FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 31, 2021

Plea to Markham Council to Restore Swan Lake and Swan Lake Park

Markham, ON – Today, the Friends of Swan Lake Park submitted to Markham Council the results from its Park Improvement survey on the future of Swan Lake and Swan Lake Park. The survey was completed by 367 residents of the Greensborough area in early March.

Over the next few months, Markham Council will establish long term goals for Swan Lake and Swan Lake Park.

Residents Vote for Restoration Backed By a Long Term Stewardship Plan

Swan Lake Park is home to over 150 species of birds and mammals. Swan Lake is dying, many fish have died, and plants cannot survive in the salty, murky water. The lake contains bacteria that can be harmful to animals and humans. Only 9% of the respondents supported Markham’s interim objective of maintaining the current poor hypereutrophic level of water quality. 82% supported the Friends of Swan Lake Park recommended but more challenging goal for improved water quality at the mesotrophic level.

Area residents clearly prefer a long term plan that involves investment in sustainable solutions and restoration of the aquatic and land based habitat. 95% supported the estimated $2 million investment in long term sustainable solutions, 91% supported restoration of both the aquatic life in the lake and the land based habitat. 97% felt it was important that Markham, in its role as steward, establish a long term sustainable Stewardship Plan for Swan Lake and Swan Lake Park.

Fred Peters, spokesperson for the group, says that addressing the deteriorating water quality in the Lake is an essential building block but it is critical that Council also address the broader environmental issues in the lake and park. The City of Markham, as Steward of Swan Lake and Swan Lake Park, has an obligation to ensure a long term sustainable solution that will serve future generations.

The full report on the survey results is available at https://friendsofswanlakepark.ca/park-improvement-survey-results-march-2021/. Additional information on the issues in Swan Lake Park is available on our website.

Swan Lake Park, 25 Swan Park Road, is north of 16th Avenue, midway between Markham Road and 9th Line.

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For more information contact:
Fred Peters – (416) 460-7090 contact@friendsofswanlakepark.ca
Website: www.friendsofswanlakepark.ca