Steenburg Lake Community Association News

Starting up your water pump in spring

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:30:11 GMT

This step-by-step process is designed to prime a lake-fed, above-ground centrifugal or jet pump to ensure it has the necessary water pressure to draw from a lake or well.

Submerge the Foot Valve: Ensure the screened intake (foot valve) is submerged in the lake.

Clear Debris: Clean off any silt, sand, or debris accumulated over the winter, which can block water flow.

Check Integrity: Ensure the foot valve is securely attached and not damaged, as a faulty valve will lose prime.

Locate the Plug: Identify the priming plug on the top of the pump housing (the "wet end" or casing).

Unscrew the Plug: Use a wrench to remove the square or hexagonal plug, turning it counter-clockwise.

Fill the Casing: Using a funnel or jug, pour clean water into the priming port.

Fill the Intake Line: Continue filling until the water stays level with the top of the hole, ensuring both the pump casing and the entire intake line (down to the foot valve) are full.

Tip: This can take several gallons of water, depending on the length of the intake pipe.

Replace the Plug: Reinstall the priming plug.

Ensure Airtight Seal: Tighten the plug securely with a wrench, but do not overtighten, as this can crack the cast iron housing. Using Teflon tape on the threads can help prevent air leaks.

Open a Tap: Open a nearby cold-water tap, ideally an outdoor hose bib, to provide a release point for trapped air.

Start the Pump: Turn on the pump.

Monitor Pressure: The pump should begin to operate. If it does not build pressure within 30–60 seconds, turn it off immediately to prevent damage to the seal.

Re-prime: If the pump fails to start, it often takes 2 or 3 tries to get all the air bubbles out of a long intake line.

Troubleshooting: If the pump continues to fail, check the entire intake line for air leaks, which will prevent a vacuum from forming.

Sources: Nightowl Monitoring, Ottawa Citizen, YouTube

Crowe Valley will be part of new Eastern Lake Ontario CA

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:35:50 GMT

As of April 2026, the amalgamation of Ontario's conservation authorities is in the pre-implementation/transition planning stage, following a formal announcement by the provincial government on March 10, 2026. The Province is moving to consolidate 36 existing conservation authorities into 9 new regional authorities, with full implementation set for early 2027. This includes the Crowe Valley Conservation Authority.

Here is the current status and next steps based on the latest information:
Finalized Regional Model: The government has finalized the map to 9 regional authorities (increased from an earlier 7-region proposal),
Transition Structure: The Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency (OPCA) was established via Bill 68 in late 2025 to lead the transition. Transition Committees will be established for each new region, starting in May 2026, to oversee the merger.
Legislative Action: The government plans to table legislation in Spring 2026 to amend the Conservation Authorities Act to implement these changes, ensuring assets and liabilities are transferred to the new regional entities.
Timing:
- Spring 2026: Legislation and regulatory changes.
- May 2026 to Early 2027: Active transition period.
- Feb 1, 2027 (Target): New regional authorities officially in place.
Current Operations: Despite the announcement, existing conservation authorities continue to operate, with no immediate changes to services or programs during the transition period.

Key Regional Changes announced March 2026:
Western Lake Erie Region: Includes Upper Thames River, Essex Region, St. Clair Region, and Lower Thames Valley.
Western Lake Ontario Region: Includes Hamilton, Niagara Peninsula, Conservation Halton, and Credit Valley.
St. Lawrence River Region: Combines Mississippi Valley, Rideau Valley, South Nation, and Raisin Region.
The new regions are primarily watershed-based, covering southern Ontario and northern areas.

