Skip to content

Invasive Species

Aquatic invasive species pose a growing threat to the ecological health of Lake Vernon and lakes throughout Muskoka.
In 2025, volunteers collected and removed more than 16,000 Chinese Mystery Snails during several successful LVA  “Snails in Pails” events.

The infographic below highlights the invasive species currently affecting our watershed and an overview of the simple actions each of us can take to help safeguard the health of our lake.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

🛡️ What Are We Doing About It?

Lake Vernon Association has implemented a multi-year Invasive Species Awareness and Management Plan, supported by a micro-grant from Ontario’s Invasive Species Centre – Invasive Species Action Fund.

Our program uses a multi-pronged approach that includes:

  • 🔍 Monitoring and early detection
  • 🪣 Snails in Pails collection events
  • 📚 Public education and awareness
  • 🌱 Stewardship and community engagement
  • 🤝 Volunteer participation

Together, these initiatives help protect the long-term health of Lake Vernon.

🚤 How Can You Help?

Everyone can help reduce the spread of aquatic invasive species.

  • Clean, Drain, Dry (or Wash) all watercraft and trailers before moving them to another waterbody. This includes boats, kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and sailboats.
  • Never release aquarium or pond water, fish, plants, or other aquatic organisms into the lake.

👀 Observe and Report

If you suspect an invasive species, please let us know.

  • Email  LVA@lake-vernon.ca Subject Line: Invasive Species
  • Email the LVA Environmental Director, Kevin Laframboise laframboisekj@gmail.com
  • You can also report sightings through: ☎ Invading Species Hotline. 1-800-563-7111
  • 💻 EDDMapS Online Reporting System

🙋 Volunteer

Community volunteers are essential to protecting Lake Vernon. You can:

  • 🪣 Join a future Snails in Pails collection event.
  • 🐌 Become a Snail Watcher by monitoring your shoreline for Chinese Mystery Snails.
  • 📧 To volunteer, contact Kevin Laframboise at: laframboisekj@gmail.com

📣 Raise Your Voice

Support local stewardship efforts by sharing your concerns with municipal councillors and working with the Lake Vernon Association to help manage invasive species responsibly.

📚 Learn More

Interested in learning more about Chinese Mystery Snails and other aquatic invasive species? Please explore the resources and links below.