Wednesday, July 16, 2025
The Manitoba government is providing a $95,000 grant to help the Souris River Watershed District develop an aeration system in Oak Lake that will enhance water quality, support fish populations and help reduce algae blooms, Premier Wab Kinew announced here today.
“Supporting watershed districts is an important part of protecting our environment and improving the quality of life for rural Manitobans,” said Kinew. “Whether it’s improving the water quality for swimming or improving the habitat conditions for fish, projects such as this one focus on the long-term sustainability of our lakes and rivers that protect both wildlife and humans.”
This project will install a high-quality aeration system to improve levels of oxygen, especially during the winter months, as well as improve the overall water quality of Oak Lake, which struggles with algae blooms in the summer months. Low dissolved oxygen levels can also disrupt the food chain on which fish species rely.
“Oak Lake is a fishing paradise and important tourist destination that boasts great fishing, camping, swimming and attracts visitors from across Manitoba, Canada and the United States,” said Dean Brooker, general manager, Souris River Watershed District. “We are grateful for this funding that will allow us to ensure the long-term sustainability of this lake and support the surrounding communities that rely on its waters for both recreation and economic development.”
Water aeration is a common water management practice primarily used to enhance water quality for various purposes including improving drinking water, enhancing fish populations and reducing algal blooms. It involves increasing oxygen levels in lakes and ponds to address issues like low oxygen levels during winter and excessive algal growth during the summer.
