LOW Area News - Early Spring 2023

50

Cover photo by Kim Pirie-Milko

President's Message

GARTH COLLIER

As I sit looking out my window, I am dreaming of spring. Regardless of what Mother Nature sends our way, we at LOWDSA are very excited about our spring and summer projects. As explained below, our Annual General Meeting (AGM) format will be different, and we are planning a summer celebration to take place at the Whitecap Pavilion. I have also included information on noise pollution and the effects of wave action on our shorelines. These topics are in response to concerns expressed in letters we received from members. I hope you enjoy reading this issue of the Area News!

Annual General Meeting: Wednesday, April 12, 2023

Our 2023 AGM will once again be held “virtually”. However, the format will be different than previous general meetings. The agenda and content will be limited to the business side of LOWDSA’s activities. This will provide members with an efficient representation of our Association’s activities over the preceding year while also shedding light on our future planning.

In order to achieve a balance between a stronger business focus and the social aspects of past AGMs, we will be inviting members to our June 24 “Celebrate Lake Life” gathering at the Whitecap Pavilion. We will keep you updated as this event comes together (through our various social media platforms.) And as the year progresses, you will be able to access numerous podcasts via our social media, which will also help to offset our new approach to the AGM.

Noise pollution

Over the past little while, we have received correspondence from members who have expressed concerns about increased noise levels on the lakes and also the impact of boat wake and its contribution to shoreline erosion. In regard to increased noise levels, especially coming from motorboats, some jurisdictions have passed legislation stating that noise levels cannot exceed 86 dBA when measured from 50 feet. For example, 86 decibels are equivalent to a hair dryer, a blender, a gas lawn mower or a diesel truck. The resultant noise level is compounded when there are multiple motorized watercrafts cruising in the same area.

It is also a violation if mufflers or muffler systems are modified and result in an increase in noise levels. We will continue to highlight this concern in subsequent issues.

Wave action

It is pretty clear that excessive wave action contributes to shoreline erosion while also damaging critical shoreline habitation. In light of the destruction to our area’s shorelines from last year’s flooding, we need to be extremely cautious with what is happening behind our boats as we hit the lakes this spring. Even though speed limits aren’t posted as they are on our highways, the law allows only 10 kilometres per hour within 30 meters of shore, docks and other structures. This becomes even more problematic when you consider that an optimal minimum speed for a wake board boat starts at around 19 kph or 12 mph. The resultant wake is more than enough to get your dock rocking… and then there’s the level of the music. These topics will receive additional coverage in future issues.

Science North

Science North is coming to Kenora. This exciting initiative will see a 4,000 square foot expansion of the Lake of the Woods Discovery Centre. Its purpose will be to provide hands-on interactive science activities to Kenora area residents and tourists. With funding from the Province of Ontario’s Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), Science North will provide multi-media opportunities for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) based experiences. The committee is also working closely with First Nations peoples from across northwestern Ontario so Indigenous perspectives are represented in the activities and design of the project.

Currently, the committee is considering different design concepts that will both be compatible with the current Discovery Centre and also the area surrounding it. It will be “carbon neutral” using energy-efficient heat pumps and solar panels.

We look forward to our continuing partnership with Science North as we work towards the realization of this amazing project.

Remember to join us at our AGM on April 12 and be sure to mark your calendar for our Lake Life Celebration at the Whitecap Pavilion on June 24.

We look forward to seeing you!

Garth Collier

Executive Director’s Note

ASHLEY HOFFMEISTER

The time has come for my very first contribution to Area News! In case you haven’t caught my introduction on social media, I’m LOWDSA’s new Executive Director. My family and I live out our passion for lake life on Longbow Lake, where we make the most of every season. We enjoy everything this area has to offer, particularly when it comes to raising our children here, which is why environmental sustainability is so important to us.

I’ve truly enjoyed immersing myself in all things LOWDSA over the past few months. There is so much incredible history that comes with this organization, it’s been really interesting learning about how things have evolved over the past 61 years. I’m looking forward to all the opportunities ahead and continuing to grow and contribute to LOWDSA’s legacy. The staff and board have been extremely welcoming, supportive, and patient as I’ve embarked on this journey. The future of the organization is bright, and I will work closely with the board and staff to carry out the mission, vision, and values that have been so carefully created.

Alena Collier has transitioned into the role of Assistant Executive Director. She’s been a very important resource during my onboarding. Her creativity is behind all of our social media posts, and she can also help with any of your membership questions.

We are sadly, saying goodbye to Cassidy Mazur. She’s been an extremely valuable staff member of LOWDSA over the past few years, first starting in the role of (our very first) Environment Program Coordinator Intern and then moving onto being the Manager of Education and Outreach. She’s done some amazing work in our community

inspiring our future generations, which you will get to read all about on page 33 in this issue. We wish her the very best on her next adventures.

As we begin to welcome the warmer months of spring, the winter has treated us kindly with temperatures that have allowed us to optimize our time outside. It’s also been nice to get back to regular activities with little to no interruption from COVID-19. Things are starting to feel normal!

The hiring process for an Environment Program Coordinator and LakeSmart staff is underway. Spring and summer plans have begun with us reaching out to sponsors. We’ve also started program planning and are hopeful that more normal water levels will allow us to resume dock talks and other activities on the water.

We are excited to get back out in the community to reconnect with those we haven’t been able to see for a while and build new relationships that COVID perhaps prevented.

Please feel free to reach out with any program ideas you may have. Don’t forget about our 2023 Seedling Day on May 20. You can purchase seedlings on our website under the news, events & info section. You should have received an email with details about our AGM being held virtually on April 12, 2023, but also see page 11.

As always, we are grateful for your membership, your stories, and your dedication to the Association. We hope you enjoy this issue of Area News. We look forward to seeing you at our AGM.

Ashley Hoffmeister

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

Sumeep Bath

Mona Brown

Alena Collier

Garth Collier

Leanne Fournier

Ashley Hoffmeister

Cassidy Mazur

Drew Monkman

Lori Nelson

Jeff Polakoff

Henry & Anita Rasmussen

Jacob Rodenburg

Dave Schwartz

Todd Sellers

Don Thompson

Stéphane Warnock

Sharon Gurney fell in love with the Lake of the Woods region after buying a cottage on Granite Lake in 1993. Sharon worked for much of her career as a Water Quality Specialist for the Province of Manitoba, and now works part-time as an Environmental Consultant. Sharon served as a Board Member with LOWDSA and played an active role on the Association’s Environment Committee. She currently serves as a Board Member with the Canadian Water Resources Association, and a Board Member with the Canadian Water Resources Association, Dyslexia Champions of Manitoba, and Dyslexia Canada. Sharon spends her leisure time at the cottage, hiking with her dogs, cross country skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, as well as growing, preserving, and cooking food. Sharon and her two children are grateful for the privilege of owning a piece of paradise in Lake of the Woods.

Pat Drew has been enjoying lake life on Wildcat Island, Lake for Woods, for 45 years. She was an active member of LOWDSA's predecessor, the Lake of the Woods District Property Owners’ Association (LOWDPOA) and was the lead for the Association’s commemorative cookbook, Cooking Up Great Food & Good Times at the Lake, published in 2013 (now out of print). She also was the go-to person for the Area News Member Recipes over the past decade.

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

The Lake of the Woods area and LOWDSA’s activities take place in the territory of the Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty #3 and the traditional homelands of the Métis Nation of Ontario. The beautiful lakes, shorelines, and environment that we enjoy should be respected for their cultural significance and history.

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

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

DISTRIBUTION & MEMBERSHIP

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.

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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.

LAKE OF THE WOODS DISTRICT STEWARDSHIP ASSOCIATION

PRESIDENT: Garth Collier, Schnarr Lake

PAST PRESIDENT: Christine Semenchuk, Bigstone Bay

SECRETARY: Jackie Lowe, Gun Club Island

TREASURERS: Carley Fyke, Welcome Channel; Jeff Rempel, Pine Portage Bay

CHAIR, MEMBERSHIP: Adam Blake, Corkscrew Island

CHAIR, GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS: Don Parfitt, Winnipeg River

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

DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Barb Manson, Winnipeg River; Bob Stewart , Longbow Lake; Trevor Templeton, Minaki

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR:

Ashley Hoffmeister, (807) 468-8715 executivedirector@lowdsa.com

ASSISTANT ED:

Alena Collier, (807) 468-8715 alena@lowdsa.com

P.O. Box 1160 Kenora, ON P9N 3X7

Elizabeth Gage is a writer and sound therapist who feeds her hippie spirit sustainably living off-grid growing her own food and flowers. She and her family have been on Lake of the Woods for over 50 years, where many adventures have unfolded!

EMAIL: info@lowdsa.com

TOLL-FREE: 1-888-265-9784

PHONE: (807) 468-8715

M N  LOWDSAssoc P S  LOWDSA

V Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association

Joanna Blake is the winner of our Winter Photo contest with this dramatic photo taken in a past winter of the ice just starting to go out near Clearwater Bay on Lake of the Woods.

MESSAGE TO THE EDITOR

A collection of photos that tells the story of our high water in 2022. Photos submitted by Cassidy Mazur.

Barrels filled with water are the only sign that docks exist below. People were weighing their docks down with anything they had on hand to prevent them from lifting up, up and away!

Sedesky Road in Kenora was underwater for weeks. Cassidy Mazur parked her car on the other side, walking through the water to it before driving anywhere. One of the neighbours left their canoe on one side to float their children to their vehicle parked on the other side.

The same dock, just weeks apart shows how the water kept rising!

A bridge that crosses Rushing River has water creeping up to the pathway as it roars past.

A new way to sit and enjoy Laurenson Lake.

MESSAGE TO THE EDITOR

Dear Leanne,

Thank you for your good work in current editions of Area News; we have been members of the association since its inception and have appreciated the circulation of news and information which it affords.

Our family "discovered" Lake of the Woods in 1914, and my father found "Twin Island" at the foot of Lonely Bay (now Quiet Bay) in 1926. We have seen high waters and low waters, but nothing quite so devastating as 2022. Even remembering "the flood" of 1950 when the level exceeded this summer's, the damage caused was far less. I think this is largely due to the massive population expansion of the lake when, back then, there were fewer camps, fewer boats, fewer docks, and fewer "trips".

But the specific culprit that has newly emerged is the wave.

Those of us “campers” who live on islands have several—sometimes all—our shores adjacent to channels and boat "thoroughfares." The result is that boat wakes regularly and continuously crash upon our shores, and even more so from area neighbours who create large wakes, especially when they throttle down to dock or throttle up to depart.

In our case, our bridge and two docks could not withstand the intense wave action, despite being weighed down with heavy water-filled barrels. But the even greater damage was to the shores and near shore areas, where wave action eroded a great amount of earth, exposing tree roots and even washing away small plants and bushes. It looks like some trees like our white birch have died, due to sustained time with roots underwater.

Like many, I have already embarked on dock repair, and will use newer pipe technology to create docks, which will better survive the high water and wave action.

But the bigger issue is how to better secure our shores and prevent further erosion.

