Reflection Lake—one of the Columbia Wetlands’ most accessible and biologically rich sites—is facing a progressive ecological decline. The lake is becoming shallower, cattails are rapidly expanding, and organic sediment is accumulating. Without intervention, these changes increase the risk of eutrophication and could eventually cause the wetland to dry out, threatening both local biodiversity and community values.
Thanks to funding from the Columbia Basin Trust (via the Town of Golden’s ReDi grant), we are launching Phase 1 of a multi-phase restoration initiative. This initial phase focuses on a comprehensive feasibility assessment to evaluate the root causes of the lake’s degradation, analyze water availability, and identify the most effective, efficient, and durable options to restore appropriate water levels.
Community engagement is at the heart of this project. We invite local residents, Indigenous partners, conservation organizations, and nature lovers to join us on-site. Together, we will gather data and incorporate your vision into the long-term restoration strategy.
- When: August 4th @ 5:00 PM
- Where: Reflection Lake wildlife viewing gazebo
- What to bring: Your smartphone with the iNaturalist app downloaded.
Schedule of Activities:
- 5:00 PM – Welcome & Project Presentation: Learn about the lake’s current biological trajectory and the goals of the Phase 1 feasibility assessment.
- 5:30 PM – BioBlitz: Become a citizen scientist for the evening! Explore the shoreline and use your smartphone to document the plants, birds, and bugs that currently call the lake area home.
- 6:00 PM – Community Feedback: Share your ideas. We will hand out maps for you to draw and write your suggestions directly onto.
Whether you are concerned about habitat loss, possess historical knowledge of the area, or simply want to see this beautiful local landmark thrive, we need your input.
Let’s work together to keep Reflection Lake a healthy, biodiverse, and valued wetland for generations to come.
Please register in advance to let us know you’re coming. This event is free to attend and all are welcome.
Thank you to our funders:
