting. The organization will continue its governance renewal work throughout the coming year, including director onboarding, succession planning and a review of the mix of skills and regional tourism representation required for the future.

The post Explorers’ Edge Welcomes Oliver Martin And Dawn Tabobondung To Board Of Directors appeared first on Muskoka411.

In a now-deleted Facebook post on her campaign page, mayoral candidate Jo Morphy used photos from an OPP Marine Unit Ride-Along. During the ride along, which she described as “extra special” in her caption, Morphy talked to members of the OPP about some of the concerns regarding water safety. What she didn’t include in her caption however was the fact that she had won the ride along as a prize rather than her setting up the meeting herself.

In response, the OPP issued a press release in the hopes of informing people that the ride-along Morphy was a part of was indeed a prize:

The website for the auction states that Morphy won the prize with a bid of $380. Muskoka411 reached out to the Rotary Club of Gravenhurst to ask further questions about this auction, but our e-mail was not answered.

Page 11 of the Town of Gravenhurst 2026 Municipal Elections Procedures, which were published on May 1, states that: 

• Municipal Identifiers shall not be used, printed, posted, or distributed on Campaign Materials, or included on any Election-related websites, domains, or social media platforms, except when linking to the Municipality’s official website(s).
• Candidates shall not use photographs featuring Employees wearing or operating equipment bearing Municipal Identifiers.
• The use of photographs or videos not produced by the Municipality and taken from publicly accessible locations is permitted in Campaign Activities, provided they do not incorporate Municipal Identifiers in a manner that contravenes this Policy.
• Municipal Resources shall not be used for any element of Campaign Materials or Campaign Activities in relation to Candidates, Registered Third Party Advertisers or those intending to become a Candidate or Registered Third Party Advertiser.

While the OPP are traditionally a provincial asset, there are instances in which they become a municipal one. In communities that choose to not establish their own standalone municipal police force – like Gravenhurst – a municipality can explicitly contract the OPP under the Community Safety and Policing Act to serve as their local police department. 

By posting the photos from the OPP ride-along on her campaign Facebook page, Morphy broke the above listed election procedures. 

In an email statement provided to Muskoka411, Kayla Thibeault, who is the Clerk in charge of the election, said that the complaint regarding Morphy “is not under the jurisdiction of the Town of Gravenhurst.” 

According to Thibeault, a complaint such as this is a provincial level matter. This has been disputed by those at OPP HQ, who say complaints like this would be handled by the Clerk for the election at the town level. 

Thibeault added that an accountability mechanism for this matter could be through a complaint with the Compliance Audit Committee at the time of filing financial statements. 

This issue is coming to light just weeks after complaints regarding a Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce board member aiding in Morphy’s campaign efforts. 

Morphy also missed the most recent mayoral debate hosted by Cogeco’s YourTV due to an illness. In a post on her campaign Facebook, Morphy said that she was “fully prepared and genuinely looking forward to participating” in the debate, adding that she was “disappointed to miss the opportunity, particularly because she had put considerable time into preparing for the discussion.”

The post Gravenhurst Mayoral Candidate Uses Marine Unit Ride-Along Prize As Content On Campaign Facebook, Breaks Elections Procedures appeared first on Muskoka411.

Muskoka, ON – Registration is now open for more than 15 in-person and virtual events and sessions taking place during Muskoka Business Week, November 23-27. Events and sessions will take place across Muskoka and offer opportunities to connect, learn and access local supports. The full schedule and registration links are available at www.muskoka.on.ca/business-week. 

Muskoka Business Week brings together businesses, entrepreneurs and community partners from across the region. The District of Muskoka is leading the initiative with support from chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, area municipalities and community groups.  

“Local businesses are the heart of our economy. Especially now, given the trade war, it’s essential that all levels of government come together with our local business organizations to offer all the support we can to protect and grow local jobs and the local economy,” said Jeff Lehman, Chair of the District of Muskoka. “Muskoka Business Week is an opportunity to celebrate and grow their contributions, while creating meaningful connections and opportunities for future success.” 

Register Early! 

Muskoka Business Week attendees will discover opportunities to: 

• Navigate Muskoka’s municipal, business and community supports 
• Access funding, financing and business-growth resources 
• Gain practical tools and insights for businesses of all sizes 
• Connect with employers, educators, community partners and local leaders 
• Explore workforce, innovation and sector-development opportunities 
• Strengthen inclusive workplaces and communities 
• Learn from local experts, entrepreneurs and peers 
• Build relationships that spark collaboration and future growth 

Most events and sessions are free, but space may be limited.  

