Ramsey Lake water quality protection gets financial boost

The protection efforts of water quality in Ramsey Lake got a financial boost with a $35,000 RBC Blue Water Grant for Conservation Sudbury.

The funds will be used for environmentally friendly site drainage and stormwater and rain water management for the Northern Water Sports Centre property.

Project objectives are to maintain water quality for the Ramsey Lake drinking water source and to incorporate demonstration materials to show citizens how to reduce the effect of stormwater and runoff from their own property.

Stormwater quality is a major factor affecting the quality of lake water in an urban watershed. Pervious or porous surfaces, like grass, forests and wetlands, allow rain to soak in and retain water, delaying its release to the lake.

This keeps water cooler and reduces sediment deposits and contaminants from surface runoff.

Bill Bray, RBC regional vice-president, presented a cheque to Lin Gibson, Conservation Sudbury chairperson.

"Water is our most precious natural resource, and we know that industry, government, business and individuals can all play a part in protecting urban water,” said Bray. “We are pleased to support organizations like Nickel District Conservation Authority in the important work they are doing in our community”.

“Conservation Sudbury — Nickel District Conservation Authority is grateful for this support from RBC,” said Gibson. “We are very pleased to be working in partnership with the Northern Water Sports Centre to protect our precious drinking water source.”

Launched in 2007, the RBC Blue Water Project is a 10-year charitable commitment of $50 million to help protect fresh water. Grants are available anywhere in the world where RBC operates.