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United as members, we drive science, education, and stewardship of Nicola Lake.

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Empowering our community through science, education, and stewardship to support the long-term health of Nicola Lake.

We work on the traditional and unceded lands of the Nlaka’pamux and Syilx peoples. As Guardians, we respect their enduring connection to these waters and are grateful to learn from their ancestral stewardship as we help to steward this watershed.

About the Guardians

We are a non-profit, volunteer organization dedicated to supporting the restoration and long-term health of Nicola Lake's water quality and biodiversity through rigorous monitoring, educational outreach, and broad stakeholder collaboration.

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To advance this work, we collaborate closely with the BC Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, the Ministry of Environment and Parks, and the Nicola Watershed Governance Partnership.

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Alongside dedicated limnologists, Indigenous Nations, government agencies, local stakeholders, and community members, we strive to deepen our collective understanding of the watershed's ecology. Through science, stewardship, and collaboration, we are helping build a sustainable future for Nicola Lake, rooted in evidence-based decision-making and active community involvement.

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Our Commitment to Nicola Lake

We came together because we care deeply about Nicola Lake - its health, its future, and all the life it sustains. Formed in direct response to a growing crisis, our Society is committed to long-term stewardship for our community, our wildlife, and the generations who will inherit this watershed.

The Challenge 

While climate change and toxic algae blooms threaten Nicola Lake's water quality and local wildlife, we all have a role to play in supporting the lake's long-term health. By improving our understanding through monitoring, reducing nutrient runoff, and working together as a community, we can make informed decisions that benefit the watershed for generations to come. Through science, stewardship, and collaboration, we are building momentum toward a healthier future for Nicola Lake.

Our Mission

The Guardians Of Nicola Lake and Watershed Society's mission is to investigate, analyze and protect the quality and health of Nicola Lake and the Nicola Lake Watershed

Clean Water

Working toward improved water quality for swimming, recreation, and overall lake health.

Wildlife & Ecosystems

Safeguarding fish populations and the broader ecosystem that depends on a healthy watershed.

Community Action

Bringing together residents and volunteers to take coordinated action for lasting change.

Future Generations

Ensuring that Nicola Lake remains a thriving resource for the children who come after us.

Why Nicola Lake Needs Our Guardianship

Watch this short video for an overview of what's happening in nicola lake

Through science, stewardship, and collaboration, our community is building momentum toward a healthier future for Nicola Lake. While challenges such as algae blooms and erosion require long-term commitment and evidence-based solutions, every step toward greater understanding and responsible stewardship makes a difference. Together, we are helping create the conditions for a resilient watershed that can be enjoyed by future generations.

Science | Stewardship | Education | Collaboration

What the Guardians Are Doing

Here’s how we’re turning concern into action

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Science 

• Water chemistry tests • Surface/deep monitoring • Inflow sampling • Algae testing • Guardian teams • Data tracking

Stewardship/Education

• Stewardship education • Access QR signs • Newsletters • Best-practice guidance for recreation and shoreline care.

Advocacy/Connection

• Ministries • Local gov • First Nations • Scientists • Experts. We coordinate with the NWGP to optimize information.

Newsletter

Summer 2025

An Introduction to the newly formed Guardians of Nicola Lake and Watershed Society

Newsletter

Summer 2026

Coming Soon!

Latest Nicola Lake Updates

Stay informed with the most recent news, stewardship notices, and scientific findings from the Guardians of Nicola Lake and Watershed Society.

Newsletter

Fall 2025

Autumn report detailing nutrient shifts and community stewardship initiatives across the lakeshore.

Water Testing Update

2025 Sampling Report

Report submitted to Ministry by BC Lakes Stewardship Society on behalf of Guardians Testing Team (Level 1 Testing)

Newsletter

Winter 2025

An introduction to algae and how to repair shorelines to limit runoff.

Newsletter

Spring 2026 Part 1

A summary of what we now know about what's happening in Nicola Lake

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Newsletter

Spring 2026  Part 2

How residents can help limit the nutrient load in the lake.

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Thanks to our Corporate Sponsors

You Can Make a Difference

Whether you join as an individual, a corporate partner, or support us through a donation, your contribution powers essential water testing, specialist guidance, and critical stewardship projects for Nicola Lake.

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Individual Member

Join 200+ guardians for $25/year. Support science and stewardship and receive direct updates.

Donation Support

Make a one-time or monthly contribution. Your gift directly funds water quality science and stewardship.

Corporate Citizen

Show your business's commitment to the watershed. Partner with us for a sustainable future.

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