Issuu

Volume 56

Number 4

Fall 2026

REFLECTIONS ON A CHANGING SHORELINE:

Balancing nostalgia and environmental protection on Black Sturgeon

LIFE, SCIENCE & COMMUNITY ON THE LAKE Unlocking freshwater science at IISD-ELA

Measuring fish metabolism to reveal the true impact of microplastics Cottage shut-down checklist

Your simple guide to a safe, worry-free off-season Growing local resilience:

Muriel Shore Farms’ Jacob Boutwell explores food independence and shares his farm-fresh Kimchi recipe

RBC Dominion Securities Inc.

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Cover photo by Kim Pirie-Milko.

3 | LOWDSA A NOTE FROM LOWDSA 3 PHOTO CONTEST WINNER

LakeSmart summer 2026 recap 6 GOVERNMENT NOTES 9

13 | IN THE DISTRICT WATER LEVELS Summer lake level impacted by low levels of precipitation 13

Updates on Kenora’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan 14

23 | ENVIRONMENT Before you fire up the chainsaw... 23

In this issue

IISD-ELA How do we know what microplastics are doing to freshwater fish? 25

18 THE LAKE THAT RAISED ME: BLACK STURGEON’S CHANGING SHORELINE BY MIMI MASTROMATTEO

LWWSF Mining in the Basin: Understanding the role of mining in watershed stewardship 27 LWWSF From farm fıelds to Lake of the Woods 30

33 | LIVING

42 LESSONS FROM THE GEESE BY JACOB RODENBURG & DREW MONKMAN

Cottage winter shutdown checklist 33 ROOTED REFLECTIONS Long-term food security: we can all play a role 35

48 THE KEEWATIN REDUCTION WORKS BY LORI NELSON LAKE EXPLORERS... Find the Paddle! Did you find the paddle in the Summer issue on page 37? Keep an eye out again—the paddle is no longer “under construction” so where is it now?

TREADING WISELY Wood you believe it? The case for tree diversity 37 DOCKSIDE DISHES Kimchi

56 | SERVICES CLASSIFIEDS 45 REAL ESTATE LISTINGS 46 ADVERTISERS’ DIRECTORY 47

GOOD LUCK! We’ll reveal its location in the next issue.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDSA

Community based since 1971.

1666 Hwy 17 W | Keewatin, ON | P0X 1C0 | 807.547.3366

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A Note from LOWDSA  BRIE MCCARDLE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The open water season always seems to fly by, leaving us wondering where the time went. Before long, the boats will be coming out of the water, the leaves will begin to turn, and the familiar rhythm of fall will settle across the region. But before we say goodbye to another memorable summer, I’d like to take a moment to reflect and recognize some of the people who made it such a success.

irst and foremost, thank you to our incredible LakeSmart team. Cass, Ashley, Kailyn and Mimi have been the face of stewardship across our watershed all summer long. Whether they were out on the water conducting boat inspections, mapping invasive species, speaking with property owners, delivering educational programs, or representing LOWDSA at community events, they approached every opportunity with enthusiasm, professionalism, and an impressive wealth of knowledge. Their passion for protecting our lakes shines through in every conversation they have, and we’re incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated team.

Questions? Comments? Stories to share?

Thank you, ladies, for your hard work, energy, and commitment to caring for the place we all love. This summer reminded us just how powerful and unpredictable nature can be. We experienced stretches of intense heat, big rains and periods of wildfire smoke. The region was hit by record-breaking rainfall that brought flash flooding, washed-out roads, damaged docks, and created challenging conditions for many residents and cottagers. To everyone who was affected, we hope the cleanup went smoothly and that you were able to enjoy the beautiful days that followed. Living or playing in the area teaches us to appreciate both the calm and the chaos that come with sharing this incredible landscape. I’d also like to offer our gratitude to the firefighters, emergency responders, and support staff who worked countless hours throughout the wildfire season. Their dedication and willingness to step up when our communities need them most deserve our deepest appreciation. As we move into the quieter months of the year, many of us find ourselves with a little more time to reflect on the future of the places we care about. If you’ve ever considered becoming more involved with LOWDSA, now is a wonderful time. We’re currently looking for volunteers to join our Government Affairs Committee. The Government Affairs Committee monitors government actions that may affect our members. As directed by the Board of Directors, the Committee will represent LOWDSA on related outside committees, inform members on issues that may affect their property, and prepare responses to government on specific issues. All you need is a willingness to stay informed, ask questions, and help us advocate for healthy lakes and responsible decision-making. Summer may be winding down, but stewardship never takes a season off. As we enjoy the beautiful colours of autumn and begin looking ahead to another year, thank you for being part of our community and for helping ensure Lake of the Woods remains healthy, vibrant, and thriving for generations to come.

P.O. Box 1160 Kenora, ON P9N 3X7 EMAIL: info@lowdsa.com PHONE: 807-444-8715

M N LOWDSAssoc P S LOWDSA V Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDSA

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.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association PAST PRESIDENT Garth Collier, Schnarr Lake TREASURERS Carley Fyke, Welcome Channel;

Jeff Rempel, Pine Portage Bay CHAIR, MEMBERSHIP Trevor Templeton, Minaki CHAIR, GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS Don Parfitt, Winnipeg River CHAIR, ENVIRONMENT Sean Campbell, Woodchuck Bay DIRECTORS AT LARGE Martha Mankewich, Nanton

Davis Halverson - Halverson & Son Construction Ltd. 807-407-8868 • halversonandson@gmail.com

Island; Garth Collier, Schnarr Lake; Bob Stewart, Longbow Lake; James Williams, Kenora; Meghan Mills, Pelican Pouch; Joanne Tuckwell, Clearwater Bay; Natalie James, Roughrock Lake; Leigh McKenzie, Sioux Narrows EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Brie McCardle, 807-444-8715, executivedirector@lowdsa.com MEMBERSHIP & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

Quinn Miller, 807-444-8715, communications@lowdsa.com

Advertising & Publishing PUBLISHED BY Wake Marketing Inc.,

140 Main St. S., Kenora, ON P9N 1S9 PUBLISHER Mike Greaves EDITOR Leanne Fournier, editor@areanewsmagazine.ca

EXTEND YOUR COTTAGE SEASON

ART DIRECTOR Shayla Smith 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. PUBLICATION MAIL AGREEMENT #43107013 PRINTED IN CANADA © 2026 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.

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LOWDSA Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

LET THE OUTSIDE IN

Photo Contest  TAZ MASTROMATTEO, WINNER Where do you enjoy reading the Area News? Our photo contest winner, Taz Mastromatteo, enjoys reading our colourful magazine while cliff jumping! He calls it “nature’s doomscrolling” and credits his cousin, Gareth Hyslop, for capturing this awesome photo taken at the Peltier Bridge Cliffs on Black Sturgeon Lake.

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Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDSA

Kailyn and Cass testing out the new LOWDSA Heritage Paddles!

LakeSmart summer 2026 recap The 2026 summer season was another busy and rewarding one for the LakeSmart team. From community events to youth education and shoreline restoration, our goal remained the same: helping protect and care for Lake of the Woods. Throughout the summer, we connected with residents, visitors, volunteers, and local organizations to share information, answer questions, and encourage everyone to play a role in keeping our lake healthy.

ur season began with LOWDSA’s annual seedling sale over the May long weekend. This year, nearly 5,000 seedlings were sold, with pickups taking place at both the Clearwater Bay and Longbow Lake Fire Halls. Thanks to the support of our dedicated board members and the LakeSmart team, the event ran smoothly and provided property owners with an easy way to enhance shoreline health through tree planting. We’re already looking ahead to next year and exploring additional seedling options, such as tamarack and jack pine. If you miss the spring sale, don’t worry, seedlings are often still available throughout the summer leading up to our annual tree planting event in mid-July. The LakeSmart team also kicked off the season at the Kenora Home & Leisure Show, where we spent three days connecting with hundreds of community members. The event provided an excellent opportunity to answer questions about shoreline health, invasive species, and water quality while building relationships with local businesses and organizations. Visitors also had the chance

LOWDSA Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

to see our new LOWDSA Heritage paddles, with one lucky attendee taking one home as our booth’s door prize. Throughout June, July, and August, our team continued to connect with the public at the Matiowski Farmers’ Market every Wednesday, while also expanding our outreach through bi-weekly visits to the Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls market. These community markets remain one of our favourite ways to engage with residents and visitors alike. They allow for meaningful one-on-one conversations about lake stewardship, shoreline protection, and environmental concerns. Once again, our invasive species display proved to be one of the biggest conversation starters, helping educate the public about preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species. Education continues to be at the heart of everything LakeSmart does. Throughout the summer, we worked with schools and youth programs to inspire the next generation of lake stewards. Before summer holidays began, we visited Beaver Brae Secondary School, St. Louis Living Arts School, and Valleyview School, continuing partnerships that have grown over several years. It has been incredibly rewarding to see students recognize the LakeSmart team and remember lessons from previous visits. During the summer months, we also partnered with numerous day camps, including Awesome Adventures Day Camp, where LakeSmart has become a regular part of the weekly schedule. Our most popular activities included building aquatic food chains, demonstrating how pollution enters our waterways using our watershed model, and teaching participants about invasive species. These hands-on experiences encourage curiosity, environmental responsibility, and a lifelong appreciation for healthy lakes. Protecting our shorelines also remained a priority this summer. Each month, the team hosted shoreline cleanups at locations including Anicinabe Beach, Harbourfront, Norman Beach, and Scotty’s Beach. The most common items we continue to find during our cleanups are cigarette butts, food wrappers, and beverage containers. While these items may seem small, they can have a lasting impact on our beaches, wildlife, and water quality. Keeping our shorelines clean is a shared responsibility, and every piece of litter picked up helps protect the health of Lake of the Woods. Cass running our new boat decontamination station!

Left: Kailyn and Cass showing off all the garbage they picked up along the Harbourfront. Centre: Cass demonstrating the water cycle and water pollution with students. Right: LakeSmart was able to attend LOWISA, Kids KBI and offer our Metal and Electronic Waste Day at Pye’s landing.

