Safe Quiet Lakes is thrilled to announce the launch of the fourth edition of the “Your Lakes Your Views” survey. This summer, the organization aims to explore perceptions surrounding enhanced wakes and views while continuing to track attitudes among lake users throughout Ontario.
Since the first survey was introduced in 2013 Safe Quiet Lakes has made considerable progress. By the 2021 survey, nearly 6,000 responses were collected, making it the largest survey of its kind.
You can find the 2025 survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TSLPY8Q
“We invite all lake users across Ontario to share their perspectives on wakes and views, helping us better understand and address community concerns,” says Diana Piquette, the Chair of Safe Quiet Lakes. “In past surveys, participants have shared their joy and connection to the lakes, alongside concerns about boat traffic and noise levels. Alarmingly, two-thirds noted an increase in boat traffic, noise, and wakes compared to five years prior.”
For further insights on previous studies, stakeholders are encouraged to visit https://safequiet.ca/news/survey-results/.
With each iteration of the survey, the geographical reach has expanded. The 2021 survey expanded from Muskoka and included the Georgian Bay Association for the first time. In a promising development, the outreach will extend to Haliburton area cottagers in collaboration with the Haliburton Lake Cottagers’ Association and other organisations, aiming for an ambitious target of 10,000 responses in 2025.
This year, Safe Quiet Lakes is pleased to partner with the Opinion Research team at Earnscliffe Strategies, under the guidance of Allan Gregg and Greg Wilkinson, to further this vital research on boating attitudes and behaviors.
The survey will be open until July 21st.
Comprehensive results are set to be released in September, with access available to the public, government agencies, industry organizations, the OPP, and various community groups.
These insights will empower associations like Safe Quiet Lakes to better grasp public concerns and enhance ongoing programs. Make your voice count—participate in the survey and help shape the future of our lakes.
Photo: Diana Piquette, the Chair of Safe Quiet Lakes.