I recall an Ontario Lands and Forests pamphlet back in the 1980s which addressed that issue. I found the attached article from New York State which includes a lot of good suggestions (included below).

I suggest two areas which might have issues that our lake readership would be interested in, and could benefit from some research on the part of one of your writers:

• Shore erosion and shore stabilization techniques

• Powerboat speed/ wave erosion along populated shorelines

The article Rev. Thompson recommends, by the U.S. Department of Environmental Conservation, provides a detailed look at shoreline stabilization techniques. In particular, he notes that the technique of planting fresh cuttings of typical shore bushes is a key way of firming up the shores against further loss. You can read it at dec.ny.gov/permits/67096.html.

The spring issue of Area News will feature tips for restoring shorelines naturally from Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation.

Photos, top to bottom:

The impact of high water and wake damage are evident all around the Thompson property. This full island shot shows where the bridge between the islands once was.

The path to the Shorehouse is under several inches of water. Wakes like this, from a boat throttling down, have real power—and actually lifted the dock off its supports.

Shoreline erosion is evident around the Thompson island.

I have attached a few photos to help make my points. Many of my trees and bushes were stripped of their soil cover right down to their roots. My shorehouse shows over 8" of earth entirely washed out. All those shores took the brunt of passing boat wakes.

Of course, there is "a story", many times repeated over this past summer for various campers, as to how many of us "survived" the onslaught. Two thirds of our little island ended up underwater, and the bridge connecting the two islands was washed out. And just as in 1950, with a cabin on one island and the "biffy" on the other, it became a case of "if you've got to go, you've got to row".

But we did… and we survived. Life carries on. But there are always things to be learned, and always others to care for, just as we try to care for ourselves. Let us hope that the "camp community" pulls together and helps all its campers enjoy this absolutely wonderful lake.

Best, Don Thompson, Quiet Bay, Lake of the Woods Colour photographs: Marianne Thompson 2022 Black & white: D. A. Thompson

P.S. Marianne has a permanent exhibit of her lake paintings at Warehouse Artworks in Winnipeg.

Previous articles about the Thompson family’s activities on Lake of the Woods appeared in earlier issues of Area News: "An Island called Twin" Vol 45, No 5, Oct. 2015. and "Camping on the Lake of the Woods" Vol 43, No 5, Oct. 2013.

"Looking In", Marianne Thompson 2013. Oil on Canvas. 24" x 36".

Shorehouse on the Lake - June 11th, 2022 (Flood series), Oil on Canvas, 18” x 24”, Marianne Thompson.

Twin Islands in 1927, when the lake level reached 1,062.9'.

Mark your calendars

Below are some of LOWDSA’s early spring events. Information is subject to change. We will notify members of any changes and information with as much notice as possible via eNews, on our website, and social media platforms.

APRIL 12

Annual General Meeting

7:00 p.m. via Zoom

Join us for our AGM, April 12 at 7 p.m. This event will be held virtually via Zoom. Invitations will be sent out with the link via email to all members or check out the events section on our webpage.

MAY 20

Seedling Day

10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Clearwater Bay & Longbow Lake Firehall

Purchase your seedlings in advance at lowdsa.com/ cpages/seedlings. Pickup will be at Clearwater Bay or Longbow Lake Firehall between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Celebrate Lake Life

Whitecap Pavilion, Kenora

Celebrate Lake Life with LOWDSA. Come down to the Whitecap Pavilion on the Harbourfront in Kenora for our first in-person event in a few years. More details to come in the next issue of Area News as planning continues.

61st Annual General Meeting 2023

Wednesday, April 12, at 7:00 pm CST on Zoom

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF LAKE OF THE WOODS DISTRICT STEWARDSHIP ASSOCIATION

DATE

Wednesday, April 12, 2023

TIME 7:00 p.m. (CST) Via Zoom

We invite you to attend the annual general meeting of Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association. The business of the meeting will include:

• Presentation of the 2022 audited financial statements

• Appointment of auditors

• Election of directors

Register in advance to receive the links required to attend this meeting at lowdsa.com/cpages/agm.

The 2022 audited financial statements and the minutes of the last annual general meeting held May 11, 2022 are posted online at lowdsa.com/cpages/agm and are available by email on request.

Government Notes

BY ASHLEY HOFFMEISTER

MUNICIPAL

Coker Road east of Kelly Road update

The portion of Coker Road, east of Kelly Road, which was closed last November due to unstable conditions, will remain closed to all traffic for some time.

Stantec Engineering Consultants was retained in late December to recommend solutions to stabilize the road. Geotechnical drilling along the failed section of Coker Road was scheduled to occur in February. Stantec is then expected to provide an opinion on the safety of reopening this portion of Coker Road in its current condition in early March.

A full geotechnical analysis and recommended rehabilitation report is expected in early April, when the City will reassess rehabilitation efforts.

Safety continues to be paramount as the city navigates this situation and the residual impacts of the 2022 flood event. Although there are no properties impacted by the closure of this section, the City understands the inconvenience that this has for residents and thanks everyone for their continued patience and cooperation.

PROVINCIAL

Hydro costs on the rise for some

BY BOB STEWART

Seasonal Class Hydro One customers in the Lake of the Woods area, along with all others in the province, will have received a notice in the mail late last year about the elimination of the Seasonal rate class, an explanation for it, and its likely impact on their electrical bills.

The ending of the Seasonal class closes out a multi-year backand-forth argument over maintaining the rate class between Hydro One and the province’s regulatory agency, the Ontario Energy Board. Hydro One was the only utility in the province with unique service rates for its seasonal customers. Others, if they had a seasonal class, charged identical basic rates to year-round customers, with year-round customers having reduced charges based only on provincial subsidies; or using the designation to allow for quarterly or semi-annual billing.

The impact of the change, with increases to be phased in over a 10-year period, will vary depending on electricity usage this year as the utility continues its move towards fully fixed monthly service charges. Whether the seasonal customer is being moved to the Low Density (R2) class or a Medium Density (R1) class will also determine the increase.

In this area most are being moved to the R2 class, and customers using no electricity, or a minimal amount will see about a $7

increase in monthly charges ($22 on a quarterly bill). The increase will drop as consumption rises and the reduction in the per kwh component of the service charge drops. That part of the Hydro One monthly charge will be 1.91 cents per kwh compared to 3.19 cents in 2022. At about 750 kwh of monthly consumption the service charge increase disappears, and customers will experience a savings, according to a Hydro One chart outlining the impacts.

Hydro One’s current rate application covers the 2023-2027 period, and by 2027, the monthly charge for a seasonal customer is projected to be $102.99. Projections for rates after that suggest a final monthly fixed charge in the $150 per month range by 2032.

For year-round customers, although their basic service charge has been increased in 2023 too, provincial subsidies will keep monthly bills static until June when the Distribution Rate Protection subsidy is review. That subsidy sets a monthly ceiling for basic service charges for Hydro One’s year-round residential rural classes of customers, year-round residential customers of Algoma Power, and all residential users in six other utilities. Currently at $38.08, the cap is subject to an annual inflation factor increase. Without the cap, the 2023 basic service charge for year-round R2 customers would be $123.74.

Synergy North (formerly Kenora Hydro) is also increasing its monthly service charge in 2023, but not until May. The requested increase of $7.11 per month in the basic service charge currently $36.50, if approved, will increase total average bills by about $3 a month when other billing factors are included, according to that utility’s application.

Forestry and forest management

On average, in the Kenora Forest, 1,165 hectares have been harvested annually. There has not been a need for site preparation in harvested areas because of adequate soil depth. There has been a shift to planting larger stock which increases the overall survival rate of seedlings. With the assistance of workers from Wabaseemoong, 157,800 seedlings have been planted, beaver population is being monitored, slash pile are burned, and access routes have been maintained.

Additionally, in the Whisky Jack Forest, 473,340 seedlings have been planted.

There is no spraying of pesticides (i.e. spruce bud worm spraying) or herbicides in either the Kenora Forest or Whiskey Jack Forest.

According to the Forest Management Plan and the stakeholder’s agreement, Talbot Lake Access Road (begins just north of the Redditt and Coker Roads) will be decommissioned. Decommissioning means that water crossings will be removed, hills will have diagonal trenches dug into them and rocks and berms will be used to eliminate access. Future harvesting in the Talbot Lake area is not in the management plan.

For complete information on the area’s Forest Management Plan go to nrip.mnr.gov.on.ca/s/fmp-online.

FEDERAL/PROVINCIAL

Covid-19 updates

The official websites hosted by the governments of Manitoba, Ontario and Canada and the Northwestern Health Unit (Ontario) continue to provide the most current and accurate information related to COVID-19. Links to each website are posted at lowdsa.com/articles/covid-19-regulations-update.

Science North

Science North is embarking on a legacy project of building Canada’s next two science centres, one in Thunder Bay and one in Kenora (an addition to the Lake of the Woods Discovery Centre). These science centres will provide interactive experiences through immersive, engaging and educational exhibits that will encourage and stimulate a sense of wonder and curiosity. The Project Team has been working closely with members of the Kenora community and beyond to ensure that the experience in Kenora is reflective of the region and the people who have resided there since time immemorial. Stay tuned as the project develops with the plan to open in 2027! an

Lake of the Woods Discovery Centre hosts Science North.

BU ILDING DRE A M S

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Tools & Best Practices

Participate in our unique stewardship programs such as the mobile boat wash station, litter free lake campaign, environmentalist initiative programs, metal waste collection, and zebra mussel monitoring programs to keep our area pristine.

Lake Life Resources

Gain easy access to just about anything you want to know about lake life and to learn more about what you love.

Area News Magazine

Stay connected to the district year round through the Area News magazine, issued five times per year, for articles featuring lake life and issues of interest.

Seedlings

Help reduce our carbon footprint while expanding your beautiful patch of forest to continue lasting memories for future generations.

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Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act

BY MONA BROWN AND STÉPHANE WARNOCK

On January 1, 2023, a new federal law came into force. Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act prohibits non-Canadians from purchasing a dwelling unit. Dwelling unit is defined as a residential unit that has a private kitchen, bath and living area. This includes cottages!

This prohibition against “non-Canadians” would generally exclude anyone who is not a Canadian citizen (or spouse/ common-law partner of a Canadian citizen), and not an Indigenous* person (or spouse/common-law partner of an Indigenous person). It would also preclude any corporation from purchasing, unless that corporation was controlled by a Canadian citizen or Indigenous person.

The Act is far-reaching and includes holding directly or indirectly. Conviction could result in the property being ordered sold and the non-Canadian cannot profit from that sale. It substantially alters the prior law under the Citizenship Act that allowed both citizens and non-citizens to own property.

Regulations have just been proclaimed and are in effect for two years until December 31, 2025 (but the Act has no expiry date, and if the regulations are not renewed the Act will apply to ALL property).

