Issuu

Volume 52

Number 1

Early Spring 2022

812 ESSEX ROAD

899,995

road access

file 4477

B EAUTIFUL C OUNTRY R ETREAT 812 E S S E X R O A D

Located only 15 minutes from downtown Kenora! Close to Beauty Bay Golf Course with access to Black Sturgeon for great fishing and boating. As an added bonus, this property also includes a small island with a picnic area overlooking the water. This year-round cottage offers three bedrooms and two bathrooms, including a huge master bedroom with great views of the lake. With a new addition in 2003 and many improvements made over the years, this home is move in ready – pack your bags and move in! The lot offers very easy access to boathouse and dock – no steps to walk down or climb and easy loading and unloading your boat. There is also a 30x24 ft. garage, and all metal storage with room to store two large boats. Inquire today! Find us on the Kenora Harbourfront or at cabincountry.com

138 MAIN ST S, KENORA, ON t o l l f r e e 1.800.528.8848 info@cabincountr y.com CABINCOUNTRY.COM

GRAHAM CHAZE

CHRISTOPHER CLARK

DUSTIN SHORE

DOUG ARMSTRONG

broker of record

broker

salesperson

807.407.5253 graham@cabincountry.com

807.466.8819 chris@cabincountry.com

807.407.3211 dustin@cabincountry.com

204.955.5080 doug@cabincountry.com

In this issue 3

Cover photo by Kim Pirie-Milko

LOWDSA

President's Message 3 Executive Director's Note 4 Our Contributors 5 Welcome to LOWDSA's 60th Anniversary 6 2022 at a glance... 8 Government Notes

Member recipe: Quick morning banana bread (or muffins) 50

Hydro One increases boost bills 14 LOWDSA plays a key role with outreach and education 19

In the District

Collaborating on community improvement: Nestor Falls Site redevelopment 23 Water levels: Snow fall good news for lake levels 24 Anishinaabe Inakonigaawin

LOWDSA through the years: 1962 to 1977 by Leanne Fournier

LakeSmart: a LOWDSA success story by Susan McLeod & Diane Schwartz-Williams

Living

Treading wisely: Cleaning even greener 51

Notes from Razberry Lane: True confessions of a windowsill gardener 53

Environment

Green energy: Combating the climate crisis and saving on our energy bills—a win-win! 37

Celebrate Earth Day by exploring evolution by Jacob Rodenburg & Drew Monkman

Calling all birders for the third Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas 41 IISD Experimental Lakes Area continues new and exciting ways of monitoring what is happening in our lakes 42 LOWWSF: The Lake Partner Program— Citizen Monitoring with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks 45 LOWWSF: Heartfelt thank you to a true Lake of the Woods ambassador, Art McKenzie 48

Services

Real Estate Listings 56 Classifieds 57 Home & Cottage Services 58 Advertisers’ Directory 59

Matilda Lavergne’s Wedding Brigade by Lori Nelson

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDSA

RBC Dominion Securities Inc.

In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks. – John Muir

The Darcy Zaporzan Wealth Management Group of RBC Dominion Securities www.dzwmg.com

The DARCY

Zaporzan W E A LT H M A N A G E M E N T G R O U P

of RBC Dominion Securities RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ® / ™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ©2019 RBC Dominion Securities Inc. All rights reserved. 19_90783_N4D_001

President's Message CHRIS SEMENCHUK

Hello and welcome to the first issue of Area News for 2022! Mother Nature definitely started the year with a big bang in line with what the Farmer's Almanac predicted as I sit here today looking out the window at the snow and wind during yet another winter storm. It has certainly shaped up to be a great winter for those who like to ski, snowmobile, snowshoe, ice fish, or just be out walking in the trails or on the ice in our beautiful Lake of the Woods region! Chris Semenchuk

We are pleased to present the first of five 60th anniversary issues of Area News. Throughout 2022, we plan to include some notable moments and significant events that occurred in the history of your Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association in each of the five editions of Area News. These stories will include contributions from some of the staff, directors, volunteers, and members who have contributed to the evolution of the Association from when we first formed in 1962 until today. Although we couldn't speak to everyone, we extend a very warm thank you to all those who have supported LOWDSA through the years. We also look forward to releasing our 60th anniversary video at our upcoming AGM. A huge thank you to all who participated in creating the video and to those who played an integral role in bringing it all together, including Patrick Paulo, Lucas King, Trevor Templeton, Chelsea Lobson, Adam Blake, the Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation (LOWWSF), Homefield, and our volunteers who made this possible. Watch for further details about our AGM, which will once again be held virtually. In light of the public health restrictions, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the LOWDSA Lakeshow in 2022. We will revisit this decision again in 2023 and perhaps consider a new format and timing to bring members together with LOWDSA's partners, staff, and directors.

Throughout our 60 years, LOWDSA has continued to evolve. The Association started first as the Clearwater Bay/Granite Lake Property Association and later became the Lake of the Woods District Property Owners Association (LOWDPOA). We changed the name from LOWDPOA to the Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association (LOWDSA) in 2018 to better reflect the primary focus of the Association in conjunction with the increased focus on environmental issues and activities we provide. As we continue to refine the LOWDSA strategic plan, we expect LOWDSA's updated goals and objectives will reflect the transformation of the Association to focus on strategies to protect the sustainability of the Lake of the Woods region. We also recognize there are many prospective and current members who do not own a cottage property but enjoy and use the lake in other ways—camping, day trips and/or visiting friends or family in the region. The year 2022 is another year of change with LOWDSA's staff. We thank Shelley Bujold for her strong contributions as Assistant Executive Director for the past three years and offer congratulations as she moves on to new challenges. We also thank Cassidy Mazur for her role as our first Environmental Program Coordinator and wish her all the best in her new shared role as Education and Outreach Manager! We welcome Alena Collier into her new role as LOWDSA's Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Stay tuned as we are preparing to announce our New Environment Program Coordinator soon. Needless to say, we are in the midst of a significant transition as these individuals start their new positions. We hope you enjoy the journey we will share with you throughout 2022 and thank all of our members over the years for your support. Sustaining and increasing LOWDSA's membership continues to be a key priority for us, so please help us spread the word and encourage those who enjoy our region to join LOWDSA!

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDSA

Executive Director's Note PATRICK PAULO

Patrick Paulo

Spring is here, and where has the time gone? In just one short year, seasons have passed, staff have changed, and our plans for the spring and summer are again well underway. Last year, I used the words energizing, complex, challenging, promising, and rewarding to describe the Association's work. I believe my first year as the Executive Director for LOWDSA was just that. This year, I would like to add inspiring to that list as LOWDSA is celebrating 60 years of lake life with our members.

As I sit at my desk reviewing a long list of plans and announcements to make, this Executive Director's Note seems to stare at me in the form of a blank screen and late-night thinking of how to discuss LOWDSA's upcoming plans. 2022 is an exciting year as we continue to enhance our stewardship activities, develop new programs and reimagine some of our current ones. We are in the process of hiring and recruiting staff for our LakeSmart team while planning the Annual General Meeting and the 60th Anniversary of LOWDSA. We are also looking forward to continuing our relationship with the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation. At the time of writing, we are getting ready to announce our new Environment Program Coordinator (EPC) Intern, so please stay tuned as we build on the success of last year's spring and summer programming.

Speaking of interns, Cassidy Mazur did an excellent job as EPC last year, and we are happy to announce her new role as Education and Outreach Manager. The shared position with IISDELA further strengthens LOWDSA's vision that the Lake of the Woods region remains one of the most beautiful places on earth for present and future generations. Another noteworthy change this year is the staff transition. After three excellent years of service, Shelley has moved on to pursue other opportunities and is stepping away from her role as LOWDSA's Assistant Executive Director and Membership Coordinator. As much as we are sad to see her leave, we wish her the best of luck moving forward. As Shelley's last farewell gift to our members, she shares her low-key but famous Banana Bread recipe. Be sure to read her member recipe on page 50. With spring and the upcoming AGM around the corner, you might expect to see your invitation in the mail soon. This year, we are excited to premiere the 60th anniversary video! It's been one year in the making, and we hope you are there to watch it with us at the virtual AGM. While the weather is up and down and Mother Nature is unpredictable, I hope you are able to sit back, relax and enjoy this Area News as we head into brighter days. Let us know if you would like to share your story or have suggestions for future issues of the magazine. With the utmost sincerity and gratitude, I wish you all the best and a very happy spring.

The official publication of the Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association

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DISTRIBUTION & MEMBERSHIP

Wake Marketing Inc. 140 Main St. S., Kenora, ON P9N 1S9

Lake of the Woods Area News is published five times per year and is mailed to LOWDSA members. To receive Area News visit lowdsa.com and become a member today.

Publisher: Mike Greaves, mike@areanewsmagazine.ca Editor: Leanne Fournier, editor@areanewsmagazine.ca Art Director: Shayla Smith, shayla@wakemarketing.ca Design & Layout: Mike Newton, Ashley Pereira Advertising: Deb Polakoff, deb@areanewsmagazine.ca

TOLL-FREE 1-888-265-9784

PHONE (807) 468-8715

Publication mail agreement #43107013. Printed in Canada.

© 2022 LOWDSA. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without prior written consent. Statements of fact or opinion are the responsibility of the author and may not represent the view of LOWDSA or Wake Marketing Inc.

LOWDSA Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

Our Contributors Danielle Gough and Devin Turner are the Regional Coordinators for Region 39 for the third Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas.

Sumeep Bath Shelley Bujold Bev Clark Leanne Fournier Heather Gropp Sharon Gurney Hailey Krolyk

Diane Schwartz Williams was LOWDSA’s Executive Director from 2017 to 2020. She is a long-time resident of Laclu, where she loves to spend time in the garden or enjoying the calls of the loons with a cup of coffee close the lake. She has provided a wide range of marketing and business services and actively supported local volunteer efforts since moving here in 1987.

Patrick Paulo Danielle has been fortunate that her work as a biologist with the provincial and federal governments and with private industry, over the past 10 years has allowed her to bird in many of Canada's provinces and territories.

Cassidy Mazur

Devin began birding 20 years ago and has enjoyed visiting different habitats, from temperate rainforest to arctic tundra. Lately, he spends his time scoping out wetlands and enjoying Northwestern Ontario’s pine forests.

Drew Monkman Lori Nelson Jeff Polakoff Henry & Anita Rasmussen Rosemary Robertson

Susan McLeod retired in 2016 after eight years as Executive Director of LOWDSA, which she says, “Was the best job I ever had!” Susan still finds time to contribute to Area News while enjoying all the seasons of life at the lake.

Jacob Rodenburg Todd Sellers Bob Stewart

LAKE OF THE WOODS DISTRICT STEWARDSHIP ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT Christine Semenchuk, Bigstone Bay

CHAIR, GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS Don Parfitt, Winnipeg River

VICE PRESIDENT Garth Collier, Schnarr Lake

CO-CHAIRS, ENVIRONMENT Lucas King, Woodchuck Bay Chelsea Lobson, Kendall Inlet

PAST PRESIDENT, CHAIR, MEMBERSHIP Hardy Bock, Black Sturgeon TREASURERS Carley Fyke, Welcome Channel Jeff Rempel, Pine Portage Bay

DIRECTORS AT LARGE Dave Christie, Granite Lake Jackie Lowe, Gun Club Island Trevor Templeton, Minaki Adam Blake, Corkscrew Island

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Patrick Paulo 807-407-9182 patrick@lowdsa.com MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Alena Collier (807) 468-8715 alena@lowdsa.com

P.O. Box 1160 Kenora, ON P9N 3X7 EMAIL info@lowdsa.com

M LOWDSAssoc N LOWDSAssoc P LOWDSA V Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association S LOWDSA LOWDSA TOLL-FREE 1-888-265-9784 PHONE (807) 468-8715

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDSA

WELCOME TO

LOWDSA's 60th Anniversary Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association has shared its passion for lake life for 60 years. To celebrate this milestone, LOWDSA plans to commemorate all these years of passion in one video and a series of articles that details LOWDSA's growth and evolution through the years. With many new initiatives underway, we will take you on a journey and share some stories of our Association's past, present, and future.

60 Years of stewardship

A heartfelt and special thanks

Throughout 2022, we will be providing you with a series of articles that will look through various periods in LOWDSA's unique history. We hope you will enjoy reading about your Association's biggest successes, challenges, and history over the last 60 years. Learn more about the impact your membership has had on the sustainability of lake life. As an added insight, we've collected interviews and stories from our members, employees, past presidents and volunteers. As we highlight LOWDSA's history, we recognize that this is all made possible from your continued support. From supporting the Association, purchasing seedlings, volunteering or participating in our programs over the years, we cannot thank you enough. We hope this journey through time brings feelings of nostalgia, pride, and great appreciation for the area.

We appreciate your support through the years. Your membership and participation in our events, comments on the magazine, phone calls, letters, and so much more are all instrumental in what we do. Your commitment keeps our Association going, and we look forward to continuing this legacy of preserving our lakes and sustaining the environment for present and future generations.

While LOWDSA membership has grown to include anyone who cares about sustainability, a shared passion for lake life is what ultimately brings us together. What better way to bring it to life than to show it through our member's voices? We will be premiering our 60th anniversary video at the 2022 AGM. We've captured videos from different lakes and areas throughout the region. Watch and listen to LOWDSA's staff and volunteers share their thoughts, feelings, and stories of our 60-year legacy, what makes our membership unique, and our plans moving forward.

We hope you enjoy this Area News issue and our 60th Anniversary projects. If you are not a member already, we hope that these stories, history, and video inspire you to become one. We are proud of the Lake of the Woods watershed and ask that you consider joining to help preserve one of the most beautiful places on earth.

LOWDSA Lake of the Woods Area News

This 60th Anniversary series and video are for you, our valued members. As we continue to represent lake life for years to come, we want to share more of your stories. If you are a member and would like to share your connection to the area, please let us know. We would love to share your memories and pictures throughout the upcoming year and beyond.

Early Spring 2022

Looking for a job?

WORK AT THE LAKE! LOWDSA IS HIRING! Position: Environmental Stewardship Technician Location: Kenora, Ontario Duration: May 2 - August 26, 2022 (Program length/start date subject to funding) Application Deadline: March 6, 11:59 PM CST (Co-op credit at participating institutions) Description: Environmental Stewardship Technicians are key members of LOWDSA’S LakeSmart team. LakeSmart is an environmental outreach program managed by LOWDSA. It assists the Association with delivery of environmental education through various programs, events, and initiatives. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: • Act as LOWDSA ambassadors • Conduct visits by boat to waterfront residents promoting sustainable shoreline practices & living green at the lake • Expand LOWDSA’s virtual outreach through our website, social media, and other online content • Liaise with community groups and resource professionals to assist LOWDSA’s Environment Program Coordinator • Lead invasive species initiatives (identification, documentation, prevention actions, outreach) • Coordinate community participation in stewardship and public monitoring activities • Deliver environmental education and outreach to the public at various events, children’s programs, and to various groups and organizations • Document and track analytics reporting in real time EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS: Education in job-related program and/or work experience in a related field (environmental science, biology, resource management).

REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE: • Strong organization and people skills • Ability to work independently and with a team • Knowledge of issues surrounding shoreline health • Excellent written and oral communication skills; e.g. public speaking, contributing articles to newspapers/ newsletters/magazines • Familiar with the Lake of the Woods region including strong navigation skills is a key asset • Demonstrates proficiency in using marine equipment safely and according to legislation • Plant, fish, and invertebrate identification skills • Experience engaging the public/volunteers/youth and networking with professionals/agencies • Demonstrates effective communication strategies with various social media platforms • Familiar with programs like Office and Google Apps • Knowledge of field work principles (accurate data recording, use of equipment, reports, etc.) OTHER REQUIREMENTS: • Valid driver's licence • Able to work flexible hours including weekends • Pleasure Craft Operators Card (or willing to obtain) • Access to a motor vehicle and CPR/Standard First Aid Certificate are assets • Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please forward a resume and cover letter by March 6, 11:59 PM CST MAIL TO: Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association PO Box 1160, Kenora, ON P9N 3X7 EMAIL: info@lowdsa.com

2022 at a glance... LOWDSA’s 2022 calendar has been laid out below, but it is of course subject to change dependent the status of COVID-19. We will notify members of any changes and final decisions on events with as much advance notice as is possible. Any changes and updates will be posted on our website and social media platforms, but we will also send out eNews updates. Make sure we have your email address so that we can provide you with those updates.

SUMMER 2022 Boat Wash Station For the second straight year LOWDSA will launch its Mobile Boat Wash Station—the first of its kind in the area. We will have our Boat Wash station at different locations throughout the summer. Visit us and learn more about preventing the spread of invasive species.

SPRING 2022

LakeSmart Season

Zebra Mussel Monitoring Settle Samplers

Be sure to wave to our LakeSmart staff who will be on the boat and doing many educational and engaging activities. We have kids camps, dock visits, shoreline cleanups and much more!

Visit lowdsa.com or email epc@lowdsa.com to order a zebra mussel sampling kit.

AGM—Announcement Coming Soon Stay tuned for a special announcement for the Annual Meeting of Members. Don't miss the virtual door prizes or the premier of our 60th Anniversary celebration video.

LOWDSA Tree Planting Day

Matiowski Farmers' Market Come say hi! Our LakeSmart team will be at the farmers market throughout the summer (we're the booth with the neat displays of different aquatic invasive species!).

Invasive Species Program Day

Save our Lakes! LOWDSA has been fighting the spread of invasive species; email epc@lowdsa.com to learn more.

Seedling Pick-Up Day

Metal Waste Day

Did you know more than 300,000 seedlings have been planted by LOWDSA? Be sure to order your seedlings by May 6, 2022. This year, we have two locations for you to pick up your seedlings on Saturday, May 21st, from 10 am - 1 pm.

On August 6th from 10 am - 1 pm stop by to recycle your metals for free. This year we are recycling eWaste items such as boat batteries, etc.

LOWDSA Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

Pick up your Area News and learn more about the interesting activities your association can do for you on the following dates:

MAY

JUN

SEP

NOV

Area News Classifieds Looking to buy or sell? Email membership@lowdsa.com and have your ad uploaded on lowdsa.com right away. To be sure your ad is included or removed in the next Area News let us know by the classified deadline: SPRING ISSUE

SUMMER ISSUE

FALL ISSUE

WINTER ISSUE

Apr 8

May 26

Aug 11

Oct 8

WINTER 2022

AUTUMN 2022 Start thinking of a gift membership! Renew your membership, stay connected, and consider giving a one-year LOWDSA membership to your adult children and grandchildren. Be sure to check our refer a friend contest prizes when you renew your membership.

Holiday Contest GIVEAWAY Send us your favourite pictures from around the lake and be entered in a draw to win a special prize!

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDSA

INDEPENDANTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

a Fe

Five Point Island

LOT 19 $225,000

LOT 8 $219,000

39 Lily Pad Bay $1,275,000

LOT 24 $240,000

Five Point Island - Lot 14 $190,000

48 Lily Pad Bay $1,195,000

50 A

TW LO

cr es

4 Scott Island $230,000

5 Scott Island $265,000

2 Middle Lake $489,900

SO LD

SO LK 283 Summer Resort $1,350,000

196-23 Peterson Drive $749,900

17 McCallum Point Road $1,000,000

Green Ridge Road $995,000

6 Eagle View Drive $1,100,000

DUSTIN MCLEOD

HAROLD WARKENTIN

(807) 467-7677 dustin.mcleod@c21.ca

(807) 464-1221 harold.warkentin@c21.ca

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

TW LO

TW LO Five Point Island - Lot 2 $199,900

BROKER “THE FLYING SALESMAN”®

5 - 308 Second St. South, Kenora

21-15 Storm Bay Road $850,000

IAN FILIPS

KRISTIE CAVANAGH

(807) 466-1378 ian.filips@c21.ca

(807) 466-8812 kristie.cavanagh@c21.ca

BROKER OF RECORD

807-468-3747

BROKER

century21kenora.com

Government Notes BY PATRICK PAULO

FEDERAL/PROVINCIAL

COVID-19 updates and travel restrictions

Navigational Aids

We continue to monitor COVID-19 announcements and updates from all levels of government that have particular relevance to our members who travel to and from the Lake of the Woods district.

LOWDSA's Navigational Aids Committee last met in July 2021 to discuss membership comments regarding safe navigation on Lake of the Woods. Adam Blake, LOWDSA's Board Representative on the committee had requested to meet with officials from the Canadian Coast Guard to discuss the list of concerns provided by LOWDSA members. While the committee was unable to meet the coast guard in February, LOWDSA has been informed on the maintenance plan of degraded day markers for 2022 and will have a focus on charts 6212 and 6216. LOWDSA will continue its efforts to connect with representatives of the Navigational Programs/Canadian Coast Guard this year to provide further updates.

As changes are occurring on a daily basis from one province to another and federally, we continue to recommend the official websites hosted by the governments of Manitoba, Ontario and Canada and the Northwestern Health Unit (Ontario) as your best source for current and accurate information. We have posted links to each website at lowdsa.com/articles/ covid-19-regulations-update. To learn further details about the restrictions for travel from Manitoba or Quebec into Ontario, please visit ontario.ca/page/ emergency-information.

PROVINCIAL

Lake of the Woods First Nations flooding claims Considerable progress has been made since information was last shared regarding the Lake of the Woods/Shoal Lake/Winnipeg River flooding claim settlements being negotiated among Ontario, Canada and First Nation communities. Some settlements are projected to be concluded this year. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs Ontario (IAO) is unable to host in-person meetings. To ensure that information about the proposed settlement of these claims is available, the IAO has developed a virtual information process, available at ontario.ca/page/lake-woods-flooding-claims. The Ministry is committed to arranging teleconference and/or videoconference meetings to discuss these land claims and is willing to set up a meeting at a mutually convenient date via teleconference or videoconference. Should you have any questions or want to request a meeting, please contact LOTWFloodClaim@ontario.ca or Dianne Woods, Negotiator, (416) 575-9838.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDSA

The Lake of the Woods Fisheries Advisory Council will hold a roundtable, tentatively in March, for the public to weigh in on Lake of the Woods fisheries management.

Plans for improvements to Turtle Portage are underway, with the goal of the crossing being functional in summer 2022.

Lake of the Woods Fisheries Advisory Council Turtle Portage The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry (NDMNRF) appreciates all of the important work the Lake of the Woods Fisheries Advisory Council has done to support fisheries management. Tentatively, the Advisory Council is looking to hold a roundtable for the public to weigh in on fisheries management for Lake of the Woods in March 2022. The thoughts and ideas expressed at the roundtable will be valuable information for the Advisory Council moving forward. The Ministry will provide updates as soon as they become available, and there will be many opportunities for public feedback on the long-term sustainability of fishing on Lake of the Woods.

LOWDSA has worked with its members, the applicable government agencies, and interested parties to avoid the closure of the Turtle Portage Railway. As a result of those efforts, the Ontario government recently announced it is investing more than $800,000 to improve the railway's functionality and safety. The system is used as a shortcut for lake users to move their boats between Whitefish Bay and Sabaskong Bay instead of traveling boat, approximately 145 km, around the Aulneau Peninsula. At the time of writing, it has been reported that offsite activities have begun taking place and plans for the improvements on Turtle Portage are to be made this spring with the goal of the crossing to be functional in summer 2022.

Highway Twinning It was announced on November 19, 2021, that the province of Ontario plans to move forward with the 4-laning of Highway 17 in Kenora with construction expected to begin this spring. Plans for the Highway Twinning project are expected to be completed in three phases with each phase covering a different section of Highway 17. The Ontario Government announced that Phase one of the project will be the 6.5 kilometre stretch from the Manitoba/Ontario border to the junction of Highway 673 and the TransCanada, and that the final project could be completed as early as 2025. For further information on the status of stage 2 and 3, the Ministry project team can be reached at (905) 823-8500 or e-mail: project-team@4LaneHighway17Kenora.ca

LOWDSA Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

Plans to move forward with the 4-laning of Highway 17 are underway, with construction on Section 1 expected to begin this spring.

The complete report of the Local Citizens Committee review of the 2022–2023 Kenora and Whiskey Jack Forest Management Plan will be available in the spring Area News.

Nuclear waste The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) continues to explore the suitability and community willingness of the town of Ignace as a host site to safely contain and isolate Canada’s used nuclear fuel in a deep geological repository. The current phase of Field Studies and Engagement will soon have new study results available. Borehole drilling analysis from the potential repository site is expected to be released in early 2022. Community studies focused on wellbeing topics including People, Infrastructure, Environment, Economics and Finance, Community and Culture, and will have results released in phases as the reports are completed throughout 2022, with the majority available by June.

conclusion of negotiations between the NDMNRF, Miisun Integrated Resource Management Company (whose resource management strategy promotes strong working relationships between First Nations and industry partners), and all stakeholder associations will be made available in the spring edition of the Area News. In the meantime, additional information can be found online at the Ministry’s Forest Management Plan at ontario.ca/page/forest-management-planning or by going to the Kenora Forest 2022–2032 Forest Management Plan at miisun.ca/ forest-management/forest-management-maps. The current status of the Whiskey Jack Forest Management Plan is a little behind the Kenora Forest planning but, it is also available online.

The NWMO shares that the studies are designed to inform potential project hosts on changes that would occur if the project were to continue, provide a baseline for current conditions, identify options to optimize benefits and mitigate impacts, and empower communities in discussions throughout the engagement processes to make informed decisions in future commitments/agreements. If you are interested in learning more about the project visit nwmo.ca, government websites of regional communities, or We the Nuclear Free North. Opportunities to have a more involved role in the engagement process through working groups, focus groups, workshops, presentations, and more can be explored through the NWMO’s Community and Public Engagement Manager, Charlene Easton, at ceaston@nwmo.ca or 647-825-2593.

Forestry and forest management The Local Citizens Committee met in February to review the 2022–2023 Kenora and Whiskey Jack Forest Management Plan. A complete report that details the

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDSA

Hydro One increases boost bills BY BOB STEWART Hydro One distribution charge increases approved for 2022 have added about $10 a month to electricity costs for most residents of the region.

circumstances decreases resulting from all these changes is very much determined by individual electricity use patterns and amounts in any given billing period.

The new rates, approved in late 2021 by the Ontario Energy Board, took effect January 1 and reflect a number of changes in the various components that makeup the Delivery line charge of a Hydro One bill. Changes include an inflation-driven increase in the basic delivery charge; updated rates for transmission costs on the province’s high-voltage grid system, also owned by Hydro One; the ending of several short-term credit adjustments known as rate riders; a tax recovery charge related to Hydro One’s public share offering in 2015; and a further step in the move towards an all fixed basic distribution charge. This last series of annual changes will end in 2024. Current low and medium density class customers, identified as R1 and R2 on bills, along with Seasonal class customers, still have a portion of their basic service charge determined by the volume of electricity (kwh) used each month. The Energy Board ordered an end to this service charge calculation method by local distribution companies in 2014, using a phased-in approach with most utilities in the province completing the shift between 2016 and 2018. Hydro One has taken longer to reach the fixed rate target due to its heavy reliance on the volume factor. Its Urban Class completed the shift in 2021. Other changes in electricity charges for 2022 include a reduction in the amount of the Ontario Electricity Rebate which includes the full rebate of the 8 per cent provincial sales tax portion the 13 per cent HST listed on bills. From January 18 to February 7, the government also provided bill relief under its COVID measures by lowering the cost of all electricity consumed to the off-peak price of 8.2 cents per kwh. This three-week price reduction saved residential customers anywhere from a few dollars to $30 or $40 depending on the volume of electricity used during the period. While the Energy Board and Hydro One provide bill impact percentages and dollar amounts for ‘average’ customer consumption, the actual dollar increases and in a few

FOR ‘0’ KWH DEC 2021

JAN 2022

$35.22

$37.67

$34.19

$40.41

Seasonal

$48.48

$58.60

$156.97

$167.02

$162.37

$172.08

Seasonal

$215.57

$217.56

$539.62

$555.06

$546.89

$567.09

Seasonal

$716.80

$694.42

FOR 1,000 KWH

4,000 KWH

For example high volume customers (primarily electric heat users) benefit much more from volume related increases or credits than low volume users, customer class (Low Density, Medium Density or Seasonal) also play a role; as do various provincial bill subsidy programs like the Ontario Electricity Rebate which applies to the subtotal on all residential and commercial bills and reduces the total billing by 17 per cent and the Distribution Rate Protection program that caps local distribution charges for some 800,000 year-round residential customers province-wide including Hydro One’s R1 and R2 customers. The current cap is $36.86 and is reviewed every July. Other in-year changes that may or may not impact individual bills in 2022 include the seasonal shift and review of electricity commodity prices that takes effect April 1, the ending Hydro One’s tax recovery charge in June 2022 and the annual review of the DRP cap in July. Customers can also select either a T-O-U (Time of Use) or Tiered Rate calculation for their electricity bills and change their selection during the course of a year, which impacts total bills. To illustrate the variations in impact, and the changes various ‘average’ customers can expect this year, the following is a comparison of bill totals compiled using the Ontario Energy Board’s online bill calculator (oeb.ca/consumer-informationand-protection/bill-calculator) in late December 2021 and then in early January 2022 for Time-Of-Use customers.

LOWDSA Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

LOWDSA membership... Here's just some of what's in it for you! LakeSmart

Lake Life Resources

Learn all about living green at the lake and get the info, tools and resources you need to help you protect your legacy.

Easy access to just about anything you want to know about lake life.

Blue-Green Algae Blue-green algae can steal your precious lake time. Learn how to keep your lake clean and safe for swimming, drinking and pets.

Area News Magazine Connecting you to 'the lake’ year round. In your hands or online. Local stories, all about lake life, and issues you’re interested in. Seedlings

Expand your own beautiful patch of forest at the lake and help reduce We offer tips, tools & best practices to our carbon footprint with our annual identify them and prevent t heir spread. seedling program. Prevent Invasive Species

Renew online or by email, mail or phone See the form (and all relevant contact information) on the next page, or login at lowdsa.com/login. Contact us by phone at 807-468-8715, toll-free 1-888-265-9784, or email membership@lowdsa.com.

