Inside the community hub helping protect and promote Charleston Lake

If you’ve ever driven along County Road 40 in Athens, you may have passed one of Charleston Lake’s most convenient and quietly impactful community resources: the Charleston Lake Association Information Centre, located at 109 County Road 40. For residents, seasonal visitors and newcomers alike, the centre serves as a friendly gateway to learning about the lake and the surrounding community that help make the area vibrant.

Founded in 1890, the Charleston Lake Association (CLA) has grown to more than 650 members, all united by a shared commitment to “preserve and enhance” the lake’s natural beauty, promote safe recreation and strengthen community ties. With 6,220 acres of water surface and a shoreline length of 94 miles, it is easy to understand why Charleston Lake is one of Eastern Ontario’s more popular lakes.

The Information Centre is one of the most visible ways the Association connects with residents, and during a recent visit, that sense of connection was on full display. Inside the centre, visitors are greeted by Sawyer Knox, now in his second year working as a summer student. Friendly and clearly passionate about the lake, Sawyer says the most common reason people stop in is simple: “definitely, membership renewals,” he commented. “That’s what we see the most.”

Renewals are just the beginning; the centre is a great place for people to learn about Charleston Lake’s history, ecology and recreational opportunities. When asked what he would tell someone who has never visited the lake, he didn’t hesitate in saying “I’d say it’s a really good place for boating and fishing.” His personal favourite spot? “The beach on Sand Bay,” he said, pointing to it on a large map on the wall.

More than an Information Desk, the centre offers a variety of practical and educational resources, including merchandise and maps available to purchase, well water sample bottles for well water testing, which residents can then drop off at locations in Brockville, Portland, Gananoque, Perth and other sites supported by the Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit.

The centre also plays a role in protecting local wildlife. Through the Let’s Get The Lead Out program, anyone can drop off lead fishing tackle, helping reduce the risk of lead poisoning in loons and other species. Visitors who participate receive a free package of non-lead alternative tackle, encouraging safer fishing practices.

From water quality information to boating safety, the centre is a reliable source of guidance for anyone who enjoys the lake. Brochures with Waterfront Living Tips and Shoreline & In-Water Works frequently asked questions are available from Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Cataraqui Conservation.

While the centre sees modest foot traffic, Sawyer keeps busy with important administrative tasks. He spends time emailing members who are late renewing, helping maintain the Association’s strong membership base. He’s also been digitizing historical water quality books, a project he expects will eventually be available on the CLA website.

Another highlight of his summer, he says, is that he “really enjoyed taking on a counselling role at the Summer Nature Camp.” The experience let him connect with younger lake enthusiasts and support environmental education, something clearly aligned with the Association’s mission.

Whether you’re renewing a membership, picking up a map, learning about loon conservation or simply curious about Charleston Lake’s natural and recreational offerings, the Information Centre is a welcoming stop, open seasonally until the end of August from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. from Thursdays to Mondays.

Those who want to learn more about Charleston Lake Association, a community-minded, environmentally focused organization dedicated to preserving Charleston Lake for generations to come, can also visit the website at https://charlestonlakeassociation.ca.