The regulations create exceptions, which include:

i. Exempting property not within a census agglomeration (core population of at least 10,000 includes Kenora, and north including Black Sturgeon but not very far south of Kenora) or census metropolitan. (Census metropolitan is areas over 100,000 and includes Thunder Bay, Winnipeg, includes north and east side around Lake Winnipeg to Elk Island Park and includes Victoria Beach and South.) We have attached a map of Kenora outlining the area to which these restrictions will apply based on the current regulations.

ii. An acquisition resulting from a death, divorce, separation, or gift—so a U.S. owner can gift but cannot sell to a non-Canadian family.

iii. A transfer from a trust that was created prior to December 31, 2022.

iv. A transfer to realize on security by a creditor.

v. Rental of a dwelling unit for self-occupation.

vi. The Act does not apply to First Nation lands. There are substantial fines (up to $10,000) for anyone who aids or abets a non-Canadian to purchase directly or indirectly a residential property. This could apply to lawyers, realtors and vendors of property.

This is sad and bad news for our U.S. neighbours. However, it may be an opportunity for Canadian

cottage owners, who are in affected areas, who want to gift to their close family (since any gift will be deemed to have occurred at Fair Market Value “FMV”) to be able to do so with a slightly reduced FMV and less taxes.

U.S. owners cannot transfer on death to other non-Canadians other than as a gift. This will likely result in more properties being put on the market, because the same amount of tax will need to be paid whether it’s being gifted or sold to a third party. Further, section 116 of the Income Tax Act requires non-residents to withhold 25 per cent of the purchase price (or 25 per cent of FMV on a sale or gift at less than FMV) and remit it to CRA regardless of the gain, if a Clearance Certificate cannot be obtained prior to the sale. As a result, U.S. owners may not be able to gift to their children and they will have to sell, flooding the market.

These new restrictions will come as a surprise to many cottage owners in areas where exceptions do not apply. If you have questions about an upcoming sale and how to protect yourself against these serious potential fines, or if you see this as an opportunity to reduce tax payable while preparing the cottage succession plan now, then you should be consulting with a lawyer knowledgeable in these areas to help assist you with your specific needs.

The purpose of this article is for general education and interest of property owners and is current only as of the date produced and does not reflect subsequent changes in the law. For more information or questions relating to your particular circumstances please contact Mona Brown or Stéphane Warnock at PKF Lawyers.

*Please note the regulations specifically refer to someone who qualifies as an “Indian” as defined in the Indian Act, but for the purpose of this article, the writers have chosen to refer to them as Indigenous people. an

WATER LEVELS

One extreme to another

BY JEFF POLAKOFF, LOWDSA REPRESENTATIVE, LAKE OF THE WOODS CONTROL BOARD

Just like everywhere else in the world, the Winnipeg River Drainage Basin including Lake of the Woods is providing good evidence that climate change is here, and with it comes extreme weather. In fact, weather extremes seem to have become the ordinary with the predictability of weather patterns based on traditional approaches by meteorologists and climatologists becoming even more of a challenge.

The changing climate and increase in extreme weather events have certainly had an impact on our water levels in the Basin over the last three years. The climate in Northwestern Ontario and Canada in general is changing from what we had come to expect over many years. Terms that we were unfamiliar with before such as polar vortex, atmospheric rivers and heat domes have become more commonplace. We are experiencing shorter winter seasons, increased frost-free days, more extreme precipitation, and drought. These changing patterns have resulted in extremely low water conditions accompanied by drought and wildfires in 2021 followed by some of the most extreme flooding on record in 2022.

Clearly, climate change and related extreme weather will have an ongoing impact on our water levels. The Lake of the Woods Control Board Secretariat points out that flooding is a natural occurrence and is driven by several factors with high levels of precipitation, primarily rain, being the main cause.

As we look to the future, we can anticipate that high water conditions will reoccur and there is good potential that major floods even approaching levels of 1950 and 2022, will be driven by evolving climate patterns and extreme weather. Low water conditions will also provide seasonal challenges.

While flooding can’t be accurately predicted over the long term, it is important for property owners to consider several factors when planning for repairs or rebuilding damaged docks, boathouses, and other shoreline infrastructure as a result of last year’s flooding.

These include the unique conditions of your shoreline topography, elevation, design, cost and the tradeoff between flood protection and water access during normal water levels. The Control Board’s Before You Build section (lwcb.ca/ beforeyoubuild/BeforeYouBuild2015.06.22c.pdf) on its website provides advice on risk assessment based on past flooding levels. Recommendations for minimum elevations to reduce risk of flooding are based on the 1950 flood peak with added contingencies for wind and wave action. Since the 2022 flood peak was lower than that in 1950 for Lake of the Woods and the Winnipeg River in Ontario, these recommendations have not changed at this time.

When I wrote this article at the end of January, the water level of Lake of the Woods was 322.6 m (1058.4 ft) which is the 35th percentile for the time of the year. For the remainder of the winter, the Control Board strategy is to gradually lower the level of the lake ahead of the spring melt. Ultimately, the level will depend on how the snowpack develops over the winter as well as the volume of precipitation and runoff. For spring the strategy is to lower levels on the lake and river as conditions allow to assist with repairs given the extensive damage from flooding.

For up-to-date information on water levels and the work of the LWCB as well as Before you Build, please visit the LWCB web site at lwcb.ca. an

Flow from Rushing River / Dogtooth Lake to Lake of the Woods, winter 2023.

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, 2023. After that date, we will open up sales to the public on a first come, first served basis.

SEEDLING PICK UP—ONE DAY ONLY

Saturday, May 20, 2023 from 10:00 am–1:00 pm

If you'd like to order seedlings but will be unable to pick up on May 20, please know that we're working on a plan to make sure they get planted.

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.

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.

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).

WHAT'S HAPPENING ON YOUR LAKE?

Schnarr Lake winter festivities: January 14, 2023

LOWDSA’s president, Garth Collier submitted these photos and a few words about an impromptu winter celebration at Schnarr Lake.

Sometimes, we don’t need a special reason for neighbours to get together. As our hosts Brian and Joanne Steeves said, “This celebration was a combination of 'delayed Happy New Year' and 'just because', and since the conditions were perfect (-5°C), it worked out really well. It was even better to have some lake friends there too. Fireworks are always better when you can share them. Emil, part of Brian and Joanne’s extended family, has been working with fireworks for many years, so he knows how to do it up right. It was an amazing display. The fireworks, along with the campfire, s’mores and the chance to catch up with our neighbours made it a wonderful evening."

Who has seen the wind?

by Elizabeth Gage

Living off the grid takes physical stamina. There are times you will be tested when you least expect it. It is in these moments we learn our strength.

It was a beautiful 18 degrees fall day with a hefty 23 km southerly wind on October 5, when just past 6 p.m., I was crossing the vast body of water known as the famous Allan’s Reef.

To the west was another magnificent sunset. I responded to a text from my son Chris, “Cell phone almost dead. 15 minutes from home.” The phone went dark. I passed a series of closed camps on Queer Island, docks pulled up in preparation for the winter ahead. As I proceeded, the boat suddenly decelerated, and my life changed. I could smell smoke coming from the engine. The boat limped to the only dock still in the water.

I knew I was not driving anywhere soon. My first thought was to call what neighbours at French Narrows may be at the lake, but I needed a phone charger. I went searching.

While no one was at camp, a gazebo on the dock was open. I scanned for an iPhone charger. No luck. Darkness was coming. I hadn’t eaten all day and was already feeling weak. I opened the fridge I spotted in the corner: bottled water and a Diet Pepsi. I took note but kept going.

I trudged through the forest visiting three empty camps, but the place next to the one I was at had a canoe. This was going to be my way home. I returned to

The borrowed canoe that provided safe passage rested safely on the beach overnight.

my boat and grabbed a lifejacket, a paddle, my purse, my iPhone, the flashlight. I took the Pepsi and bottled water. I am going to need liquid, I thought.

Now dark, I started the paddle home. It was just under 5 km. If I stopped paddling the wind would win. I could still make out the islands ahead. I set goals. There were two low outcrops—I could stop at one and have some water. Travelling in mostly open water, I kept paddling. I wasn’t making much headway at first. I made it to the first outcrop. I was dizzy. My hands were numb. The water was good. A few sips of Pepsi. I can’t rest long. I must save water for the next goal, I thought.

A tip of an island ahead. Get around it, the wind can blow me onto the shore, and I can drink again. Three strokes left, three strokes right. I made it. More Pepsi, the water almost gone. The canoe banged on flattened rocks. I had outsmarted the wind for now.

At this point it was very dark, and I had another open stretch to cross. The wind was picking up. I had lost sensation in my arms. My full body was now involved. The buoys were a distance ahead, my next goal. There was still a drop of water and some delicious Diet Pepsi.

I felt tremors in my body. If I make it to the reef, I will be safe from the wind again. Ha! This is the first time I had thought of a reef as safe. I made it. Jubilation. Pepsi, the last of the water. I was looking at the tip of French Narrows Camp now. Should I dock and look for people? Should I abandon the canoe and walk through the bush? The woods could bring challenges. Best to stay the course.

I started down the marshy front of French Narrows. It was sheltered somewhat from the fierceness of the wind. I was almost home.

At this point my vision went cloudy, due to gnats possibly. My nostrils tickled. The stench of algae was overpowering. The paddle slipped from my numb fingers into the water. The flashlight shone on reeds. The paddle was visible, I grasped the tip and pulled it out. The Pepsi was turning in my stomach. Hang on! Almost home!

Escaping the reeds, I could see my solar lights twinkling in welcome. Thanks be to God. Thankful for my beach that welcomed the landing canoe. Shaking, I walked up my path and opened the door to my camp. Everything was as I had left it.

I ate dinner. I soaked my aching body in an Epsom bath, drank lots of wonderful water, and fell asleep in deep cool sheets. The wind picked up and howled through the screened windows. I was so thankful to be in my bed.

As I drifted off to sleep, I remembered a novel by W.O. Mitchell, Who Has Seen the Wind. I thought… Yes, I have seen the wind. Three strokes left, three strokes right. Keep the rhythm. Keep going. an

Elizabeth enjoying the water under smoother boating conditions!

Elizabeth’s Top 5 recommended emergency items to add to your boat:

1. Solar Battery Power Bank

2. Water filtration tablets and 9 food bars (preferably U.S. Coast Guard certified)

3. Emergency Mylar sleeping bag and bug net

4. First Aid Kit

5. Pen, paper and tape

Tips for that dock that may— or may not— have gotten away

by Leanne Fournier

Greg Thompson, Project Manager, Docks and Lifts in Kenora, admits he’s “crushed a lot of dreams” this year. With 90 per cent of the docks in the region having gone underwater during the unprecedented high-water levels of 2022, the local dock builder has seen many docking systems that simply can’t be fixed.

“The older crib and wood docks didn’t stand a chance and most just wanted to float away,” he said.

When asked what systems did survive, Greg points to those built at higher levels, mostly steel pipe piled docks or floating docks that were bolted to higher platforms. “The walkways might have been under water, but you just had to clean them off and you were good to go.”

