[5] The Cowichan Watershed Board identifies a common set of conditions for both shallow lakes:[5] In autumn 2016, the lake's algae received public attention after news coverage of its killing at least four dogs.

The surrounding watershed for this large, shallow lake is 16.3 km2 (6.3 sq mi).

In 2014, a trout refuge including 1,500 linear feet of a bubble aeration system was constructed by a collaboration between the Municipality of North Cowichan, the Rotary Club of Duncan, TimberWest Forest Corporation, Woodmere Strata Corporation, Aquatech Environmental Systems and the Quamichan Watershed Stewardship Society.

The provision of compressed air addresses a lack of oxygen in late summer caused by demise of algae.

The lakeside residences include some among the highest-priced on Vancouver Island north of Victoria.