One of the most exciting additions to this year’s program was our new Boat Decontamination Station. We are so grateful to have been provided with our own trailer and heated pressure washer system that we ran at the Moncrief Sport Centre launch. The station operated primarily on Fridays and Saturdays, along with several pop-up events throughout the week. This initiative provided boaters with an easy and effective way to reduce the risk of transporting invasive species between waterbodies while raising awareness about the importance of Clean, Drain, Dry practices. We look forward to seeing this program continue to grow in future seasons. LakeSmart also continued its storm drain painting initiative throughout Kenora. Residents may have noticed stencils around storm drains reading, “A Healthy Lake Starts Here.” This simple but effective message reminds everyone that rainwater flowing into storm drains eventually reaches our lakes. With several significant storms occurring this summer, keeping our streets free of litter was very important. This year, the team completed storm drain painting projects in Keewatin, Lakeview Drive, and McKenna Way. Community partnerships remained an important part of our work. We were pleased to present at the Ena Lake Association’s speaker series, sharing information on shoreline health and stewardship. We also partnered once again with Tall Pines Marina, setting up educational displays for boaters throughout the summer. As a Blue Flag Marina, Tall Pines shares our commitment to protecting water quality, making this collaboration a natural fit. Mid-July we hosted our annual tree planting event. Using approximately 1,800 remaining red pine seedlings, volunteers replanted a previously forested area along

Mac Lake Road. We extend a sincere thank you to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry for identifying the planting site and to the seven staff members who volunteered alongside us. Their continued partnership has helped make this annual event both efficient and rewarding. This year’s LOWISA event included a layover at Wiley Point Lodge, where the LakeSmart team set up an educational booth to connect with fellow lake users. As in previous years, we also collected empty cans and bottles from sailors, with all proceeds from the returns supporting our EISP Fund. On August 8, LakeSmart once again hosted our annual Metal and Electronic Waste Day at Pye’s Landing. The event provided residents with an easy and responsible way to dispose of unwanted metal and electronic items, helping keep these materials out of our environment and local landfills. A special thank you goes to Titan Contractors for generously providing the metal collection bins and helping make this event possible. As another successful summer wraps up, we would like to thank our volunteers, community partners, board members, and everyone who stopped by our booths, attended our programs, or participated in our events. Every conversation, cleanup, tree planted, and educational opportunity contributes to the long-term health of Lake of the Woods. an

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDSA

Proudly Canadian since 1991.

Protecting your business is our business 807.468.3333 319 Second Street South Kenora, ON

Government Notes

FEDERAL

PROVINCIAL

Remote Area Border Crossing changes affect Lake of the Woods

he Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is replacing the Remote Area Border Crossing (RABC) Program, he conceptual design phase for the Manitoba portion of which has allowed eligible Canadian and U.S. travellers to the Trans-Canada Highway (PTH 1E) twinning project, enter Canada through designated remote border areas without extending from west of Falcon Lake to the Ontario border, reporting in person at a port of entry. Lake of the Woods is officially concluded in May 2026. While the study examined included in the RABC area. According to the latest information potential corridor options for twinning the highway, Manitoba published by CBSA, the RABC Program is scheduled to end Transportation and Infrastructure has determined that more September 14, 2026, with existing permits valid until 11:59 investigation is needed before selecting a preferred route. p.m. September 13. Under the new system, travellers entering Due to the project’s scale and complexity, further Canada through remote areas will need to report to CBSA technical, environmental, and stakeholder reviews will be either at a port of entry or at a designated telephone reporting undertaken to ensure Indigenous Rights Holder interests, site. CBSA has been working to establish reporting locations in environmental considerations, and community feedback areas formerly covered by the RABC program. are fully incorporated into the decision-making process. The The change is particularly important for the Lake of the project will now move into the functional design phase, where Woods region, where cross-border boating, fishing, tourism additional studies and engagement opportunities will help and seasonal property ownership are common. Private guide the selection of a preferred corridor. recreational boaters will be able to use designated telephone Residents, stakeholders, and Indigenous communities will reporting procedures where available; however, chartered have future opportunities to provide input and stay informed vessels, including fishing charters and vessels carrying as planning progresses. passengers for payment, are excluded from telephone reporting and will need to follow other CBSA reporting requirements. LOWDSA will continue to monitor the transition and share information as CBSA confirms reporting locations and procedures for the Lake of the Woods area.

Highway twinning

Deep geological repository nuclear waste management

T Limited-edition LOWDSA Heritage Paddle, locally sourced and made in Northwestern Ontario. This lightweight paddle is perfect for outdoor exploring or cottage decor Every purchase supports LOWDSA’s stewardship work, helping us protect and celebrate the lake for generations to come.

$135 each

he Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) has moved into the formal federal regulatory process for the proposed deep geological repository for Canada’s used nuclear fuel in the Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation–Ignace area. In August, NWMO released the final design for its Centre of Expertise in Ignace, a planned approximately $50-million facility intended to support research, public engagement and knowledge-sharing. The centre is expected to open in 2028. At the same time, the proposed repository continues to face opposition from some Indigenous communities, citizen and environmental groups, with concerns including potential impacts on water, the environment, Indigenous rights and the transportation of nuclear waste. The project remains subject to federal impact assessment and regulatory review and has not yet been approved for construction. For Northwestern Ontario communities, including those connected to the Lake of the Woods watershed, continued participation in the regulatory process will be important as environmental, transportation, water and long-term stewardship questions are examined. an

Visit lowdsa.com/shop or call 807-444-8715 to order yours today! As part of the LOWDSA Membership perks, members receive a $30 discount! Be sure to sign in to your membership account if ordering online to receive the member pricing. Please note that shipping is not available at this time. Paddle purchases must be picked up in the Kenora area.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LOWDSA

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL

Renew online, or use this form to renew by mail or email. Your continued support of LOWDSA's programs and initiatives does make a difference. Member Name:_______________________________________________

Renew Your Membership

You can choose between a Full Membership (magazine mailed) or a Virtual Membership (digital magazine). » Full Membership: 1 YR ($80) | 2 YR ($160) » Virtual Membership: 1 YR ($80) | 2 YR ($160)

TOTAL $ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

LOGIN EMAIL:_____________________________________________ Alternate Email: ______________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ City:_______________________________ Prov/State:________________

EISP Fund

A donation of $5 from each member would support an entire LakeSmart position and contribute to LOWDSA’s mobile boat wash station! Contributions to the EISP Fund can be made online any time at lowdsa.com/eisp-fund $250 $100 $50 $25 Other: $ ________________________________

Country: __________________________ Postal/ZIP: _______________

TOTAL $ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Home Phone: _________________________________________________ Cottage Phone: ______________________________________________ Mobile Phone: ________________________________________________ YES, send my renewal notice by email

Gift Membership

To purchase multiple gift memberships, please attach each individual’s contact information to this contact form. Full Membership, $80 Virtual Membership, $80 Recipient’s Name: _________________________________________ Recipient’s Email: _________________________________________ Recipient’s Address: _______________________________________

RENEW ONLINE Use your smartphone camera app to scan this QR code and login to renew your LOWDSA membership online.

Please send give card with message: ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

TOTAL $ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

You can also contribute to our EISP Fund, purchase pine seedlings, and order gift memberships while you’re there!

RENEW BY PHONE 807-444-8715

RENEW BY EMAIL membership@lowdsa.com lowdsa.com

GRAND TOTAL $ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Red Pine Seedlings Seedlings will be available for purchase at the Matiowski Farmers’ Market while quantities last!

Payment Options Credit card:

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Card #____________________________________________________ Expiry (mm/yy) __________ / __________ CVC# __________

M N LOWDSAssoc P S LOWDSA V Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association 807-444-8715 | info@lowdsa.com | Box 1160, Kenora, Ontario P9N 3X7

BU ILDING DRE DRE A M S

Water Levels  JEFF POLAKOFF, LOWDSA REPRESENTATIVE, LAKE OF THE WOODS CONTROL BOARD

Kenora Funnel Cloud July 6, 2026. Photo: George Papaioannou, Hydro One

in the reduction of outflows from the International Dam at Rainy Lake and reduced inflow to Lake of the Woods. As a result of these dry conditions and low flows the Control Board Secretariat began to make small and gradual outflow reductions at the Norman Dam into the Winnipeg River to balance the conditions on the lake and the river. These reductions were consistent with the spring regulation strategy which covers the period until the end of October when flows and levels are most highly dependent on precipitation. Conditions in July continued to be hot and dry, however the region received some significant weather events with Kenora and surrounding areas being hit by a severe storm, downbursts, tornado warnings and flooding on July 6.

Summer lake level impacted by low levels of precipitation The summer of 2026 at Lake of the Woods featured hot, humid conditions along with active thunderstorms, and many heat warnings with daytime temperatures reaching 29°C to 31°C (close to 90 F) and higher with humidex values climbing as high as 37 to 41 throughout the Winnipeg River watershed. While there was periodic heavy thunderstorm activity much of this was localized with the heavy rain having little impact on the overall water levels of the lake.

t the beginning of August, the water level for Lake of the Woods stood at 322.85 m (1059.2 ft), which is a low normal level for the time of the year. This level is within the LOWDSA recommended level range of 1059.0 – 1060.0 for July, however the water level on the lake has continued to decline during the summer months after having reached a level of 1059.6 in the middle of June which was normal for that time of year. Beginning after mid June, the level of Lake of the Woods began to decline because of the overall dry conditions in the watershed as well as the scattered nature and localized precipitation. These dry conditions were most severe in the southern headwaters of Lake of the Woods which resulted

This was followed by extreme heat conditions throughout the watershed in the following weeks and continued very dry conditions resulting in water levels being below the normal range and the lake level continuing to decline. As a result of the low levels of precipitation in the region, both Ontario and Minnesota as well as much of Canada continued to see an increase in the number of wildfires resulting primarily from changing weather patterns due to climate change. As we entered August the level of Lake of the Woods continued to decline resulting in further small reductions in outflow at the Norman Dam to maintain a balance between the lake and the Winnipeg River as much as possible. Heading into fall, the regulation strategy is based on a forecast for continuing low levels of precipitation and declining lake levels similar to those we had been receiving. The strategy is targeting a lake level at approximately 322.6 m (1058.4 ft) or lower in October while maintaining a balance of levels on the Winnipeg River. The Control Board will continue to monitor water levels closely and adjust flows as appropriate in accordance with the regulation strategy and changing weather conditions. I hope you have had another great summer and are looking forward to fall as the seasons change. For up-to-date information on water levels and the work of the Lake of the Woods Control Board please visit the website at lwcb.ca. an

DID YOU KNOW? “Nibi” means water in Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe).

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association IN THE DISTRICT

Updates on Kenora’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan BY ERIC SHIH, COMMUNITY SAFETY AND WELL-BEING COORDINATOR, CITY OF KENORA

Implementation of Kenora’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan (CSWB) is well underway into year two. Since being approved by Kenora City Council in March 2025, many of the action items from the 10-year plan have started in earnest including a few that will be highlighted below.

Elder Randy White provided a traditional opening for the Open House

CSWB priorities in the Kenora and Lake of the Woods area. They welcome grant applications that strengthen housing, community safety, mental health, prevention of violence and inclusion. Their Fall 2026 call for Community Needs Grants opened on August 1 and closed on Tuesday, September 15. The Community Foundation is also announcing the development of the Community Safety and Well-Being Fund. “Our leadership in developing this fund and launching this campaign will send a powerful message that our community’s most pressing challenges are those we can address together. Your gift would not only encourage others to give, but it would also give charities the confidence to develop innovative, collaborative solutions that improve lives across the Kenora and Lake of the Woods region.”

Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation partners in the implementation of Kenora’s CSWB Plan

ction 1.2 asks for local funders to endorse the plan’s priorities and align their funding criteria with the CSWB plan’s recommended actions, supporting local initiatives that advance the plan’s vision and goals. The Kenora and Lake of the Woods Community Foundation is on funder which is doing just that. The Community Foundation has completed an analysis of their grants over the past five years. Using this information, they are allocating a portion of Fall 2026 grants to those charities aligning projects within these areas of community need. They are actively encouraging applications that bring organizations together in collaborative initiatives addressing

IN THE DISTRICT Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

—Executive Director, Lynn McAughey.

Kenora Needle Disposal Pilot Project

The Needle Disposal Pilot Project, officially launched at the end of 2025, is a key part of Action 3.6, which is to increase efforts to safely dispose of syringes that have been discarded in public spaces. This pilot project allows members of the community to report when they come across syringes on the ground or discarded improperly in any other place by using any internet browser, including smartphones. This web-based app, found at ReportNeedles.ca, allows the public to enter the location and upload photos of what they come across. Alternatively, community members can report sightings by calling or texting 807-464-1966.

CSWB Plan Implementation Committee Member Allison Crewe with Summer Student welcome attendees at registration desk.

Kenora OPP Detachment Commander Jeff Duggan with member of public at CSWB Plan Open House held June 10 at the Kenora Public Library.

Once reported, a coordinated effort by service agencies will work to remove the drug equipment in one to two business days. The project is a collaboration among partners including the City of Kenora, Northwestern Health Unit, Kenora Makwa Patrol, Lake of the Woods District Hospital, Mental Health and Addictions Program, Waasegiizhig Nanaandawe’iyewigamig (WNHAC), and the All Nations Health Partners Ontario Health Team (ANHP OHT). The data collected through the project will be helpful information for project partners to use to develop approaches to reduce the amount of improperly discarded syringes in Kenora.

a real-time snapshot of Kenora’s CSWB Plan. The goal of the Progress Dashboard is to present a simplified view of how the CSWB Plan is progressing. It’s part of Action 1.5, which is to make this work an ongoing priority in the City’s communication strategy. Everyone is encouraged to visit it to keep up with the latest developments. It can be found through the Community Safety and Well-Being webpage at kenora.ca/communitysafety an

CSWB Plan Open House

On June 10, the CSWB committee had its Open House, a part of Action 1.3, which calls for a yearly event that connects the public with local institutions, provides updates on implementation successes and challenges, and offers opportunities for community feedback and engagement. The 2026 edition took place at the Kenora Public Library with an opening by Elder Randy White. Nearly 80 people were present to hear updates on the CSWB Plan and find out more from Community Partners about their programs and services, which are aligned with the goals of the Plan. The drop-in style allowed participants to meet CSWB Plan Implementation Committee Members, chat with Service Providers, and engage in meaningful discussions. This event will take place yearly to keep the public informed and involved with the CSWB Plan.

Keep up to date with the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan Progress Dashboard Since it launched at the end of 2025, the Progress Dashboard helps residents in Kenora and Area stay informed with

Community Safety and WellBeing Grants or Community Safety and Well-Being Fund Contact Lynn McAughey at exec.director@klwcf.ca or 807-467-4427

Needle Disposal Pilot Project

Report needles at ReportNeedles.ca or phone or text 807-464-1966.

Community Safety and WellBeing Plan Progress Dashboard kenora.ca/communitysafety

CSWB Plan Open Houses

Visit kenora.ca/communitysafety to learn when the next CSWB Plan Open House will take place.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association IN THE DISTRICT

THE LAKE THAT RAISED ME:

Black Sturgeon’s changing shoreline BY MIMI MASTROMATTEO

On summer mornings, my bay on Black Sturgeon Lake could be so still that the water

mps on Broken Arrow Ca ke in La Black Sturgeon sy of te 1948. Photo cour cebook. Fa via k ac ob Bill Zr

looked like a mirror, perfectly reflecting the shoreline. Some days, seeing a single boat felt like an event. Black Sturgeon Lake is only a short distance from Kenora, but when I was growing up, it felt like its own world.

My brothers and I with Italian grandmother our on the front porch of our family cabin on Black Sturgeon Lake. (2 013)

Long before my family bought property here, Black Sturgeon Lake was shaped by fishing lodges. The first known cottages on Upper Black Sturgeon were reportedly built around 1900, when only scattered farms, camps, and seasonal retreats interrupted the natural shoreline. By 1951, approximately 15 tourist outfitters were operating across the Upper and Lower lakes.¹ These camps mainly welcomed American visitors who travelled north for the fishing, wilderness, and quiet that Black Sturgeon offered. 16

Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

view of A winter drone owing sh , ty er our prop led the cabins nest d our y an around the ba ing rink at sk al un m com 0) 02 (2 . ice on the

My brothers, Gabri el an Tazio Mastromatte d o, and me exploring one of Black Sturgeon La ke’s most recognizable island landmarks. (2014)

my My dad Steven, r Tazio, younger brothe the om and me diving fr . (2010) ck do r ou of end

y own property is connected to that lodge era. A main lodge and eight smaller cabins once stood around our bay, welcoming fishermen and visitors who came to experience Black Sturgeon in the 1940s. The main lodge later burned down, and the property was eventually divided into lots in the 1970s, with each property retaining two guest fishing cabins. My family is only the second owner of our historic property, and we have now been there for nearly 15 years. The fishing cabins left on the property became the foundation of my childhood. They hosted birthday parties, family weekends, and a few teenage gatherings that were probably louder than they should have been. More importantly, they allowed me to share lake life with almost anyone who wanted to experience it. There always seemed to be another bed, couch, or cabin where someone could stay. Friends who had never spent time at a lake could swim from our dock, catch frogs, sit by the fire, and wake to the stillness of the bay. My memories of Black Sturgeon stretch far beyond our property. I spent summers kayaking to blueberry patches, making trails through the bush, exploring cliffs and caves, and travelling by boat to Crystal Bay and Minaki. I also became close with an American family who continued returning to Black Sturgeon, carrying on the lake’s long, generational relationship with visitors from the United States. The lake also became part of my family’s athletic life. When the pool closed in the summers, my brothers and I trained in our sheltered bay. We measured distances across the water and used the flat rock formations as a makeshift wall for practicing our turns. What looked like an ordinary piece of shoreline became our outdoor training facility. The lake supported us as we pursued national teams, Canada Summer Games, and Olympic dreams. Black Sturgeon Lake was our pristine playground, but it also taught us discipline and gave us an immense appreciation for everything lake life has to offer. For a long time, I assumed the places surrounding us would always remain the same. Then, one by one, the blueberry patches, trails, and undeveloped stretches of shoreline began to change. Some of the places I once reached by kayak or snowshoe are now private properties. Boat traffic has increased, bringing more wake, noise, and recreational pressure on the ecosystem.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association

My brother waterskiing across the glass-like water of Black Sturgeon Lake. (2024)

near n jumping cliffs k on The well-know miliar landmar fa a e, idg Br Peltier 018) (2 . ke La on ge Black Stur

With my lifelong Black Sturgeon summer friends: Karley Dodd, left, whose family has spent generations on the lake, and Bianca Moroz, right, a newer member of the lake community. (2023)

The scale of development on Black Sturgeon brings both concern and celebration. New homes have welcomed new families, friendships, and excitement to the lake. More people are discovering the freedom, adventure, and sense of admiration that lake life has to offer. At the same time, increased use can place added pressure on ecosystems and water quality. Monitoring has not shown a continuous, lake-wide decline caused by residential development, but phosphorus exceeded Ontario’s objective of 20 micrograms per litre at two locations in 2020.³ And in 2022, the first confirmed bluegreen algae occurrence was reported near Williams Road.⁴ These events do not prove that development caused the changes, but they show that as more people come to enjoy Black Sturgeon, we must also take greater care to protect it. I do not expect Black Sturgeon to remain frozen in the past. Development has brought new neighbours, friendships, and opportunities to enjoy the water together. The new homes and cabins being built today may give other children the same excitement and sense of belonging that the old fishing cabins on my property gave me. What I hope we preserve is the health and character of Black Sturgeon. A healthy lake means quiet mornings, clear bays, natural shorelines, and the sense of belonging that made people fall in love with this quiet haven in the first place. Black Sturgeon raised me. I want future generations to find the same beauty here and to inherit a lake healthy enough to shape their lives too. an 1. Gartner Lee Limited, Kelli Saunders Environmental Management. Lake Capacity and Management Study for Black Sturgeon Lake, City of Kenora: Technical Synthesis and Management Plan. kenora.ca/media/kacjc54t/blacksturgeon-lake-capacity-and-management-final-report-oct-19-2007.pdf 2. Zroback B. Broken Arrow Camps on Black Sturgeon Lake. Kenora Through the Years. facebook.com/ groups/2001136476646115/posts/2078872242205871/ 3. Haines R. Black Sturgeon Lakes Water Quality Monitoring: 2020 Report. Kenora Resource Consultants Inc; 2020. kenora.ca/media/5jvlah3h/2020-black-sturgeon-water-quality-monitoring.pdf 4. Northwestern Health Unit. Reported blue-green algae blooms. nwhu.on.ca/our-services/ safe-drinking-water/reported-blue-green-algae-blooms/

Emilia “Mimi” Mastromatteo is a varsity swimmer at McGill University, where she studies Anatomy and Cell Biology. Born and raised in Kenora, Ontario, she has a curious mind and a strong commitment to her community and the environment. Mimi has worked with LOWDSA for four years as a LakeSmart Manager, Environmental Stewardship Technician, and now Social Media Manager. She hopes to continue returning to Kenora each summer for years to come. My family gathered at the end of our dock, one of our favourite places to spend time together. (2025)

Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

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Before you fire up the chainsaw...

Falling trees can destroy ground nests that are nearly impossible to detect. Photo: Christian Artuso

A simple timing decision that helps migratory birds BY JOANNE TUCKWELL

s summer winds down, many cottagers are catching up on projects before winter. Trees are trimmed, lots are cleared, and dead or hazardous trees are removed. While these projects are often necessary, there’s one simple timing decision that can make a tremendous difference for the birds that share our little piece of paradise.

A common question is, “Can’t we just check for nests first?” Unfortunately, it’s rarely that simple. Birds have evolved to hide their nests extremely well because avoiding predators depends on staying undetected. Many nests are remarkably small, high in dense foliage, tucked into branches, or concealed among vegetation on the forest floor. Even experienced biologists conducting careful nest surveys know that finding every active nest is virtually impossible. That’s why avoiding tree removal during the nesting season is considered the most effective way to protect nesting birds.

STEWARDSHIP TIP One of the easiest ways to help migratory birds is to schedule tree removal outside the main nesting season of June through August. Each spring, one of nature’s greatest migrations arrives quietly at Lake of the Woods. Tiny warblers, vireos, thrushes, flycatchers, sparrows and dozens of other bird species return from wintering grounds as far away as Central America and southern South America. After travelling thousands of kilometres and overcoming countless hazards, they arrive here for one purpose: to raise their young. Many birds build their nests in trees and shrubs, while others nest on or near the ground beneath forest cover. If a tree containing an active nest is removed, the nest and its eggs or young are almost certainly lost. Even when a nest isn’t in the tree itself, equipment, foot traffic and falling trees can destroy nearby ground nests that are nearly impossible to detect.

Indigo Bunting nest. Photo: Chris Reed

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association ENVIRONMENT

they’ve already completed one of the most remarkable migrations in the natural world. The good news is that giving them a safe place to nest and raise their young is one challenge we can actually help with.