Overall, Thompson says the damage in 2022 is extensive. “2014 was a walk in the park compared to last year.” He figures it will take years for the lake community to recover and that damage is in the billions. “Many people had no way to get to the cottage. We were fielding calls late into the fall where people were finally able to get in and their docks were gone.” According to Docks and Lifts records, the most significant damage appears to be around the south end

of Lake of the Woods. “There’s a lot of older systems and some significant shoreline damage as well,” he said. But damage was everywhere. “Beach Road for instance had ice sheets coming in. It was the perfect storm of high water, ice and wind.”

While Thompson said the choice really comes down to what the property owner wants, more and more, people will need to decide if they’re going to build at the 40-year high water level (as in 2014) or the 100-year, which is what occurred in 2022.

Of course this will mean your dock might be really high up when the water goes low. On that point, Thompson said, “It really is just preference. The higher you build the shore deck the longer a walkway to the floating dock should be.”

Floating docks with a ramp bolted to a higher platform are recommended to withstand water level fluctuations. Photo: Docks & Lifts.

Ultimately, he said, it’s important to build the dock solid the first time so it can withstand going under water. He recommends steel pipe docks that are properly welded into the bedrock with joist clips and wood bolted to that. “Another option is something mounted to bedrock and a ramp with a floating system.”

In it’s Before You Build guide, The Lake of the Woods Control Board recommends the use of floating docks wherever possible and states, “especially along the Winnipeg River north of Kenora where changes in water level can be quite significant and rapid. With a floating dock, the dock surface will be a convenient height above the water surface at all times, regardless of water level fluctuations.” Read more at: lwcb.ca/beforeyoubuild/ BeforeYouBuild2015.06.22c.pdf.

Up down all around

The fact that we had record low water levels in 2021 and record high water in 2022 caught many off-guard. On the Winnipeg River, we saw a brand new boat house built at a fishing camp in 2021 partially submerged in 2022. At our camp off Long Bay, we’ve watched water levels fluctuate between six and nine feet for years, so we were more prepared, even though we were up about 12 feet.

The combination of a higher platform drilled into bedrock—which we weighed down with water-filled barrels and cement blocks very early in spring—and our ramp and floating dock that we had secured to the platform, stood the test. Our platform was under a foot of water that we could wade through to make the walk to our ramp, floating dock and boat.

On the barrel debate, Thompson said, “Large water-filled barrels were a last resort to help the top deck not float off the cribs. Alternately, we used concrete blocks on some systems as they don't displace the water and float up when it rises too high.”

Our larger floating swimming dock, which we usually tow out to deeper water, stayed put. We were one of the lucky ones and enjoyed swimming in our bay for the summer of 2022, which is something we haven’t done since 2014.

Questions to ask

Many people will be looking at a new dock, and Thompson says you’ll want to consider your shoreline, where you want to place the dock, and how it’s going to be used. “Will it be used mostly for swimming or for entertaining, what size of boat do you have and overall how do you want the dock to function,” he said.

He also said customers should have photos of the shoreline and a vision for what they are looking for.

“Drive around see what your neighbours have and get a little education about what has worked best on your part of the lake.”

Whatever you decide, Thompson emphasizes the importance of the shoreline foundation. “The foundation for any dock is the key. Bedrock is the best option and commonly used with a rock bolt that anchors down the steel, so there’s no chance of it coming undone. When you drill below the frost line, there’s no heaving.”

Shore deck bolted to bedrock.

Photo: Docks & Lifts.

Many properties had some tough lessons learned during the flood of 2022.

Photo: Michael Fournier.

Once it’s in, then what?

Like everything, there is maintenance on your dock system and things you can do to help it withstand the fury of Mother Nature.

“Disconnecting your floating docks for the freeze up is vital”, Thompson said. “It’s also essential to keep your lifts and rails out of the ice.”

These he says are critical steps to prevent the heartache he’s witnessed over the years.

Our docks are often the heart and soul of our lake life, but Mother Nature is always the boss. First and foremost pay attention, watch the latest water level updates, and follow her lead.

Then, hopefully, with a bit of planning and preparation, you are able to continue to watch our glorious sunrises and sunsets from what may be one of your favourite places on earth—your dock— for years to come. an

Permit fun

Most dock builders leave it to the customer to do the due diligence around permits and this can be a bit of a wet blanket as requirements vary depending on what and where you’re building.

If you are within one of the municipalities, say the City of Kenora or Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls, check in with the municipality to ensure that what you’re building complies with any bylaws and to obtain the required building permits or consent prior to proceeding. But, depending on what you’re building, you might also get redirected to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF).

If you’re in unincorporated, a work permit is not required if you construct or place structures that are in physical contact with 15 square meters or less of the shore lands fronting your property (e.g. docks, single-storey boathouses). Note that boathouses must be single-storey and the interior must be designed and used solely for the purpose of storing and docking boats and related equipment. Living accommodations are not allowed in boathouses.

A permit is required if you construct or place a structure or a combination of structures that are in physical contact with more than 15 square meters of shore lands. This type of structure, along with other prescribed structures, may also require occupational authority to occupy Public land.

There are further restrictions on all development within the Clearwater Bay and Shoal Lake Restricted Area Orders. All development, including buildings, structures or improvements to land within these areas requires an MNRF work permit and is subject to a number of restrictions.

When constructing any waterfront structure, it’s always best to check with MNRF before construction, to make sure what you’re building is allowed and that no permits are required.

Get the latest water level information at lwcb.ca. See also the water levels article, “One extreme to another”, on page 20.

Keeping lifts and rails out of the ice and disconnecting the floating dock before freezeup is vital to reducing damage.

Photo: Docks & Lifts.

The Fournier dock has withstood many years of fluctuating water levels on the Winnipeg River.

This photo captures the sad story that many experienced on our lakes and rivers.

Photo: Michael Fournier.

THE SUN IS SETTING ON YOUR

LAKE.

Top quotes from students after a year of visiting classrooms around Lake of the Woods

BY CASSIDY MAZUR, EDUCATION AND OUTREACH MANAGER, IISD-EXPERIMENTAL LAKES AREA AND LOWDSA

Somehow, a year has flown by since I started as the Education and Outreach Manager. While this means the special partnership between IISD-Experimental Lakes Area (IISD-ELA) and LOWDSA has come to an end, I hope as I share some reflections you will see ways that the impact of the work lives on.

As I considered what I wanted to share with our members about this experience I asked myself “What has felt the most meaningful?” My mind browsed through the seasons of incredible sunsets and nature explorations, and how special it’s been to become familiar with living here year-round. I thought of how grateful I am for the relationships I have made with passionate people and groups. What stands out most profoundly, are the connections I have made with youth. They have given my work meaning in so many ways.

This past year has been a huge success. Your support, combined with this collaborative approach, has allowed us to reach 1,500 people, with almost 1,000 being youth from around Lake of the Woods. We visited 50 classrooms from 15 schools, and 250 youth at events and camps. LOWDSA and IISD-ELA will continue to work closely so we can bring the most to our members and community.

On occasion I have doubted whether students will remember anything from

the short hour I spent with them, but there are moments that have reassured me. It’s a proud feeling to watch students eagerly dragging their family to my booth at an event, excitedly describing what they had previously learned with me.

As impressive as hearing students recall specific environmental information is, it isn’t my goal. I don’t expect students to fully grasp concepts or remember details. My hope is that showing the exciting and vital work happening at LOWDSA and IISD-ELA along with the passion that fuels it, leaves students feeling inspired by science, proud of the initiatives happening in their community, and interested in stewardship. I hope it helps students connect their personal interests to the diverse interrelations they have with science, stewardship, and other things they are learning.

Title photo: Cassidy holding up a vial with a water scorpion preserved inside, along with a Bug Dial that helps identify various species found along shorelines.

I also hope that showing students real-world examples of jobs and initiatives in their community opens the door to pursue and connect their passions with the environment.

To give you a window into some of the ways I see meaning and find joy in my work with youth, I’ve curated some top quotes from students around Lake of the Woods that I heard over this past year. I hope you enjoy!

The ones that show me they are curious about career options and considering what they want to pursue:

“I learned that there are a lot of really cool jobs out there.”

“How much do you get paid?”

“What did you go to school for?”

“I’d like to work there when I’m older.”

“I want to be an environmental scientist when I’m older! Or a marine biologist.”

“How did you realize this is what you wanted to do for work?”

“How long have you been in your job?”

The ones that made me reflect on my life:

“What made you want to do what you do?”

“If you didn’t have the job you have now, what would you do?”

Youth at Kenora's Awesome Adventures Day Camp huddle around Cassidy as she hands out invasive species identification booklets.

The ones that show a curiosity for science, or how they are connecting what they are learning to their lives:

“Can I tell you what I remember from the last time I saw you?”

“Have you ever worked on (insert lake name that the student lives on/near)?”

“If you drained a lake and filled it with Pepsi, and it evaporated, would we get Pepsi rain?”

“What is the thickest ice you’ve seen?”

“What is the weirdest thing you’ve found in a lake?”

“What if a fish ate another fish with a tracker inside of it?”

“Would acid rain hurt my skin?”

“What is the best thing to do to protect lakes?”

“Do you add chemicals to lakes?”

“Why is there low oxygen at the bottom of the lake?”

Honourable mentions:

“Have you ever named a fish you caught? What did you name it?”

“Have you ever fed a fish Taco Bell?”

“Do you know my name?”

(I had never met them, led to three more kindergarteners asking the same)

“Do you remember me?”

“How many followers do you have on TikTok?”

“How old are you?”

Ones that made me appreciate my job:

“What’s your work schedule like? Like what are your hours? Because it seems like you are on vacation or a break right now?”

“Did you get fired from your last job with IISD-ELA?”(I had a seasonal student position five years ago)

The ones that will allow you to make an educated guess on what shoes I wear and what colour my hair has been:

“Why did you dye your hair pink/purple?” (x10)

“I remember you because of your pink hair!”

“I like your pink hair.”

“Where did you get your Crocs?”

“How much were your Crocs?”

“I like your Crocs.”

“Why are your sandals so squeaky?”

Cassidy using a kick net to complete a shoreline sweep, sampling for benthic invertebrates at the IISD-Experimental Lakes Area.

Birding: environmental pros & cons

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY DAVE SCHWARTZ

Birdwatching is flying high. It has long been a widely popular sport and interest spiked dramatically during the pandemic. Many people, left staring out their windows or hanging out in parks to isolate, discovered that birds are beautiful and fascinating and that watching them makes us happier and less stressed.

Birdwatching is accessible and affordable to everyone as no special equipment or special knowledge is required to get started. All you need is your eyes and ears, and nobody cares if you don’t know a root beer swallow from a roadside chat.

In Canada, one fifth of us average at least 133 days a year watching, monitoring, feeding, or photographing Canada’s 450 or so bird species. Many households have feeders and bird houses in our yards and almost 10 per cent of us have bird identification books and binoculars and have taken trips specifically to see birds.

As birdwatchers gain experience, they start to recognize more species and learn their names, songs and calls, habitat requirements, flight patterns and the seasonal plumages of different species. More knowledgeable birdwatchers call themselves “birders”, a term which better includes visually impaired bird lovers who bird (yes, it’s a verb) solely by ear.