To explore the schedule and register early, visit www.muskoka.on.ca/business-week. 

The post Registration Now Open For Muskoka Business Week Events And Sessions appeared first on Muskoka411.

The Toronto Blue Jays may be absent from the postseason, but Canadian fans still have plenty to follow. Homegrown players are contributing to the American League Championship Series (ALCS), while Freddie Freeman maintains a Canadian connection in the National League.

Changing championship expectations add another dimension to an already compelling October. Each result brings new challenges that could shape the contenders’ path to the World Series.

The World Series Race Is Shifting With Every Game

Milwaukee, Los Angeles, Cleveland and Tampa Bay have taken different routes into the Championship Series. The Brewers have established an early advantage against the Dodgers, while the Guardians and Rays remain closely matched in the American League.

Milwaukee leads the World Series betting market at +110, followed by Tampa Bay at +320. Los Angeles sits at +350 despite its star-studded roster and postseason experience, while Cleveland remains the longest-priced contender at +550 as the championship race continues.

These figures reflect changing expectations as teams progress through October. Fans following playoff baseball odds can compare championship futures and individual game markets, with sportsbook prices responding to results, injuries and performances throughout the postseason.

Milwaukee’s momentum has strengthened its championship position, but other contenders still have opportunities to respond. Pitching depth, offensive consistency and key player availability remain crucial, with each remaining game potentially reshaping the World Series race.

Canadian Talent Takes Center Stage in the ALCS

Three Canadians feature in the Cleveland-Tampa Bay ALCS, with two in the Guardians’ bullpen and another contributing to the Rays’ offense, adding intrigue for Canadian fans.

Cade Smith, Cleveland Guardians

Abbotsford, British Columbia, native Cade Smith has become one of Cleveland’s most important late-inning pitchers. His ability to challenge hitters and protect narrow advantages makes him particularly valuable when postseason games remain undecided entering the final innings.

Smith’s emergence as a dependable closer has strengthened a bullpen already central to Cleveland’s identity, especially when protecting narrow postseason leads.

Erik Sabrowski, Cleveland Guardians

Edmonton-born Erik Sabrowski brings another dimension to Cleveland’s already formidable relief group. The left-hander can handle demanding situations before the closer enters, giving Cleveland additional flexibility when opponents threaten to score.

His contributions become especially important when starting pitchers leave games early or managers need favorable matchups against dangerous opposing power hitters.

Liam Hicks, Tampa Bay Rays

Toronto-born Liam Hicks provides the Canadian connection on Tampa Bay’s side. The catcher has contributed important offense during the postseason, including a two-run single against Cleveland in ALCS Game 2.

His ability to produce in crucial late-game scoring situations adds another valuable offensive threat to a Rays lineup that has repeatedly demonstrated its resilience under pressure.

The Brewers Are Turning Up the Pressure on Los Angeles

Milwaukee entered the National League Championship Series against a star-studded Dodgers roster. Two games later, the Brewers had established an advantage, demonstrating how effective pitching and timely offense can challenge even the strongest opponents.

The Brewers have excelled at protecting leads, with reliable relief pitching limiting Los Angeles’ scoring rallies. Disciplined defensive execution has also preserved narrow advantages, reducing the need for overwhelming offensive production against a talented opponent.

Los Angeles faces mounting pressure as Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman and other established hitters struggle for consistency. Missed opportunities with runners in scoring position have proved costly, particularly when Milwaukee’s pitchers limit chances to recover.

Freeman offers another connection for Canadian fans, having represented Canada in honor of his late mother. His experience could prove valuable as Los Angeles attempts to recover, although Milwaukee’s momentum has strengthened its championship position.

The ALCS Is Becoming a Battle of Pitching Depth

Cleveland and Tampa Bay face a demanding test of their pitching depth as the American League Championship Series progresses. Strong starting performances can establish control, but bullpen availability often determines whether teams maintain their advantage.

The Guardians have developed a relief group capable of protecting narrow leads. Their depth allows managers to match pitchers against specific hitters, limiting late scoring opportunities. That flexibility becomes valuable when opponents seek one decisive swing.

Tampa Bay faces similar demands. Its starters must work efficiently to avoid excessive bullpen usage, particularly with games in quick succession. Longer outings provide valuable recovery time for key relievers who have already handled demanding postseason assignments.

