The Elk/Beaver Lake Initiative was established by the CRD in 2016 in partnership with an Intergovernmental Working Group (IWG) and local interest groups. The aim of the initiative was to improve water quality at the lake, by reducing the frequency and toxicity of blue green algae, improve fish habitat, manage invasive weed growth and ensure continued recreational use of the lakes.
Elk/Beaver Lake is the most visited regional park, valued for its variety of environmental, social, recreational, and cultural benefits to the region. Water quality issues at Elk/Beaver Lake were identified in the 1960s and water quality continued to decline, having significant impacts on the environment, social, cultural and recreation values of the lake and surrounding park.
In response to declining water quality, the Intergovernmental Working Group (IWG) was formed to discuss the lake system and develop a strategy to improve water quality. Membership of this group included the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, Island Health, the CRD, and the District of Saanich. Communications and collaboration with other local interested groups, lake users and stakeholders are ongoing.