While birding is best done in beautiful, natural environments, anyone can enjoy birds almost anywhere, in all seasons, alone, or with companions. Birding dovetails nicely with other activities and most bird-nerds combine it with photography, hiking, biking, canoeing, traveling, or just sitting in your backyard or looking out a window.

Unfortunately, bird numbers are on the decline worldwide. Habitat destruction, climate change, disease, pesticides and some other factors are taking their toll. In Canada alone, there are at least 35 avian species listed as endangered or threatened. Aerial insectivores, such as swallows, have declined more rapidly (59 per cent decrease) than any other group. Canadian grasslands have lost 57 per cent of bird populations, or 300 million birds since 1970. Grassland birds that depend solely on native grasslands for breeding and wintering declined by a devastating 87 per cent. Canadian shorebird populations have declined by 40 per cent, with longdistance migrants declining more steeply (52 per cent decrease) than short-distance migrants (23 per cent decrease).

Declining bird populations are a serious loss for everybody because of their vital role in ecosystems, including pest control and pollination of plants. The loss of birds is a double whammy for birders as it seriously impacts enjoyment of their sport.

Ornithologists study trends in bird populations using formal scientific methods but much of their data is provided by citizen scientists taking part in programs like Project Feeder Watch and the Christmas Bird Count. Those citizen scientists are vital to the study of trends in bird populations because they supply data from all across the country. Citizen science assists in identifying environmental threats to the well-being of birds and assessing outcomes of environmental management initiatives intended to ensure the survival of at-risk species. Knowing what is happening to bird populations is essential in determining what measures need to be taken to protect avian species.

Title photo left: Wetlands are crucial habitat for many bird species such as this great blue heron shown dining on a crayfish. Sadly, wetlands are under threat worldwide.

Title photo centre: Bald eagle populations have thrived since the restrictions on DDT use and other legislation to protect them.

Title photo right: The white pelican is majestic in flight. The flight of birds was an inspiration for the development of manned flight.

Project Feeder Watch is crucial to bird population. Wood ducks are not on their list of feeder birds and this was a once in a lifetime sighting for me.

The opportunity to encounter, enjoy, and benefit from many bird species, now and in the future, depends on the health and abundance of every type of natural habitat. Birders and birding organizations are politically and financially active in ensuring the preservation of grasslands, swamps, marshes, waterways and more. Birders and their organizations are powerful advocates for habitat preservation, pollution control and measures to fight climate change. Birders pump billions of dollars into nature-friendly causes.

Individuals can help bird populations to thrive by creating bird-friendly yards, advocating for habitat preservation and donating to organizations like Birds Canada and the Nature Conservancy of Canada, which buys areas of critical habitat to create nature preserves.

Most serious birders are listers. No, they don’t lean perilously to one side when they walk except, perhaps, in a high wind. Listers keep a life list of all the birds they have seen along with details of the sighting. Adding to their life lists can be a driving force for birders and many go to a lot of trouble and expense to add to that list. They are likely to travel extensively to all ecosystem types on every continent, even Antarctica. That travel conveys economic benefits to target areas, providing incentive for those areas to preserve habitat while simultaneously taking an environmental toll, like any other form of travel.

Like all sports, birding can be taken to extremes. Severely obsessed birders are referred to as twitchers. Twitching got its name from a pair of passionate birders who travelled the English countryside on motorbikes in the foulest of weather in search of new birds to list, sometimes getting so cold as to twitch (shiver) uncontrollably. Twitchers frequently travel great distance and spend huge sums of money in their efforts to list more birds. Some very rich birders with seemingly unlimited means will fly around the world just to add a single bird species, leaving a climate-changing plume of greenhouse gases and spent resources in their wake. On the bright side, they also leave a green plume (money) in destinations which might benefit local economies or finance habitat preservation.

Birdwatching is a very environmentally friendly activity when practiced in our own back yards or in nearby parks and wild spaces. The resource consumption and greenhouse gas emissions impacts of birding, however, increase with the distance and frequency of travel to observe them.

Although birding can be environmentally benign, the more resources we expend, the greater the environmental impact. Any time we start an engine, go for a drive or take a flight, greenhouse gases are being produced. The very act of looking for birds can further endanger them by exacerbating climate change, adding pollution, depleting resources, and degrading habitats. The more enthusiastically we search for various bird species, the more we threaten their populations. Ironically, over the long term, the harder we look for them, the fewer species we’ll be able find. So, birding can have both positive and negative environmental consequences. Determining whether or not it balances out as a net benefit to the environment would be an extremely complex endeavour.

However, as bird-lovers, we should strive to make our activities as environmentally beneficial as possible though our involvement in citizen science, financial and political contributions to habitat preservation and efforts to minimize our environmental footprints. an

43rd Annual Kenora Christmas Bird Count— December 17, 2022

The annual Kenora Christmas Bird Count is a long-standing piece of citizen science. These counts are courtesy of Leo Heyens.

Osprey populations benefit from man-made nesting platforms. Apparently, ospreys also have a taste for denim jeans.

Teika Newton Joins LOWWSF as International Watershed Coordinator

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

The Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation (LOWWSF) is pleased to introduce Teika Newton as the new International Watershed Coordinator.

Teika is a long-time participant in regional watershed science, policy, and governance activities. She has served as a board member for the International Joint Commission’s (IJC) International Rainy–Lake of the Woods Watershed Board, and co-chaired the Board’s Community Advisory Group, Engagement Committee, and currently the Adaptive Management Committee. Teika also has been helping to guide the IJC Board’s work on climate adaptation since 2016.

With Teika on board, the Foundation is doubling down to move projects forward that are central to a sustainability plan, including defining recommendations for international water quality objectives and a multi-nationally coordinated monitoring program, in collaboration with the IJC, Indigenous Nations, government agencies and citizens.

Teika comes to the Foundation following several years at Climate Action Network - Réseau action climat Canada (climateactionnetwork.ca/), where she helped grow the network to 150 civil society member organizations and cultivate a powerful team of diplomats and climate policy experts under her leadership as Managing Director. At the local level, Teika continues to contribute as a member of the City of Kenora’s Sustainability Advisory Committee (kenora.ca/en/your-government/ sustainability-advisory-committee.aspx). She also is a past editor of the Lake of the Wood Area News.

“After many years devoted to creating climate and environmental policy solutions for Canada, I am overjoyed to once again focus my energies and expertise on the place I call home”, commented Teika, “for me, Lake of the Woods and the Treaty 3 region is the most beautiful and precious place on the planet—a place worth protecting and stewarding for the benefit of all who are sustained here. I am elated to join the Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation in continuing its mission to thoughtfully care for this precious lake and watershed, enhancing its ecological integrity through robust science, policy, and community engagement.”

Born and raised in Kenora, Teika lives with her husband Mike and their children Maya and Sam, in the off-grid house they built just outside town. Teika holds a Masters degree in evolutionary biology from the University of British Columbia.

Teika started work in January and can be reached at teikanewton@lowwsf.com.

Year round services with trusted local network in the Whiteshell.

Welcome aboard! Teika Newton is the new International Watershed Coordinator for the Rainy-Lake of the Woods watershed.

FROM THE FOREST: How community and connections make us stronger and more resilient

BY SHARON GURNEY

As a cottager who loves spending time outdoors around my property at Granite Lake, I am endlessly captivated by both the beauty and the ‘secrets’ we are discovering about our forests. This captivation brought me to the work of Canadian scientist, Suzanne Simard, whose research demonstrates that communities of trees are cooperating and supporting one another, rather than growing isolated and in competition with others in the surrounding forest community. Against scepticism from her forest research colleagues, she persevered and intensified her research to explain the mechanism for this support and cooperation within the forest ecosystem.

Simard’s first hint that underground fungal mycorrhizal networks might play a role, came as a child when her family had to excavate their outhouse pit to save their dog that had fallen in. While watching as the sides of the pit were dug down, she saw complex networks of fungus intermingled with the adjacent tree roots.

Many years later, she was able to definitively prove that fungal networks were being used by the forest community in several critical ways. By using radioactive tracer compounds, Simard proved that trees were using these complex soil fungal networks to deliver resources such as carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and water to other tree species that were disadvantaged by disease or limited by light. She soon discovered that the resource sharing was reciprocal; for example, Douglas fir and paper birch trees could pass each other carbon at different times of the year. They were supplying critical food resources to each other in times of need based on seasonal growth patterns, clearly coexisting in balance.

Simard was able to show that removing birch was detrimental to the growth of fir trees in British Columbia forest stands. She continued to conduct and publish related research to not only

better understand the workings of the forest ecosystem, but also to help the forest harvest industry develop sustainable practices to increase planted seedling survival and overall forest productivity.

The prestigious Journal of Nature published Simard’s early research on the front cover in 1997, subtitling her article The Wood-Wide Web. She continued to conduct research discovering that trees can recognize their kin and are able to preferentially share more resources with related saplings, especially during times of vulnerability. These mother trees, not only share resources with their kin, but they share resources with other species, ensuring a diverse and robust forest community for their kin will grow up in. Perhaps an important lesson humanity can take from the forest.

As a Professor of Forest Ecology at University of British Columbia, Simard’s most recent work is focusing on The Mother Tree Project. This work is illustrating that these oldest and largest trees are not only critical for food and water movement to surrounding trees through the mycorrhizal fungal network, but they also help forests recover from disturbances such as climate extremes and disease.

Since these older mother trees have undergone climatic and disease stresses, it is thought that they are better adjusted to climate variability and will produce offspring with those same genetic traits. Research demonstrated that there is value in retaining even dying mother trees in harvest zones, as these trees accelerate their nutritional support to seedlings around them until the tree completely dies. Retaining mother trees in forest harvest areas has shown to help forests in their regeneration stage after seedling plantings. This project is helping to understand how to better manage forests for biodiversity, health and resilience, critical in the face of climate change.

Simard notes that Indigenous cultures have understood the linkages and interaction of species in the forest, and now western

Simard’s research demonstrated that trees can identify their kin, and preferentially share more resources with their progeny, all through the fungal network.

Chanterelles, common in Lake of the Woods, are a type of micorrhizal mushroom that exists in a symbiotic relationship with tree roots.

science is starting to catch up. There is a realization that we need to focus on the functioning of the larger community and its interconnectivity, rather than managing for individual species. For example, research has demonstrated that nitrogen from salmon carcases can be found in British Columbia forest trees, illustrating the connectivity between salmon, bears and trees. Historic indigenous practices were to bury the salmon fillet waste in the forest to nourish the trees, which in turn would grow to shade the river and protect the salmon.

Simard’s work has been an inspiration to many working within the research world, but also to many working outside of forestry. Her work inspired Richard Powers’ 2019 Pulitzer Prize novel The Overstory, and Peter Wohlleben’s 2016 novel The Hidden Life of Trees. Director James Cameron was also inspired by her work as he developed the “Tree of Souls” in the 2009 movie Avatar.

In her 2021 book, Finding the Mother Tree: Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest, Simard describes that trees and plants have agency, in that they perceive, relate, communicate, cooperate, learn and remember, showing signs of both wisdom and intelligence, qualities we most often equate with sentient beings. Simard reminds us that we are tied to the land, the trees, the animals, the water, and to one another, and therefore we have a responsibility to care for these interconnections ensuring the sustainability of these ecosystems for both future generations and to honour those that came before us.