The 9 New Regional Conservation Authorities
Northwestern Ontario Regional Conservation Authority (Note: Lakehead Region CA remains a stand-alone, separate entity in the final plan)
Northeastern Ontario Regional Conservation Authority
Western Lake Erie Regional Conservation Authority (Covers areas like Thames River, Grand River)
Eastern Lake Erie Regional Conservation Authority
Lake Huron Regional Conservation Authority
Western Lake Ontario Regional Conservation Authority
Central Lake Ontario Regional Conservation Authority
Eastern Lake Ontario Regional Conservation Authority
St. Lawrence River Regional Conservation Authority
Crowe Valley CA will fall under the Eastern Lake Ontario Regional Conservation Authority, along with:
Cataraqui Region CA
Crowe Valley CA
Ganaraska Region CA
Lower Trent Region CA
Otonabee Region CA
Quinte CA
Kawartha Region CA

Some conservation authorities have expressed concerns about the pace of the transition, the loss of local watershed-based management, and potential impacts on services.

What does a Conservation Authority do?

Ontario's 36 Conservation Authorities (CAs) are local watershed management agencies responsible for protecting people and property from natural hazards like flooding and erosion, managing natural resources, and regulating development in sensitive areas (wetlands, shorelines). They oversee over 150,000 hectares of conservation land, including forests and wetlands, and manage water resources such as lakes, rivers, and streams.

Key Areas of Responsibility

Natural Hazard Management: Protecting public safety by managing risks from flooding, erosion, and drought, including creating, maintaining, and operating water control structures (dams, berms).

Environmental Protection & Restoration: Protecting biodiversity, improving water quality, and enhancing natural habitats (wetlands, forests, fisheries) within their watershed jurisdictions.

Regulation and Permitting: Reviewing and issuing permits for development activities—such as housing developments or sewage system installations—within or adjacent to floodplains, shorelines, or wetlands to ensure they do not create safety hazards.

Land Management: Owning and managing over 500 conservation areas, providing recreational opportunities, nature education, and protecting natural heritage sites.

Watershed Stewardship: Promoting stewardship practices that lead to healthy watersheds, including tree planting and protecting groundwater.

Source: https://conservationontario.ca/

Loon and Lake Conservation Tips from the Canadian Lakes Loon Survey

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 09:29:43 GMT

The Canadian Lakes Loon Survey (CLLS), delivered by Birds Canada, monitors the health of Common Loons and the lakes they depend on. Participants spend time observing loons at their favourite lake throughout the summer. For more information visit birdscanada.org/loons or call 1-888-448-2473 ext. 124.

Why Loons? Loons are excellent indicators of the environmental conditions in a lake. Survival of loon chicks is influenced by lake acidification, mercury contamination, and other factors. In addition, nearly all of the world’s Common Loons nest in Canada and over half breed in Ontario and Quebec, making the Common Loon a big responsibility for us to conserve.

Help Create a Loon-Friendly Lake

Keep it calm but boat on: Slow down near wetlands and shorelines and keep your wake to a minimum. Wakes can wash out nests or separate young loons from their parents, which makes chicks easy pickings for predators.
Play smart: Operate play / wake boats only in water that is at least 8 m (24 feet) deep, which helps prevent sedimentation, protects wildlife, and makes for a better wake.
Steer clear: Steer clear of loons, waterbirds, and other wildlife. They may not be able to escape your path. Adults can’t protect their young if they are separated. Remember that paddlers and anglers can also panic loon parents. Ideally, you should stay a minimum of 64m from loons and nests.
Keep it wild: Let native wetland plants grow along your shore. Natural shorelines provide shelter and food for both fish and loons while protecting your property from erosion.
Be lead-free: Loons usually ingest lead fishing gear by eating a fish that has swallowed a jig or sinker or has broken the line, or by striking at tackle or fish being retrieved by an angler. Lead poisoning and death typically result. Request lead-free alternatives at your local tackle shop.
Don’t discard: Loons and other wildlife can die from starvation when they become entangled in fishing line. Return plastics, metals, fishing line, tackle and other refuse to shore and dispose of it in appropriate containers.
Don’t mess with the food chain: Don’t feed nest predators such as raccoons or gulls. Dispose of your waste properly.
Be level-headed: Work to reduce large water level changes during the loon breeding season (May - July). High water floods eggs; low water prevents adults from returning; both result in nests failing to hatch. Talk to your local officials.
Lobby for loons and lakes: Get involved in preventing air pollution and water quality issues.
Spread the word: Place loon and lake conservation messages on websites and in papers and newsletters.

