Osoyoos Lake Water Quality Society
We are committed to the protection of Osoyoos Lake, through citizen science and community education and outreach. We aim to help preserve the health of the lake for current and future generations, for the benefit of everyone.
Our Mission
The Osoyoos Lake Water Quality Society (OLWQS) consists of dedicated volunteers and supporters who work to help ensure that our lake continues to flourish by collecting data that measures the health of the water within the lake, and to educate users of the lake in order to help like-minded organizations prevent environmental threats, such as the introduction of invasive aquatic species.
At a time when environmental and ecological change threatens to disrupt the ability of fish to exist and thrive within the lake, and invasive species are colonizing many bodies of water in North America, our mission is more important than ever.
CITIZEN SCIENCE
What kind of citizen science does OLWQS perform?
We focus our efforts on water quality monitoring for Osoyoos Lake. For over three decades OLWQS volunteers have taken our boat out every two weeks between May and October to take detailed measurements of the water quality. We have compiled a unique and valuable history of the health of the lake that we share with the public and many interested organizations.
The metrics we collect provide vital information to help governments and other stakeholders to identify and address potential water quality concerns. Because we collect the same data in the same locations using a consistent methodology over time trends can be accurately identified which is especially important in an era of significant environmental change.
What information do we collect?
We collect five water quality metrics at multiple locations in the lake. The data includes water temperature, concentration of dissolved oxygen, pH level (acidity/alkalinity), specific conductivity (concentration of dissolved solids), and Secchi depth (water clarity). This information is compiled into reports for each monitoring site for each collection date. We also produce summary reports that identify trends over time. All reports are available on the Water Quality Reports Catalogue page.
For more information about water quality, our data collection process, and how to read the reports, please visit the About Water Quality Data page.
Who uses the collected data?
OLWQS makes all of our data publicly available on this site. We work with many regional, provincial, national and international organizations who use the data we collect for decision making and their own initiatives. Please visit the Collaborations page for more information about each of our collaborators.
How can I help?
We'd love to have you get involved! Please visit our Become a Member and Become a Volunteer pages to learn more about ways you can be part of our team.
What We Do
EDUCATION AND OUTREACH
Where does OLWQS focus its education and outreach efforts?
We highlight opportunities to maintain the health of our lake and its ecosystem, and what our residents and visitors can do to help. Examples include preventing invasive aquatic species, addressing water pollution, salmon enhancement programs, and much more.
What outreach programs does OLWQS offer?
We invite expert speakers to give public presentations on the topics related to water quality and lake health. OLWQS volunteers also give presentations and organize events for community organizations and school groups among others.
How do we help educate the public?
We have a number of community awareness programs held on a regular basis. These include "Pitch In" trash can decals, "Love Our Lake, Protect Our Lake" pole banners in downtown Osoyoos, and painting yellow fish on storm drains to remind people that anything that goes down the drain will eventually wind up in the lake.
How do we engage other environment-focused organizations?
We attend and speak at forums and events, including World Water Day, Osoyoos Lake Water Science Forum, Osoyoos Lake Board of Control and others.
How does OLWQS participate in the local community?
We provide informational material on topics such as invasive aquatic species, and staff tables at community events such as Cherry Fiesta, Lake Appreciation Day and others.
How can I learn more about OLWQS programs and events?
Follow us on social media! We share information about our activities and upcoming events on both Facebook and Instagram.