Lac des Nations water quality improved significantly in 2017

The City of Sherbrooke has revealed that the water quality of Lac des Nations has improved significantly after corrective measures were taken last year. In a press conference Tuesday, Sherbrooke, Mayor Steve Lussier, applauded the efforts of several City departments: the Estrie Public Health Agency, the Jean-Perrault Water Ski School, and the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Environment and the Fight against Climate Change. "The quality of the water is a problem that is particularly close to my heart," Lussier said. ”We worked as a team to try to find solutions. I would like to thank the members of the water ski school for being such good sports and for adapting to the new way of doing things, which is designed to protect skiers and ensure its long-term survival on Lac des Nations.” Since the lake is located in an urban area, it is exposed to several sources of contamination. Its location also makes it a popular place for Sherbrooke residents. The City adopted a more detailed monitoring of water quality in 2016. This first year of follow-up was characterized by numerous D ratings. In early 2017, the partners agreed on a new sampling protocol and a procedure for suspension of activities based on the knowledge acquired the previous year. Water skiing activities were allowed, particularly in one area of the lake, as in the summer of 2016, regardless of the results obtained in the other sector. In the spring and summer of 2017, several corrections were made to the sewer system located upstream from Lac des Nations, which had a major impact on water quality. In 2016, water skiing activities were suspended for 21 days due to a D rating or a preventative closure caused by heavy rains. In 2017, the number of days of suspension of activities was limited to seven. "The corrective measures, combined with an improved surveillance and closure strategy, have helped reduce background contamination and provide safe conditions for users in 2017. However, this success remains fragile and vigilance is required for years to come," said Sherbrooke Environment Committee Chair Karine Godbout. See full story in the Wednesday, April 25th edition of The Record.