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LOWDSA Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

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2022 Membership Renewal Renew online, or use this form to renew by mail or email. Your continued support of LOWDSA's programs and initiatives does make a difference.

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BUILDING DREAM S

LOWDSA plays a key role with outreach and education BY CASSIDY MAZUR, ENVIRONMENT PROGRAM COORDINATOR, LOWDSA

It feels good to know that there are people looking out for you. Maybe you have a great neighbour you know you can count on for flour when you run out, or perhaps a friend that helped you with a repair. Whether support is big or small, helping each other out contributes to a ripple effect of

This project is a perfect example of community coming together for positive change. Between our sponsors supplying the unit, the Invading Species Awareness Program providing educational resources to distribute, our Environment Program Coordinator managing the project, to our LakeSmart team operating it, participants committing to decontaminating their watercrafts, and everyone else that has contributed to the success of this project through donating, sponsoring, following along, sharing online, or telling a friend—this program is owing to the entire greater Lake of the Woods community.

It’s been incredible to see this project through as LOWDSA’s first Environment Program Coordinator this valuable lake community. (EPC) and I know it will only continue to grow and improve with this year’s new EPC Intern. When it comes to LOWDSA’s I’m looking forward to following sustainability initiatives, community along with the success of all the is at the heart of them. We are in awe environmental programs as I pass of what our community’s support the torch. I hope the new coordinator allows us to do. This summer you will finds them as rewarding and once again see LOWDSA’s Mobile Boat The last boat ride before the ice rolls in is always an adventure. inspirational as I have. As the new Wash Station protecting the water we EPC continues this work, I encourage love, thanks to our sponsors—Bestway everyone to do your part to share all of our “living green” tips Rentals, 89.5 The Lake, Health in a Cup, and Green Adventures. and wave at our neighbours to contribute to the positive and They are graciously supporting our Boat Wash initiative so we can welcoming feel that makes this place so special. continue to educate lake users and boat enthusiasts on ways to decontaminate their watercrafts of invasive species.

positive change that sustains

Title photo: The perfect island lookout shows the endless expanse of Lake of the Woods.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDSA

Winter rolls in along the shores of Lake of the Woods.

Protecting the land and water quality from invasive species, habitat degradation, and the many other threats that freshwater lakes face is critically important. LOWDSA is proud to have a lead role in stewardship of the region, taking action through sharing information and bringing people together for a collective impact.

What better way to wrap up my time as EPC than with a brand new LOWDSA adventure? I am absolutely thrilled to have a role that allows me to expand our experiential environmental outreach through programming in classrooms and the community. LOWDSA has partnered with IISD-Experimental Lakes Area to share a new position. My new shared role will be serving as the Education and Outreach Manager for both IISD-Experimental Lakes Area and LOWDSA. It will be dedicated to environmental education that is focused on connecting with youth through meaningful outreach programs. The EPC position has enhanced LOWDSA’s stewardship activities and beyond, benefiting the Lake of the Woods community and helping preserve the valued environment within the region. The beautiful lakes, shorelines, and resources of this area that we use and enjoy are culturally significant to the Anishinaabe and Métis Nations, and many more Indigenous Nations and peoples. It is important to honour this throughout our work and in our own relationships with the land, water, fish, wildlife, and other culturally significant aspects to Indigenous Nations.

The Lake of the Woods area has the feel of a small community, yet there are over 14,000 islands and 105,000 kilometres of shoreline just on the lake alone. Each time you jump in for a swim, push off in your boat, or reel in a big one, you are a part of an extraordinary community that shares your interest and value for the lake life we strive to protect. Outreach and education are key to helping everyone make their own ripple of positive change from their neck of the woods. an

Thanks to our Mobile Boat Wash sponsors:

Together

@healthinacupkenora

Our current fundraising campaign the ﬂuoroscopy suite and machine.

Funds raised through the LWDHF 50/50 draws play a vital role in purchasing equipment that saves lives everyday at the Lake of the Woods District Hospital.

lwdhf5050.ca LOWDSA Lake of the Woods Area News

NATURAL NUTRITION AND INSPIRED WELLNESS

will help the LWDH upgrade and replace

we can do so much!

Health in a Cup

Early Spring 2022

For the ﬁrst time at our hospital, pediatric ﬂuroscopy scans and related procedures will be able to be completed in Kenora!

One of the many benefits to LOWDSA membership...

Order your red pine seedlings today! Expand your own beautiful patch of forest at the lake... and help reduce our carbon footprint. Continuing the great work of LOWDSA members since the early 90s with over 300,000 trees planted and another 10,000 for 2022. Same great price—$10 for a bundle of 15 seedlings. Seedling orders are open to members only until May 6, 2022. After that date, we will open up sales to the public on a first come, first served basis.

Members of a team of young planters from St. Thomas Aquinas High School busy planting 2500 red pine seedlings in the Kenora Forest as part of LOWDSA’s partnership with LOW Brew Co (June 2018).

SEEDLING PICK UP—ONE DAY ONLY

Saturday, May 21, 2021 from 10:00 am–1:00 pm If you'd like to order seedlings but will be unable to pick up on May 21, please know that we're working on a plan to make sure they get planted.

It's easy to order!

You can order your red pine seedlings online at lowdsa.com/cpages/seedlings. You can also order by mail (see page 17), call 888-265-9784 or email info@lowdsa.com.

Why red pines? A question we are often asked is, "Why red pines? Why not some other variety?" We went to the source for the answer and checked in with our supplier, PRT’s, Dryden operation. What we learned is that the red pine can tolerate poor, rocky and sandy soils along with a variety of moisture levels. They said they would call it the most flexible and versatile species to plant in Ontario. This means that the red pine is very well suited to the many different terrains and soils found in our watershed, and has the best rate of success overall when all variations are considered. The red pine possesses an unusually low level of genetic variation within and between populations (northwestern Ontario to southern Ontario for example). It is self-fertile and self-compatible. The possibility that the red pine is derived from a single population established sometime during the Pleistocene era is very likely. Simply put, the red pine is very well suited to the many different terrains and soils found in our watershed, and has the best rate of success overall when all variations are considered.

Did you know? Every edition of Area News is available to our members online, so you can catch up on what's happening whenever, wherever you are. Visit lowdsa.com to learn more!

You can book a LakeSmart virtual dock visit or an in-person visit to your lake, property or event in July or August. Take advantage of our knowledge & resources—book at lowdsa.com today!

We love to hear from our members and we want to share your story! Help us continue to make this magazine great— send us your comments, suggestions, pictures and story ideas.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDSA

Collaborating on community improvement: Nestor Falls Site redevelopment BY HEATHER GROPP, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER TOWNSHIP OF SIOUX NARROWS-NESTOR FALLS Early on a bright October morning, amidst a bustling construction crew, the Chief, members of Council, and community of the Onigaming First Nation, and the Mayor, Council, and staff from the Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls gathered in ceremony with the Onigaming Elders and Drum. They came together to bless the land and ensure that the work that was about to commence on this important piece of land, on the shores of Lake of the Woods, was done in a good way. This gathering was the culmination of 18 months of work done in collaboration with the Community of Onigaming, the Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls and the Ontario Ministry of Transportation. Each of these partners joined together to develop a community space where local residents and visitors alike can come to gather and appreciate the natural beauty and learn about the rich local culture and history that makes the Nestor Falls Site so unique. The planned transformation of the site is significant. Once the enhancements are complete in early spring 2022, visitors will find that the commonly used Nestor Falls rest stop has received many landscaping upgrades that include an accessible lookout over the Falls and Lake of the Woods. This lookout will feature a number of interpretive panels that provide interesting cultural, historical, and ecological information specific to the site and to the Nestor Falls area. It also has a children’s play area, improved site furniture, new plantings, and a beautiful welcome sign off Highway 71.

The Nestor Falls Site redevelopment is expected to be complete by May 2022 and will be a must-see destination this summer as you explore Lake of the Woods.

Above: Community leadership and members from Onigaming First Nation and the Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls come together at the Nestor Falls Site prior to construction. Left: The upgraded staircase at the Nestor Falls site will allow easier access to the Falls. Photos are courtesy of the Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls

The stories and information that were chosen to share at the site as part of the interpretation include: a land acknowledgement, the historical importance of the site as a gathering place, its unique ecology as a walleye spawning bed, historical and modern water transportation modes. A look at ways to preserve Lake of the Woods and its watershed are also outlined. The interpretive panels will provide all visitors to the site with a stronger understanding of its significance to our region. At the outset of this project, it was determined that these stories were best told together by the communities they touch, in order to ensure a respectful and fully regional perspective. The project, which received financial contributions from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation and Fed Nor, sets the groundwork for future collaborations.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association In the District

WAT E R L E V E L S

Snow fall good news for lake levels BY JEFF POLAKOFF, LOWDSA REPRESENTATIVE, LAKE OF THE WOODS CONTROL BOARD Following the very dry weather and ongoing drought conditions we have been experiencing for almost two years in the Winnipeg River drainage basin, including the Lake of the Woods, we were due for some good news. We got some very positive information at a consultation meeting of the Lake of the Woods Control Board (LWCB) this past January. Beginning in the late fall of 2021 and continuing into early winter there was significantly more precipitation than is typical for that time of year. Based on Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) estimates, weather systems bringing much needed precipitation dumped 114 cm of snow between midOctober 2021 and mid-January 2022 in the Kenora area. This much snowfall in under four months surpassed the total snowfall last winter of 83.9 cm. By mid-February snowfall had reached 149.1 cm. We were well on our way to meeting and exceeding the average area snowfall for an entire winter of 159.7 cm. While these snow events were accompanied by poor road conditions, highway closures and drifting snow due to gusting winds, the arrival of the snow is good news as we begin to replenish the much-needed moisture in the basin. The January meeting of the LWCB was scheduled to review the strategy adopted by the Board in October 2021. That strategy is intended to guide the flow operations of the lake until the end of March with consultations during the winter by the Board as conditions warranted. October discussions focused on the continuing drought throughout the basin including Ontario, Manitoba, and Minnesota. A particular focus was on the persistent low flows and precipitation across the basin as well as the storage requirements for water in the lakes during the winter when tributary flows are at their lowest. This regulation strategy was consistent with the approach taken for much of the last two years given the extremely dry conditions. As of late October, the Lake of the Woods level was at 322.5 m (1058.0 ft), the 5th percentile or in other words, 95 per cent below typical water levels for that time of the year. This had improved to 322.60 m (1058.4 ft) or the 40th percentile by February 2022.

Low flow of water; early January 2022 at the Norman Dam

We also take a great interest in Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry planning for the spawning success of fish and the potential impact of recommendations by energy partners who focus on flow requirements for hydropower in Ontario and Manitoba over the winter months. The strategy has prioritized maintaining a stable flow and continuing to store water in the lake for release over winter with contingencies based on monitoring of water levels and the regulation of flow at the Norman dam. While we aren’t out of the woods yet as far as spring water levels are concerned, the good news is the increased snowfall this winter is a great improvement over the precipitation and forecast information for the majority of 2020/2021. Here’s hoping the positive trend continues. Please keep aware of changing water levels and ice/slush conditions if you head out on the ice during the remainder of the winter and as we look forward to spring ice out. For up-to-date water level information, please visit the LWCB web site at lwcb.ca/waterflowdata.html.

The January consultation meeting provided an opportunity to consider the improving conditions within the basin as we head towards spring and determine if the adopted regulation needed to be adjusted. The overall intent is to balance the interests of groups in the basin including cottagers. Much of the LOWDSA focus and recommendations was on shoreline infrastructure such as docks and boathouses and maintaining a flow sufficient to protect residential water lines as well as potential run off scenarios for the spring.

In the District Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

Anishinaabe Inakonigaawin BY HAILEY KROLYK, POLICY ANALYST, TERRITORIAL PLANNING UNIT, GRAND COUNCIL TREATY #3 Anishinaabe Inakonigaawin (Anishinaabe law or way of life), which is inherent to the Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty #3, guides relationships with the land and its inhabitants throughout daily life. This includes: • Respecting the lands and waters • Giving offerings to spirits and Creator when you benefit from Mother Earth’s gifts, such as hunting, fishing, or transportation • Knowing your rights as a Treaty #3 member • Understanding the responsibility as a steward of the land

What is Inakonigaawin?

the inhabitants that may be affected from unethical processes. These Treaty #3 laws are rooted in oral law, passed down through stories and traditional Anishinaabe practices. The laws, as an Anishinaabe, teaching can be difficult to translate and fully convey in the English language, as they are a way of life and span beyond the written word. This part of the laws lies in ceremony and guidance from the spirits. Written Inakonigaawin in Treaty #3 are Manito Aki Inakonigaawin, the Nibi declaration, and Abinooji Inakonigaawin. You can learn more about these on Grand Council Treaty #3’s website gct3.ca "Our traditions represent the spiritual connection between us,

As explained by Doctor John Burrows in his book “Drawing out Law”, Anishinaabe Inakonigaawin has been here since time immemorial and pre-dates colonial British/Canadian law. It co-exists with today's Canadian law and has throughout history since settlers came to Canada. On this basis, Treaties were formed to help two separate systems of law, Anishinaabe Inakonigaawin and Western laws to co-exist in Canada. In Treaty #3, it was understood that the Treaty was to represent the expectation that Anishinaabe Inakonigaawin was to be upheld, respected, and create a mutual foundation of respect. Anishinaabe Inakonigaawin is learned from the earth and other beings, such as the plants, insects, birds, animals, the daily changes in the weather, the motion of the wind and the waters, and the complexion of the stars, the moon and the sun (Burrows, 2010). Inakonigaawin is mostly unwritten, found in Anishinaabemowin and various teachings taught from the land, Elders and Knowledge Keepers. In Treaty #3, it is a promise to the land that the humans will take care of all beings, interconnected in a loop of respect, reciprocity, rights and responsibilities. Anishinaabe Inakonigaawin in Treaty #3 stems from the Creator. These laws give the Anishinaabe duties and responsibilities to protect, care for, and respect the land. Many traditional laws signify the duty to respect and protect lands, waters, and all

the Creator and all of creation. We are the most dependent on the rest of creation to survive. That’s why it's so important to respect and honor that relationship." —Francis Kavanaugh, Treaty #3 Ogichidaa (Grand Chief ), 2021 Anishinaabe culture has many protocols to ensure respect, rights, responsibility, and reciprocity. These protocols are within sacred ceremony and are enacted during all relations with Niinkeminaan (Mother Earth). Ceremonial protocols in Anishinaabe culture may include the following: Anishinaabemowin, feasting, offerings, giving of gifts, drums, pipes, sacred items, sacred fires, smudging, tobacco, and other sacred medicines such as sage and cedar. No decision made by humans is greater than spirit, therefore all guidance is given through spirit and passed down to humans through ceremony. The authority of Inakonigaawin lies in ceremony.