Pitching decisions grow more complicated as the series advances. Managers must weigh fatigue, workloads and upcoming matchups before making changes. One ineffective relief appearance can erase several innings of strong starting pitching, leaving little room for recovery.

Small Mistakes Are Changing the Course of October Games

Postseason baseball rarely offers much forgiveness. A routine ground ball that escapes a defender, a missed cutoff throw or a stranded runner can influence an entire game when scoring opportunities are limited. Such mistakes become harder to overcome as the stakes rise.

Tampa Bay has capitalized on Cleveland’s defensive mistakes, showing the value of composure under pressure. Rather than relying on sustained offensive rallies, the Rays have seized opportunities when they arise. One productive at-bat can quickly change a close contest.

Los Angeles has encountered a different problem against Milwaukee. Even dangerous lineups can struggle when hits arrive at the wrong moments. Leaving runners in scoring position increases pressure on pitchers, who must continue working without much offensive support.

These moments carry greater weight in October because teams have fewer games available to correct their mistakes and regain lost momentum. A defensive lapse that might become a forgotten detail during the long regular season can influence an entire playoff series.

Canadian Fans Have More October Drama to Follow

The remaining Championship Series games promise plenty of intrigue for Canadian baseball followers. Cleveland’s Canadian relievers face further high-pressure tests, while Liam Hicks has opportunities to influence Tampa Bay’s pursuit of the American League pennant.

Milwaukee will attempt to maintain its early series advantage against Los Angeles, where Freddie Freeman and his teammates face mounting pressure to deliver a response.

Championship expectations will shift as performances, injuries and results reshape the remaining matchups. For Canadian fans, homegrown talent, familiar stars and unpredictable October moments ensure the journey toward the World Series remains worth following.

Content reflects information available as of 2026/10/14; subject to change.

The post Playoff Baseball Odds And The October Storylines Canadian Fans Are Following appeared first on Muskoka411.

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“People should feel confident that their toothbrush helps them achieve a great clean every time, especially given the established connection between oral health and overall health,” said Matina Vidalis, Regional Business Unit Leader, Oral Healthcare, Philips Personal Health North America. “Grounded in more than 50 years of oral care expertise and clinical heritage, our Next-Generation DiamondClean brings highly intuitive coaching directly to the handle. Its Smart Mouth Map and light indicators guide users as they brush, helping them see and address missed spots in real time without an app, in a design that reflects the premium craftsmanship people expect from Philips Sonicare.”

Solving the guesswork with on-device AI and real-time guidance

Powered by Philips Sonicare’s third-generation AI and machine learning technology, the Philips Sonicare Next-Generation DiamondClean 9900 Prestige transforms brushing from guesswork into a data-driven, guided routine:

• Instant Feedback on Brushing Habits: The innovative light ring guidance system provides real-time, on-handle feedback on coverage, pressure, and scrubbing patterns during each brushing session
• No More Guesswork: 12-Segment on-handle Smart Mouth Map displays exactly which areas have been cleaned and alerts users to missed spots that need attention
• SenseIQ Smart Pressure Sensing: Automatically adapts intensity to help protect gums from over-brushing
• 8 Personalized Modes and 3 Intensities: Users can customize their experience with instant feedback via the light ring
• Freedom to choose: Choose the toothpaste and mouthwash you prefer or your dental professional recommends
• Built for travel: Accompanying rechargeable travel case allows you to easily bring your Sonicare with you on-the-go

Outstanding performance that delivers results

Philips Sonicare Next-Generation DiamondClean 9900 Prestige removes 2000% more plaque than a manual toothbrush¹ and delivers 1500% ² healthier gums vs. a manual toothbrush in just 6 weeks. Sonicare Fluid Action supports the bristles to clean by driving fluid deep between teeth and along the gumline.

Philips Sonicare Next-Generation DiamondClean 9900 Prestige features an interactive display with 8 modes and 3 intensities, and is available now on Amazon priced at $499.99 CAD. Available colours include Silver White, Quartz Black, and Satin Mauve. It includes a rechargeable travel case and charging glass, comes in paper-based packaging, and is used alongside Philips Sonicare brush heads, in which 70%³ is attributed to bio-based plastic. The model was released on October 11, 2026 and is part of Philips Sonicare’s broader 2026 portfolio refresh, which also includes the new 5000–7000 Series.

¹ Versus manual toothbrush with A3 brush head

² In Clean mode vs. a manual toothbrush in 6 weeks

³ Allocated to plastic of brush head on mass balance basis

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