Best times for tree removal

• Best: September–April • Use caution: May (some birds begin nesting early) • Avoid if possible: June–August (peak nesting season) As you read this in September, it’s actually a great time to fire up the chainsaw or book a tree service if you have work that can safely be done this fall. And when planning future cottage projects, consider scheduling tree removal during the recommended time of year. It’s a simple decision that costs little, requires no special equipment, and can make a meaningful difference. After travelling thousands of kilometres to reach Lake of the Woods, the least we can do is give these remarkable birds a safe place to raise the next generation before they begin their long journey south once again. an

You may have noticed that large construction projects often follow this approach. For example, tree clearing associated with the Trans-Canada Highway twinning project has generally been scheduled outside the nesting season. Major developments are typically planned to avoid clearing trees during the nesting season because Canada’s migratory bird laws protect active nests, eggs and young birds. Choosing the same timing for cottage tree removal is an easy way for individual property owners to help conserve the wildlife that makes Lake of the Woods such a special place. Migratory birds already face enough challenges throughout their annual journeys, including habitat loss, collisions with buildings, invasive species and changing climate conditions. Many species that were once common are experiencing long-term population declines. By the time they reach Canada,

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Joanne Tuckwell is a cottager in the Clearwater Bay area of Lake of the Woods and has a long-standing interest in conserving the area’s natural environment. She works with Parks Canada in species conservation, where she helps protect wildlife and habitats across Canada. Joanne enjoys sharing practical, sciencebased information that helps cottagers make informed decisions about caring for their properties while supporting the health of the lake, forests, and wildlife that make Lake of the Woods such a special place.

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ENVIRONMENT Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

IISD-Experimental Lakes Area  NOELLE WOOD, EDUCATION & RELATIONS OFFICER

How do we know what microplastics are doing to freshwater fish?

Gaining a better understanding of how human contaminants affect freshwater species helps inform the next steps to protect them, including changes to policies that protect them and our daily habits.

This is because our bodies require different levels of oxygen to meet specific needs and prevent cell death. These rates can be monitored by measuring how much oxygen we consume over time.

How do we measure the metabolic rate of a fish?

IISD Experimental Lakes Area (IISD-ELA), close to Lake of the Woods, is often referred to as a living laboratory—a place where we take studies that are typically conducted inside a lab and conduct them on living, whole-lake ecosystems. This can also be said of some of our experimental procedures.

ver the past few years, a PhD candidate from Lakehead University, Cody Veneruzzo, has been working with Dr. Michael Rennie to construct an in-field lakeside respirometry setup using respirometry tanks to determine whether the presence of microplastics in a lake affects the metabolic rates of three common freshwater fish species. This is all part of the world’s freshwater laboratory’s ongoing work to determine the impacts of plastics on freshwater systems.

What exactly is a metabolic rate?

Our metabolic rate is the amount of energy we—or any organism—expend to support our basic body functions, such as breathing, digesting, and repairing cells. The rate at which we expend this energy also varies throughout the day, depending on what activities we are doing. For example, the number of calories you burn while you’re asleep will be significantly less than the calories you would burn if you were to run as fast as you can.

First, we collect white sucker (Catostomus commersonii), lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush), and yellow perch (Perca flavescens) from the experimental microplastic lake and nearby reference lakes. These fish get placed in respirometry tanks on the shoreline of the lake from which they were captured (pictured). In these tanks, we can measure and record how quickly each fish consumes the available oxygen within the sealed chambers. Usually, the highest rate of oxygen consumption occurs when the fish is first placed in the chambers or after a period of high activity—likely due to stress from being in a new environment, and cells needing more oxygen after exercise ( just think about how humans breathe faster as we exercise). Conversely, the lowest rate of oxygen consumption is measured once the fish has adjusted to its new environment and its cells no longer demand high levels of oxygen to function ( just like when humans are asleep). Every 15 minutes, the chambers are replenished with fresh lake water, providing the fish with fresh oxygen. To reduce any additional stress, the tanks are covered with lids and a reflective tarp. As Cody says: “It’s all about the fish!” This technique is rarely used in the field due to the many logistical challenges of keeping the monitoring equipment outside with limited access to electricity. Additionally, we used wild-caught fish, and once testing was complete, all fish were returned to the lake from which they were caught. Here at IISD-ELA, we also have the luxury of returning to the same sites year after year, which allows for continuous monitoring and comparisons between lakes and over time.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association ENVIRONMENT

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The Portfolio Managers (PMs) responsible for the performance returns outlined above were registered with Raymond James Ltd. (RJ) on September 25, 2025. All returns prior to joining RJL were obtained while the PMs were registered through another CIRO member firm, Richardson Wealth Limited. Model portfolio performance returns are as of 05/31/2026 and are based on an actual representative account. Please note that past performance is not necessarily an indicator of future performance. The indicated rates of return are net of fees and/or commissions. Individual results of client portfolios may differ from that of the representative portfolio as fees may differ, and performance of specific accounts is based on specific account investiture. The noted representative portfolio may not be appropriate for all investors.

Why do we care about how microplastics affect the metabolic rates of fish? Once we know the maximum and minimum metabolic rates of the fish, we can determine their overall energy capacity for regular activities, such as growth, swimming, and reproduction. We can then directly compare fish metabolism data collected before, during, and after a whole-lake microplastic addition with those from an unimpacted reference lake.

How might microplastics be affecting metabolic rate?

Imagine you are a lake trout who has spent the afternoon out hunting. You have swum great distances to feed for the day, expending quite a bit of energy, and your cells need to recover. This energy will hopefully be replenished by the food you have consumed, but what if, instead of calorie-rich minnows, you were consuming microplastics? So even though you are consuming the same volume of food, you are ingesting far fewer calories. This can force your metabolism to change, as your cells need to adjust their energy expenditure to avoid running out of fuel. Reduced energy return after hunting could potentially lead to other health risks, such as changes to growth and development. Gaining a better understanding of how human contaminants affect freshwater species helps inform the next steps to protect them, including changes to policies that protect them and our daily habits. an

ENVIRONMENT Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

Here at IISD-ELA, we also have the luxury of returning to the same sites year after year, which allows for continuous monitoring and comparisons between lakes and over time

Noelle Wood is an Education and Relations Officer with IISD Experimental Lakes Area. She is passionate about environmental education and making science accessible to all and supports the development and delivery of educational programming, as well as overseeing the artist in residence program and supporting content creation for the communications team.

Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation  TEIKA NEWTON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Mining in the Basin: Understanding the role of mining in watershed stewardship

ver the past year, the Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation has been repeatedly asked to provide information to help local people better understand mining-related issues in our watershed. This is an extremely complex area of study, and we are by no means experts in the subject, but as an organization that works to build and maintain connections among regional resource agencies, communities and watershed groups, we have endeavoured to respond to these requests for information as best we can. Here, we provide a brief synopsis of some of today’s most pertinent mining files. Mining has long played a significant and evolving role in the Rainy-Lake of the Woods economy. The legacy of gold exploration, mining and milling, dating back to the 1800s, dots the landscape throughout the Lake of the Woods region. While mining activity has had cyclical peaks and valleys over time, in recent years the price of gold worldwide has risen again, making gold mining a very lucrative economic venture in our region.

Concurrently, we are all living through a moment of vast energy systems (and climate) change, with global economies embracing electrification as nations move away from fossil fuels. Electrification requires a variety of metals and minerals, from copper for wiring to rare critical minerals used in electronics components such as touchscreens and batteries. While some of the demand can and will be met through recycling and the recovery of existing materials, the pace and scale of this energy system transformation demand more raw mineral and metal resources. As a result, mining is, again, on the upswing. Since its inception in 2013, the Community Advisory Group to the International Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Board has highlighted the impacts of mining on water quality and ecosystem health throughout our watershed. In 2022, the board partnered with the IJC’s Health Professionals Advisory Board, the U.S. Geological Survey and the Geological Survey of Canada in a study to document: mining and mineral exploration locations, past, present, and proposed; the water quality of rivers and lakes, including human health indicators; the health of the aquatic community; and to map mineral potentials on a sub-watershed basis, as well as hydrology, including data on flows and directions of flow of surface water and ground water. This year, a second phase of the study will draw on this information to assess which areas across the watershed are at the highest risk of impacts from mining development. Meanwhile, interest has steadily increased among residents who want to better understand active and proposed mining activity in the watershed. As we work with local communities and sectors to develop water sustainability plans, the LOWWSF team has been on a constant learning journey of our own. In 2025, we visited the 25,000-tonne-per-day gold mine operated by Coeur at Emo, Ontario, which is currently the largest operating mine in the watershed. We continue to work closely

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North America's Canoe-country Wilderness 2.5 Million Acres, 3,200 lakes, 0 roads

United States and Canada Border

VOYAGEURS NATIONAL PARK

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Ontario

Minnesota

QUETICO PROVINCIAL PARK

Path of Pollution 1978 Mining Ban Area

Rainy River Headwaters

BOUNDARY WATERS CANOE AREA WILDERNESS

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SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST

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Iowa Author: J. Wolfe Northeast Minnesotans for Wilderness Date: 4/5/2023

with Coeur personnel to understand any impacts from their operation on downstream water quality. More broadly across the watershed, mineral and metals exploration is widespread, especially in Canada. Lithium, copper, and even helium in some parts of northern Minnesota are highly sought commodities. The project that has garnered the most attention this year, though, is the Antofagasta-Twin Metals proposal for a 20,000-tonne-per-day copper-nickel mine in northeastern Minnesota. The Twin Metals project was first proposed in 2010, but successive U.S. federal administrations have debated its merits, enacting policies and legislative instruments that have either imposed or lifted restrictions on mining in the subject area. In early 2026, the federal administration overturned a 20-year mineral withdrawal for the subject Public Land Order lands, issued in 2023 under Public Land 7917 Order 7917.