Title photo: Inakonigaawin is a way of life through respect, reciprocity and responsibilities with Mother Earth and all its inhabitants. Photo courtesy of Chris Herc.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association In the District

LOWDSA through the years

1962 to 1977

Join us for a trip down memory “lake” as we feature different periods of LOWDSA’s 60-year history in each issue of the Area News. BY LEANNE FOURNIER

Families have been flocking to Lake of the Woods and other rivers and lakes in the region since the late 1800s. It wasn’t always easy, as many had to disembark from trains or steer their automobiles cautiously along bumpy logging roads, then unload and reload all of their provisions for a lengthy boat ride into camp. The pressures of city life would slip away as the crystal-clear water, lush forests, gorgeous Canadian Shield shoreline or perhaps the occasional beach made their appearances, promising endless adventures and family memories. Protecting it all was instilled in many from their earliest days on the lake. In an article in the first issue of Area News in January 1971, C.I. (Ian) MacDonald wrote, “We swim, we sail and generally relax in this environment. Winters take a heavy toll on the spirit, but rejuvenation is rapid at the lake.”

Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

Where LOWDSA’S story begins For Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association, the story begins in the early 1960s. Not unsurprisingly, what brought people together in those early days was an unwelcome interruption to the serenity of their cottage life—taxes! In 1960, the public school board in Keewatin moved to take the Clearwater Bay and Granite Lake areas into its boundaries and began levying property taxes. The board’s plan was to tax the parents of children who lived on the lake and attended school in Kenora. The way the Ontario system worked however, all of the property owners in the defined area would have to pay. That didn’t sit well with seasonal cottagers who were already paying school taxes in the cities and towns where they actually lived. Paying again to a school board they didn’t even use was troubling. This concern turned to outrage when the tax bill grew—in the area of 600 per cent by 1964. While letters, meetings, demonstrations and heated debates with local school boards and government didn’t get the results the growing coalition of concerned cottagers had hoped, it did bring together people that were otherwise dispersed throughout an immense region for a common cause.

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Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association

1. Effective September 1960 most properties in the Clearwater Bay and Granite Lake areas were included in a newly formed school section, U. S. S. 1, 4. Boys and Pellet. We were assessed and taxed to send children in the area to school in Keewatin and Kenora. To this we did not object.

Brydon McCrae, McCallum Point Road, one of the Association’s original members, devised a newsletter and means for cottagers throughout the region to share their concerns. He and his wife Ruby continued with the newsletter— which eventually became the Lake of the Woods Area News magazine—for the next 20 years.

2. As it became apparent that we were being taken for a ride on costs the Clearwater Bay-Granite Lake property owners association was formed.

The inaugural January 1971 issue of the Area News provided a brief history of LOWDPOA, submitted by then President Dale R. Stewart, Burma Road:

3. Due to the efforts of many people and here we must mention the dedicated work of Mr. Ed Hewitt and Mr. Ben Commuskey, 105 people contributed to this organization and after a few years were able to give these children transportation and educational facilities at a reasonable cost and it reduced taxes. Everything was under control and as often happens the association lagged.

It is not possible to give in detail the steps leading up to the formation of our Association, but a short summary is of interest.

Clear and practical advice Over 40 years of experience in Lake of the Woods Real Estate

W. Randall F. Seller

Stephen R. Lundin

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Beth Allison White

Reid E. Thompson

Kimberly P. Mejia

Phaedra M. Olinyk

Laura M. Wheatley

rseller@hsllaw.ca

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lwheatley@hsllaw.ca

B.A., LL.B

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Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

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The summary goes on to describe a “New Ball Game” in which Ontario’s Regional Government came in, school districts were amalgamated so that Lake of the Woods became part of the Kenora Board of Education and finally how, since 1964, the year the association had achieved its lowest tax rate, astronomical school tax increases continued. It was around this time that a new constitution in the name of the Lake of the Woods District Property Owners Association was approved. The Association would continue to host formal Annual General Meetings and elections to the Board of Directors each year, with early meetings happening in the Kenora area but eventually moving to Winnipeg to make it easier for the vast majority of its members to attend. Membership was at about 400 and growing steadily.

While tax concerns dominated most of the dialogue in those early years, there were other issues. Vandalism and theft at cottages were a concern, leading to one of the Association’s first programs, which was a reward fund for information leading to the arrest and conviction of people involved in this activity. Signs were printed for Association members to post on their properties. The groundwork was also being set to build on environmental concerns. The very first issue of the Area News featured a full-page article, written by C.I. (Ian) MacDonald under the heading “Environmental Controls, A Vital Need.” In the three-part series, Ian described his family’s “prime purpose” to establish themselves on the lake for recreation in “its finest and broadest sense.” He

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association

elaborated his views on keeping the water pure, why people choose to migrate from “high-density metropolitan complexes” to “the lake areas where the recreational possibilities are limited only by the imagination”, and the need for policies and systems that protect the watershed. Ian couldn’t resist commenting on taxation and policies he found inapt to lake life and cottagers: “Who, in their right minds, wants to be followed into their wilderness retreat by rules and regulations which appeared to have no relevance there? Is this not the reason why there is resentment to regulations which appeared to be extensions of those in the city which induced the cottager to seek relief from them in the wilderness in the first place?” The first Environment Control Committee came together in the 70s, raising concerns and taking action on many emerging issues. This included calling for a pesticide ban in Ontario, which would only occur decades later, and raising awareness related to water quality and the causes and effects of algal blooms. Another concern of the time was water levels. In May 1973, the International Lake of the Woods Control Board held its meeting in Kenora for the first time. As a result, what had been a shaky and distant relationship, would begin to move toward more collaboration around common goals. LOWDPOA director Ben Commuskey would be the Association’s first representative on the Board. An exciting project at this time was the Giant Map Project, citing locations of interest throughout the lake. The project was chaired by LOWDPOA director Jim Ashdown. One thousand copies of the booklet were printed in summer 1977. Another story of interest and frustration for cottagers was the progress— or lack thereof—of a bypass that would vastly improve the drive for cottagers to Lake of the Woods. An April 1975 Area News article suggested the bypass wouldn’t be a reality before 1990! Flipping through past issues of the Area News reveals how the Association set the groundwork, building awareness and driving action on these and a plethora of topics and issues of interest to cottagers, lake life, and the environment—everything from new-fangled no-flush toilets, fishing derbies, yacht club events, regattas, condominium developments, water quality concerns, and annual general meeting news, to the latest updates on hydro rates, break-ins, forestry, fires, fishing and hunting regulations, septic systems, and more. The AGM, held in June 1977 at the Monarch Life Building in Winnipeg reported 1,003 members just 97 short of the goal of 1,100 for that year. This was up 125 over the previous year. It was an audacious beginning with more to come.

LOWDSA is looking to digitize early editions of the Area News. Stay tuned for details.

Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

LOWDSA presidents through the years... 1972

Dale R. Stewart

1973

G. Brydon McCrae

1974–1975

J.M. Halliday

1976–1977

Ian McLandress

1978–1979

Jim Ashdown

1980–1981

Ernst. P. Schell

1982–1983

Robert Cook

1984–1985

Ernst. P. Schell

1986–1988

Leverne Fyke

1989–1990

Ernst. P. Schell

1991–1992

Dean Magnus

1993–1994

Jack McKenzie

1995–1996

David Hewlett

1997–2000

Terry Fyke

2001–2003

Steve Steigerwald

2003–2005

Art McKenzie

2005–2006

Todd Sellers

2007–2008

Sue Bruning

2009–2010

Don Cameron

2011–2013

Barry Baltessen

2014–2015

Robert Bulman

2016–2018

Nancy Salmijarvi

2019–2020

Hardy Bock

2020–2021

Chris Semenchuk

STOP AIS_Ad_LakeoftheWoods_5x5.indd 1

2022-02-04 2:25 PM

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association

A LOWDSA SUCCESS STORY LakeSmart is a key LOWDSA initiative that’s reached thousands of people over 11 years with tips and tools on ways to ‘live green at the lake’ and be more sustainable in our stewardship of land and water. Two former executive directors, who both had their hands deep in the LakeSmart program launch and ongoing success, share their perspectives.

Launch 2011 – 2016 BY SUSAN MCLEOD As is often the case, the LakeSmart Program started as an idea borne out of adversity. In 2010, our Association, known then as the Lake of the Woods District Property Owners (LOWDPOA) was facing the same challenges as many other not-for-profit organizations: funding cuts and fewer volunteers able to help keep programs relevant and effective. After attending the annual Federation of Ontario Cottage Owners Associations’ conference, speaking with like-minded members and staff from across the province, one effective project stuck with me. Muskoka Lakes’ Association had been running a Safe Boating summer program for a couple of years with two students visiting property owners by boat and attending public events representing their Association.

The goal was two-fold; share the importance of boat safety and raise awareness of the organization, hopefully translating into gaining members. After spending time delving into the details with their Executive Director, I decided the idea merited discussion with our Board who agreed I should go ahead and build a project proposal. Using the logistic foundation from Muskoka, we decided to focus on environmental education, specifically healthy shorelines, and their impact on overall water quality. That way, individual members could participate with hands-on projects specific to their own properties, personally making a positive impact on our lakes and rivers. That was the easy part. Left: First launch of LakeSmart Boat 2011. (L-R) LakeSmart ambassadors Laura Shore and Sam Warden, LOWDSA President Barry Baltessen, then Kenora Mayor Dave Canfield. Above: A new LakeSmart boat has provided every year by Woodlake Marine Ltd. from 2011 to 2021. Gregg Alcock, Woodlake Marine with Executive Director Susan McLeod (2015).

Next came: Where and how do we get a boat? Where Bays in the west. The team was also invited to spend do we find the staff? Can we insure people and a day on Malachi Lake where they were shuttled to equipment? Can we develop the education for both staff various locations by concerned cottagers in that area. and property owners? (A big thank you to Rosemary Connecting with cottagers was a favourite Robertson, Kelly Saunders, and Hayley memory for Laura Shore, a 3-year Anderson for creating the training and LakeSmart team member. “Each cottage information program.) And most is so unique and special, and the importantly…are we crazy? Do we Over 5000 dock majority of cottagers really care really want to be liable for putting about the lakes and want to do stops on Lake of the two university-aged ‘kids’ in a what they can to help protect boat, and sending them off on Woods, 22 area lakes and them. Our short drop-in visits the water on their own? often stretched out longer the Winnipeg River; over 8000 Yes we did, and the first because our hosts were so visits with cottagers and visitors; LakeSmart season launched excited to discuss the health of June 27, 2011. During July the lakes.” participation in hundreds of and August, our first student In addition to the time spent events and activities from Minaki Ambassadors, Laura Shore on the water, the LakeSmart and Sam Warden, travelled to Morson and Shoal Lake to team was active at Kenora’s primarily around Lake of the weekly Matiowski Farmers Market. Sioux Narrows; and 29 Woods, educating waterfront They also took part in LOWDPOA property owners on the summer jobs created. DockTalk presentations in the area importance of healthy shorelines. and spoke to a number of interested community groups.

Above: 2014 LakeSmart Team (L-R) Executive Director Susan McLeod, Lucas King, Membership Coordinator Hayley Anderson, James Walkiewicz. Right: Never too young to learn about Invasive Species with LakeSmart at Kenora’s Matiowski Farmers Market—Myles King and Reed Cupeiro with young lake stewards.

Aside from a prop ding and boat bump, the program was a huge success. The team met with more than 100 cottagers about specific issues on their properties and dropped 300 more information kits that summer to cottagers who were unavailable. They travelled from the northern end of Lake of the Woods near Kenora to Sioux Narrows in the south, east to Bigstone Bay and Northern Harbour, and to Clearwater and Ptarmigan

Local media coverage and sponsor support played a large part in the program’s success as it caught the interest of LOWDPOA members and non-members alike. The Daily Miner and News, Enterprise, and Cottager Magazine covered our progress, and a feature was aired on Points North on CJBN Cable TV throughout northwestern Ontario. By the end of the season, reports of the LakeSmart boat sightings increased and cottage owners were making personal appointments for the team to address individual issues on their properties. As Executive Director for the first six years of the LakeSmart program, I’m proud of what we accomplished, and have lots of memories. Most are great, although some will always remain secret between me and our summer students!

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association

LAKESMART HIGHLIGHTS

2016 - 2020 BY DIANE SCHWARTZ-WILLIAMS

• Extended from 2 months to 4 months by 2021

When I slid into the role of Executive Director after a short stint as Susan’s assistant, I was lucky enough to inherit a successful, respected LakeSmart program and looked forward to continuing to expand the program and explore new horizons and activities.

• Gradual increase in the area covered (all the way to Morson) and number of water bodies visited (more than 22 including LOW) either by car and in some cases hosted and chauffeured by a local lake resident

After 11 years, LakeSmart remains one of the most successful environmental outreach and education efforts of the Association. A team of university students, each with an environmental education focus, spends the summer talking to hundreds of lake residents sharing practical knowledge about what we can each do to contribute to a healthier lake ecosystem. What is interesting to watch is how quickly the team realizes that they are doing almost as much learning on the job as teaching. They start out equipped with a solid base of knowledge and resources on a broad range of topics, but it is a base they build on daily as they dig in to find answers to questions, sometimes tough ones, that lake residents ask them. And then there are those times when the roles are reversed and the lake residents become the teachers.

• Grew from a 2 member team to 4 members by 2021 • Addition of an Invasive Species Community Outreach Liaison student in 2020 with funding from the Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters • Participation in dozens of smaller lake association events • Water sampling, tree planting, kids’ programs • Beetle release to combat the spread of purple loosestrife • Zebra mussel monitoring program • Hands on Clean-Drain-Dry education program • Blue green algae and invasive species awareness and prevention presentations • Creative virtual response and program adaptations to COVID restrictions and safety protocols

When we ask former LakeSmart team members what they took away at the end of the summer, their answers consistently refer to a rewarding summer job, work related to their field of study, an excellent learning opportunity, a great addition to their knowledge base and resume and, without exception, a lot of fun. It’s no surprise that most LakeSmart students have returned for a second year, and some a third. A job that involves a lot of time in a beautiful, well-equipped, and brand new boat on Lake of the Woods also usually gets a mention.

“LakeSmart was my first co-op placement and my first opportunity to be out on the lake all summer. I really got to explore and enjoy the area instead of just boating to work in town,” said Abbi Friesen (LakeSmart 2020 & 2021). It felt like being paid to do a job that you’d volunteer for, and in my field as well. I still can’t believe my luck.” Beyond their LakeSmart experience, several team members have successfully used this experience as a stepping stone to their career advancement. Lucas King, a 3-year LakeSmart alumnus, now sits on the LOWDSA Board of Directors and co-chairs the Environment

LAKESMART SPONSORS THROUGH THE YEARS Cabin Country Realty Ltd.

LOTW Septic Barge

Q104 Kenora Online

City of Kenora

Government of Canada | Canada Summer Jobs Program

LOW Mobile Marine

Qualico

Copperfin Credit Union

Grand Council Treaty #3

Lund Boats

Kenora and Lake of the Woods Regional Community Foundation

Mercury Marine

Insurance

Nature Conservancy of Canada

St. John Ambulance

Dock on a Rock ECO Canada | Environmental Careers

KMTS

Organization

Lake of the Woods Coffee

Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Association Garriock Insurance

Lake of the Woods Development Commission Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation

Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters

Richard McKenzie

Talbot Marketing Wharf Off Main Street

Ontario Power Generation

Marina

Ontario's Invading Species Awareness Program

Woodlake Marine Ltd. World of Water

The LakeSmart team was ‘all in’ when it came to beetle releases to control the spread of invasive purple loosestrife 2017-2020. (L-R) Reed Cupeiro and Myles King releasing these biological control agents on Laurenson Creek (2018).