Simple Actions to Ensure You Have a Wildlife-Friendly Waterfront

Evaluate your shoreline using resources such as Love Your Lake (https://loveyourlake.ca/about/).
Keep the lot well-treed: never clear-cut. Start a buffer strip by leaving some grass uncut near the water.
Keep a natural edge: replant areas lacking shrubs and trees with native species (naturaledge.watersheds.ca/; https://birdgardens.ca/); leave a buffer strip near the water.
Build at least 30 m (100 feet) away from the shore.
Give clear instructions to your contractors and monitor their work.
Avoid spilling fuels, antifreeze, paint thinner, or other chemicals on land or water; clean up fast!
Don’t use fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides near the water.
Use environmentally friendly soaps, detergents, and cleaners in your home.
Pump out your septic tank regularly, every two to three years.
Extend the life of your septic system by avoiding tank additives and minimizing water consumption.
Refuel your boat with care: don’t spill a drop.
Watch your boat’s wake: it causes erosion

Are you causing harm?

You can harass and stress loons without even being aware you are doing so. While on the lake or shoreline, keep an eye out for the following and, if seen, move away:
A loon splashing across the water, appearing to stand up. The loon is alarmed and probably defending its chicks.
A loon vocalizing near you. The loon may be concerned about you being to close.
A loon lying very flat on the shoreline with its head down. The loon is hiding on its nest, and if approached, may slide into the water, leaving the eggs exposed to predators.
Watch your pets; please keep them away from wildlife.

SOURCE: https://www.birdscanada.org/bird-science/canadian-lakes-loon-survey

When it comes to fishing licences…DID YOU KNOW??

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 09:13:50 GMT

You must have a valid Ontario fishing licence to fish in Steenburg Lake. The Fisheries Management Zone is #15 (Limerick Township).

Important: Ontario and Canadian residents who are under 18 OR 65 years of age or older can carry a licence, permit, certificate or identification card issued by a federal, provincial or territorial government of Canada that indicates their name and date of birth and use it as a fishing licence.

Most people require a Recreational Fishing Licence to legally fish in Ontario. If you purchased a recreational fishing licence, other than a 1-day licence, you must carry your Outdoors Card when fishing. You must carry a licence summary if the current fishing licence is not listed on the Outdoors Card or if you have not yet received your Outdoors Card. If requested, you must present these documents to a Conservation Officer. An Outdoors Card is a plastic, wallet-sized card valid for 3 calendar years and used for administration purposes.

The province of Ontario sells 2 different types of Recreational Fishing Licences:

Sport Fishing Licence: For anglers who want full catch and possession fishing privileges. S refers to limits under a Sport Fishing Licence (for example, S-4 = catch and possession limit of 4)

Conservation Fishing Licence: A reduced catch and possession limit licence that is ideal for anglers who want to live-release the majority of fish caught. C refers to limits under a Conservation Fishing Licence (for example, C-2 = catch and possession limit of 2)

All fishing licence products are issued on a calendar year basis from January 1 to December 31.

For more information on purchasing an Ontario fishing licence, visit HuntAndFishOntario.com, or call the Natural Resources Information and Support Centre at 1-800-387-7011.

Anyone who is not an Ontario or Canadian resident is considered a non-Canadian resident for the purposes of fishing licence regulations. Most non-Canadian residents require an Outdoors Card and Recreational Fishing Licence to fish in Ontario, including those 65 years of age or older.

The following licences (for 2026) are available online or through all licence issuers or participating ServiceOntario locations. A 3-year Sport or Conservation Fishing Licence can also be purchased through our automated telephone line at 1-800-288-1155 when renewing your Outdoors Card.