Can a

Proposed Twin Metals Mine (Antofagasta)

ENVIRONMENT Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

LAKE SUPERIOR Sources: Esri, USGS, NOAA

0 0

10 10

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40 Kilometers

Twin Metals is focused on a deposit at Birch Lake, just south of Ely and at the headwaters of Rainy Lake, where copper and nickel exist at economically viable concentrations. Birch Lake is adjacent to and just upstream of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), a 440,000-hectare region of pristine lakes, off-limits to motorized vehicles, within Superior National Forest. Downstream of the BWCAW on the Canadian side of the border is Quetico Provincial Park. The Twin Metals project has raised tensions, with opponents arguing it proposes mining techniques that may exacerbate sulfide and methyl mercury pollution in ecologically sensitive, internationally shared boundary waters. Opponents are concerned about the potentially harmful impacts on waters relied on for human consumption, fish habitat, and local recreational and economic uses, while proponents argue the economic benefits of jobs and the supply of commodities in high demand. The Twin Metals proposal has become deeply politicized and polarized, with some U.S. representatives among the project’s most ardent proponents. Opposition to the project has grown throughout the year, with NGOs such as the Save the Boundary Waters Coalition, Indigenous groups (Gakijiwanong (Lac La Croix) Anishinaabe Nation, Grand Council Treaty #3, and the

Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, Bois Fort Band of Chippewa, Red Lake Nation, and Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa), the Rainy River District Municipal Association, scientists, and politicians on both sides of the border speaking against the proposal. At the crux of the concern is the behaviour of copper-bearing ore when it is brought to the surface and exposed to water and air. Copper and other recoverable metals are bound up in sulfide compounds in the rock. When exposed to air and moisture, such sulfide ores generate sulfuric acid, heavy metals, and sulfates; there is much potential for harm if these compounds escape waste containment and get into adjacent waterways. Sulfates are of particular concern in our watershed because they harm wild rice and facilitate the methylation of mercury. Methyl mercury, a potent and enduring neurotoxin, is taken up in the aquatic food chain, including food fish. In humans, it can cause severe neurological disease and can be transmitted to the fetus across the placental membrane. Because a great number of the border lakes are already impaired by mercury, additional sulfate loading in the Rainy headwaters would increase the risk for humans and for wildlife that consume fish

studies to be conducted in the summer of 2026 will determine if sulfate contamination is detectable downstream in Quetico Provincial Park. The amount of sulfate pollution depends on the volume and type of mining and how mine tailings (waste) are treated. In its review of the nearby Polymet Mine project on the Lake Superior side of the watershed divide, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has found that “dry stacking” tailings, a process Twin Metals has considered, increases the likelihood of acid generation and consequent water pollution. Going forward, the state of Minnesota will be responsible for reviewing and deciding on any permit applications to mine in this area. As an issue with international impact, mining is certain to be one that will focus the attention of all involved in watershed governance and resource management for some time to come. Addendum: Just as this issue was going to press, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz signed an executive order directing the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to stop all permitting and environmental review work on nonferrous mineral mining projects in the Rainy River Headwaters Watershed (RRHW). This order effectively halts the issuing of permits for any copper-nickel mines in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. an

from downstream waters. Sulfate pollution has the potential to travel great distances in water. Studies conducted by Northeastern Minnesotans for Wilderness have documented long-distance transport of sulfide contamination from small taconite (iron ore) mining operations near Birch Lake, flowing 33 miles downstream, approaching the Canadian border. At the furthest downstream site measured to date, Kawishiwi Falls at Fall Lake, sulfate measures 75 per cent above background levels, and nearly three tons of sulfate per day flows over the falls. Further

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Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association ENVIRONMENT

Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation  MEGHAN MILLS, INTERNATIONAL WATERSHED COORDINATOR Agricultural fields in the Rainy River District.

nutrient losses occur across broad areas and are influenced by complex interactions between land management and climate. In agricultural landscapes, phosphorus may be transported attached to eroded soil particles or in dissolved forms through surface runoff and tile drainage, an underground pipe system used to improve drainage of agricultural fields, before eventually reaching streams, rivers, and downstream lakes. An important component of this work is building relationships with those working in this field. Quite literally and specifically, agricultural fields. Over the past year, LOWWSF has met with producers, toured farms, and participated in regional agricultural events to better understand current agricultural landscapes in the region. Most recently, we attended Agriculture Days in Emo, Ontario, hosted by the Rainy River Federation of Agriculture. (If you’re ever travelling through Emo, the Research Station is well worth a visit.)

From farm fıelds to Lake of the Woods Just south of Lake of the Woods, following the Rainy River toward Rainy Lake, the watershed transitions through a diverse landscape of forests, wetlands, communities, and agricultural lands. This region contains some of the watershed’s established agricultural areas, alongside lands that are increasingly being brought into agricultural production. These working landscapes play an important role in supporting local food production and rural economies while also being closely connected to the surrounding watershed.

s part of our ongoing work to develop a Domestic Phosphorus Management Plan, the Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation (LOWWSF) is working with producers, agricultural organizations, researchers, Indigenous Nations, and government agencies to better understand both point and non-point source phosphorus loading and the processes that influence nutrient transport across agricultural landscapes. Unlike point sources, which discharge nutrients from a defined location, non-point source

ENVIRONMENT Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

A highlight of the event was visiting local farmland and seeing research led by Dr. Catherine Eimers and her team at Trent University. Their work examines how phosphorus and nitrogen move through agricultural landscapes with much of the research taking place on operational farms alongside local producers and tile-drainage installers. Dr. Eimers’ broader research across seven Rainy River tributaries found that nutrient concentrations were generally highest in areas with more agricultural development, while also showing that phosphorus and nitrogen move through the watershed differently. Phosphorus transport is often linked to high-flow and runoff events, while nitrogen can be especially mobile during winter and spring conditions. These findings are particularly relevant as agriculture expands in parts of the Rainy River basin, with increasing row-crop production and tile drainage. At the same time, warmer winters and rain and snow events may change how nutrients move from fields into waterways. Ongoing field research also shows that nutrient management is rarely simple. Different crop covers can affect phosphorus and nitrogen in different ways, meaning a practice that reduces one nutrient may not have the same effect on another. This reinforces the need for site-specific management, continued research, and year-round monitoring. Another highlight of the day was learning about technologies such as drones, which can help identify crop issues, understand variation across fields, and support more targeted and efficient management decisions. All of this matters for the development of the Domestic Phosphorus Management Plan for Lake of the Woods. While phosphorus remains a primary focus for improving water quality in Lake of the Woods, this

research demonstrates why we also need to understand the broader movement of nutrients through the watershed.

Agricultural producers in Rainy River District discuss tile drainage on a working farm where Dr. Cathy Eimers and her team at Trent University are conducting agricultural nutrient research in the Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed.

The Rainy River drains approximately 70% of the Lake of the Woods basin and can account for as much as 90% of annual phosphorus delivery to the lake, making the landscapes and tributaries connected to the river particularly important to understanding nutrient loading. The Canadian Domestic Phosphorus Management Plan is being developed through this collaborative approach, bringing together scientific research, producer knowledge, Indigenous knowledge, government expertise, and local experience to identify practical, evidence-based strategies that reduce phosphorus losses while supporting resilient and productive agricultural systems. Protecting water quality and maintaining a strong agricultural sector are complementary goals. Understanding how nutrients move across the landscape and, importantly, listening to the people who know and work these landscapes is an essential part of developing solutions that make sense for the Rainy–Lake of the Woods watershed. an

Lake of the Woods Water Sustainability Foundation

DID YOU KNOW?

Put a plan in place. Ensure there’s enough science and management expertise. Coordinate actions bi-nationally. That’s our mission.

While not all algae are harmful, some blue-green algae blooms can produce toxins that are dangerous to people and pets.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association ENVIRONMENT

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Cottage winter shutdown checklist

Inside ❒ Remove all food from cupboards and fridge, even canned or dry goods and take them home. ❒ Unplug and clean the fridge and prop the door open. Place an open box of baking soda inside the refrigerator to keep odours away.

It is a good idea to check your insurance policy or talk to your broker before shutting down for the season. Your insurance company may require you to check in on your property at regular time intervals or have a monitored alarm system or other requirements.

❒ If you have propane appliances, make sure they are properly shut down. ❒ Spread a few mothballs around to discourage rodents. ❒ Turn off or unplug baseboard heaters.

ave step by step instructions on closing down the cottage systems that everyone is aware of. That way if a key member of the shutdown “team” isn’t available, others know what to do. Keep it simple and in the form of a check list. Following are some suggestions, but the actual checklist will depend on the systems you have (i.e. hydroelectricity vs. solar, septic, grey water, etc.) If you’re unsure, seek a plumber’s or electrician’s advice about your systems. Your checklist should also include the contact information for the service providers to call in case of any emergencies.

Plumbing

❒ Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly (replace if necessary) and ensure they have fresh batteries. You should have detectors on all floors and outside all sleeping areas. ❒ Cover windows with shades for storm protection and theft prevention.

Outside ❒ Unplug any unnecessary appliances (or turn off breakers). Turning the power main off is not a good idea if you have sump pump, exterior lights and/or alarms. ❒ Check for any openings mice, squirrels or other small animals can enter through.

❒ Drain and disconnect any outside tanks and pumps. ❒ Flush all toilets and remove any remaining water in the tank or toilet bowl. Some people choose to add RV antifreeze to prevent freezing.

❒ Clean outdoor furniture and move inside the cottage or a shed. ❒ Inspect the roof for damaged shingles. Replace if necessary.

❒ Check all pipes and connections before you drain – mark any leaks for repair.

❒ Put away your water sports equipment.

❒ Check that supply lines all slope down to a low point outside the cottage. ❒ Turn off the power to the water pump and hot water tank. Drain the hot water tank. ❒ Open all the taps inside and outside the cottage, then open the drain valves to let the water drain out. Leave them open through the winter. ❒ Keep sump pump operating.

❒ Remove water from outboard motors and empty gas from your lawnmower or other gas-powered tools. Run them dry so no fuel is left in lines or carburetor. ❒ Check the caulking around all windows and doors. ❒ Clean out the eaves troughs to allow melting snow to drain properly and inspect all fascia boards. ❒ Leave a spare key and your contact information with someone you trust who can check the cottage regularly. ❒ Cut back branches and trees as well as dead or damaged branches that overhang your cottage and outbuildings.

Electrical ❒ If you choose to turn the electricity off to your cottage and let it freeze, be sure to understand how that affects your plumbing, alarms, monitoring systems, lighting and other systems the building might require. ❒ If you’re relying on minimum electrical power to keep the cottage from freezing up, regularly check your power usage (usually available online) with your service provider while away to ensure it is operating as expected.

❒ Close any propane tank valves and remove all fire hazards from your property. ❒ Lock all doors and windows. ❒ Organize snow removal if it will be required over the winter. ❒ Remove all garbage!

❒ Top up backup generators and ensure timers/connections are in working order.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LIVING

Securing your cottage

Cottages and summer homes are most vulnerable to thieves and subject to damage or vandalism in the off-season—from the week following Thanksgiving to early May—especially if the owners are not using them regularly in the fall, winter or spring. ❒ Secure your windows and doors. Close window curtains or blinds and put up shutters to protect the interior from marauders (animal or human). ❒ Leave no valuables at the cottage (electronics, personal items, tools) unless you’re prepared to lose them. Lock up sporting goods that you decide must stay year-round (fishing rods & equipment, water skis, toys). Record the serial numbers of anything of value left behind. Marking your valuables with a drivers’ license number can help deter a thief or aid in property recovery. ❒ If you are leaving vehicles, boats, ATVs or snow machines, make sure they’re winterized and secure. Leave nothing on trailers unless it is locked or disabled. ❒ Designate a year-round contact or key-holder for: alarms, thefts, weather damage or animal problems. ❒ Make a list of where everything is and make copies. Store one copy on your home computer and put a copy with items that will go back up to the cottage on your next trip. ❒ Check your property insurance to ensure the coverage you have in place is adequate and appropriate for your needs.

807-466-2236

❒ Know which police force patrols your cottage area (which OPP Detachment and their phone number). Set up a network of neighbours to prevent and detect crime in your area, know your neighbours, their movements and vehicles, and connect with the local OPP detachment. Watching out for suspicious activity in and around your neighbours’ property can go a long way to lowering the incidence of property crime. See you in the spring! an

DID YOU KNOW? Water from Lake of the Woods eventually flows north through the Winnipeg River to Lake Winnipeg and ultimately reaches the Arctic Ocean.

