​Gull Lake is facing ongoing water instability and environmental pressure. In response, Gull Lake Watershed Society is advancing science-based, long-term solutions designed to restore water levels, protect aquatic ecosystems, and secure the lake’s future for generations to come.

 

Below is an overview of our active initiatives. Each project is presented in greater detail on its dedicated page, including background research, current status, and next steps.​​​​

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WHY THESE PROJECTS MATTER

Gull Lake is more than a body of water — it is a defining feature of our community, economy, and environment. Fluctuating and declining water levels affect shoreline stability, aquatic life, recreation, tourism, and long-term watershed health.

 

These projects are not short-term fixes. They are structured, phased initiatives grounded in hydrology, engineering review, environmental safeguards, and regulatory oversight.

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Every initiative undertaken by GLWS is guided by clear priorities:

• Stabilizing and restoring sustainable water levels

• Protecting ecological integrity

• Supporting community and recreational use

• Ensuring long-term resilience under changing climate conditions

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OUR ACTIVE PROJECTS

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HAYNES AQUIFER PROJECT

A phased initiative to evaluate the feasibility of responsibly accessing water from the Haynes Aquifer to support Gull Lake’s long-term stabilization.

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The project is currently in its exploratory stage. The next step involves drilling a test well, conducting water sampling, and submitting results for provincial regulatory review. This phase will determine long-term viability and environmental compliance before any production well or pumping activity can proceed.

 

Significant fundraising and land partnership agreements are required to advance this stage. If approved, the project has the potential to provide a sustainable supplemental water source for Gull Lake and surrounding communities.

CLICK to learn more about the Haynes Aquifer Project

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NORTH SHORE BLOCKAGE AND DRAINAGE PROJECT

A technical assessment to identify potential blockages restricting natural water flow into the north end of Gull Lake.

 

Managed by Ponoka County with professional engineering oversight, this study is evaluating restoration options and flood mitigation strategies while considering agricultural, environmental, and community impacts. Findings are expected by early 2027.

 

This project represents an important data-driven step toward understanding how natural inflows may be improved.

CLICK to learn more about North Shore Project

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BLINDMAN RIVER PUMPING PROJECT

After several years of engineering, testing, and regulatory collaboration, the Gull Lake Watershed Society is advancing the next phase of the Blindman River stabilization project.

 

What began as a filtration concept has evolved into a fully engineered infrastructure expansion designed by MPE Engineering Ltd. and advanced through Alberta’s formal provincial procurement process.

 

The upgraded system features a two-stage pressurized filtration design to safeguard Gull Lake from invasive species while restoring controlled pumping capacity.

 

Construction is anticipated through 2026, with pumping to resume following commissioning and regulatory clearance.

 

This is more than a project.

 

It is the most significant step toward long-term water stability for Gull Lake in decades — built on science, oversight, and years of persistent community leadership.

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CLICK to learn more about the Blindman River Pumping Project

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​​​​WHAT WE AIM FOR

• Water Stewardship

  • Maintain stable, sustainable lake levels despite environmental and climate pressures.

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• Ecosystem Protection

  • Safeguard aquatic species, wetlands, and shoreline habitats.

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• Community & Recreation

  • Support lake-side living, tourism, and recreational access.

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• Transparency & Science

  • Ground decisions in research, hydrology, engineering, and open communication.

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• Long-Term Security

  • Establish durable, multi-layered solutions that protect Gull Lake for future generations.

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HOW CAN YOU HELP​

• Consider donating

  • Gull Lake depends on community support. As a certified non-profit organization, we issue tax receipts for all donations. Our volunteer Board and members receive no compensation, and aside from minimal administrative expenses, donations are directed toward projects focused on restoring and sustaining water levels in Gull Lake.

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• Stay informed

  • Understand the facts, review the data, and follow the measurable progress of each initiative.

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• Spread the word

  • Expand awareness and build momentum by sharing our mission with others who care about Gull Lake’s future.

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• Support our work

  • Become a member of the society or volunteer your time to help drive meaningful progress to restore the water level for Gull Lake.

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• Stay engaged

  • Be part of a growing community committed to protecting Gull Lake. Sign up for updates and see the impact your involvement makes.

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​​​what's next​

The next phase of work is already underway.

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From exploratory drilling and regulatory submissions to engineering studies and controlled pumping operations, each initiative advances through defined stages designed to ensure environmental responsibility and long-term sustainability.

 

As milestones are reached, findings confirmed, and approvals secured, we will continue to share progress openly.

 

Protecting Gull Lake is not a single project — it is an ongoing commitment.

 

With community support, science-based planning, and responsible implementation, we can restore stability and secure the future of Gull Lake.​

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