2026 fees:

Outdoors Card: Ontario, Canadian, and Non-Canadian residents $8.57

Ontario Residents:

3-year Sport Fishing Licence $79.71

1-year Sport Fishing Licence $26.57

3-year Conservation Fishing Licence $45.21

1-year Conservation Fishing Licence $15.07

1-day Sport Fishing Licence $12.21

Non-Canadian Residents:

3-year Sport Fishing Licence $249.57

1-year Sport Fishing Licence $83.19

3-year Conservation Fishing Licence $158.13

1-year Conservation Fishing Licence $52.71

1-day Sport Fishing Licence $24.86

8-day Sport Fishing Licence $54.38

8-day Conservation Fishing Licence $31.52

Plus 13% tax.

Line Usage: Only 1 line per person is allowed for Steenburg Lake. You may use up to 4 hooks per line. For ice fishing two lines may be used. When ice fishing, you must be within 60 m of any line or tip-up and you must have a clear and unobstructed view of the lines at all times. Any spring-loaded device which sets the hook for an angler may not be possessed within 30 m of any waters.

Bait: It is illegal to deposit or release into, or within 30 m of any waters:

• live or dead bait or baitfish, including fish eggs, gametes or fish parts

• the water, soil or other materials used to hold any of these items

When can you fish on Steenburg Lake:

Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass: fourth Saturday in June to November 30. Limits: S-6 and C-2 on a per day basis

Splake: open all year. Limits: S-5 and C-2 on a per day basis

Yellow Perch Season: open all year . Limits: S-50 and C-25 on a per day basis

Licence-free fishing weekends:

Ontario residents are provided four opportunities throughout the year to fish FREE without having to purchase a fishing licence. These dates include:

• Family Fishing Weekend (February 14–16, 2026)

• Mother’s Day Weekend (May 9–10, 2026)

• Father’s Day Weekend (June 20–21, 2026)

• Ontario Family Fishing Week (June 27–July 5, 2026)

Source: www.ontario.ca/document/ontario-fishing-regulations-summary

Toxins in Your Tackle Box: The Dangers of Lead Fishing Gear

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 21:21:07 GMT

Fishing is a favourite pastime, and with warm weather and calm waters, summer is a great time to wet a line. But many anglers are not aware that a common item in their tackle box is harming the very ecosystems they love. Lead, despite being highly toxic, is still widely used in fishing tackle. These small pieces of metal can have big consequences for birds, fish, and even people. Thankfully, there are affordable and accessible alternatives, and local initiatives are helping to make the switch even easier.

How Prevalent Is Lead Tackle?

Many people assume that since hunting waterfowl with lead shot has been prohibited across Canada since 1999, the use of lead in fishing tackle must also have been phased out. The truth is, lead-based fishing tackle (e.g., weights, jig heads) is still widely used across Ontario, despite decades of research showing its harmful effects.

Lead has been a go-to material for generations of anglers because it is cheap and easy to mold, but the environmental cost is staggering. An estimated 545 metric tonnes of lead fishing tackle is lost in Canadian waters every year (learn more here). These pieces often remain on lake bottoms or riverbeds, where they can be accidentally consumed by wildlife or slowly leach into aquatic ecosystems. Even casual handling of lead tackle can pose a risk—especially to children—due to the potential for lead residue to be absorbed through the skin or ingested.

Impacts on Wildlife

Lead tackle may seem small and insignificant, but it can be deadly to wildlife. Waterfowl such as loons, swans, and ducks often ingest lead weights when searching for grit or food along the lake bottom. Once swallowed, the lead is absorbed into their bloodstream, leading to muscle paralysis, organ failure, and often death.

Loons are especially at risk. In some regions, ingesting lead tackle is the number one cause of loon deaths. One study noted that 49% of necropsied loons were victims of lead poisoning. With loon populations already facing pressure from habitat loss, climate change, and human disturbance, lead poisoning is an entirely preventable threat that anglers can help eliminate.

Safer Alternatives

Non-toxic alternatives to lead tackle are widely available and perform just as well. Alternatives include tin, steel, tungsten, bismuth, and ceramic.

Look for tackle labeled “lead-free” at outdoor stores or online. Making the switch is a simple step every angler can take to reduce environmental harm. Thanks to growing awareness of the issue, more brands and retailers are stocking lead-free gear every year.