LakeoftheWoods.net

THINKING OF SELLING?

BROKER 807-466-2236

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LIVING Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

Rooted Reflections  JACOB BOUTWELL

Long-term food security: we can all play a role

Left: A field of winter squash promises food for months to come. Right: Building community is an investment in the future and the present.

prepared” (at least I was always told that was the Boy Scouts rule. A quick internet search confirms that I am misinformed). Long-term food security then means considering redundancy

When we think about food security, it’s worth considering it in two ways; short term and long term. Everyone would like to be able to eat today, and it’s the short term that is most urgent in our collective awareness, and for good reason. Presumably we would all like to eat tomorrow, and every day thereafter as well. That longer view may be less pressing, but it is equally important.

ow I’m not one to focus on doom and gloom scenarios. There is no shortage of depressing content in the world, and I don’t need to add more. Through my articles I try to inspire towards a better future and offer solutions towards getting there. That does not mean, however, that we should turn a blind eye to the large problems that lie before us. Currently our food security relies on a global supply chain, which in turn relies on good trade relationships and a reasonably affordable supply of fuels for transport. The geo-politics of 2026 should be enough to raise questions as to the long-term viability of this set up. Climate change is, of course, a significant threat to our way of life and is affecting us more and more each year. I don’t mean to suggest imminent catastrophe, but it seems worth it to follow the Boy Scouts rule of “always be

within our supply chains and exploring options as close to home as possible, so that the chain is as short as it can be. No supply chain is shorter than your own backyard, and gardening is always a good place to start. Knowing good kitchen skills such as making things from scratch and cooking with whole ingredients is also a form of long-term food security. Knowing what edible plants grow in your area and how to prepare them is another. While acknowledging my bias as a local farmer, farms like ours are a vital part of long-term food security. Even if we don’t have the capacity to feed a whole region right now, the knowledge and infrastructure we possess are crucial insurance against supply chain disruptions. Our growing systems would have to be altered somewhat, but we could scale and teach our effective methods if necessity called for it. Admittedly, one area where we are not prepared is producing a local seed supply. This is a task I am hoping to work on, and one that home gardeners can actively take on themselves. Seed saving is an ancestral practice of preparing for the future, and I hope to write more about it another time. Farms that produce animal

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LIVING

products hold knowledge as well as valuable breeding stock that would be essential in scaling meat and dairy production. Those familiar with the story Stone Soup will recognize the value of community connection in making sure everyone is fed and cared for. Forming strong community bonds is as important for personal resilience as it is for collective resilience. My grandmother lived through the depression as a young girl, and like many families during that time, they struggled to put food on the table. The church gave them a gunny sack of pinto beans, and as she would say it, those beans “got us through the depression”. They ate them every way they could think of, and somewhat surprisingly, she enjoyed cooking with them until the day she died. I suggest that preparing ourselves for an uncertain future can be like having our cake and eating it too. The world I envision is one centered around community and meaningful relationships with each other and the natural world around us. Growing more food locally, connecting with our neighbours, and building a relationship with the land through the food we eat can both make our lives more meaningful and prepare us for uncertain times. Rather than facing what comes with a sense of anxiety, we can move forward with a sense of joy and purpose. an

LIVING Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

A greenhouse is a long-lasting structure that can increase yields for years to come.

Treading Wisely  SHARON GURNEY

Wood you believe it? The case for tree diversity

Strive to maintain a diversity of trees on your property to prevent erosion, to intercept nutrients making their way to the lake, and to provide critical habitat and food sources for a host of other organisms.

Red Pines

Ensuring your property has a diversity of tree species provides an important insurance policy not only to support ecological diversity but also to protect against disease, pest infestations, and climate stress. Tree species commonly found in Northwestern Ontario serve unique ecosystem functions. Let’s look at the role several common species play on our properties.

White Pines

hese giants reach the canopy top and serve as important windbreaks, anchoring the soil with their extensive root systems. Many bird species, including bald eagles and woodpeckers, routinely choose the White Pine for their nest, while seeds from cones provide a vital food source for red squirrels and chipmunks.

nother giant commonly found in the Lake of the Woods region, this species is known for its incredibly straight trunks and wide, spreading deep roots. These trees drop their lower branches, which, along with their strong root systems, give them exceptional stability against our increasingly common severe windstorms. Seed cones provide food for several bird species, and animals such as rabbits and deer browse young saplings.

Balsam Fir

hese highly shade-tolerant species play an important role in the forest understory. Their lower branches create a microclimate that provides winter shelter for ruffed grouse, rabbits, martens, and deer. In the summer, balsam fir provides important nesting habitat for many bird species, including warblers and chickadees. Balsam fir can survive in very low-light conditions. In fact, in a heavily shaded forest, a 30-year-old balsam may be less than 30 cm tall. When a gap in the canopy forms, these patient trees can rapidly grow, fulfilling their important role in the forest ecosystem.

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White and Black Spruce

lack spruce grow well in damp acidic soils, whereas white spruce prefer well-drained soils in cottage country. White spruce commonly live for 200-300 yrs, or longer if they survive insect outbreaks and forest fires. Their strong horizontal branches can support nests of larger bird species such as great horned owls, and the trees’ abundant cones provide food for birds and animals. Like balsam fir, these spruces provide important winter refuge for many forest species. Moss, fungi, and blueberries thrive in the moist, acidic microclimates created by the black spruce. Black spruce are very resilient and often survive extreme cold and flooding, making them well adapted to our changing climate. White spruce grow large and live for a long time, making them a critical carbon sequestration species, that helps mitigate climate change.

Trembling Aspen / Poplar

hese fast-growing trees readily colonize open spaces and rapidly utilize nutrients as they move through the soil. Their structure allows shrubs to grow in the understory, adding diversity and resilience. The aspen flower buds are a critical food source for the winter survival of ruffed grouse. These trees are also the preferred food and building materials for the industrious beaver. Moose and deer also browse on young shoots. Poplars are also critical hosts for pollinators, including hundreds of caterpillar species.

DID YOU KNOW? Reducing outdoor lighting around shorelines helps migrating birds, bats, and other nocturnal wildlife.

LIVING Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

White Birch

hese short-lived deciduous trees thrive in full sun and are colonizers after wildfires or other disturbances. Birch trees provide shade and create conditions for the growth of coniferous species. When birch trees die, the conifers that were taking root in their shade are then able to become more dominant. Birch leaves decompose rapidly, enriching the soil and supporting a diversity of other forest plants and microorganisms. Many insect, bird, and animal species forage on leaves, seeds, buds, and twigs. Porcupines climb birch to eat the bark and tender stems. Many invertebrates find refuge behind the peeling bark. At Granite Lake, we once accidentally disturbed the home of a nocturnal flying squirrel that was using a decaying birch stump for its den.

Willow

nown for their extensive root systems, willow play a critical role in stabilizing shorelines and preventing wave erosion. Wetland songbirds and some duck species can be found nesting amongst a willow thicket. Due to their early-spring blooms, willows support bees and host hundreds of moth and butterfly species. an It’s clear that if we want to tread a little more wisely, we should aim to maintain a diverse population of trees on our properties, ensuring these trees can fulfill their important ecosystem functions.

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Dockside Dishes  JACOB BOUTWELL, MURIEL LAKE

Kimchi Makes about 8 pounds (3.6 kg) of kimchi

For salting cabbage: 6 lbs (2.7 kg) napa cabbage ½ cup kosher salt

For making porridge: 2 cups water 2 tbsp rice flour 2 tbsp sugar

Vegetables: 2 cups daikon or regular radish matchsticks 1 cup carrot matchsticks 10 to 11green onions, chopped

Seasonings and spices:

Kimchi This kimchi recipe comes with the caveat that I am still a novice kimchi maker! This Korean dish ferments quickly and is ready to eat within a few days. Once its level of ferment is to your liking, you can put it in your fridge, where over the course of several months it will continue to get more sour, but still totally fine to eat. This recipe is adapted from an online recipe by a traditional Korean cook named “Maangchi”. Kimchi is a great accompaniment to a lot of foods – (tomato sandwiches, grilled cheese, or fried rice) so I make lots, but the recipe can be reduced (halved or quartered) to your liking.

A note about fermenting kimchi

Keep the kimchi in a sealed container (or in an open container with a weight on top) on your counter for 2-5 days, until it reaches your preferred level of sourness. If using a sealed container, “burp” the container 1 or 2 times a day by opening the lid to let gas out. After fermenting, pack into jars leaving ample head space to give room for expansion as it continues to ferment. Put jars in fridge. OR

Place the large container of fresh kimchi in your fridge and take a jar at a time to ferment in smaller batches on your counter. This will keep the bulk of your kimchi fresher, longer.

½ cup garlic cloves (24 garlic cloves), minced 2 tsp ginger, minced 1 medium onion, minced ½ cup fish sauce 2 cups red pepper flakes (gochugaru)—see note Cut cabbage leaves into bite size pieces. Mix the salted napa cabbage leaves, making sure that salt gets contact everywhere on the leaves, and let sit for two hours, flipping the leaves every 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cold water, drain, and set aside. To make the porridge, mix water and rice flour in a small pot and cook until it starts to bubble, then add sugar and cook for one minute while stirring. Let cool. Mix porridge and seasonings in a bowl. The gochugaru is a Korean red pepper powder that gives the authentic Korean flavour and can be sourced online (or perhaps in Winnipeg). It is, however, quite spicy and most of us will want to cut the amount at least by half. Paprika can be added for flavour and colour while not increasing the heat level too much. A combo of red pepper flakes and paprika can be used if you don’t use gochugaru. Add radish, carrot, and green onions to the porridge. If cutting matchsticks is more effort than you’d like, you can use a mandolin or food processor. Mix the drained cabbage with the rest of the ingredients and voila! You have kimchi. You can eat it fresh or ferment it. Enjoy!

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association LIVING

LESSONS

FROM THE

GEESE BY JACOB RODENBURG AND DREW MONKMAN

Each spring and fall, the unmistakable honking of Canada geese fills the sky. Looking up, we watch flock after flock winging their way overhead in their familiar V formation. For many of us, it’s one of the signature sights and sounds of the season. Yet few stop to consider the remarkable journey these birds are making, or the lessons they might offer. A Canada goose weighs only between two and seven kilograms—roughly the weight of a litre of water or, at its largest, a gallon of paint. Despite their modest size, geese migrate thousands of kilometres each year and, with strong tail winds and under just the right conditions, some flocks can travel more than 1,000 kilometres in a single day. The journey is anything but easy. Storms, headwinds, predators, and exhaustion all stand in their way. A single goose would struggle to make such a journey. As a flock however, they accomplish something amazing. During migration, geese have something important to teach us about teamwork and leadership.

LIVING Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

LESSON 1 .

LESSON 4 .

WE GO FARTHER TOGETHER

ENCOURAGEMENT MATTERS

The famous V formation isn’t just beautiful, it is incredibly efficient. Each goose flies slightly behind and to the side of the bird ahead, taking advantage of the rising air created by each beating wing. By sharing the work, the flock conserves energy and travels much farther than any one bird could on its own.

