Blue Flag Program

There are many organizations working to improve water quality, protect our shoreline, and make beaches safe for users: 

• Lake Huron Centre for Coastal Conservation
• Huron Perth Public Health beach water quality
• Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority

The Village of Bayfield Marina has been awarded a blue flag environmental award. The blue flag is an internationally recognized and respected eco-label that is awarded annually to beaches and marinas that have met strict criteria in four categories: water quality; environmental management; environmental education; and safety and services. To attain a blue flag, the marina must fulfil a number of criteria concerning environmental information and education, safety and service facilities and water quality. The blue flag is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a non-government environmental organization. Swim Drink Fish coordinates Blue Flag Canada and monitors The Village of Bayfield Marina regularly to ensure that the blue flag standards are maintained. 

If you are also passionate about nature and the environment, you can help, too, by: 

• Following the code of environmental conduct at the marina 
• Using environmentally friendly products for paints and detergents. This helps reduce the amount of harmful chemicals entering our waters 
• Reporting any pollution or other violations of environmental regulations to authorities 
• Saving water, electricity, and fuel 
• Encouraging other sailors to take care of the environment 

Fly your own blue flag! Sign the environmental code of conduct and register to show your commitment and share the message. Speak to marina staff about the individual blue flag.

Lake Huron shores host a dune ecosystem that features rare plant species, protects our beach from storm waves, and helps protect our lake's water quality. Dune ecosystems are among the rarest coastal features on the Great Lakes. They represent about 1.5% of its coastline. Our dunes are sensitive to human disturbances, and if damaged or destroyed, will lead to poor beach quality, loss of shore protection, and loss of habitat. Dune loss also contributes to poorer water quality.  

The high clay bluffs here at Bayfield are protected from erosion from storm waves because of the dunes that have developed at the base of the bluffs. This is an example of how beach-dune systems provide a valuable shore protection function for the lakeshore. Bluff stability on Lake Huron is largely due to established vegetation. Native vegetation is encouraged. Without this natural protection, bluff erosion would threaten buildings along the top of the bluff. Visit the above resources and helpful links to see how you can help ensure that beach, dune and bluff eco-systems are protected. 

As part of Bluewater's commitment to achieving the criteria for Blue Flag Marinas with respect to environmental education, information and management, Council established a policy regarding an Environmental Code of Conduct in 2009. The following Environmental Code of Conduct applies to all seasonal marina users and temporary marina guests:

• Boating and Marine Regulations prohibit the discharge of sewage and garbage into Ontario waters. All toilet waste - treated or not - must be retained on board until reaching a shore-based pump-out facility. Boaters must ensure their vessel is properly equipped with a holding tank for sewage that can be pumped via a through-deck fitting. Portable toilets are not permitted in Ontario unless adapted for shore-based disposal.
• Please respect our vulnerable natural areas. The Bayfield River, Lake Huron and beach areas each have specific environmentally sensitive characteristics. Protect animals and plants in and around the lake.
• Don't use forbidden fishing practices and respect periods when fishing is prohibited. Avoid disturbing fishery or fishery gear.
• Keep refuse, garbage and contaminants on board the boat until they can be disposed of in proper containers at approved disposal sites. We provide garbage bins and recycle bins - promote and use recycling facilities. Use environmentally friendly products.
• Very limited hazardous waste disposal services are available at the marina. Do not release poisonous or toxic waste into the lake.
• Avoid damage of the lake bottom by exercising care when anchoring
• Take all necessary steps to avoid spilling fuel, gas, oil or other chemicals into the water.
• Do not pump contaminated bilge water overboard.
• Use land based washrooms whenever practical while the boat is in dock. Do not pump grey water into the water while in harbour.
• Small repair work on the boat may be carried out in a conscientious manner by not leaving litter, liquid or dry contaminants on the grounds or in the water.

For a full copy of the Village of Bayfield Marina Environmental Code of Conduct Policy, please contact the Planning Coordinator.

Free Blue Flag Events Coming to Bayfield This Summer!

The Municipality of Bluewater is inviting residents and visitors to take part in three free Blue Flag outreach events this summer. These fun, family-friendly activities are a great way to learn about water safety, the environment, and how we can all help protect the Great Lakes.

Painting with Plants:

Tuesday, July 28 | 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Huron County Library – Bayfield Branch
Join us for a free watercolor painting activity inspired by Great Lakes fish habitats. This hands-on activity is open to all ages and is a fun way to learn about the plants and animals that call our local waters home.

Paddle & Learn:

Tuesday, August 11 | 6:00 p.m.
Rain Date: August 18
River Flats Kayak Launch, Bayfield
Before or after your paddle, stop by our Blue Flag Kayak Kiosk. Pick up free resources and giveaways while learning simple ways to stay safe on the water and help care for our local shoreline.

Waterfront Movie Night:

Saturday, August 28
Gates Open: 8:15 p.m. | Movie Starts: 8:45 p.m.
Pioneer Park, 46 Bayfield Terrace, Bayfield
Wrap up the summer with a free outdoor showing of Moana at Pioneer Park. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie by the lake with family and friends.