I've just returned from my annual camping trip, burnt from hours in the sun and shriveled from hours in the lake. I didn't dive in without doing my research first though. I knew the bacteria counts for Southern Ontario's beaches have been up and down the scale, and I wanted to be sure I wouldn't get crazy infections from swimming in the water. I scoured the internet for any resources, and stumbled upon the Lake Ontario Waterkeeper.

The Lake Ontario Waterkeeper is one of many watchdogs led by environmental big name Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (I absolutely love how high profilers are getting involved with environmental awareness- it's about time!) His organization, the Waterkeeper Alliance, runs out of New York and strives to spread awareness and raise funds for the massive cleanup necessary to restore our Great Lakes, and frankly, the whole world's fresh water supply in general.

As it tends to happen, events in my life align coincidentally. I'd only just learned about the organization, and then was pleasantly surprised to find out that Krystyn Tully, Vice President of the Lake Ontario Waterkeeper, will be speaking at an event this Saturday. It's called 'Quay To A Clean Lake', and it's being organized by the Queen's Quay Sailing and Powerboating Club.

Water appreciation events will occur all day on August 12th, from free canoe rentals to movies to live music. Check out the full schedule after the jump!

10am
Harbourfront Canoe & Kayak Centre will be giving free canoe rentals to any experienced canoeist that will pick up two bags of garbage from the harbour. An experienced canoeist is someone that has either taken a course with the centre, or can demonstrate their ability in a quick practical test.

11am
The Disabled Sailing Association is sailing around the island in a flotilla. Any sailboat is welcome to join them, this is a critical mass type event, raising awareness about the state of Lake Ontario.

12 noon
Krystyn Tully, Vice President of the Lake Ontario Waterkeeper will be speaking at a BBQ hosted by the Queens Quay Sailing and Powerboating Club.

2pm
Yacht races will be run with the Queens Quay Sailing and Powerboating Club's fleet of J24 racing boats. Participation is $5 a person, with all money raised going to the Waterkeeper.

6pm
Live acoustic music with A 4th World and Tea & Toast on the back patio of the Queens Quay Sailing and Powerboating Club.

8pm
The Streets To Screens division of the Toronto Public Space Committee will be showing relevant short films on the back patio of the Queens Quay Sailing and Powerboating Club. They'll be playing the Log Driver's Waltz... remember that cartoon?