We should tread lightly, taking only the gifts we need. Simard encourages us to both reconnect with nature and work hard to reduce our exploitation, to learn how local forests are being managed, and what sustainability practices are being employed.

Forests are not only beautiful places for us to explore and enjoy, but they are good reminders that by supporting one another as trees do in the forest, we will build strong communities that are healthy and resilient.

Want to learn more on the topic of forest ecology and management?

The Mother Tree Project: mothertreeproject.org

Ted Talk Video: How trees talk to each other ted.com/talks/suzanne_simard_how_ trees_talk_to_each_other?language=en an

As landowners, sharing space with the forest, we have a responsibility to care for the interconnections that exist between species, ensuring the sustainability of these fragile ecosystems.

Diversity of species is critical to forests recovering from disturbances such as climate extremes and disease.

Mature mother trees, including dying mother trees, provide both nutrients and defence compounds to surrounding trees through the connecting fungal network.

A new centre for climate and lake learning in northwestern Ontario

BY SUMEEP BATH, EDITORIAL AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, IISD EXPERIMENTAL LAKES AREA

For those of you who do not know the history of IISD Experimental Lakes Area (IISD-ELA)—the world’s freshwater laboratory, right here in northwestern Ontario—allow us to quickly recap some recent history.

IISD-ELA is an incredible ‘natural laboratory’ comprised of 58 small lakes and their watersheds set aside for scientific research. Located in a sparsely populated region of northwestern Ontario, just east of Kenora, the lakes in the region are not affected by human impacts.

By manipulating these small lakes, scientists can examine how all aspects of the ecosystem—from the atmosphere to fish populations—respond. Findings from these real-world experiments are often much more accurate than those from research conducted at smaller scales, such as in laboratories. They have influenced billion-dollar decisions of governments and industries across the globe while generating more cost-effective environmental policies, regulations, and management—all to ensure the safety of our freshwater supplies for generations to come.

The facility was opened by Canada’s federal government back in 1968, and in 2014 was transferred over to an independent not-forprofit, the International Institute for Sustainable Development which has its headquarters in Winnipeg.

This changed everything.

Being a non-profit independent body meant that the threats to fresh water that it could explore within its lakes was no longer tied to a governmental mandate. So, since 2014, IISD-ELA has dedicated itself to discovering the impact of everything from oil spills and nanosilver to microplastics and anti-depressants.

Ever since 2014, the world’s freshwater laboratory has opened its doors to students from across the country.

What this also meant was that those 58 lakes—and the incredible findings that they produce—could, and should, now be accessed by the public.

This ranged from a whole new approach to communicating the unparallelled work that takes place at the site—from features by the BBC to a dynamic TikTok presence—to a completely brand-new educational program that invites young people and members of the public to get their hands wet (literally and figuratively) and learn about the freshwater research that takes place just a few miles away in their backyard.

Emerald Ash Borers are a threat!

Protect Manitoba’s trees. Don’t move firewood.

In fact, opening its doors has been so successful that the world’s freshwater laboratory is now in sore need of a new home. A space for people from across the region to come together, to discuss the state of our environment and the health of our freshwater, and to explore solutions.

That’s where Canada’s first Centre for Climate and Lake Learning comes in.

This Centre for Climate and Lake Learning will provide a place where kids from across Canada can get their hands wet, where local Indigenous communities can gather and share knowledge, and where the future of freshwater research will really come to life.

This first-of-its-kind facility, which will cost around $10 million, will be a centre for climate learning in the region, and will help to solidify our region’s status as a critical space in the fight against climate change and environmental pollution.

And it doesn’t stop there!

More broadly, IISD-ELA needs longterm and stable investment to support its infrastructure if it is to remain an internationally renowned centre of excellence for freshwater research.

That includes:

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.

One log can kill a million trees.

Learn more at:

Manitoba.ca/stopthespread

• More accommodation, so more scientists from across Canada and the world can benefit from the unique science that takes place here in northwestern Ontario.

• More solar panels, with electrical storage microgrid to diesel and power the entire site with clean and innovative technology that will reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 330,000 kg/year!

To learn more about the new era of the world’s freshwater laboratory, visit iisd.org/ ela/donate. an

Students (and their canine friends) come to IISD Experimental Lakes Area to get their hands wet and learn about this unique approach to freshwater science.

Beat the Silent Killer: CO Safety

INFORMATION PROVIDED BY FEDERATION OF COTTAGERS’ ASSOCIATIONS (FOCA)

If you have a gas, oil, propane or wood-burning heating system or appliance, you need carbon monoxide (CO) alarms! CO is a colourless, odourless, tasteless gas that is referred to as “the Silent Killer.”

Safety tips

• Health Canada reminds Canadians to check for a recognized Canadian certification mark on the product when purchasing smoke or carbon monoxide (CO) alarms online or in-store. Products that do not have a recognized Canadian certification mark may not meet Canadian performance standards and could fail or operate incorrectly, putting you and your family at risk. Get more information from Health Canada online—canada.ca/health-canada.

• Every time the clocks ‘change’ (spring and fall), replace the batteries in EACH of your home—and cottage—smoke and CO detectors.

Be proactive about protecting your family!

Quick facts

• Over 50 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning in Canada, including 11 on average in Ontario.

• The Ontario Building Code requires the installation of carbon monoxide alarms in homes and other residential buildings built after 2001.

• About CO Awareness Week: Establishing an annual awareness week was part of Bill 77, passed in 2013, which made CO alarms mandatory in all Ontario homes. CO Awareness Week is held in early November, but cottagers should be aware of CO safety year-round.

More information

Get online info about CO from the Technical Standards & Safety Authority at cosafety.ca/needtoknow and the Ontario Fire Marshal at ontario.ca/page/office-fire-marshal.

Let’s calculate and then commit to reducing our carbon footprint

Granite Island camp owner and water quality specialist Sharon Gurney is stepping into Rosemary Robertson’s shoes to continue exploring how we, as individuals, can tread wisely and with a lighter step in the natural world.

BY SHARON GURNEY

Climate change continues to impact the globe, including here in Canada. Intense summer and winter storms, floods and droughts have once again affected Canadians this past year. Although governments, industry and businesses are making progress in reducing carbon emissions, we shouldn’t feel helpless in our own abilities to help achieve these goals. One important way we can tread wisely with a lighter step in the natural world is to incorporate small or simple changes in our consumer choices and behaviours.

But where do we begin? Confused about where to start if you want to help the planet?

Begin by taking inventory of your current level of carbon emissions, known as your carbon footprint. This will help guide what changes you can make and how you can mentor others to take similar steps to protect our planet.

There are a host of free 'Carbon Footprint Calculators' available online, but one that allows us to consider a wide range of our lifestyle and purchasing decisions we make at home, at the grocery store, and in our transportation choices is from ClimateHero (weigh-in.climatehero.me). Take five minutes to answer some questions, and you will get a report back to tell you both what positive actions you already achieved, and where you can make additional greenhouse gas emission reductions. ClimateHero also offers you some options if you choose to support a carbon offset project to help compensate for your own carbon footprint.

A few simple choices to cut your carbon footprint

• Challenge your family to commit to meatless Mondays, as meat production is responsible for a large amount of greenhouse gas emissions.

• Compost your vegetable scraps and yard waste. Unlike a composting bin, decomposing plant waste buried deep in a landfill generates significant amounts of methane, a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide. That homemade compost will not only reduce methane release from landfills, but it will become a great fertilizer for your garden.

• Pass along gently used clothing to others. Clothing manufacturing generates significant greenhouse gas emissions. It is estimated that the fashion industry is responsible for 8-10 per cent of global emissions, which is more than aviation and shipping combined. You can also donate and purchase second-hand clothes and household goods from second-hand stores. Bonus— you can help a charitable organization at the same time. The Salvation Army and Twice as Nice in Kenora have a treasure trove of items to choose from.

• Buy battery-operated rather than gas-powered equipment. Next time you need to replace a brokendown gas-guzzling lawnmower, snowblower, ice-auger, lawnmower, and yes even a chainsaw… choose a batteryoperated, or a plug-in electric alternative. Not only will this cut emissions, but your neighbours will appreciate the lower decibels arising from your property. This provides the added bonus of reducing the risk of gas and oil spills that may contaminate nearby waterways.

• Reduce your plastic use, as most plastics are made from fossil fuels. If you really need a plastic item, try to find one made of bioplastic or recycled plastic. At the grocery store, choose unpackaged bulk items whenever possible, and bring re-usable produce bags along with your re-usable grocery bags.

• Re-use building materials whenever possible. Look to salvage materials like brick, metals, concrete, or wood. Salvaged materials typically have a much lower carbon footprint than newly manufactured materials since the carbon to manufacture them has already been spent. With reclaimed wood in particular, we can save the energy that not only went into its production, but that tree left standing is still sequestering carbon. Choose high-recycled content materials. Virgin steel, for example, can have an embodied carbon footprint that is five times greater than high-recycled content steel.

Challenge yourself next time you are making a major purchase. Do you really need to own it, or could you maybe rent or borrow it instead? At the recent United Nations COP27 Convention on Climate Change, Canada reaffirmed its target to reduce the country’s oil and gas industry’s methane emissions by at least 75 per cent by 2030 and committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

We can help achieve this critical objective by understanding our own carbon footprint, and then taking steps to reduce it by treading just a little more wisely. an

Louise Lake Acreage $849,000

Myrtle Rapids, Wpg River INQUIRE

Private Island, LOTW $695,000

Blindfold Lake $365,000

Island View Condo Unit #304 $595,000

Lot 14 Winnipeg River $199,000

A question of food security

BY ANITA & HENRY RASMUSSEN

Years ago, when Canada was a rural country, a full root cellar supplemented by preserved and canned meats, fruits and vegetables ensured a sufficient food supply for the winter months. Visits to the grocery store were few and far between, mainly for staples like salt, sugar and flour. In Great Britain’s “Victory Gardens” every square inch of yard and allotment was planted with vegetables keeping people fed during the WWII blitz.

Today, most of us go about our daily routines and live our lives taking for granted the ready availability of food. After all, there is always a grocery store close by with a wide variety of choices. Prices may have risen of late causing us to reevaluate and edit the grocery list, but generally, when it comes to eating, there is little to worry about.

For many others, things are different.

As our population becomes increasingly urbanized there are fewer opportunities for food self-sufficiency. The news regarding the future is almost all alarming. Scientists speculate that by the year 2050 some 800 million people will be undernourished. Food banks are strained to the limit though most new consumers are actually employed, some with two or more jobs. However, the bulk of their paycheque must go to fixed expenses like rent, transportation and utilities. The only thing left to save on is food, putting unusual pressure on food banks and other community programs when money runs out.

The reasons for this are many and complex: rising inflation, unusually high prices combined with low wages, transportation fuel costs, and unusual weather events,

to name but a few—all beyond the scope of this article and out of most people’s control. It comes down to whether everyone is able to access a reliable, affordable, sufficient supply of nutritious food. In other words: food security.

