Objectives

LGTLO 14

Clear Steps to a Lead-Free Future for Drag and Spruce Lakes

Our “Let’s Get The Lead Out” campaign is built around four practical, achievable goals.  By focusing on education, incentives, direct action, and collaboration, we’re making it simple for everyone—residents, cottagers, visitors, and anglers – to help protect our loons, wildlife, and pristine waters.

  1. Raise Awareness
    Spread the word about the hidden dangers of lead fishing tackle and the easy, effective alternatives available.

      • Educate residents, cottagers, and visitors on how lead sinkers, jigs, and weights become a “silent killer” for loons (the #1 cause of mortality in Ontario), eagles, swans, and other birds—often mistaken for food or grit, leading to poisoning and death.
      • Highlight proven, non-toxic options like tungsten, bismuth, tin, and steel tackle that perform just as well (or better) without harming wildlife.
      • Use flyers, social media, “Did You Know?” facts, lake-event booths, signage at launches, and our website to reach everyone who enjoys our lakes.
  1. Provide Incentives to Switch
    Make the transition to lead-free fishing rewarding and hassle-free for anglers.

    • Offer real incentives such as lead swap events, free samples of lead-free tackle, and contests (e.g., “Lead Swap Contest” where you trade old lead for lead-free alternatives).
    • Partner with local retailers and suppliers to spotlight affordable lead-free products and demonstrate how switching delivers big benefits for our ecosystem.
    • Encourage sustainable recreational fishing that supports our local identity, tourism, and economy.
  1. Collect and Safely Remove Lead
    Get toxic lead out of our lakes—and keep it out—for good.

    • Set up convenient drop-off locations around Drag and Spruce Lakes for old lead tackle.
    • Ensure all collected lead is safely recycled or disposed of through certified channels, preventing it from ever re-entering the environment.
  1. Build Partnerships and Inspire Change
    Grow the movement locally and across Ontario.

    • Collaborate with the Municipality of Dysart et al, other Haliburton County lake associations, businesses, and organizations to amplify our impact.
    • Share success stories, resources, and best practices to encourage neighboring lakes to adopt lead-free practices.
    • Support broader efforts (via fishleadfree.ca) to advocate for province-wide restrictions on lead tackle, protecting wildlife and waters everywhere.

These objectives are interconnected - one person’s small switch adds up to big protection for our loons and lakes.  We’re excited for 2026 and can’t wait to see the results together!