You can also trade in your old lead tackle through local exchange programs and community initiatives—some even offer rewards!

Small Change, Big Impact

The move away from lead tackle is already happening—and with your help, we can speed up the transition. Every lead weight or jig head replaced with a non-toxic alternative is a win for local lakes, wildlife, and future generations of anglers.

Help protect the species that call Steenburg Lake home by starting with something as simple as the gear in your tackle box.

Switch to non-toxic tackle made of tin, tungsten, steel, or bismuth.
Properly dispose of lead tackle at hazardous waste facilities or take part in local exchange programs.
Encourage fellow anglers to go lead-free and talk to retailers about non-toxic alternatives.
Support a local program like the The Manitouwabing Lake Community Association (MLCA) Let’s Get the Lead Out Campaign to raise awareness and encourage anglers to make the switch to non-toxic tackle.

For more information: stateofthebay.ca

Related News:

The 2022 FOCA Achievement Award was presented to the

Wolfe Lake Association – Westport https://wolfelake.org/ (Frontenac County) for their “Let’s Get the Lead Out” initiative and lead fishing tackle buy-back program. This voluntary program was launched in 2022; by the end of the year, they had already collected over 100 pounds of lead, keeping this source of contamination out of the waterway. They also galvanized neighbouring lake associations to join their initiative including Upper Rideau Lake, Chaffey’s Area Lakes Association, Otter Lake, Charleston Lake, and also the Temagami Lake Association. A grant from South Frontenac Township helped to fund $10 vouchers for each person who turned in lead fishing tackle.

Learn more online at https://wolfelake.org/toxins-in-your-tackle-box

Photo by Susan Holt Simpson on Unsplash

Article republished with permission of Georgian Bay Mnidoo Gamii Biosphere (georgianbaybiosphere.com)Originally posted July 1, 2025

Carleton U student requesting your input to her survey

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:55:58 GMT

Carleton University grad student – Caraline Billotte – who is researching lake stewardship and shoreline care has asked the SLCA to share a link to her survey which is aimed at people who own lakefront property in Ontario.

The survey is:

Anonymous and takes 10–15 minutes

Open to lakefront property owners aged 18+

Participants can enter a draw to win one of five $100 gift cards

Survey Link: https://carletonu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cAUoVyLEUd7Vdqe (NOTE: You have to scroll to the bottom of the information page and click the black box/white arrow at the bottom right of the page to start the survey.)

Mayor’s Matching Challenge in Support of Local Health Care

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 14:41:11 GMT

There’s something special about small communities — when we come together, we make a real and lasting difference. Now, residents of Tudor and Cashel Township have a powerful opportunity to do just that.

Mayor David Hederson has issued a community-wide challenge in support of Quinte Health North Hastings.

Here’s how it works:

The Mayor has personally pledged up to $2,500
He will match the total of resident donations dollar-for-dollar, up to that amount
Together, we can turn $2,500 into $5,000 for local health care
Every contribution helps strengthen care close to home

It’s a chance to show uour community spirit and demonstrate how much we value accessible, high-quality health services right here in North Hastings.

Why Your Support Matters

Let’s come together as a community, meet the goal, and make a meaningful difference for health care in Tudor and Cashel Township. Please be sure to note your township with your donation, so we can track the results.

Local health care services are essential to the well-being of our families, friends, and neighbours. Supporting Quinte Health North Hastings ensures that residents can access the care they need without having to travel far from home. Investments made today help enhance equipment, services, and patient care for everyone in our region.

Whether you’re able to give a little or a lot, every donation counts — and during this challenge, every dollar goes twice as far.

How to Participate

Ready to help meet the Mayor’s challenge?

Please consider donating — and don’t forget to share this challenge with friends and neighbours to help spread the word. Together, we can double our impact and strengthen care for our community.

Make Your Donation here: https://nhhfd.ca/donation

-- North Hastings Fund Development Committee

Half Load Restrictions in effect March 2 - May 1

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 13:02:21 GMT

If planning a gravel drop or major delivery this spring, remember Half Load Restrictions will be in place March 2 to May 1.