Committee. After his first year with LakeSmart in 2013, Lucas was hooked on lake stewardship and switched his major to Environmental Science. He still works towards water protection in the area as Territorial Planning Unit Director for Grand Council Treaty #3. The LakeSmart boat, generously supplied each year by lead sponsor, Woodlake Marine, is the key to the program and likely its most recognized feature. However, the LakeSmart program is only possible with the additional support of LOWDSA members and as many as 18 sponsors and grants each year. As might be expected, the roster of sponsors does shift from year to year, but the Association owes a special thank you to those sponsors who have supported LakeSmart every year beginning with its 2011 launch. LakeSmart was definitely one of the highlights during my four years as LOWDSA’s Executive Director. Getting to know and working with ten knowledgeable, committed and energetic LakeSmart ambassadors was both rewarding and refreshing. When I happen to hear about the work they are doing beyond LakeSmart, I am impressed by their passion and commitment and optimistic about the stewardship of our lakes with their involvement. Each year LakeSmart has received increasing recognition amongst LOWDSA’s members, other area residents and businesses, the program’s sponsors and even other lake associations. LOWDSA was honoured at the 2019 International Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Forum with the presentation of the Wilson Stewardship Award recognizing its outstanding contributions to environmental stewardship in the watershed with particular note on the LakeSmart program. The torch was passed on to Patrick Paulo when he became Executive Director in 2021, and under his direction the LakeSmart program continues to transition and grow to address environmental issues in the Lake of the Woods area. Susan and I know we are just over four months away from seeing what LakeSmart 2022 will look like and to meeting the 2022 team. We can hardly wait! an

LAKESMART AMBASSADORS 2011

Laura Shore Sam Warden

2012

Laura Shore Sam Warden

2013

Lucas King Laura Shore

2014

Lucas King James Walkiewicz

2015

Katie Appleby Will Jackson

2016

Katie Appleby Will Jackson Lucas King

2017

Reed Cupeiro Krista Robertson Kylee Neniska

2018

Reed Cupeiro Myles King Krista Robertson

2019

Reed Cupeiro Myles King Krista Robertson

2020

Abbi Friesen Brie McCardle Jordan Amatuzio

2021

Seanna Cyncora Abbi Friesen Brie McCardle Quinn Miller

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association

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GREEN ENERGY

Combating the climate crisis and saving on our energy bills—a win-win! ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY SHARON GURNEY If any of us wondered whether our generation would see the impacts of climate warming, we now have our answer. Around the world, extreme climate conditions have resulted in unprecedented fires, floods, droughts, and tropical storms during the past several months. Here in northwestern Ontario, we have witnessed significant water level fluctuations and extremes in temperature and precipitation leading to both forest fires and damage from intense rainfall events. Many people feel helpless in the face of these global climate challenges, but collectively we can choose actions that will help us both prepare and mitigate climate change impacts. We can all make choices to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions through actions, consumer choices, and taking advantage of grant and rebate programs in Manitoba and Ontario. Canada has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 40 to 45 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030, and net zero by 2050. We have a collective responsibility to make wise choices to help move towards this critical target.

What qualifies as green energy? Green energy is any energy type that is generated from natural renewable sources and doesn’t contribute to climate change by releasing significant amounts of GHG into the atmosphere. The six most common forms of green energy are: 1. Solar Power

4. Geothermal Energy

2. Wind Power

5. Biomass

3. Hydropower

6. Biofuel

Canadians are one of the top per-capita energy consumers in the world! By choosing green energy sources and becoming more energy-efficient, we can reduce our carbon footprint, and save money too.

Renewable energy options Most of us are on the grid and rely on Hydro One or Manitoba Hydro to supply our in-home energy sources. More than 98 per cent of electricity generated in Manitoba comes from clean and renewable sources such as hydroelectricity and wind. Many would argue that hydroelectric development is not without its environmental consequences, including impacts on communities living near these operations. In Ontario, about 96 per cent of electricity is produced from zero-carbon emitting sources: 60 per cent from nuclear, 26 per cent from hydroelectricity, 7 per cent from wind, and 2 per cent from solar. While nuclear energy is generally thought of as non-renewable, there is much debate on whether it should be considered a green energy source as it emits very low CO2 emissions, but can it be called green given concerns about the potential environmental impact of radioactive waste disposal? Some cottagers may be using propane or oil for interior heating purposes. Both of these non-renewable energy sources contribute greenhouse gas emissions, with propane being cleaner than oil. If we want to supplement our home energy demands to potentially reduce energy costs, the following are some options and issues to consider.

Title photo: Cottagers choosing off the grid options are optimizing the cottage experience while minimizing their carbon footprint.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association Environment

We can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by choosing other ways to explore the lakes.

decomposing trees do give off carbon dioxide, and so does burning firewood. Burning that wood for heat speeds up the decomposition process, but it's carbon neutral, assuming that the forests that the wood is taken from are managed sustainably. SOLAR We have all likely noticed the increased use of solar panels as an alternative or supplemental energy source. Natural Resources Canada (NRC) reports that about half of Canada’s residential electricity requirements could be met by installing solar panels on the roofs of residential buildings. Canada’s use of solar energy has increased in recent years, although it remains relatively small in terms of market penetration. Some people decide to supply energy needs off the grid and use solar panels and batteries to supply that energy. Others have chosen to supplement energy costs by feeding their solar energy generation back into the hydro grid, reducing their energy costs and their carbon footprint. Both Manitoba Hydro and Hydro One have programs you can explore:

Green/renewable home and cottage heating options:

• Manitoba Hydro: hydro.mb.ca/your_home/ grid_connected_solar_pv_systems/

WOOD HEAT Many of us use wood to supplement our heating needs. Although there continues to be some debate on wood’s carbon footprint and viability as a responsible energy source, University of Minnesota professor emeritus Jim Bowyer, an expert calculating energy emissions, explains that wood—unlike oil, coal and natural gas—is not considered a fossil fuel. However,

• Hydro One: hydroone.com/business-services/generators/ net-metering GEOTHERMAL ENERGY Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source that is still largely untapped, especially in residential settings. There are various types of residential geothermal systems, but they are generally considered an expensive heating alternative, with a long payback period.

Saving on home/cottage energy consumption and reducing GHG emissions No matter what energy source you are using to power your energy needs at home or the cottage, there are practical ways we can reduce our energy consumption to reduce our footprint. • Smart thermostats at the cottage can keep temperatures at a minimum while the cottager is away and can be turned up before arriving back to the cottage. There is also peace of mind to check the interior temperature when you’re away! • For Ontario property owners who have smart hydro meters, you can make choices to reduce energy use during peak hours and run appliances such as dishwashers and laundry machines during the lower energy demand periods. Did you know that choosing the cold-water setting on your washer can reduce electricity up to 90 percent? Choosing laundry drying racks and air-drying dishes in the dishwasher can significantly cut energy use.

Environment Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

Integrating traditional knowledge

• Installing LED lights can go a long way to helping reduce energy use, as they are 75–90 per cent more efficient than an incandescent bulb.

Indigenous peoples have maintained a strong connection

• Don’t forget to unplug electronics when you’re not using them.

with the environment; a connection important to their

• Caulking and weather-stripping around doors and windows can help keep heat in and reduce your energy use.

physical, social, economic, cultural and spiritual ways of

• Instead of running that energy consuming air conditioner, keep the heat out and make use of ceiling fans and that natural breeze to keep you cool. Remember to change the blade direction to match the season.

are being formed to integrate traditional knowledge and

life. There are many examples of excellent partnership that western science to address climate change challenges. In Manitoba, the Collaborative Leadership Initiative

• When it is time to upgrade those ancient hand-me-down cottage appliances, consider buying high efficiency ENERGY STAR rated ones.

(yourcier.org/cli/cli-projects) has provided an opportunity for Indigenous and municipal decision makers

Grants and rebates

to get important work done, including environmental stewardship in the lens of a changing climate. Many

Funding programs can change regularly, but at the time of writing this article, the following grant and rebate programs were available for energy efficiency retrofits:

Indigenous communities across Canada are engaged in climate change initiatives. Some of these programs are

• Natural Resources Canada Greener Homes Grant. You can check out this federal program to see if you qualify for a grant to install renewable energy. Save up to $600 for a home evaluation and expert advice, and up to $5,000 to help make energy efficiency retrofits.

outlines on the Indigenous Climate Hub website at indigenousclimatehub.ca/community-adaptation-projects.

• Efficiency Manitoba Rebates. Save $400 in rebates when you purchase eligible ENERGY STAR certified appliances and a smart thermostat for your home. This rebate offer ends March 31, 2022. Ash Emerald are s r e r Bo ! a threat

Reducing our carbon footprint by reducing gas and oil consumption in the outdoors

a’s trees. Protect Manitob

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Many of our familiar gas operated tools and implements, such as lawnmowers and chainsaws are now available OREST IN FF as rechargeable battery-operated O alternatives. We can also reduce our greenhouse gas emitting footprint, by considering fuel consumption when purchasing new watercraft.

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Invasive species threaten Manitoba’s trees. The emerald ash borer and other insects live in firewood. When firewood is moved between locations, so are the insects.

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We all burn a lot of gas getting to and from the cottage. Choosing to purchase a hybrid and full electric vehicles would go a long way to reducing your carbon footprint. As an incentive, the Federal government REST FOpurchase offers rebates up to $5,000 forFthe IN O of a zero-emission vehicle. an ’T

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Calling all birders for the third Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas BY DANIELLE GOUGH & DEVIN TURNER, VOLUNTEER REGIONAL COORDINATORS, ONTARIO BREEDING BIRD ATLAS The third Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas (aka Atlas-3) is now into its second year and will run until the end of 2025. It’s a volunteerbased project aiming to map the distribution and abundance of all 300 or so species that nest in the province. The project covers all of Ontario, from Middle Island in Lake Erie north to Hudson Bay. Data collection for the two previous projects ran from 1981-1985 for Atlas-1, and 2001-2005 for Atlas-2, with the subsequent books published in 1987 and 2007, respectively. The Atlas improves our understanding of the status, distribution and abundance of the province’s birds, and how they have changed over time. It also provides a huge database for bird conservation purposes. The Atlas is managed by a partnership of Birds Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service (Environment and Climate Change Canada), Ontario Field Ornithologists, Ontario Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry, and Ontario Nature. Volunteer Regional Coordinators oversee Atlas coverage across 47 regions. The Lake of the Woods area falls within Region 39. Data are collected on the basis of 10x10 km squares by participants, referred to as “atlassers”, who try to find as many breeding species as possible. There are about 2,000 squares south of Sault Ste. Marie and Temagami, and the goal is to cover them all; and roughly 8,000 more squares north of there, where the Atlas samples A newly hatched spotted sandpiper in nest selected squares right found in the Lake of the Woods area. Photo: up to the Hudson Bay Christopher Martin. coast. This massive effort is only achievable through the widespread participation of the province’s birders— and is a great example of what the birding community can accomplish when it works together with a single purpose. Ontario birders put in 150,000 hours of fieldwork during Atlas-2. Although anyone with an interest in birds can participate in the Atlas, higher levels of birding skills improve efficiency and open up other opportunities for atlassing. The Atlas encourages everyone to sharpen their birding skills, and recommended learning resources are available on the Atlas website birdsontario.org Fieldwork is done mostly from late-May to early-July, when most species are breeding. Data are collected using a special phone app or through the project website (birdscanada.org/ naturecounts/onatlas/main.jsp). The bulk of the data comes

in on checklists showing the number of individuals of each species and the breeding evidence for each using standard breeding evidence criteria, such as birds “singing in suitable nesting habitat” or “nest-building”. A “track” is provided with each checklist, mapping exactly where the data were collected. Associating the bird data with the “track” provides valuable information about the relationships between birds and the habitat in the landscape. Those who know their bird songs can do 5-minute “Point Counts”, which provide an index of the abundance of each species in a square. Point count data are used to map the relative abundance of each species across the province. Comparing the relative abundance maps from Atlas-3 with those from Atlas-2 is one of the main goals of the project—and will provide the best assessment of how and where bird populations are changing. Researchers can use the data to investigate how climate change, habitat change, and other factors are influencing bird distributions and abundance. Atlas-3 is off to a good start, despite COVID-19 restrictions. All of the priority squares in the Lake of the Woods/ Kenora area have been assigned but there are still opportunities to sign up for non-priority squares in the area as well as priority squares in other parts of Region 39. Here is the link if you A spruce grouse with two chicks nestled under wish to look over the her feathers seen in the Lake of the Woods area. coverage map for Region Photo: Christopher Martin. 39 to see which squares are still available: birdscanada.org/naturecounts/onatlas/atlaseffortmap.jsp. Maybe you have a cottage or vacation spot that you visit between May and July. We encourage all birders to submit sightings on the free NatureCounts app or through the Atlas website. Atlas-2 (2001-2005) was enriched by the participation of 14 Indigenous communities and organizations. A goal of Atlas-3 is to expand on that number and increase the level of engagement with Indigenous communities. Everyone interested in the province’s birds is invited to participate in the Atlas. You can register at: birdscanada.org/birdmon/onatlas/register.jsp and contact us at kenora@birdsontario.org if you are interested in being assigned a square in Region 39.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association Environment

IISD Experimental Lakes Area continues new and exciting ways of monitoring what is happening in our lakes BY SUMEEP BATH, EDITORIAL AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, IISD EXPERIMENTAL LAKES AREA Over the last two years, we have seen how critically important trustworthy and transparent evidence is for making decisions that affect our health and our communities—not just for politicians and public officials but for our entire society.

Tracking DNA in the environment

What does that mean when it comes to protecting our fresh water? Well, it seems like in Canada, we are still lagging.

It can exist either as “free-floating” DNA molecules or DNA that is still inside an animal or plant cell. Either way, it is DNA that is present in the environment but no longer belongs to the organism from which it originated.

In 2015, World Wildlife Fund Canada found many

Environmental DNA, or eDNA, is DNA that has been released into the environment from an organism.

data deficient that scientists could not reasonably

eDNA is usually created when an organism dies and starts to break down, or when a living organism sheds skin or secretes waste products into its surrounding environment.

estimate their overall health, let alone understand

You can think of eDNA as forensic ecology for animals and plants.

positive or negative trends or go on to make sound policy decisions.

It is an innovative way of tracking where a species has been, and which species can be found in a given environment or ecosystem, on land or in water.

The crisis, and the resulting limitations on movement, has also taught us that we need to innovate and evolve when it comes to doing what we have always done. Tracking the health of our fresh water is no exception.

This means that eDNA is very useful for monitoring species and populations. Sampling and analyzing eDNA has the potential to be quicker and less labour-intensive than catching examples of species for analysis.