There are no easy answers to the question of food security for everyone. Though we currently produce more than enough food to feed every person on the planet, millions go to bed hungry every night. Experts point to global political unrest and wars as reasons why the equitable distribution of foodstuffs does not reach those who need it most. Again, the causes are complex and not easily resolved. Some scientists believe that far too much arable land is being used for animal feed and biofuels rather than to feed people, and that our future diets will have to include far less meat than we now consume.

Another problem is the huge amount of food spoiled or thrown away. One estimate is that as much as 60 per cent of food produced is wasted on its way along the food chain. Stores and restaurants have historically been hampered from distributing discounted food by restrictive regulations. There is news that

Title photo: Many of us can secure our own food supply by growing it ourselves.

this is about to change for the better with proposed legislation allowing grocery stores to sell their produce at 35 cents or less on the dollar. Also, the “best-before-date” on much produce has been investigated and found to be a guideline rather than a hard and fast rule.

The soil on which we grow the bulk of our food is increasingly threatened. Though many farmers test their soil regularly and use fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides sparingly as needed, many do not. Monoculture, combined with the indiscriminate use of such additives is very hard on soil and can render it eventually useless.

Researchers are working on a number of developments to address these many issues, so there is hope. For example, a perennial wheat called Kernza already in commercial production in the U.S., is one such innovation. It keeps the soil intact, captures carbon and outcompetes with weeds without chemical fertilizers though its yields are lower than that of conventional wheat. Meanwhile, a variety of foods are being produced in bioreactors, apparently indistinguishable from the real thing. Such innovations will require much collaboration and cooperation between communities, farmers, investors, corporations and governing bodies. A tall order?

Perhaps, but a secure supply of food for everyone is possible. There are encouraging signs of food security efforts happening locally as well. Harvest Kenora is one such venture which emphasizes growing food and building community by holding public gardening events. A variety of community events are

held at the outdoor gardens as well as preservation workshops (i.e., canning) at harvest time with an increasing core group of participants and volunteers. Read more at harvestkenora.ca.

Humble Harvest, at 1301 Railway Street, is run entirely by volunteers and receives and donates food which would otherwise be thrown away from local stores. Presently open every Wednesday, they hope to increase pick-ups to two days weekly. Donations not acceptable for human consumption are passed on to local farmers for animal feed resulting in less food wastage. You can find Humble Harvest on Facebook.

On a personal level, many of us can secure our own food supply by growing a portion of good food in our backyard or on the deck.

Mark Bittman’s definition of “good food” nicely sums up the entire concept of food security:

“Good food should benefit everyone who produces it, everyone who works with it, and everyone who eats it. It must be fair and just in the areas of farming, labour, and the environment; it must be nutritious, and everyone should be able to find and afford it.”

SOURCES AND RECOMMENDED READING:

Feeding the Planet by Klaus Hahlbrock (2009)

Regenesis by George Monbiot (2022)

How to be a Climate Optimist by Chris Turner (2022)

‘ON-WATER’ DEALERSHIP:

Cooking up some great memories

BY PAT DREW, WILDCAT ISLAND, LAKE OF THE WOODS

For LOWDSA’S (then LOWDPOA) 50th anniversary in 2012, we decided to do a commemorative cookbook, Cooking Up Great Food & Good Times at the Lake. I was the lead for the project, which involved collecting recipes and orders for printed copies. In doing so, I made a lot of new lake friends—some on an island right across from me! We couldn't believe we had all been neighbours for over 20 years but had not met before. We are still friends and get together as often as possible each summer to enjoy “Great Food” “Good Times” and of course a glass or two of wine. In the summer of 2013, I hosted a lady’s luncheon for friends, where every dish served was from the LOWDPOA cookbook. Unfortunately or fortunately, we were all so busy having a good time that no one took photos. A few of us even talked this past summer about doing a 10th anniversary of that memorable luncheon this summer.

Cooking Up Great Food & Good Times has long been my “go to” for many recipes. I haven’t been disappointed yet.

This Beer Beef Stew recipe was featured in the cookbook. I originally got the recipe from another cookbook, “Fare for Friends” that was gifted to me by a friend. It was put together by a group of women from Oakville, Ontario, to raise money for a shelter for women and children experiencing domestic abuse. Interestingly enough, one or two other people from the lake also submitted recipes from “Fare for Friends”. It really is a small world.

In the Winter issue Member Recipe, we incorrectly listed LOWDSA’s president Garth Collier as being on Black Sturgeon Lake, when his piece of paradise is actually Schnarr Lake.

Beer Beef Stew

INGREDIENTS

2 lb. stewing beef, cubed

3 to 4 onions, quartered

1 can tomato soup (19 oz./540 ml)

1 can beer

4 tbsp Bisto powdered gravy browner

6 medium potatoes cut into chunks

6 to 8 carrots cut into chunks

Lots of freshly ground pepper

I also add 1 small turnip cut into chunks, frozen peas/corn.

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange uncooked beef cubes and onions in a large casserole. Add pepper, tomato soup, beer and Bisto. Mix gently and cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for two hours. Remove from oven and add vegetables except for peas and corn. Cover and return to oven for one more hour or until vegetables are cooked. Add peas and corn about 10 minutes before serving.

This is really good on a cool spring or fall day with a French baguette to soak up the gravy!

Note that Cooking Up Great Food & Good Times is now out of print. If you have one, it’s a gem to be treasured.

Cooking Up Great Food & Good Times at the Lake

• Published in 2013

• 408 recipes were received from 160 members as well as reprints of some recipes included in previous issues of Area News and in the Lake of the Woods Museum Cookery Book

• Members’ lake locations included all areas of Lake of the Woods, 13 smaller lakes in the region and Kenora, Laclu, Malachi, Minaki, and Morson

• Members’ home bases included five Canadian provinces, eight from the United States, as well as Bangladesh, Japan, London and the Bahamas.

• The original order for 500 cookbooks sold out before summer and more were ordered.

ERRATA

Although the draft cookbook was proofread by several people, mistakes happen. The most obvious and embarrassing was the meat being omitted from the Home Made Salami recipe submitted by Pat Alvestad of Kenora. If you use the cookbook as faithfully as I do, you may wish to make the following corrections:

Page 10, Home Made Salami

Add the following after first paragraph: (First printing only) 6 lbs. extra lean ground meat (beef, pork or turkey or a combination thereof), ¼ cup curing salt.

Page 35, Mexican Soup

Change 1 cup water to 1 can water (First printing only)

Page 112, BBQ Beer Chicken

Last sentence of first paragraph change “beef” to “beer”

Page 223, Cherry Squares

Delete 1 tsp. almond coconut

By Jacob Rodenburg & Drew Monkman

One of our favourite expressions is… “how early it becomes late.” This is especially true when it comes to seasonal change. Yesterday’s buds have burst into leaves and where once stood a field of dried and withered grass, now there is a lush carpet of green. Before we know it, the forest will be tinted with orange and yellow, as autumn arrives yet again.

But let’s stop a moment and take the time to savour this spring. How? By opening up all of our senses and tuning into the marvellous colours, textures, smells and beauty this season brings. Here are a few activities to enhance your connection to Spring—the season of rebirth and renewal.

Nature framed

Sometimes, just by isolating a small piece of the natural world, we come to see it in an entirely different way. Try an old photographer’s trick. Take one hand and extend it outward. Turn your hand inward with your thumb pointing down and your fingers pressed together. Extend your other hand and flip your hand with your thumb pointing upward. Joint your two hands together and you should have a frame that you can see through. Close one eye and scan the natural world for an image that really captivates you.

Now go to an area that has the potential for some eye-catching views. It could be where the edge of a lawn meets the woods, or perhaps a curving hill or a meandering pathway. Take with you some rope, twine or string, some empty frames and some clothes pins.

To make an empty frame, you could simply glue together large popsicle sticks into a square. Or go to your local hardware store and ask for four paint stirrers. Nail these together to form a larger square.

Tie your rope, string or twine about eye level across various points that look appealing. Hang your frames using clothes pins, anywhere along the rope that looks appealing. Or simply lay your frame on-top of something natural that catches your eye. When you’ve selected a perfect spot, come up with a creative name for your piece. Perhaps it is “Riot of Colour” or “A Study in Green.” Have an art exhibit where you all have an opportunity to see each other’s creation.

Sometimes, just by isolating a small piece of the natural world, we come to see it in an entirely different way.

Photo: Jacob Rodenburg.

Japanese viewing party

How wonderful the unfurling of the petals of a flower! In Japan, people practice “Hanami,” or flower viewing. People would sip plum brandy and sit and watch as cherry blossoms emerged, petal by petal, on a warm spring day. The concept of watching something beautiful in nature— for example, a sunset or a sunrise—with intention and in community, can be a powerful experience.

Create your own viewing party: Find something lovely in nature. It doesn’t have to be big to be beautiful. Perhaps a small grove of wildflowers, an interestingly shaped tree, an intriguing looking rock or a small stream. Walk silently to your spot. Arrange yourselves so that everyone has a nice view. Simply sit still and watch. If you’d like, hand out something refreshing to each person in small glasses such as orange juice (or yes you could try plum brandy!). Sip and quietly soak in the beauty that is around you. Give it the time that it requires. Don’t be in a rush. Silently watching as the natural world unfolds of its own accord, is a wonderful counterpoint to the frenzy of our fast-paced modern world. Offer up your time, your mindfulness and your patience, to truly savour that which you are immersed in. You will feel a sense of belonging and connectedness that all of us yearn for. And in so doing, you will feel that much more complete.

Clothes pin view

When we go for a walk, we tend to notice what is right in front of us. We forget that nature is in a constant state of change. To truly appreciate how quickly the natural world transforms each and every day, try this:

During early spring, take a clothes pin and write your name on it. Clip it to a tree bud just as the trees are about to bud out. Visit your clothes pin each day and notice how your bud changes. Attend to all that emerges—leaves, stems, and sometimes even flowers. If you can, take a photo-graph of your bud each day. Create a mural of your photos showing how notice how your bud changes over time. By focusing on one particular spot in the natural world, we begin to appreciate the beauty, yet ephemeral nature of life.

Nature sculptures

Nature creates beautiful forms, patterns and textures everywhere you look. You can mimic these be creating your own beautiful natural sculpture. To get inspired, visit Andy Goldsworthy’s art online. The key is to only use natural materials. Here is how:

• Find a natural area that is not too heavily impacted by humans.

• If you are going to pick something—say a wildflower or small section of an evergreen bough—only take a little bit from one area and then move along. Never pick a whole plant. Or you can simply only make your sculpture out of dead material.

• In groups of two or three, create a nature sculpture— think about pattern, color, texture, shape. Consider the organic and flowing forms that occur in nature. Your piece can be flat on the ground, free-standing, or hanging from something.

• Practice reciprocity. I often take seeds with me and plant them as a way of giving back to the environment.

• Have participants name their creation.

• Take a photo of each piece.