Half Load Restrictions protect roads from excessive damage while the winter frost is coming out of the roads.

Watch for signage notifying users of load reductions being in effect.

"‘Half Load Restriction’ requires that no axle of any commercial vehicle shall transmit to the highway, a weight in excess of 5000 kilograms. "-- Tudor & Cashel

March means Maple Syrup and things to do!

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:08:24 GMT

As the daytime temperatures start to rise, so does the maple sap – syrup production can’t be far behind!

Looking for something fund to do near Steenburg Lake in March? Check out these fun events:

Maple March Menus:

For the month of March, 12 restaurants and brewers in the Hastings area are featuring Maple menus that include maple flavoured loaves, cookies, crepes, lattes, burgers, brussels sprouts, tartar sauce with fish & chips, chicken sandwiches, and a lineup of maple cocktails, mocktails, and wines. Participating restaurants include: Bancroft Brew Pub, The Granite, Café BC, For the Halibut Fish & Chips and The Muse Gallery & Café in Bancroft. There are also locations in Stirling, Tweed and Deseronto. See more details https://hastingscounty.com/adventures/maple-march .

Limerick Fire Department Pancake Breakfast:

Date: Sunday, March 15, 2026

Time: 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Location: Limerick Community Centre

Address: 7645 Hwy. 620

All you can eat! Ages 0-5 $5, 6-12 $7, 12 and up $10. Proceeds to the Limerick Fireman's Association.

Bancroft Seedy Saturday and Maple Syrup Fest:
Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Location: Canadian Peace Museum

Address: 19 Valleyview Drive, Bancroft

What’s Happening? Seeds, Plants, Herbals, Maple Syrup, and more!

Vendors & Information Booths: Browse unique seeds, gardening supplies, and connect with knowledgeable growers offering advice on soil health, native plants, and sustainable practices.

Warkworth Maple Syrup Festival:

Date: Saturday & Sunday, March 14 & 15 2026

Location: Warkworth

What's Happening? Jump on a free shuttle bus to Sandy Flat Sugar Bush, where you can enjoy a pancake breakfast, horse and wagon rides, maple taffy in the snow, and take in live musical entertainment.

Then it’s all about Maplelicious in the village! Take the free shuttle back to meander the beautiful downtown area. Visit shops, boutiques and cafés — all bursting with maple themed items.

This year’s special events in the village include Beer Garden by Fogorig Brewery, Mini Putt at St. Paul’s United Church, Artisan Show & Sale, Art Exhibit at the AH! Centre, and much more! For all the details visit https://warkworthmaplesyrupfestival.ca/ .

O’Hara Mill Homestead Sugar Bush Event:

Date: Sunday, March 22, 2026

Time: 10 am - 3 pm

Location: O'Hara Mill Homestead and Conservation Area

Address: 638 Mill Road, Madoc, Ontario, K0K 2K0.

What's happening? Come learn about how maple syrup was made at the Homestead!

https://www.oharamill.ca/events-calendar/sugar-bush-event-2

Go fishing with your family - and enter to win a prize!

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 12:19:27 GMT

Four times a year, Canadian residents can fish in Ontario for free. This means you do not need to buy a fishing licence if you want to fish during:

Family Fishing Weekend (February 14 – 16, 2026)
Mother’s Day Weekend (May 9 & 10, 2026)
Father’s Day Weekend (June 20 & 21, 2026)
Family Fishing Week (June 27 – July 5, 2026)

There are two options to participate: join a public event near you or fish with your family and submit your “family event” to receive a free digital fishing package and be entered into a draw for a $500 Fishing Prize Pack from Lucky Strike, Shimano, and Ontario Out of Doors!

For a second chance at the prize pack, a photo contest on social media will be held February 14 – 16, 2026.

Pleasure Craft Licenses now subject to $24 renewal fee

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 14:47:40 GMT

DID YOU KNOW? Transport Canada has made it effective January 6, 2026 that all boats’ Pleasure Craft Licenses (PCL) now have an expiry date, and a $24 fee applies to new, renewed, transferred, or replaced PLCs. This is the paper registration for your boat(s) and a copy must be carried on board at all times.