That’s why at IISD Experimental Lakes Area—the world’s freshwater laboratory—here in northwestern Ontario, we have been busy championing new and exciting ways of monitoring what is happening in our lakes.

eDNA sampling also facilitates the monitoring of rare species, and those that are, by their nature or behaviour, difficult to catch—such as grass carp or nocturnal animals such as bats.

of our country’s rivers and waterways were so

Following are just a couple of examples.

This means we can quickly make decisions about policy. For example, a lake in Manitoba, Canada was recently closed after traces of zebra mussels’ eDNA were found despite no actual zebra mussels being spotted. Even though eDNA is yet to reach maximum efficiency, there is still so much potential for it to allow scientists to take more samples and cover a wider area, ultimately producing more substantial datasets. Here at IISD-ELA, we have been exploring the accuracy and reliability of using eDNA to monitor species in our lakes—and comparing their findings to our data gathered by tracking species for decades in the same lakes—for a few years and the initial results look promising! Visit iisd.org/ela to learn more.

Two researchers get ready to go and test for eDNA on one of our research lakes.

Environment Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

We recently installed a platform on Lake 227 at IISD-ELA to frequently collect data that will be sent directly back to researchers in Winnipeg through the Cloud every hour. Through the platform’s sensors, we can remotely monitor the changes in temperature and chlorophyll-a and phycocyanin content from our home offices!

Looks like the platform is ready to be deployed on Lake 227!

How we can collect data from the field while working from home

This chart is just one example of us monitoring the health of our lake from the comfort of our homes, thanks to new technology.

In the spirit of making our monitoring more adaptive, we are adopting new technology practices to collect information about these lakes when we cannot be on site. Limited access is not something unique to this year nor to IISD-ELA but is a regular challenge for any remote body of water.

To learn more about how IISD Experimental Lakes Area is innovating how we understand our environment, visit iisd.org/ela. an

No matter the challenge, we still need to know what is happening in the water to make informed decisions about how we manage our lakes.

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Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association Environment

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L A K E O F T H E W O O D S WAT E R S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y F O U N D AT I O N

The Lake Partner Program— Citizen Monitoring with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks BY BEV CLARK FOR LAKE OF THE WOODS WATER SUSTAINABILITY FOUNDATION The Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) Lake Partner Program (LPP) is a water chemistry sampling program run by the Dorset Environmental Science Centre that uses volunteers to collect samples for analysis. The primary focus of the program is to collect total phosphorus (TP) data for lakes throughout Ontario, although the program does collect data for a few other chemical parameters on a rotational basis. This is an extremely important program that helps describe key water quality issues in Lake of the Woods (LoW). Figure 1 shows LPP sample locations in the north portion of Lake of the Woods. There are fewer sample locations in more southern areas

of the lake, but coverage is generally very good. There are 135 sample locations in LoW. The entire list of sample locations can be viewed on the LPP website interactive map where the data for each site are available: ontario.ca/page/map-lake-partner

Why total phosphorus? Total phosphorus is the element that controls the growth of algae in most Ontario lakes. More phosphorus means more algae. Lakes with low concentrations of phosphorus (<10-15 µg/L) are referred to as oligotrophic lakes—think Lake Trout. Mesotrophic lakes (10-20 µg/L) are in the middle and are not generally susceptible to nuisance algal blooms. Eutrophic lakes which are above 20-30 µg/L will be subject to algal blooms. Lake of the Woods has areas in all three categories.

What can LPP data be used for?

Figure 1- Lake Partner Program sample locations (red balloons) in the north portion of Lake of the Woods.

Recent nutrient studies that are focused on improving water quality, especially in the south end of the lake, are trying to establish TP reductions (primarily from the Rainy River) that will improve the frequency and intensity of algal blooms in the south portions of the lake. These programs include Minnesota’s Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) study and Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Watershed Nutrient Modeling Study. LPP data can be used to assess the efficacy of these nutrient

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Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association Environment

reductions, although it is important to note that there are no LPP sample locations in the U.S. portion of the lake which is where the Minnesota TMDL phosphorus reduction targets are focused. Lake of the Woods has a wide range in TP concentrations. This means, 1. A large number of sample locations are required to characterize the water quality, and 2. The water quality in any given location also has a seasonal range in TP concentrations. Describing this requires monthly samples. The LPP does both. Figure 2 shows an excellent data set collected near Coney Island by LPP volunteers. This chart shows the trend through time for TP at this location and it indicates that there have not been substantial changes in recent years. If we convert the date to Julian Date (day of the year) for the Coney Island dataset we can see the seasonal variation in the TP concentrations takes the shape of a “smile” (Figure 3) with TP concentrations higher in the spring and fall. This is important to know because algal blooms usually occur in the fall when TP is highest and the water is still warm. Figure 2 – Long-term TP record at Coney Island - LPP data

Environment Lake of the Woods Area News

Figure 3 - Seasonal TP data for Coney Island. Seventeen years of data plotted as Julian Day.

Volunteer engagement It is important to maintain these long-term records. Often there are gaps in the record when volunteers stop collecting samples, which can go unnoticed for a long period. Additionally, it is difficult for the program coordinator to keep track of hundreds of sample locations, so the best way to ensure continuous records is to examine the data each year for areas near you and make sure that the data are continuing to be collected. If not, new volunteers should be engaged to go forward with the sampling. This can be arranged by contacting the LPP program office. People interested in seeing how LPP data is used to further watershed science throughout the Rainy-Lake of the Woods basin should consider attending the Watershed Forum that is held each year in March (now virtual). Details are available on the LOWWSF website at lowwsf.com/watershed-forum Lake Partner data are also used to a great extent in the State of the Basin Reports. The 3rd Edition of this report will be available in March 2022 at lowwsf.com/sobr an

Early Spring 2022

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L A K E O F T H E W O O D S WAT E R S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y F O U N D AT I O N

Heartfelt thank you to a true Lake of the Woods ambassador, Art McKenzie Put a plan in place. Ensure there's enough science and management expertise. Coordinate actions bi-nationally. That’s our mission. BY TODD SELLERS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR A huge thank you to Art McKenzie for his decades of volunteer service to Lake of the Woods, as a founding Director and Treasurer of the Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation, and before then, a long time Director and President of the Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association. Last fall, LOWWSF Directors met with Art to thank him in person—a ceremony delayed by COVID restrictions since Art’s retirement from the Foundation Board in June 2020. Tony Stephens, President of the Foundation, presented Art with a retirement gift honouring his contribution to our international lake and its watershed—a wood-cut map of the entire Lake of the Woods watershed.

(IJC) mandate for Lake of the Woods. Seminal to this was hosting the first water quality fact-finding tour with the IJC in 2004, with the assistance of the Rt. Honourable John Turner. This ultimately led to the establishment of the Foundation and the elevation internationally of concerns related to nutrients and algae blooms on Lake of the Woods. Art’s enthusiasm for Lake of the Woods and protecting its waters goes back many years. He was inspired to get involved by the passion of former LOWDSA Directors Jack McKenzie and Steve Steigerwald, and former Executive Director Gerry Wilson. Art and his family were Lake of the Woods cottagers for many years, first on Big Stone Bay. In 1994, they moved to Whitefish Bay and started a six-year build of what became their permanent home in 2001, when Art sold his Winnipeg business, Randall Plumbing and Heating Ltd. and retired to the lake.

Art McKenzie, at left, receives a wood cut map of Lake of the Woods as a retirement gift, presented by Tony Stevens, LOWWSF President.

Prior to his roles at the Foundation, Art served as a Director of the Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association for over a decade and was President from May 2003 to May 2005. As President, Art was instrumental to activities that set the stage for the formation of the Foundation and securing an International Joint Commission

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Early Spring 2022

Art says he’s proud of LOWWSF’s achievements, noting that the annual International Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Forum and the State of the Basin Reports were catalysts to international collaboration and the milestone achievement of getting a mandate established for the IJC from governments and its International Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Board established. He’s also proud and grateful for all the people who care about our lake and supported the Foundation and its efforts over the years. From all of us at LOWWSF, a giant “thank you” to Art and best wishes for life in retirement at the lake!

Watershed Forum Report All eyes were on Lake of the Woods and its watershed, March 9 to 10 at the International Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Forum. Twenty-five studies were featured during the two-day symposium, with themes of Water Governance, State of the Basin, Nutrients & Algae, and Emerging Issues and Technologies. Highlights included:

The Foundation leads a partnership to organize the Forum each year. Thank you goes out to our partners who helped make the 2022 Forum a success: • International Joint Commission

• A keynote on “Legal personhood, Indigenous and international governance, and relation to water”, with Indigenous scholar and lawyer, Professor Aimée Craft.

• Grand Council Treaty #3

• Discussion of key findings of the Rainy-Lake of the Woods State of the Basin Report that was released at the Forum.

• Voyageurs National Park

• A presentation by Scott Higgins, IISD-Experimental Lakes Area, showing that the duration of ice-cover on our lakes is getting shorter by about 4 days per decade.

• Consulate General of Canada - Minneapolis, Global Affairs Canada

• “Sediment fingerprinting” to trace phosphorus in Lake of the Woods back upstream to its origins, to help target restoration efforts. • Research into phosphorus loads to Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River from tributaries in the Canadian portion of the watershed. • Study of the effects of microplastics on fish physiology.

• St. Cloud State University • Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

• Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association • Rainy Lake Property Owners Association • Environment and Climate Change Canada • Dorset Environmental Science Centre • Rainy River Community College • Rainy Lake Conservancy • Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation

Numerous other studies were presented, which can be viewed at: lowwsf.com/watershed-forum.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association Environment

MEMBER RECIPE

Quick morning banana bread (or muffins) BY SHELLEY BUJOLD, KENORA I love the smell of banana bread baking. It fills the house with an aroma that slowly takes over every nook and cranny of a place. It creates a kind of anticipation that makes it hard to think of anything else. It feels warm to all of my senses and I’m sure it has something to do with my mother, as it was one of my favourites as a child (chocolate chip cookies come in a close second, but this article is not about those delicious gems). This is my super not-so-secret, low-key, yet packed with flavour, banana bread. It quiets the never-ending snack requests that seem to fuel my four-year-old. Another benefit is that, since it’s all in one bowl, the dish clean-up factor is minimal. This recipe fits well for those busy ‘last day at the cottage' morning breakfast needs when you know you don’t have much time, but you do have things to use up before leaving. Also, if you’re not a fancy cook or baker, this is an easy, no fail way to impress your friends! I’ve made it probably a hundred times using different things I have on hand, and it always works. If all you have left is strawberry yogurt, use that instead of sour cream, or nuts instead of chocolate chips. Or make them plain. The dough is very forgiving. You can make it as a traditional loaf, but feel free to make muffins. It takes less time than a loaf and everyone gets their own. I like to finish with a sprinkle of brown sugar on top or ‘magic,’ as my kid says. However you choose to make them, enjoy and share this treat with family and friends. Or eat the whole thing and pretend you don’t know why the house smells so good when others ask about it. I won’t judge.

One Bowl Banana Bread Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time 50-60 minutes (or 22-25 minutes for muffins) Makes one loaf or 12 large muffins INGREDIENTS 3 ripe bananas 1/2 cup butter, melted (or margarine) 1/2 cup sour cream or yogurt 2 eggs 1 cup granulated sugar 1 tsp vanilla

1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt 11/2 cups flour, all-purpose or your preferred trusted combination of other flours 1/2 cup chocolate chips (can skip if you’re not interested)

Additions/substitutes: Add 1/4 cup walnuts, sub 1/4 cup apple sauce for a missing banana, any type of yogurt will work to substitute the sour cream Brown sugar to sprinkle, if desired DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare loaf pan with cooking spray or grease the sides with butter. 2. In a large bowl, mash the bananas first until they’re smooth. Add melted butter, sour cream and mix well. Stir in eggs, sugar and vanilla. 3. Add baking soda, salt and flour until combined, don’t over mix. Add chocolate chips and nuts, if using. 4. Pour batter into the prepared pan. For a little crunch on top, sprinkle with brown sugar—2-3 tablespoons or to your desired amount. Bake for 60-70 minutes for loaf or about 22-25 minutes for muffins, until a toothpick comes out clean. The loaf is dark when it comes out of the oven (in case you were concerned about it). 5. Enjoy!

All-in-one-bowl batter is less messy and tasty too!

Living Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

T R E A D I N G W I S E LY

Cleaning even greener BY ROSEMARY ROBERTSON

Camp opening is coming soon to a cottage near you! You have planned your start-up jobs during winter with anticipation, including clean-ups you may or may not expect due to winter visitors with four legs or unexpected leaks. Packing supplies for green cleaning once you have done your outside chores will make the job easier. In the 1990s, when green cleaning became trendy, there were products aplenty to make us think we were doing the right thing. Unfortunately, not many of the commercial products worked well. The ECOLOGO certification process that began in 1988 was lax. I remember trying valiantly to use a green furniture stripper product and a whole lot of elbow grease to no avail. It was wellintentioned, but our early attempts to go green often failed.

My adult children tease me about the degrees of cleanliness. They often say, “There’s clean and then there’s Rosey clean.” You can imagine what kind of a COVID cleaning monster I have become. Canada.ca has clear guidelines on cleaning and disinfecting plus an extensive chart listing approved disinfectants. For COVID, there is a layering approach (clean then disinfect) used if someone is ill. It has made green cleaning challenging. The easiest answer is the recommended “reach for the bleach,” though we know how damaging bleach is to the environment and our health. Fortunately, there are approved botanical disinfectants using thymol that are less harmful. It takes a little persistence to heed expert advice and research products carefully. Choose products with a DIN#.

Speaking of research, have you been greenwashed? I didn’t even realize I was a victim until my daughter pointed it out to me. You can check out which green companies are dubious by looking online. I Part of the solution was under our noses. have used household solutions for cleaning Why didn’t I just use a heat gun on that old for years. I admit I have not handmade Even though this method of stripping furniture table? Why did I spend too many dollars laundry detergent, dish detergent or clean uses electricity, it is still a greener choice than on a new product that had low efficacy dishwasher tabs. I have chosen to buy toxic stripper. The removed paint was swept up and instead of a natural product I already “green” products, looking at ingredients to disposed of properly. had in my cupboard? Now we have more attempt to rule out those that are harmful knowledge about what to choose and why. For example, you like ammonia, chlorine, phthalates and nonoxynols. wouldn’t want to clean up mouse remains and droppings with Simply, if you can’t pronounce it, don’t use it. Don’t trust just castile soap. Sometimes we need to purchase cleaners, albeit companies that claim to be green but spend more time and money sustainable ones. marketing themselves than minimizing their environmental

Title photo: This summer the Robertson laundry will be washed in home-made detergent: 2 cups of washing soda, 5 ounces of grated castile soap. Use 2 tbsp for a big load like this.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association Living

impact. Have you ever tried to compost a compostable bag? You can count on pulling it off the tines of your pitchfork when digging your compost into the garden. Steer clear of fluffy language on the product container like eco-friendly, suggestive pictures, and gobbly-gook that only scientists can understand.

