Island Lake CA

Picturesque Island Lake Conservation Area is located in the rolling hills of Dufferin County in the Towns of Orangeville and Mono, and provides four seasons of recreation. It’s 332 acres of lake, wetland, forest and meadows play an important ecological role in protecting the headwaters of the Credit and Nottawasaga Rivers . Part of a six kilometer long series of vibrant wetlands and a source of upwellings of water from underground, this area feeds cool, clean, naturally-filtered water to these regionally important river system. Island Lake Conservation Area (ILCA) was one of CVC’s first land securement projects which began in 1957. Formerly known as Orangeville Reservoir Conservation Area, ILCA was created with the construction of two dams in 1967. The reservoir was designed to maintain water quality and quantity through controlled outflows into the Credit River and to provide an outstanding recreational resource for the headwaters region.

Island Lake

Today ILCA is one of CVC’s largest conservation areas spanning 329 hectares (812 acres) and is characterized by a large reservoir lake surrounded by wetlands, upland forest, plantations and meadows. Water dominates ILCA in the form of bogs, marshes, rivers, creeks and lake itself. These wetlands make up part of the provincially significant Orangeville Wetland Complex and act like a filter, purifying water and soaking up nutrients. Island Lake‘s varied landscapes lend themselves to interesting and educational hikes and outings. The lake is rich in life with healthy fish and wildlife populations, and abundant underwater plants. On shore, deer, red fox, raccoon, porcupines and even flying squirrels make their homes. Osprey, great blue herons, mallards and many other bird species are seen at Island Lake throughout the summer, as are painted turtles and leopard frogs. In spring and fall, migratory birds pause briefly, taking advantage of the diverse habitats and provide an opportunity for birdwatchers to enjoy.