As of January 6, 2026 all new, transferred and renewed pleasure craft licenses are valid for 5 years. You can check your license expiry date using your pleasure craft license number. For older licenses that didn’t have an expiry date, the following expiry dates will now apply:

Licence issue date Licence expiry date

December 31, 1974 or earlier March 31, 2026

January 1, 1975 to December 31, 1985 December 31, 2026

January 1, 1986 to December 31, 1995 December 31, 2027

January 1, 1996 to December 31, 1999 December 31, 2028

January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2005 December 31, 2029

January 1, 2006 to April 28, 2010 December 31, 2030

What Boats Require a Pleasure Craft Licence?

By law, any pleasure craft, including personal watercraft (jet-ski), that is powered by one or more motors adding up to 10 hp (7.5 kW) or more must have a valid licence.

Starting December 31, 2027, wind-powered pleasure craft over 6 metres long will need a pleasure craft license. This will not apply to human-powered boats like kayaks, canoes, or dragon boats.

For more information:

https://www.canboat.ca/resources/boatingtips/how-to-get-a-pleasure-craft-license-for-your-boat/

Looking to 2026 – a municipal election year

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 19:40:41 GMT

We will be going to the polls in October 2026 to elect new municipal governments.

Steenburg Lake is divided between the municipalities of Limerick and Tudor & Cashel townships, and lies within Hastings County.

How do municipal elections work?

Source: https://www.amo.on.ca/about-us/municipal-101/municipal-elections

Councillors are elected through the “first-past-the-post” system, meaning voters each choose one candidate for a position, and the candidate with the most votes is elected.

They may be elected according to ward or “at-large”, depending on the municipality.

In Limerick and Tudor & Cashel townships, councils are elected at-large -- all councillors represent the entire municipality. In an at-large election, the voters choose among all candidates in the election. For example, if a council has four (4) Councillor positions, the four candidates with the highest number of votes win the election and become the new councillors.

Hastings County Council is composed of the elected mayors of the 14 lower-tier municipalities – including Limerick and Tudor & Cashel townships. The county council itself selects the warden from among its members.

What do potential voters and candidates need to know?

Elections for municipal government are held every four years on the fourth Monday of October. The length of term for all municipal elected officials is four years.

The next municipal election will be held October 26, 2026.

In municipal elections in Ontario, unlike other levels of government, candidates are not elected to represent a political party.

Eligible voters for municipal elections must be:

A Canadian citizen and at least 18 years old
A resident OR a property owner or tenant OR the spouse of an owner or tenant in the municipality

Eligible candidates for municipal elections must be:

A Canadian citizen and at least 18 years old
A resident of the municipality, a non-resident owner or tenant of land in the municipality or the spouse of such non-resident owner or tenant
Not legally prohibited from voting; and not disqualified by any legislation from holding municipal office.

Candidates are also required to pay a fee of $100 ($200 for head of council) and those running in municipalities with more than 4,000 electors are also required to obtain 25 endorsement signatures when they submit their nomination.

To see the full Municipal Elections Rules and Guidelines, click here.

Candidate nomination period:

May 1, 2026 is the first day of the candidate nomination period that ends on Nomination Day, August 21, 2026. Thinking of running for office? Contact the Clerk’s office in your municipality for details on submitting your nomination. In Limerick email clerk@township.limerick.on.ca and in Tudor & Cashel email clerk@tudorandcashel.com .

Not going to be at the lake on election day? No problem

The County of Hastings 14 member municipalities are currently seeking a vendor to provide internet and telephone voting system services for the 2026 Municipal Election.