“Being green is more than just buying ‘eco’. It is an unshakeable commitment to a sustainable lifestyle.” —Jennifer Nini UV light cleaning wands are recent suggested innovations. There has not been enough evidence to confirm that UV light devices are safe for people or that they are effective in killing viruses according to canada.ca. Nor have they been evaluated against the requirements of the Pest Control Products Act. They are not guaranteed to kill wildlife diseases. I am resolving to up my natural cleaning game. What should be in our caches of green goodies? Your supply box might have gloves that are nitrile, the closest to biodegradable as you can get in protective gloves. Add to that our new-found friends, N95 Masks, best if you are cleaning up deer mice droppings which may contain Hantavirus. A selected disinfectant is in the box. How about a brand-new corn broom as a clever natural choice along with a cleaned dustpan? Adding

reusable sponges, recycled rags, and empty bottles to fill with cottage-made solutions is clever. Recipes abound online for scouring powder, shower spray, all purpose, dust and polish, and stainless-steel cleaners. A thorough site is learn.eartheasy.com. Include whatever components you may need; baking soda, vinegar, isopropyl alcohol (save the vodka for drinking), castile soap, essential oils, lemon juice and more. If you buy products, endeavour to choose those with ECOLOGO certification. Dig out that steamer you bought for the dresses for that fabulous lake wedding you hosted to use on your tile, grout and countertops. A steam mop is a great choice for floors. Steam is an effective germ killer and cleaner, with a caveat. There is no proof that home steam cleaners kill coronavirus. Throw open your windows. Fresh air is best. an

Top tips for cleaning green • Ditch the bleach, unless fighting COVID or other diseases • Avoid greenwashing companies • Be ECOLOGO aware, ul.com/resources/ ecologo-certification-program • Make your own cleaning products • Use steam and fresh air to clean

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Living Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

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True confessions of a windowsill gardener BY ANITA & HENRY RASMUSSEN People who grow vegetables come in all shapes, sizes, personalities and abilities. There are cautious types who rely on the tried-and-true methods that worked for them in the past, careful when venturing into the unknown. They tend to select similar varieties every year like the seeds grown by their parents and grandparents. In May, some of them will patronize local nurseries looking for a head start to their garden plots and containers. But, unlike many of us who foolishly trusted the elements last spring and put our tender seedlings out too early, these folks follow historical advice and wait until after the tenth of June. With luck, plus some rain and sunshine, they will end up with a satisfying harvest of summer vegetables. Other gardeners are more adventurous. Early spring finds them poring over seed catalogues captivated by fascinating depictions of purple asparagus, gourmet shallots, artichokes, kiwi vines, yellow raspberries, giant pole beans, red lettuce, hybrid cucumbers, white corn, weirdly shaped squashes, rainbow hued-carrots, heirloom tomatoes, and the “world’s hottest” chili peppers. Electing to live dangerously, they add a few exotic choices to their wish list every season with mixed results that will include some amazing finds along with the inevitable disappointment or two. Then there are the individualists, self-professed do-ityourselfers who eschew nursery plantings almost entirely, doggedly starting their seeds indoors. When sunlit days begin to lengthen in February or March, these independent types are busy planting trays of rich potting soil with carefully selected and researched seeds. They know when to cover them, when to remove the coverings and just how much watering is required. They can tell when seedlings need to be hardened and when it is safe to transplant them outdoors. Often descendants of generations of gardeners, they draw on their forebears accumulated experience while bravely trying new things to extend their palette. For these folks, growing one’s food is as natural a part of life as breathing.

All you need for a great spring start is your very own windowsill.

gardening lore. The result was a bumper crop of tomatoes along with the largest smoothest potatoes we have ever grown. A lucky accident? Perhaps. Or maybe the start of something new. Some other good companions are bush beans in among tomato plants and peppers; lettuce between tall corn stalks and in the company of peas; onions with cabbages; spinach and Swiss chard under trellised cucumbers; radishes—anywhere really, especially with cucumbers and squash. Staggering lettuce, green onions and radishes throughout the summer at three-week intervals, literally sticking a seed in any spot sheltered from the hot sun, will reward the adventurous grower with fresh salad greens until freeze-up. The “Three Sisters” combo of squash, beans, and corn is one example of successful combination planting learned from other sources. In spring, Razberry Lane windowsills groan under the usual array of carefully labeled trays, favourites like Tumbler tomatoes destined for hanging pots, Oxhearts and sweet peppers headed for the greenhouse. Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, leek, pepper, cucumber, herbs, celery, and tomato seeds will also do well when started early under grow lights or on a sunny windowsill. Seeds of root vegetables can go directly into the garden as soon as the soil is workable. Maybe not the best idea to plan a holiday this time of year as delicate seedlings require a fair bit of coddling and attention. For instance, if one forgets to water, they will shrivel up and die; when overwatered they can develop mould and have to be discarded and when planted too early, they can become weak and spindly before transplanting time. This may sound like a whole lot of trouble but will pay off in spades later.

Most gardeners, including the ones at Razberry Lane, fall somewhere in between. While taking full advantage of indoor planting, these growers are not averse to seeking out local nursery offerings later in the spring. With luck, they might spot old favourites like Oxheart tomatoes, Lincoln peas, banana peppers or Golden Bantam, one of the first sweet corn varieties ever developed. They are always open to gleaning new gardening hints and methods from books and fellow gardeners.

Last season, a mere dozen seedlings transplanted from the windowsill into a greenhouse went on to produce the most amazing crop of peppers, akin to Jack’s giant Beanstalk of fairy tale lore, some the size of cauliflowers. Though the unusually long stretch of hot summer days in 2021 may have been a factor in this phenomenon, we prefer to chalk it up to one of our bestkept secrets: an eight-foot long, strategically located windowsill with southern exposure, located in the sun porch at our house where seedlings come to life every spring. Anyone can produce magic. All you need is your very own windowsill.

At times, they will defy gardening advice altogether just for the fun of it. Last season, two members of the Nightshade family found room side by side in our own greenhouse, a no-no in

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association Living

C E L E B R AT E E A RT H DAY BY E X P LO R I NG

BY DREW MONKMAN & JACOB RODENBURG One of the greatest gifts you can give a child is a sense of wonder in the natural world. And nothing enhances wonder more than having a basic understanding of evolution. What better way to celebrate Earth Day (April 22) than to explore why we have such a multitude of species on our beautiful planet and how all living creatures are actually part of our extended family. We humans actually share more than half our genetic material with bananas! Although a full understanding of evolution requires knowledge of genetics, children can usually grasp the essential components by about age seven. In a nutshell, evolution can be explained to children like this: 1. All living organisms have two rules to live by: survive and reproduce. However, many fail. 2. Individuals born with a more helpful trait (e.g., a longer beak than average) are more likely to be successful. 3. The trait is passed on when this individual reproduces. 4. Over time, these new traits can become different enough to lead to a new species—one that can only have babies with its own kind. Kids love to ask "why" questions like "Why is the monarch butterfly so colourful?" Thanks to Darwin, we can now expect an evidence-based answer to these questions.

Encourage kids to ask “why” questions. "Why is the monarch butterfly so colourful? Why does it start life as a caterpillar? Thanks to Charles Darwin, we now know that questions like these have real answers—and it is his theory of evolution that provides these answers. Once children get a sense of how evolution works—and eventually link it to themselves as human beings— their eyes light up with amazement. We remember one little girl in grade 4 saying, "You mean humans evolved like animals?"

EFFECTIVE QUESTIONING Asking kids “why” questions about a plant or animal— and encouraging them to do the same—helps clarify the components of evolution. One of the most important is adaptation. Use the language of wonder. “Wow. Look at how long that heron’s beak and legs are! I wonder why? What do you think?” If the child doesn't know the answer, help them come up with a reasonable hypothesis. Model this yourself. Later, follow up with some research together. Remember that it's perfectly fine to say, "I don't know" or "Scientists don't have an answer yet." Here are some fun activities to better understand evolution.

Small changes This activity shows how small changes over time make a big difference. Draw a simple bug on the first sheet of a stack of paper. Then pass the paper on to another person and have them draw the bug as exactly as possible on a second sheet. They should then move the original to the bottom of the stack and pass their copy on to a third person who will do the same. Do this at least six times. Compare the original to the "evolved" bug. Was there much of a difference? All it takes is small changes (in reality, genetic mutations) over generations to create huge change over time. Think of how birds evolved from dinosaurs!

LOWDKIDS Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

Toilet paper timelin

4.5 Y B A

Earth is formed, (square 1)

73. Y B A

Earth’s crust solidifies (square 80)

3.5 Y B A

first life appears in oceans (square 100)

Y B A

photosynthesis begins in oceans (square 125)

9 1. Y B A

first cells with nuclei appear in oceans (square 310)

650 MYA

first multicellular organisms appear (square 385)

50 MYA

first land life appears (square 400 )

250 MYA

massive volcanic eruption kills 96 percent of all life (square 425)

245 MYA

Age of Dinosaurs begins (square 426)

20 MYA

the first mammals appear (square 430)

56 MYA

asteroid impact ends Age of Dinosaurs and kills 70 percent of all life (square 444)

3.25

3.5 MYA 10,

10,

One of the hardest things to grasp for kids and adults alike is the co ncept of evolutiona ry time and numbers like a millio n or a billion. Countin g can be helpful here. Ask a child to begin at on e and count off one number a se cond. At this rate an d without stopping, counting to a million takes ab out 11 days and to a billion req uires 30 years! Here’s a fun way to help children visualiz e the massive amount of time that life on Ea rth has had to evolve. You'll need a roll of toilet pape r of 450 sheets (tear off 50 from a roll of 500), sticky notes, and a long hall or ou tdoor space. Expla in that the Earth is about 4.5 bil lion years old, and that life first emerged about 3.5 billion years ago. Unroll the entire rol l of toilet paper. Ea ch square represents about ten million years. Write down each evolutionary ev ent (see left) on a sti cky note. Attach the sticky no tes to the squares indicated. Alternatively, you co uld simply put an X on the squares and the kid s could place the sti ckers as you walk along the timeli ne. Discuss the huge amount of time involved as you go. Note: BYA = billion years ago; MYA = million years ago

Meet the beast within

first early humans appear in Africa (last square, 3.6 cm from the end)

years ago

first Homo sapiens, our species, appears (square 450, 1 mm from end)

years ago

recorded human history begins (square 450, 0.1 mm from end)

The toilet paper timeline activity gives kids an understanding of the enormous expanse of "evolutionary time".

you

Our bodies still carry reminders of how we used to be millions of years ago. Ask the kids to try the following: 1. Feel their coccyx at the bottom of their ba ckbone. It is the remnant of a lost tail. 2. Using a mirror, loo k at their canine teeth. They were very useful to ea rly humans for tearin g tough flesh. Compare them to those of a dog. 3. Make a big, toothy smile. Smiling is thoug ht to have evolved from "fe ar grinning." Still seen in monkeys and apes, barely clenched teeth is a wa y of showing submission to more dominant group memb ers. 4. Put their arm in co ld water until goosebumps ap pear. These bumps were the body's way to erect the thick fur we once had. This made us look larger and sc arier. A big toothy "fear grin " signalled submission in early hum ans.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDKIDS

Real Estate Listings

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Services Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

Cabin Country Realty

Classifieds

Classified ads are a free service for LOWDSA members.

How to submit Classifieds

Email membership@lowdsa.com or mail LOWDSA, Box 1160, Kenora, ON P9N 3X7

Next submission deadline: April 8, 2022 Please try to keep your listing to 35 words or less.

FOR RENT Rustic log cabin. 2 bedrooms and 3 bed bunk house on boat house in Woodchuck Bay. Beds for 8-10 w/ 1 bathroom and outhouse. Road accessible off Rush Bay Road, large grass, low profile front lot with sand beach and floating dock. Weekly and monthly dates available. 3,500 per week Pls contact lotw.lodge.6@gmail.com. Rustic 1000 square foot cabin on Zigzag Island (Clearwater Bay). 5-minute boat ride from Rockeries Marina. A boat rental could be available. Amazing fishing nearby. Satellite TV, great cellular coverage, bbq, kayaks, fire pit, and much more. Prefer a couple or former cottage owners. Knowledge of a composting toilet is essential. 1300$ per week. 204-688-7347. Lakefront Cottage, near Welcome Channel. South exposure, water access, 5 miles from Kenora by boat. Private dock, hydro, Starlink internet, TV & DVD player, full kitchen w/ dishwasher & 3 pc. bathroom, additional outdoor shower, washer & dryer, BBQ, screened porch, 2 bedrooms. Available Jun – Sep. Seasonal rental $15,000. Contact: lowcottage@ hotmail.com. Quiet Bay Cottage Rental. This boat access property is in a secluded bay on Lake of the Woods approximately 10 minutes from town. 2 bedrooms, suitable for 2 couples or a family of 4-5. No pets or smokers please. Own boat transportation required, boat rentals and taxis available in Kenora. Furnished property includes large decks, sauna, and screen rooms. Contact Karla at karlatreadway@hotmail.com. Lakefront - Clearwater Bay. South exposure; road access; spacious docks for swimming, fishing & boating. Large great room, kitchen & dining areas with spectacular lake view. 3 bedrooms; master with ensuite. Full second bathroom— shower & bath. Den with fireplace, satellite TV & pullout sofa. Dishwasher, microwave, washer & dryer. Large deck & BBQ. Minutes from the liquor store, gas & groceries. 1-2 week stays, June-Sept $4000/w. Contact dougpeever1955@ gmail.com for booking details. Lakefront property on Coney Island, LOW. Walking distance to Coney Island Beach and 5 min. boat ride from Kenora. Rustic 2 bdrm. cottage plus guest house. Dock, multi-level decks, fire pit, & beach. Full service hydro & water. June – Sept. $1,250/week, 1-week min. Discounts for multiple weeks. 310coney@gmail.com. LOW Storm Bay Rd 9. Large house with 9 bdrms, hot tub, multi level decks, granite kitchen, boathouse, sauna, WiFi, fireplace, washer & dryer, dishwasher. Kayak & boat are a possibility. $2500$7000 weekly. Discounts available in the fall. mail@markmcgregor.ch

Island rental Storm Bay Rd. near the rollers. 2 log homes, new mattresses, 1 king, 1 king, a double and a single. 2 kayaks & a boat can be included. $200-$375 per night. kaitlyn.mcgregor@gmail.com Private Cottage in Bulman Bay, LOTW. Minutes from the Yacht Club. Near Keewatin, 10 minutes down McKenzie Portage Road. Lakefront with a large dock and great swimming. 4 bdrm, full bath with washer & dryer, good size kitchen with dishwasher, wood-burning fireplace & satellite TV. Screened porch, large deck, and fire pit. Lots of parking. Recently renovated. Available January through December. Minimum 2-week stay. $3080/wk. Email inquiries to hklapman@mwgapparel.com Brule Point lakefront 3 bdrm cabin, LOW. Fantastic fishing area, quiet bay, two docking facilities with plug, private beach, fully stocked including freezer, large deck. Cabin sleeps 5, single bathroom/shower. Boat access only. 2022 rate $1330/week. Contact donna@taketwoinc.com Exceptional location on Coney Island. Minutes from Kenora / Keewatin with western exposure. Newer, open concept cottage with 4 large bdrms and three bathrooms. Separate master suite with bathroom and private deck. Amenities include a full kitchen with all appliances, dishwasher, microwave, washer/ dryer, large island, separate dining area, wood burning fireplace and satellite TV. Screened porch with large wrap around decks overlook the lake, outdoor shower and built-in gas barbecue. Waters edge has a large main dock with two floaters that provide deep water docking and great swimming. Minimum 2 week stay. Email inquiries to bill.ralph@shaw.ca Lakefront on Trout Lake. 20km north of Kenora. 2 or 3 bdrm cabin available for rent weekends or weekly May-June. Full kitchen & bathrm, TV/DVD, BBQ. Comes with canoe, kayaks & 12 ft. alum. boat. Deck off front of cabin; private deck at water’s edge; your own sand beach. Spring fed lake with crystal clear water. troutlake596@gmail.com Lakefront Cottage on Lake of the Woods, near Kenora, road access. Includes 3 bedrooms, full kitchen, bath and laundry. 2 acres, private bay, sandy beach, floating dock and good fishing! Available June, July, August. $5,000/month. Text 204-951-5812.

