Fresh snow on a great slope; sun shining on a bright blue lake; swimming in a cool river or sleeping under the stars; keep it beautiful. Enjoy the outdoors while respecting nature. Consider these tips to keep your fun times environmentally friendly ones.

Boating

• Consider boating activities, such as canoeing, sailing, kayaking or windsurfing that require little or no fuel and don't disturb wildlife or habitat.
• Never throw garbage of any kind overboard. Take it back to shore with you and dispose of it properly.
• Avoid the temptation to top up your gas tank when refueling. Doing so often results in small toxic spills. Spillage is a major source of ozone pollution.
• Use extreme caution not to pollute the environment when using cleansers, paints, and anti-fouling compounds on your boat. Use products that are less harmful to the environment. For example, non-toxic wax is an effective alternative to anti-fouling paint.
• Have your on-board sewage holding tanks and toilet plumbing system inspected and approved by provincial environment officials. Make certain that you meet all local regulations for storage and discharge.
• Pump out your holding tanks only at approved pump-out stations and marinas.
• Always dispose of used oil in special oil recycling tanks available at most marinas and government docks.

Camping

• Use existing campsites, trails and portages. Don't cut new trails, dig trenches, or try to improve a site by removing vegetation.
• Carry out everything that you brought with you into the wilderness.
• Plan on using a camp stove on your next camping trip. The new ones are light, reliable and safe. They also save wood and reduce fire hazards.
• Using biodegradable soap, wash your dirty dishes, clothes and even yourself in a dishpan and not in a lake, stream or river. Then discard the dirty water some distance away from the source.
• Avoid disturbing wildlife, particularly young animals or nesting birds. Remember, you're the guest in their home.
• Be sure to guard your food and garbage from wildlife. Never feed wild animals, as this interferes with their natural habits.

At the Cottage

• Be sure to bring back all recyclables from your cottage and dispose of them, using your community recycling program (if available).
• Start a Compost Pile.
• Consider a biological toilet instead of a Septic Tank System. They are simple and produce no harmful residue or sludge.
• If your cottage is located on or near a bank or shore, preserve as much of the natural vegetation as possible between the cottage and the water to reduce rainfall run-off that may carry harmful sewage organisms. Plan new shrubs and trees, if need be, using native species.
• Preserve local wildlife by being careful not to disturb waterfowl or their nesting areas. Avoid filling in wetlands, altering shorelines or allowing dogs to run at large.
• Make nature-oriented outdoor activities, such as bird watching, nature photography, animal study or stargazing, a hobby for the entire family.

Composting

• Buy a pre-made compost bin, or make your own. If you do not want your own compost pile, perhaps a neighbour with one would appreciate your contributions.
• A simple, home-made compost bin should be a minimum of 1 meter square and 1 to 1.5 metres high. Any smaller than that and it will not generate enough heat inside to decompose the materials efficiently. Contact your municipality for more information on how to build your own composter or where to purchase one.
• All kinds of kitchen waste can be added to the compost bin, including vegetable tops and salad extras, coffee grounds, tea leaves, egg shells and fruit peelings. Avoid meat scraps, bones or milk products or you will attract animals. Yard waste can include small branches, grass cuttings, straw, and soil.

Septic Tanks

• Watch for the following signs of septic tank system malfunctions: bright green spots in your lawn; puddles of sewage on your lawn; soft, spongy sections of ground; or sewage odour in your basement. If any of these occur, arrange for repairs promptly.
• Never pour antibiotics or household chemical products down your toilet or drains - they destroy the bacteria in septic tank systems.
• Know the location of all the components of your septic system and keep heavy vehicles away from the ground above them.
• Never plant shrubs or trees near your system's drain tiles, because their roots can clog drain lines.
• Check your system annually and have a reputable contractor remove sludge and scum every three to five years.

Source: Environment Canada