• Now it is time for an art exhibit. Go for a tour of the various sculptures. When you are finished, allow the natural world to reconstitute the art into something natural once again. Share with others.

This “clothes pin view” shows the progression of a bud going to leaf. Photo: Jacob Rodenburg.

You can mimicthebeautifulforms, patterns and textures thatnaturecreates.Photo: Jacob Rodenburg

Real Estate Listings

Nestor Falls

Water access cabin on island a short boat ride from landing. Visit our website for more information.

$169,000

Northwoods Realty

807-226-1024 / northwoodsrealtyltd.com

Lot 9 Pipestone Point, LOTW

Here is a beautiful 0.9-acre lot in Kenora's prime fishing area. Sheltered bay with sand beach and flat areas for building your dream home. Well known to the Kenora locals and sought after. Don't miss out on this opportunity!

$170,000

Cabin Country Realty

807-468-3541 / cabincountry.com

Lot 5 Deception Lake

Escape to your own Deception Lake retreat! Great water quality and fishing. This off-grid cottage has a modern solar system, new composting toilet, and yard space. Enjoy a functional wood stove, screened verandah, and easy boat access.

$299,000

Cabin Country Realty

807-468-3541 / cabincountry.com

41 Lily Pad Bay

1.39 acre vacant lot on LOTW offers a driveway, travel trailer, and path to the water. 131 ft of water frontage w/ a long pipe dock that can park up to 4 boats. Building site is partially cleared.

$359,900

Century 21 Northern Choice Realty Ltd.

Independently Owned & Operated – Brokerage 807-468-3747 / century21kenora.com

325 Second Street South

Substantially renovated two storey commercial building configured as 5 residential apartments, 2 commercial spaces on street level & full useable basement with back lane parking for 10. List of upgrades on file.

$1,695,000 + applicable HST

Shelley Torrie Home & Cottage Realty 807-547-4020 / kenora-realestate.com

55 Darlington Trail

Located on Middle Lake (access to Wpg River) this custom 2-bdrm, 1 bath home has room to expand & comes with plans for the matching dream home! 210 ft. of water frontage & dock.

$649,900

Century 21 Northern Choice Realty Ltd.

Independently Owned & Operated – Brokerage 807-468-3747 / century21kenora.com

Myrtle Rapids, Wpg River

This 1900 sq ft 3 BR, 2 bath cottage sits on a low profile 2 acre lot with 250' of sunset facing shoreline. Features include a large loft area, screen room, tiled shower and a nice dock area.

INQUIRE

Carmichael Real Estate Inc. 807-466-2236 / lakeofthewoods.net

Welcome Channel, LOTW

24+ acres, 574 feet of deep water rock shoreline. Hydro transformer, small cabin on site. South exposure, multiple build site options. Exceptional privacy. Water access.

$949,000

Greg Kirby, Re/Max First Choice Realty Ltd 807-466-8266 / gregkirby.ca

Lot 10 Webb Road

Two homes/cottages with 136 ft. of waterfrontage on Rice Bay & 218 ft. on Lulu Lake. This low profile, level property is situated in Laclu and in unorganized territory. (Low property taxes and less restrictions.)

$499,000

RE/MAX NorthWest Realty Brokerage 807-468-4573 / remaxnorthwestrealty.com

Classifieds

How to submit Classifieds

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

Next submission deadline: March 31, 2023 Please try to keep your listing to 35 words or less.

FOR RENT

Lakefront Cottage with road access. Main house has 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Air conditioned bunk house has a toilet and sleeps 6. Large dock includes 5 kayaks. Hot tub overlooks the lake in a private screened room. Weekly rental available. Phone 204 888 4698 for availability.

Bulman Bay, Lake of the Woods. Private Cottage for rent in prime location. Located on Bulman Bay near Keewatin, 10 minutes down McKenzie Portage Road. Lake front with dock, 4 bedrooms, full bath with washer & dryer, good size kitchen, wood burning fireplace & satellite TV. Recently renovated. Available January through December. Minimum 2 week stay. $5,000/week. Email inquiries to hklapman@mwgapparel.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.

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

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. Storm Bay Rd, 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. $2,500/ week. Text 204-951-5812.

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.

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, Sioux Narrows. 2 BR main cottage includes 2 baths, large great room, full kitchen with dishwasher, dining room with French doors, wet bar, laundry, BBQ, internet/tv, private docking & swim dock. Also included is guest cottage with full bath. Located on Snake Bay, beautiful water views on 3 sides. Minutes from store, gas, groceries. $2500/week- 2 week minimum. Price negotiable for longer term or seasonal renter. Contact laurel.whitla@gmail.com or (204) 298-5527.

Lakefront summer home w/ road access. Yacht Club Stretch-Kenora. 2400sqft cottage c/w 2x large great rooms both w/ vaulted ceilings & 400 sqft screen room c/w 2nd dining area. Low profile lot w/ minimal stairs to camp is great for seniors. New fully equipped kitchen & new dining area. 3 bedrooms. Full 2nd bathrm w/ tub & shower. Satellite TV, high speed internet [unlimited], washer & dryer. Large deck & BBQ. Lots of dock space for swimming, fishing & boat parking. 15 minutes down McKenzie Portage Rd. $5,000/wk, or option 1 avail June 12-July 15th @ $14,000; OR, option 2 June 12-June 29 @ $7,000. Contact jbanfield@joebanfield.com.

Lakefront Cottage for Rent - Locke Bay. Road access 15 minutes North West of Kenora. Built in 2017 with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. South exposure with private dock. Fully furnished. Includes

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Satellite TV, Internet, A/C, BBQ and fire pit. Would prefer a seasonal rental May - September $22,000 or $2000 week (2 week minimum). Please email kenoracottage@hotmail.com for more information.

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.

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.

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

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.

Antique Strand Woodburning Cookstove. White, with some black trim. Includes bun warmer, wood box, oven, boiler, 6 elements. Very good condition. $500. Must be able to take it away. Call or text 204-781-3504.

10x10 old log shed. 14" overhang. The bottom has some rot but if someone is interested in dismantling and moving it to a new foundation it would be a very cool garden shed or playhouse for kids. We'd just love to see it repurposed as it is pretty cool. Dismantling/PU at Trinity Bay (boat access only) Email mridgen@aptn.ca.

SCUBA EQUIPMENT. Selling as total package only. Items in "Like new" condition. Includes wet suit with two sets of regulators, two air tanks, both re-certified May 2022, face masks, flippers, diver's hoods, gloves, weight belts, etc., etc. $1,200 for everything. Phone 204-333-7182.

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.

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

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

2020 Bennington Pontoon Boat Model 20 SV with 2020 60 HP Yamaha outboard & 2021 Karavan trailer. Mint condition - 21 hours. Live well, 2 rear fishing chairs. Stored Falcon Lake. $39,500. Contact 289-696-3527.

Windsurfer Brand Sailboard with two sails. One sail is much larger than the smaller sail. Both are in great condition. Board could also be used as a paddle board. With center, dagger board in, very stable. Available May long weekend. $500. Call or text 620 363 1122. After May Long: local 807 543 2714.

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. $40,000 USD. Contact at 204-292-3970.

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.

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.

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A Lake of the Woods medical discovery

The fisheries on Lake of the Woods are renowned for many reasons. Historically, sturgeon caviar from this lake supplied markets across North America and Europe. The lake’s walleye is considered the best eating fish on earth by some! And catching the lake’s hard-fighting muskie is a once-in-a-lifetime dream for some anglers. But Lake of the Woods fisheries and a medical discovery?

BY LORI NELSON

The story begins around 1915 when an American by the name of Joseph Rowell uprooted his family from their home in Chetlo Harbour, Washington and moved halfway across the country to settle on the southern shores of Lake of the Woods at Wheeler’s Point (at the mouth of the Rainy River). There, Rowell established his commercial fishing operation, Rowell Fishery. He’d brought with him some experience in the business, having operated a salmon fishing and canning business on the west coast. He, with a partner, also formed The Northern Blue Fox Farm, a lucrative business of raising blue foxes for the fur industry.

A commercial fishing business and a fur farm worked well together. Any rough fish, not sellable, became feed for the foxes. One of those rough fish, the burbot (also known as eel pout, ling and lawyer) regularly filled his nets and found their way into the feeding troughs for the foxes.

It was often noted by fur buyers that the fox fur from Rowell’s farm was far superior to what they were seeing elsewhere and that observation led Joe Rowell and his son Ted, a newly minted pharmacist, to suspect that it might be the burbot that was responsible.

It was unfortunate circumstances—a fire that destroyed his drugstore in Baudette and the inability to rebuild right away— that allowed Ted the time to research their theory of the burbot. His experiments ultimately revealed that the oil from the burbot liver was remarkably high in Vitamins A and D. In fact, the assays done on the vitamin content, conducted by the Parke-Davis and Eli Lilly companies, well-established American pharmaceutical companies, indicated that the burbot oil was six to eight times stronger than cod liver oil which was being served up by the spoonful in households across America for its general health benefits. As an aside, burbot is the only species of cod that lives in fresh water.

With confirmation that the burbot liver oil’s benefits extended well beyond fine fur coats on Rowell’s foxes, Ted set to work determining how to best extract the oil from the burbot liver. He also worked on the finer points of dosage. This led to packaging, marketing and distribution.

Around 1935, Joe and Ted Rowell incorporated the Burbot Liver Products Company and in 1937 the company was accepted by the American Medical Association. So potent was the burbot oil that it was dispensed in a dropper bottle. It’s reported that one of their first orders was from the Pepsodent Co. for 36 million bottles. At the time, it was an impossible order to fill. Eventually, the company developed ointments and soft gel capsules.

Within five years the company was buying a half million pounds of burbot livers each year and were doing business with 30 commercial fishermen on Lake of the Woods and others who were operating on lakes in northern Minnesota.

Growth in the company was significant. By the mid 1940s, it was producing 200 different products, including prescription drugs, multi-vitamins and multi-mineral supplements. Its market extended throughout the midwestern states. With expansion came a name change. In 1949, the company was operating as Rowell Laboratories and there was a shift away from burbot liver-based products as less expensive vitamin sources became available. Mergers and buy-outs started in the mid 1980s and today, what was once the Burbot Liver Products Company, has been absorbed into the Abbott Laboratories, Inc. of Wisconsin. It is a wonder that the lowly burbot, average weight of two pounds (although a record-breaking 19+ pound ling was caught on Lake of the Woods in 2019), was at the heart of a medical discovery and the beginnings of a thriving pharmaceutical company.

Lake Life Awaits You

Established in 1990, Cabin Country realty ltd. has been helping families and couples fulfill their dreams of owning property in beautiful Northwestern Ontario.

With over three decades of experience, our expert team has assisted a diverse range of lakefront buyers and sellers in realizing their homeownership goals.

As the spring market is underway, now is a great time to start exploring your options. Whether you’re searching for a vacation home, a forever home, or an investment property, let us help you turn this area into your playground!

BIRCHWOOD CRESCENT | $599,000

WOODFIELD DRIVE | KENORA | $724,900 ISLAND G804 PTARMIGAN BAY | $799,000

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