Anyone who has heard a flock of geese knows they are anything but quiet. Their calls help maintain formation, coordinate movement, and keep the flock together. Their constant communication reminds us of something equally important: we all need encouragement.

The same is true for us.

A heart felt thank you, a kind word, or just recognizing another person’s efforts can strengthen relationships and renew confidence. In a world where criticism often receives more attention than kindness, maybe we could all do a little more “honking” in support of one another.

None of us accomplishes our greatest work entirely alone. Families, schools, organizations, and communities flourish when people contribute their unique strengths toward a shared purpose. When we support one another, the whole becomes greater than the sum of its parts. Success is rarely a solo flight.

THE OVERALL LESSON

LESSON 2 .

LEADERSHIP IS MEANT TO BE SHARED

The next time you hear the calls of Canada geese overhead, take a moment to watch them.

The goose at the front of the V works the hardest, pushing through the greatest air resistance. Eventually it tires, drops back, and another goose takes its place.

It’s worth remembering that geese aren’t perfect models of harmony. During the breeding season they can be fiercely territorial, establish pecking orders, and aggressively defend their nests and young. Like us, they are capable of both cooperation and conflict.

Nature reminds us that leadership is not a position that we always need to hold on to, but a responsibility that can be shared. Strong teams recognize that everyone has gifts to offer. Sometimes we lead from the front; at other times we strengthen the team from within. Great leaders know when to step forward, and when to make room for someone else to lead. Perhaps the simplest and strongest definition of leadership is asking, “How can I help?”

LESSON 3 .

SHARED PURPOSE CREATES MOMENTUM A flock of geese doesn’t just meander across the sky. Every bird is moving toward the same destination. Because they share a common purpose, each goose’s effort reinforces others in the flock.

Yet every spring and fall, as they embark on one of nature’s most demanding journeys, geese display a wonderful capacity for cooperation. During migration, leadership is shared, energy is conserved, and constant communication keeps the birds united. Each goose contributes to the success of the journey, knowing that the well-being of every bird depends upon the strength of the flock. That may be one of the greatest lessons we can learn from geese. Human beings are no different. We all have competing priorities, disagreements, and moments when our own interests threaten to dominate the needs of the group. But our greatest accomplishments happen when people unite around a purpose larger than themselves and choose to contribute their gifts for the benefit of the whole. Unlike geese, we have the ability to make that choice consciously. Every day we can decide whether to compete or collaborate, whether to encourage or criticize, whether to lead or to support, whether to think only of ourselves or of something greater than ourselves.

The same principle applies to us. Whether we’re leading an organization, teaching a classroom, serving a community, or raising a family, a shared vision helps us navigate challenges and distractions. When people understand where they’re headed and why it matters, they become more resilient, focused, and committed.

The next time a flock of geese passes overhead, look up and remember that our greatest strength has never been flying alone, but learning how we can travel together.

A shared purpose helps transform a collection of individuals into a team.

Not bad advice from our feathered friends. an

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SERVICES Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

Classifieds  A FREE SERVICE FOR LOWDSA MEMBERS How to submit classified ads:

Email membership@lowdsa.com or mail LOWDSA, Box 1160, Kenora, ON P9N 3X7 Next submission deadline: October 23, 2026 Please try to keep your listing to 35 words or less.

All classified ads are posted online at lowdsa.com. Note that they are posted within a couple days of submission and not subject to magazine deadlines.

FOR RENT Bigstone Bay seasonal rental summer 2026, June 1 to Sept 7 $15,500. Quiet, private location on 5.5 acre island with one other cottage on the island. Close to mainland and Storm Bay road. Five minute boat ride from the docks at Smiths Camps about 20 minutes east of Kenora. Cottage has 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, laundry, fully equipped kitchen, internet and TV. Private dock. Faces west. Beautiful sunsets. Suitable for a quiet couple, non-smoking, no pets. For photos and more information contact darbruce@shaw.ca or text/call 403 990 4270. Clearwater Bay executive cottage for rent Summer of 2026. May 15 till Oct. 15 $36,000 or May $3000, June $6000 July and August $12000 each, September $6000. South facing 1600sq. ft. 3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms sleeps 12. internet, dish tv, washer, dryer, dishwasher road to back door, boat house with upper deck and gazebo,1 mile off the highway. Contact Rick at 204-981-4031 or rsuche@fgft.ca see pictures at Clearwaterbaycottage.com Clearwater Bay Newly Built Cottage. 5 bedrooms. Sunroom off the great room overlooking the lake. Steam room in Master Bedroom and Steam room on lower level. Great room with gas stove, dishwasher, butcher block island. Barbecue deck with smoker and dual smoker / barbecue. Laundry room. Boathouse with large dock and very good swimming area. Quiet property on 5.5 acres. July and August for 2025 are sold out. Discounted rates for June and September. Email Jonathan for pictures and details: jhill@ edgemontathletic.ca West End of Coney Island – Lake of the Woods. Four bedroom camp on low elevation with a beautiful view of Cameron Island and sunsets over Keewatin. New Dock, roof, plumbing, septic, bathroom, laundry and foundation. And yet still retro rustic. Cozy too with a wood burning fireplace. Deck just a few meters from the water. Maybe 15 steps up from the dock. There is a BBQ and a big back

yard for volleyball or badminton. You need your own boat! Location is the best, close to the Yacht Club. Available June 20th through Sept 12th. $2,400 per week or $8,500 per month. Contact: regal2750@gmail.com

Cottage for Sale – Clearwater Bay. 3 bed, 2 ½ bath, 1400+ sq. ft. seasonal cottage w crib dock & wired boathouse on LOTW, Inglis Road – 1.346 acres w approx.102.7 ft. of south facing waterfrontage. $2,000,000. Call 807.407.6992

Cottage rental less than 10 min by boat from Kenora. Spacious and comfortable cottage overlooking The Tangle with beautiful views and a large shady deck, with sunny deck at the dock. 5 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, sleeps 11. Large kitchen, 2 fridges, hydro and septic. $2500 a week. Available June 1-July 13 and Aug 24- Sept 7. For more info and photos email lotwsunsets@gmail.com

Camp/Estate For Sale on LOTW – Located on a peninsula 7 miles south of Sioux Narrows. It is like an island, except you can drive to it. Everything is new or nearly new condition. Could be a camp but would be PERFECT as a Family Estate or Corporate Retreat. Asking price $3 million or best offer. Owner will finance. Text 218-310-2200 for photos & more info.

Lakefront Cottage on Lake of the Woods (Storm Bay Road), near Kenora, road access. Includes 3 bedrooms, full kitchen, bath, and laundry. 2 acres, private bay, sandy beach, floating dock, and good fishing! Available June, July, August, September. $3,000/ week. Please text: 204-951-5812.

WANT TO RENT Looking to rent a covered boat slip. On Lake of the Woods, with a lift, for a 30’ Cobalt (12 months of the year). Road access only. Call 204-981-7301.

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-$8500 per week. Discounts available in the fall. mail@ markmcgregor.ch

WANT TO HIRE

Brule Point lakefront 3 bedroom 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 $1350/week. Contact donna@taketwoinc.com

FOR SALE – MISC

Lakefront - Trout Lake 20km North of Kenora. 3 bdrm Cabin available for rent weekends or weekly May-June and Sept. Full kitchen & bathrm, BBQ on deck. SAT TV/DVD. Comes with canoe, kayaks & 12 ft. alum. boat. Private deck on the shore and your own sand beach. Spring-fed-lake with crystal clear water. Troutlake596@gmail.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 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.

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Cottage for sale at Myrtle Rapids, Wpg River. 1.06 acres, 3BR- 924 sq ft, boat access only, 258+ ft beautiful waterfront, electricity, water, full bath, new dock, extra large deck. Asking $325,000. Kijiji ad # 1709718503. Call 204-479-6678 for more info.

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.

1 galvanized steel 5-step dock ladder $200. 1 Black pained steel 8-step dock ladder $300. Clearwater Bay area. Davidk204@shaw.ca 204-955-5534. Local barging/trailering business (Empire Transport and Labour services) for sale. Serious inquiries only. Very good opportunity for any entrepreneur or existing company looking to expand their business. Contact Tyler Fraser (204) 791-3718 or tylerfraser701@ gmail.com For Sale: $35.00 each, 2 Steel Entry Doors, 2 Aluminium Storm Doors c/w frames. Also 1 only vintage Fuel Oil Space Heater: $170.00. I will supply photos when you email, peterzaj@ mymts.net Myers Septic Pump near Kenora. New WHR-11C Meyers Septic Pump for sale $750 OBO. This pump was ordered in error at a wholesale cost of $895. Call 250-964-1326 Young Chang 6ft.10in. G208 semi concert grand piano in excellent condition. Enhance the sound and visual aesthetics of your home or cottage with this beautiful instrument. Asking price: $10,000. Call 807 407 5891. “Find Your Voice”, One on one painting lessons designed to your interests. I have over forty years experience teaching all ages.

Supplies are included. I teach traditional techniques and how to blend them. Contact, pippij69@gmail.com Exquisite high-end antiques for sale. These include a 9-piece walnut dining set, ladies spinet desk, roll top desk and swivel chair, carved curio cabinet with two curved bevelled glass doors and matching grandfather clock from Austria, walnut cabinet with beautiful hand-carved panels in the doors from Belgium, and Dresden candelabras. Excellent condition. Prices negotiable. Must be able to take away. For more information and pictures call or text 807-465-4555. 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 $3500 Cdn or best offer. Contact: shewchukj444@gmail.com

WANT TO BUY Gently used, personal “Snow-Plow“ to fit front mount 2 inch receiver hitch on fullsize S.U.V. Please E-mail Peter @ peterzaj@ mymts.net 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

BOATS & MOTORS FOR SALE 1935 Ditchburn triple cockpit. Very rare model. One of the last before Ditchburn closed. Pinnacle of Canadian classic boats. Full restored. Modern power 300hp mpi. Fast. Elegant. Leather interior. Featured in 2 hardcover coffee table books. True mahogany classic. Always boathouse kept. 125k Leave a message at 204.510.7447. 20 hp Evinrude long shaft 2 stroke outboard motor, incl hose and tank. Asking $500 Ted 204-294-4891. 3hp Eska 2 stroke outboard motor, asking $150 Ted 204-294-4891. 1984 Tiara 31’ Lake Cruiser. Live aboard. Low-time Twin 350 Crusader engines, all new interior refresh with XM and loads of equipment. This ex-Great Lakes boat is ready to go. $40000 USD. Contact 204-292-3970.

MISCELLANEOUS FOUND On Lake of the Woods, Pelican Single-person Kayak, Colour, Blue, Serial Number: ZEP69624C60?. Contact Peter Z. at E-mail peterzaj@mymts.net with the last number and claim Your Kayak.

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association SERVICES

Real Estate Listings

73 Copperhead Road

Affordable cottage living awaits at Beauty Bay! This renovated 3 bdrm retreat features a huge wrap-around deck, screened outdoor room, exceptional privacy. Steps from Black Sturgeon Lake, golf, beach, clubhouse and boat launch.

