Alicia Southall

Conservation Lac Brome Holds Annual General Meeting

A Call to Protect Our Lake’s Future

Conservation Lac Brome (CLB) held its Annual General Meeting on May 10 at Hôtel Lac Brome, drawing over 50 residents eager to learn more about the organization’s mission: to preserve water quality, protect vital ecosystems, and promote sustainable enjoyment of Brome Lake.

CLB extended a warm welcome to two special guests—bestselling author Louise Penny and actor and author Raymond Cloutier—who will now serve as ambassadors for the organization. Both spoke with passion about the shared responsibility that comes with the privilege of enjoying the lake.

“This lake is a treasure,” Penny said. “And we all have a duty to ensure it remains one for generations to come.”

Rising Phosphorus Levels and Blue-Green Algae

Water quality remains a key concern. CLB’s most recent data shows a troubling increase in phosphorus levels, which feeds harmful blue-green algae. In 2023, phosphorus measured 18.8 micrograms per litre, significantly above the target level of 15 micrograms.

CLB President Jean-Pierre Pilon outlined the multiple factors contributing to this deterioration—some beyond the community’s control, such as climate change. Last year, the lake received a full metre of rainfall, and water temperatures remained high from July through September.

Collective Action Needed

While climate events are unavoidable, CLB emphasized that there is still much the community can do. Residents are urged to:

• Avoid disturbing the lakebed, which releases phosphorus
• Refrain from using fertilizers near shorelines
• Support re-naturalization efforts with native vegetation
• Help manage invasive species of plants and animals

Over several hundred kilos of garbage were removed from the lake last year alone. Non-native predators such as muskie and northern pike also threaten the lake’s ecological balance. In response, the Quebec Ministry of the Environment will conduct a fish stock inventory next summer.

New Initiative for Summer 2025

CLB will also be launching a new interactive program for kayakers to better explore and appreciate the Quilliams Nature Reserve, furthering its mission of education through experience.

New Board Members

At the close of the meeting, three new board members were appointed:

• Robert Girard
• Maurice Lévesque
• Marc Pelletier

For more information, visit www.conservationlb.com or contact info@conservationlb.com.