An extensive aqueduct (canal) system was built from the Gardiner Dam called the South Saskatchewan River Project.

The lake itself along with Battle Creek are the only two bodies of water in Saskatchewan that support a reproducing population of rainbow trout.

The lake's sandy beaches provide appropriate habitat for the nationally endangered piping plover.

[12] Galloway and Miry Bay (SK006) is located at the western end of the lake about 20 kilometres (12 mi) north of Cabri.

The IBA site includes the shoreline and spans the width of the lake covering an area of 59.48 km2 (22.97 sq mi).

Geese found in Miry and Galloway Bays include the greater white-fronted, snow, and Ross's.

It totals 361.69 km2 (139.65 sq mi) and encompasses most of both the Gordon McKenzie and Thomson Arms of the lake.