$199,900

Joey Katz, Re/Max Northwest Realty 807-466-2770  sold@joeykatz.ca

Morson

Three-bedroom, two-bathroom, 1,276 sq. ft. waterfront log home built in 2016, with outstanding views over Lake of the Woods.

$499,000

Jake Bennett, Northwoods Realty Ltd. 807-407-3747  northwoodsrealtyltd.com

NEW - Clay Lake

Private retreat on Clay Lake north of Vermilion Bay. 1.49 ac & 225’ of shoreline, 2 cottages (640 sf main; 525 sf older log cabin). Water access off grid property with propane services, generator, well and outhouses. Quad accessible via logging road.

$285,000

Carmichael Real Estate Inc.

Exceptional privacy, spectacular shoreline and newer construction come together at this unique two-lot retreat on the north shore of Zig Zag Island in Clearwater Bay, Lake of the Woods.

$1,295,000

Cabin Country Realty

807-468-3541  cabincountry.com

Longbow Lake Resort consisting of cottages/ homes on site, together with undeveloped lots on 5.48 acres with 340 feet of shoreline. Road access.

$350,000 +HST

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

807-466-2236  lakeofthewoods.net

Island View Condo - 401-5 Bay Rd

Lot 39 South Poplar Bay

$595,000

$772,000

Carefree waterfront living on Lake of the Woods! Spacious 3-bed, 2-bath condo with elevator, heated underground parking, private dock slip, large east-facing balcony, central air, intercom & security system, exercise room, sauna + more!

Shelley Torrie Home & Cottage Realty 807-468-1120  kenora-realestate.com

1020 1021 Zig Zag Island

Longbow Lake

Privacy on Poplar Bay - This 3 bedroom multi-level lakeside retreat is perfect for the family wanting to escape and relax. One of the first to be built on the bay with a vision to remain as private as possible but with stunning lake views across Poplar Bay.

Cabin Country Realty

807-468-3541  cabincountry.com

3 Branch Road 16A

108 Ottawa Street

$1,999,000

$3,249,900

Watch the sunset over Lake of the Woods from this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom waterfront home. Two sunrooms, wood-burning cookstove, sandy beach, two-stall boathouse, geothermal heating, and a double garage make lake living effortless here.

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

SERVICES Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

Beautifully renovated historic waterfront estate on Keewatin Bay. 3,300+ sq/ft of luxury, 165 ft of shoreline, lakefront amenities, gourmet kitchen, spa-inspired primary suite, heated garage—all in the coveted 9 km “No Wake” zone of Lake of the Woods.

Century 21 Northern Choice Realty Ltd. Independently Owned & Operated – Brokerage

807-468-3747  century21kenora.com

Advertisers’ Directory ART 44

Laurie Thompson Art

Kenora

403-605-1240 leht52@gmail.com

BUILDING SUPPLIES 4

Lumber One Building Supplies

1 Willow Drive, Falcon Lake

204-349-2294 lumberone.ca

McMunn & Yates

1666 Highway 17 W, Keewatin

807-547-3366 mcmunnandyates.com

21 Sylvan Street W, Kenora

807-468-9861 lwdh.on.ca

COMMUNITY 26 & 39 Lake of the Woods District Hospital

CONTRACTORS 44

AK & Company

Highway 17 W, Keewatin

807-543-2493 akcompany.ca

Barnes & Duncan

6 Donald Street, Winnipeg

204-284-5999 barnesduncan.com

Black Fox Construction

474 Williams Road, Kenora

807-407-9983 blackfoxconstruction.com

1940 Highway 17 East, Kenora

807-547-4444 docksandlifts.ca

Inside Docks & Lifts Back 12

DTL Carpentry

Keewatin

204-979-4055 dtlcarpentry.ca

Halverson & Son Construction

Kenora

807-407-8868 halversonandsonco.com

Hanover Screw Piles

Niverville

204-388-9037 hanoverscrewpile.ca

FINANCIAL SER VICES Inside Banville Zaporzan Wealth Management 3100-201 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg Front Group 24-25 Miles Wealth Management

204-982-2635 bzwmg.com

1534 Gamble Pl., Suite 200, Winnipeg 204-259-1980 raymondjames.ca/mileswealth

HOME & COTTAGE 29

Bell's Septic

Kenora

807-468-7251 bellskenora.ca

Keystone Security

1221 Highway 17 W, Keewatin

807-468-7878 keystonelock.ca

Sunrise Earthworks

3132 Highway 596, Keewatin

807-464-3467 sunriseearthworks.ca

United Tree Service

Kenora

807-464-3602 unitedtreeservice.ca

INSURANCE 8

Brokerlink Insurance

319 Second Street South, Kenora

866-418-3672 brokerlink.ca

Richard McKenzie Insurance

F-27 Red River Blvd. W, Winnipeg

204-410-1010 mckenzie.insure

Hook Seller Lundin

203-301 First Avenue South, Kenora

807-468-9831 hsllaw.ca

138 Main Street South, Kenora

807-468-3541 cabincountry.com

625 Lakeview Drive, Kenora

807-467-2323 lakeofthewoods.net

LEGAL 29

REAL ESTATE Back Cover Cabin Country Realty 34

Carmichael Real Estate

20 & 39 Century 21 Northern Choice Realty Ltd 213 Main Street South, Kenora

807-468-3747 century21kenora.com

Greg Kirby RE/MAX

Kenora

807-466-8266 gregkirby.ca

Joey Katz RE/MAX

334 Second Street South, Kenora

807-466-2770 remaxnorthwestrealty.com

Northwoods Realty

5701A Highway 71, Sioux Narrows

807-226-1024 northwoodsrealtyltd.com

10 & 36 RE/MAX NorthWest Realty Ltd

334 Second Street South, Kenora

807-468-4573 remaxnorthwestrealty.com

721 Beach Road, Keewatin

807-547-4020 kenora-realestate.com

Shelley Torrie Home & Cottage Realty

Lake of the Woods District Stewardship Association SERVICES

History has the Last Word  LORI NELSON

The Keewatin reduction works

The Ottawa Gold Milling and Mining Company’s buildings were located on the north shore of Portage Bay in Keewatin. In the centre of the photo is the cableway that conveyed raw ore brought from the mines by barge to the sampling building in the distance. Photo: Lake of the Woods Museum

n the late 1870s gold was first discovered on an island on Lake of the Woods. In the ensuing 15 years or so, there was a flurry of mining activity as locations were explored, mining companies were formed, ore was extracted, and infrastructure was built for the mines themselves but also for the communities that grew up around them. Those were all initial steps in the mining process, but an often overlooked stage was what happened once the ore was removed from under the ground. Enter the Keewatin Reduction Works. The Ottawa Gold Milling and Mining Company, whose directors included both John and Robert A. Mather, purchased the 20-acre property of the former Dick and Banning lumber mill. The narrow strip of land separated Portage Bay on Lake of the Woods and Darlington Bay on the Winnipeg River. The Mathers, who also held interests in the Lake of the Woods Milling Company, the Keewatin Lumbering and Manufacturing Company and the Keewatin Power Company, were well aware of the advantages of the location for industrial purposes, given its proximity to the CP rail line and to the abundant water power produced at the juncture between the Lake of the Woods and the Winnipeg River. Construction of the Keewatin Reduction Works commenced on this site in September 1897. The local newspaper, The Rat Portage Miner and News, reported that “no pains are being spared to secure the very latest and up-to-date mining machinery the greater portion of which, by the way, is made from original designs and drawings and especially adapted for the class of ores found in the district.” Thirty tons of bolts alone were used in the construction of the works. The operation consisted of a number of buildings: the sampler building, mill, boiler house, power house, and numerous storehouses, ore bins and sheds. The larger structures were built in such a way that additions could be made without altering the original structure. The company also had ten barges, each with a capacity of 30 tons, which were used to transport ore from mines on any part of the lake at a cost of 10-30¢ per ton, based on distance.

A 450-foot cableway was built to convey ore from the barges over the railway property to the sampling bins. Ore was also brought in by rail depending on the mine’s location. In the reduction plant, the raw ore underwent both chemical and mechanical processing for the gold extraction. First the ore was transported to the sampler building where it was dumped into a 60-ton ore bin. From there, the ore was dropped into a crusher which could process 10 tons per hour. The crusher was composed of twenty “stamps”, each weighing 950 pounds and dropping a distance of eight inches, 100 times/minute. The crushed ore went one of two routes after that. The ore that was small enough was sent through a screen. The larger chunks were sent through a roller which further crushed the ore before going through the screen. It dropped from there into an automatic machine sampler to the weighing bin and then to a storage bin. Waste rock was discarded and the concentrated ore, now the consistency of fine sand, moved to the next step of chemical processing. At that time, various chemicals were being experimented with to see which was more effective. The Rat Portage Reduction Works (on the present site of McLeod Park) used chlorine, so it’s possible this was what was also used at the Keewatin Works. Other mills used mercury or cyanide. In each case, the chemical was combined with the ore dust to create an amalgam that drew the gold from the ore. Once the amalgam was formed, the added chemical was removed through various methods, leaving the gold behind. The mill processed ore from smaller mines that could not afford to build their own mills. Three of its most significant customers were the Bad Mine (aka Champion, Franklin) which was located in Haycock Township east of Kenora; the Wendigo Mine, north of Witch Bay on Lake of the Woods, and the Saskoose Mine in the Rainy River District. It seems the mill was only in operation a short time, between 1898 and 1902, after which there was no further mention of it in the Ontario Bureau of Mine Reports. The company, like many of the mining operations on Lake of the Woods, had bigger dreams than reality could support. an

SERVICES Lake of the Woods Area News Fall 2026

S E RV I N G N O RT H W E ST E R N O N TA R I O & M A N I TO B A F O R OV E R 4 0 Y E A R S

It all starts

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INHOUSE PIP

E PILE & HEL

ICAL PILE DR ILLING 807 547 444 1940 HW Y 17 W, KENORA info@dockan dlifts.ca

docksandlifts .ca

ROAD ACCESS | FILE 4545

ROAD ACCESS | FILE 4703

ROAD ACCESS | FILE 4726

ROAD ACCESS | FILE 4729

48 SUNSET TRAIL $ 929,000

2-65 POPLAR BAY $ 1,479,000

746 EAST MELICK ROAD $ 8,298,000

701A RED PINE RIDGE ROAD $ 899,000

ROAD ACCESS | FILE 4731

ROAD ACCESS | FILE 4732

ROAD ACCESS | FILE 4736

WATER ACCESS | FILE 4722

189 TRESOOR POINT ROAD $ 499,999

519D OLDFORD ROAD $ 799,000

812A EAST MELICK ROAD $ 2,199,000

305P TREATY ISLAND $ 3,495,000

WATER ACCESS | FILE 4724

WATER ACCESS | FILE 4734

PRIVATE ISL | VACANT | FILE 8146

ROAD | VACANT | FILE 8150

LOT 6 PCL 41797 $ 2,850,000

1020 1021 ZIG ZAG ISLAND $ 1,295,000

ISLAND 358P $ 539,000

LOT 7 SAND LAKE ROAD $ 309,000

138 MAIN ST S, KENORA, ONTARIO

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