Western Chorus Frogs are a threatened species in Canada and the MLA had no data regarding the frog and its presence on our lake.  In conjunction with Blazing Star Environmental, Trent University and Environment and Climate Change Canada, volunteers with the MLA conducted a survey for Western Chorus Frogs around Mississippi Lake in 2021. 

While microplastics have received a lot of media attention in the last few years, there has not yet been enough scientific research to indicate any clear or definitive statements about the

impact of microplastics on the environment or on human health.   However, the MLA decided to embark on a short survey in 2019 to assess the amount of microplastic pollution already in Mississippi Lake.

MLA took an interest in determining the extent of Spongy Moth (Gypsy Moth) invasion around Mississippi Lake, in view of the noted spike in activity by this insect in Eastern Ontario in recent years.  

As development on the lake increases, the amount of woody debris along the shoreline and in the lake decreases.  This debris is a healthy component of lake environments and it provides habitat for fish, turtles, birds, invertebrates and more.  The MLA therefore embarked on a two-year project (2017 and 2018) in partnership with Watersheds Canada to help restore some fish habitat.  

A main goal of the Mississippi Lake Plan is to works towards high water quality and a healthy lake ecosystem.  With changing land use in the area, from intensification of agricultural operations to new rural residential development, it became increasingly important to gain a clearer understanding of the impact of nutrient movement through the watershed into the lake and ultimately nutrient effects on water quality in the lake. 

In view of the damage that invasive species can cause to the lake's ecosystem, the MLA launched a project to determine which invasive species have already infiltrated Lake Mississippi, record their locations, and monitor the rate and extent of proliferation. 

The Love Your Lake program assists shoreline property owners in identifying what they value about their lake and in taking actions that reflect those values.  Overall, the intent is to improve the overall health of the lake in terms of water quality, wildlife habitat, and a sustainable ecosystem in which to live, work, and play.