LAND FOR SALE Private sale. 2 new road access lakefront lots on lake of the woods - Pine Portage Bay area, access via Storm Bay Road. Each lot has 200 feet of frontage, 2.6 acres and 2.42 acres, west exposure, heavily treed, very private gated-road access, hydro and telephone, unrestricted deeded access, legal title to each lot. Contact e-mail: peterzaj@mymts.net.

All classified ads are posted online at lowdsa.com. Note that they are posted within a couple days of submission and not subject to magazine deadlines. REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Minaki Island Retreat. 4 BR, large wrap around screen porch, BBQ deck, upper deck off upstairs BR. Boathouse with spacious deck & swimming dock. S. half (1.12 acres) of island property, S, E, W exposures. Wood burning stove/glass front, baseboard heat, shower, hydro, phone, sat. TV, washer/dryer, composting toilet. 1975 sq. ft. 2 levels. Furnished, move in ready. 7 mins to Minaki marinas. Txt/call 651-200-2217, 651-274-7278. Andrew Bay, Pipestone Point, LOTW. 255 ft. frontage, 277 ft deep on west side, 319 ft deep on east side and 104 ft across the rear. Lot nine. Sheltered Bay, well treed, gradual drop off. 20 minutes by boat from Kenora. Asking $175,000. migizi. bonnie@gmail.com Golf Course Bay, Lake of the Woods. For sale by original owner, 3200 sq. ft. 2 story air conditioned home, 2.5 stall garage with heated workshop, on 2 lots with sand beach, dock, covered boat lift, municipal water & sewer, natural gas heat, paved driveway, many other features. Phone (807) 468-8770.

WANT TO HIRE Summer Student to do property maintenance at cottage property. On Storm Bay Road May-Aug 2022, position runs 16 weeks at 40h per week. The wages offered are $25 an hour. Email resume to kevin@mcfaddenbenefits.com Part-Time, General Labourer. For help around the cottage and land, possibly 3 days a week. Location: Northern Harbour area at the end of Storm Bay Road. Contact E-mail: peterzaj@mymts.net.

FOR SALE: MISC. Z-Dock 15’x18’ floating dock. With integral small boat ramp $5000. 204292-3970. BOAT RAIL SYSTEM, Morson area. Approx. 100 ft. long with carriage for 17’ to 20’ boat (more or less) complete with winch system powered by a solar panel with charging system not including battery. Asking $4750. jaslaw1@shaw.ca.

WANT TO BUY Looking to buy home, cottage or property on Winnipeg River. Thinking of selling? Our family is looking to build or buy a road access home, cabin or property in the $500-$900K range, within 20 min drive to Keewatin/Kenora. Email shayla.e.s@gmail.com.

Building lot. Retired couple looking for building lot on LOW contact Richard at kaletzke@mymts.net. Pre-owned boat trailer. For 17 1/2' Lund aluminum boat with 50 hp tiller motor; prefer 13" tires although not mandatory. Bunk or rollers. Contact 204-782-2808 or email jim.coldwell@mymts.net.

BOATS/MOTORS FOR SALE 1984 Tiara 31’ Lake Cruiser - Live aboard. Low-time Twin 350 Crusader engines, all new interior refresh with XM and loads of equipment. This ex-Great Lakes boat is ready to go. $40000 USD. Contact at 204-292-3970. Lund Outfitter (2003 20ft ) with Mercury 115hp EFI Optimax, dependable and great on fuel. New in 2016 Merc 9.9hp long shaft Pro Kicker EFI, power tilt, elec start; 2 Interstate deep cycle batteries; Humminbird 9" Helix fish locator; bluetooth stereo, ladder & travel cover. New in 2018 all new canvas. On Easyloader trailer. Asking $28,750 OBO. Contact Ted 204-294-4891 or Hawkersidly@gmail.com Antique 1966 Mahogany CENTURY RESORTER. 17’7”. Original Chrysler V8 Marine Fury 210 inboard engine. Original upholstery, windshield, bench seat, cockpit cover. Professionally maintained and serviced. Stored indoors. Comes with trailer. Email rbkat5851@gmail.com or call 807-466-7456. Antique PETERBOROUGH CEDAR STRIP Canoe, complete with floor boards. Perfect 'as-is' as a wall hanger or suitable for an easy restoration. Needs canvas. Located in Clearwater Bay. Email: jmblake74@gmail.com for pictures. Asking $600. 16 ft Albacore sailboat. Complete set of sails including main, jib, spinnaker and sail bag good shape. Custom built trailer included. Mast support for trailering. Asking $2500, call 204-489-6787 or e-mail brugin1@mymts.net 1956 Lyman 19ft. with 100 H.P. Gray Marine inboard. Boathouse/garage kept. Original condition, runs great. Email burchwell@sympatico.ca for pictures or call 807-466-2578. $9,500 or best offer.

MISCELLANEOUS LOVE DOGS? It's A Dog's Life needs foster and forever homes for their rescue dogs. Cottagers can help with short or long term fostering or adopting. Website: adogslife.cc or call 807-467-3647.

Snow Blower or Garden Tractor. Looking to buy a good condition, used, gas powered 30 inch or larger, with Snow-Thrower attachment and or Blade. Contact: peterzaj@mymts.net

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association Services

Home & Cottage Services Cottage & Marine Insurance Specialists Over thirty years of experience

Richard McKenzie, CAIB 204.410.1010 | richard@mckenzie.insure | mckenzie.insure

A family business serving Lake of the Woods cottagers for over 30 years

Bob’s

ElEctric

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING

• new construction/renovations/cottages

Owned/Operated by

• lake Work ready 24/7

rick Brignall

• acP contractor ESa/Ecra #7008852 • call anytime for a FrEE EStiMatE

COMMERCIAL

•

RESIDENTIAL

807.468.5915 rBrignall@yahOO.ca

•

INDUSTRIAL

•

COTTAGE

Security Systems, ULC Monitoring, CCTV, Intrusion, Smoke, Hi/Lo Temp, Flood & Fire • CCTV • Card Access • Electronic Door Controls • Lock Sales, Repairs, Rekeys • Deadbolts • Padlocks • Safe Opening & Repairs • Restricted Key Systems • Keys by Code •

•

PHONE: 807-468-7878 Toll Free: 1-888-893-6488

1221 HWY 17 W., Keewatin info@keystonelock.ca

ADVERTISE IN THE

CONTACT DEB POLAKOFF deb@areanewsmagazine.ca (204) 795-6844

Services Lake of the Woods Area News

Early Spring 2022

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Advertisers’ Directory BUILDING SUPPLIES 40

McMunn & Yates

1666 Highway 17 W, Keewatin

807-547-3366

mcmunnandyates.com

Star Building Materials

16 Speers Road, Winnipeg

204-233-8687

starbuilding.ca/winnipeg

Lake of the Woods District Hospital Foundation 21 Sylvan Street W, Kenora

807-468-9861

COMMUNITY & PHILANTHROPY 31 & 39 20

Government of Manitoba

manitoba.ca/stopthespread lwdhf.com

CONTRACTORS 58

AK & Company

Highway 17 W, Keewatin

807-543-2493

Black Fox Construction

225 Main Street North, Kenora

807-468-5915

blackfoxconstruction.com

Conquest Manufacturing

3077 Road 6 NW, Altona

866-300-0222

conquestbuilt.com

Inside Back

Docks & Lifts

1940 Highway 17 East, Kenora

807-547-4444

docksandlifts.ca

DTL Carpentry

Keewatin

204-979-4055

dtlcarpentry.ca

Oakwood Roofing

Highway 17 East, Kenora

807-467-8824

oakwoodroofing.com

REMR Roofing

2053 Hwy 17 E, Kenora

807-548-2811

remrroofing.com

Revco

950 5th Street West, Fort Frances

807-274-7918

revcocarpet.com

We Level Cabins

Winnipeg

833-253-8351

welevelcabins.ca

Bob's Electric

Kenora

807-468-5915

rbrignall@yahoo.ca

Bowman Electric

Kenora

807-467-1022

bowmanelectric.com

22 & 49 ELECTRICAL

FINANCIAL SERVICES 2

RBC Darcy Zaporzan

3100-201 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg

204-982-2635

dzwmg.com

Richardson Wealth

1 Lombard Place, Winnipeg

204-943-5263

richardsongmp.com

625 Wall Street, Winnipeg

204-957-4940

faveriswoodfurniture.com

HOME & COTTAGE FURNISHINGS 13

Faveris Wood Furniture

HOME & COTTAGE MAINTENANCE 58

Keystone Security

1221 Highway 17 W, Keewatin

807-468-7878

keystonelock.ca

LOW Septic Barge & Bell's Septic

Kenora

807-464-3468

septicbarge.com

Mason Plumbing & Heating

West Hawk Lake

204-349-2672

masonplumbing.ca

Morgan Fuels

Kenora

800-661-3635

morganfuels.ca

Sunset Spray East

Kenora

807-464-3104

sunsetsprayinc.com

United Tree Service

Kenora

807-464-3602

World of Water

712 Lakeview Drive, Kenora

807-468-4338

worldofwateronline.ca

Richard McKenzie Insurance

57-99 Scurfield Boulevard, Winnipeg

204-410-1010

mckenzie.insure

The Standard Insurance

319 Second Street South, Kenora

807-468-3333

thestandardonline.com

Hook Seller Lundin

203-301 First Avenue South, Kenora

807-468-9831

hsllaw.ca

PFK Lawyers

71 Main Street South, Carmen

204-745-2028

pkflawyers.com

INSURANCE

LEGAL

MARINE & RECREATION 29

Rond's Marine

1350 Dugald Road, Winnipeg

204-237-5800

rondsmarine.com

West Hawk Marine

Whiteshell

204-349-2239

westhawkmarine.com

Back Cover

Woodlake Marine

1956 Highway 17 West, Kenora

807-468-2628

woodlakemarine.com

WSL Sport & Leisure

832 Lakeview Drive, Kenora

807-468-5975

wslsport.com

43 REAL ESTATE Inside Front

Cabin Country Realty

138 Main Street South, Kenora

807-468-3541

cabincountry.com

Carmichael Real Estate

625 Lakeview Drive, Kenora

807-467-2323

lakeofthewoods.net

Century 21 Northern Choice Realty Ltd

5-308 2nd Street South

807-468-3747

century21kenora.com

Greg Kirby RE/MAX

Kenora

807-466-8266

gregkirby.ca

Northwoods Realty

5701A Highway 71, Sioux Narrows

807-226-1024

northwoodsrealtyltd.com

Pine Portage Ventures

42 Marrianne Drive, Kenora

807-548-4526

peterzaj@mymts.net

REMAX Northwest Realty

334 Second Street S, Kenora

807-468-0101

remaxnorthwestrealty.com

Shelley Torrie Home & Cottage Realty

721 Beach Road, Kenora

807-547-4020

kenora-realestate.com

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association Services

Matilda Lavergne’s Wedding Brigade BY LORI NELSON

On a fine morning in the spring of 1904, a brigade of five Hudson’s Bay freight canoes made their way from the Dalles along the Winnipeg River to Rat Portage. Seated in one of the canoes was nineteen-year-old Matilda Lavergne, the granddaughter of Chief Lindsay | Kawitaskung. Also in a canoe was her betrothed. This was their wedding day. The wedding on May 5 had come after a year’s deliberation by young Matilda as to whether she would accept the man her grandfather had chosen for her. Matilda Lavergne was born on April 29, 1885, at the Dalles (now Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation). Her father and mother, Benjamin Lavergne and Mary Lindsay, had given her the name “Ogimaamaashiik”, meaning a proud, beautiful bird in flight. Sadly, her mother died when Matilda was only a year old. She was raised by her maternal grandparents, Jane Lindsay and Chief Kawitaskung who had been one of the signatories of Treaty #3.

Young Matilda Lavergne of Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation poses for a photo. Right: Matilda Lavergne wore this beautiful wedding dress on May 5, 1904, for her marriage to John Kipling. Photos courtesy of the Lake of the Woods Museum.

When she was six years old, her grandfather spoke to the Indian Agent about the construction of a school in their community. Matilda said, “I always thought that he built that school for my sake.” It operated from 1891 until 1906. The young man hired to teach at the school was John Kipling, a Métis lay missionary who had studied at St. John’s College in Winnipeg. When Chief Kawitaskung’s granddaughter reached a marriageable age, it was John Kipling that he hoped she would wed, but the choice was left to her. She recalled that once her mind was made up to accept John Kipling, she and her grandmother went to town by canoe with instructions from her grandfather that she was to choose what she wanted from the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) store, and he would pay for it. She recalled, “The minister’s wife had a winecoloured dress and I always thought someday when I got married, I would have that colour.” The material she selected for her wedding dress was a burgundy duvetyne. The HBC dressmaker and designer, Miss Rocan, transformed the yardage of material into a full-length gown. Gold braid and beading adorned the neck, yoke and cuffs, and the sleeves belled out above the cuffs, creating a classic and beautiful wedding dress for the young bride’s special day.

With the groom approved, the dress made and the date set, the brigade of canoes set off. After several hours, the entourage arrived in Rat Portage (now Kenora), and guests made their way to St. Alban’s Anglican Cathedral which was, at the time, situated

Services Lake of the Woods Area News

on First Street North, opposite the Catholic church. The bride went to the home of friends to don her wedding gown. Their wedding vows were exchanged in a Christian ceremony, a request by the bride’s grandmother. Before embarking on the paddle back to her home community, Matilda changed out of her gown, not wanting to spoil it in the canoe. The celebration culminated in a dinner and dance at the community house. A fiddler provided the music for the wedding and announced that “those that just got married have to dance first.” So, Matilda went to the Mission House to change back into her bridal gown for the evening of dancing and festivities. Unfortunately, theirs was a short marriage. In their first year together, John contracted pneumonia and died within a week, leaving Matilda and their young son, John Jr. to return to her grandparent’s home once again. She eventually remarried and had six additional children. She passed away in 1974. Her wedding dress, now in the collection of the Lake of the Woods Museum, is a tangible reminder of that day of great celebration in the spring of 1904 when the future held hope and promise for young Matilda and her groom John. an

Early Spring 2022