Overall, we demonstrate that community science monitoring is a flexible tool that has the potential to enhance and, in some cases, replace mandated governmental monitoring work. One avenue to continue research through laboratory closures was the implementation/expansion of community science monitoring programs. Their proximity to the GTA and natural surroundings make the Kawartha Lakes an extremely popular tourist and cottage destination in Ontario ( City of Kawartha Lakes 2020 ). Monthly water samples were collected in duplicate by community science volunteers from June to September 2020. Water samples were collected monthly from June to September, with Scugog, Balsam, and Cameron lake samples collected on a Tuesday and Sturgeon and Pigeon lake samples collected on the following Thursday.
