vote for the lake
Posted: October 15, 2026
Phosphorus pollution is one of the greatest threats facing Lake Winnipeg, contributing to harmful algae blooms that impact water quality, recreation, and aquatic ecosystems. Winnipeg's wastewater is a significant source of phosphorus entering Lake Winnipeg.
Winnipeg’s election is on Oct. 28, and your voice can help ensure the city's next leaders take meaningful action to reduce phosphorus pollution and protect the lake for future generations.
1. Get Informed
Learn about Winnipeg’s contribution to Lake Winnipeg’s phosphorus pollution. Winnipeg’s North End Water Pollution Control Centre (NEWPCC) is the single-largest source of phosphorus to the lake.
With full upgrades to the NEWPCC still years away, the choices made today will determine how effectively we protect Lake Winnipeg while we wait for those improvements to be completed. Stay informed about issues like algae blooms and wastewater treatment and learn why reducing phosphorus pollution is critical to the lake's future.
2. Email your candidates
Winnipeg’s next mayor and council will make critical decisions about environmental protection for Lake Winnipeg. Will they allow phosphorus pollution to continue while treatment plant upgrades drag on, or will they make use of existing infrastructure to meet phosphorus limits?
We're looking for answers from candidates that:
- commit to optimizing the interim phosphorus reduction system already in place at NEWPCC
- commit to increasing ferric chloride dosing at the treatment plant to capture more phosphorus before it is released into the Red River
- commit to public transparency and accountability on progress in reducing phosphorus and upgrading the treatment plant
3. Distribute our election flyer in your neighbourhood
Talk to a friend about Winnipeg sewage! Help distribute our election flyer to neighbourhood mailboxes, family members, and community groups. Raising awareness is one of the most effective ways to build support for solutions that protect Lake Winnipeg.
Want to help spread the word? Send us an email using the link below.