In an interview with mybancroftnow.com shortly after the 2022 municipal election, Limerick Clerk Victoria Tisdale said phone and online voting systems, like the one used in her municipality, are allowing more people to vote in cottage communities. Read the entire story: https://www.mybancroftnow.com/56313/news/limerick-sees-success-with-online-and-phone-voting/

Limerick Township Council 2022-26

Kimberly Carson – Mayor

Cell: 416-816-1553

Email: k.carson@township.limerick.on.ca

Janice MacKillican - Deputy Mayor

Phone: 613-922-4940

Email: j.mackillican@township.limerick.on.ca

Glenn Locke - Councillor

Cell: 613-334-0388

Email: g.locke@township.limerick.on.ca

Grace Hamm - Councillor

Cell: 613-334-9693

Email.: g.hamm@township.limerick.on.ca

Shawn Pack - Councillor

Cell: 613-243-5550

Email: s.pack@township.limerick.on.ca

Limerick Township Council meetings are held third Monday of each month at 12 :30 p.m at the Limerick Community Centre, located at 7645 Highway 620, Coe Hill.

Participation:

Meetings are generally open to the public, with options for in-person and virtual attendance.

Contact:

For specific inquiries or to register, contact the Clerk at 613-474-2863 or clerk@township.limerick.on.ca.

How to find specific meeting information:

Visit the Official Website: Go to limerick.ca to access the main council page.
Check the News & Notices section: Look for recent council meeting announcements or notices.
Browse Agendas and Minutes: Navigate to the "Agendas" section on the Township of Limerick website to view past meeting documents.

Tudor & Cashel Council 2022-26

Mayor Dave Hederson

Email: hederson@tudorandcashel.com
Cell: 613 318-8201

Deputy Mayor Bob Bridger

Email: bridger@tudorandcashel.com
Cell: 613-334-5619

Councillor Elain Holloway

Email: holloway@tudorandcashel.com
Cell: 613 318-8237

Councillor Brent Taylor

Email: taylor@tudorandcashel.com
Cell: 613.334.6994

Councillor Jerry Chadwick

Email: chadwick@tudorandcashel.com
Cell: 613.318.8231

Tudor And Cashel Council meetings are held at 1:00 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month at 371 Weslemkoon Rd., Gilmour.

The agenda:

Council meeting agendas are generally posted on the website on the Thursday prior to the meeting and will provide information on location or how to attend. https://tudorandcashel.com/council/about-council-meetings/

Watch on YouTube:

Meetings are live-streamed on the municipality’s YouTube channel

at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1KpCoVlyF4RrkMRi03EzZg.

Hastings County Council

Where to find meeting information:

Official Website: Visit the Hastings County website and navigate to the Government section.
Meeting Portal: Access the Meeting Portal to view the full schedule of upcoming meetings and access archived minutes and agendas.
Livestream: All committee meetings and County Council meetings are livestreamed on the Hastings County YouTube channel.

Sources:

https://www.amo.on.ca/about-us/municipal-101/municipal-elections

https://www.amcto.com/

https://tudorandcashel.com/

https://limerick.ca/

https://www.hastingscounty.com/

www.mybancroftnow.com

FREE Invasive Terrestrial Plants Training

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 18:30:00 GMT

The Invasive Species Centre's Training Program is offering Terrestrial Invasive Plant Training, a self-guided online course covering the ecology of several common invasive terrestrial plants. This course also covers important topics such as prevention, and management of these invasive plants, as well as the environmental, social, and economic, impacts invasive plants can have.

Giant Hogweed / Invasive Species Centre image

Learn all about buckthorn, dog-strangling vine, Japanese knotweed, garlic mustard, giant hogweed, wild parsnip, and common ground cover invasives.

Participants will receive a certificate of completion after completing the final exam.

To complete the Terrestrial Invasive Plant Training, enroll for FREE on their website today - https://invasivespeciestraining.ca/online-training-portal/.

Tudor and Cashel restricts use of fireworks

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:07:49 GMT

Tudor and Cashel town council voted Nov. 4, 2025 to amend their fire bylaw to restrict the use of fireworks.

Fireworks are now banned except for the following dates between 7 and 11 p.m. – provided no municipal or provincial fire ban is in effect:

Victoria Day
Canada Day
New Year’s Eve

Fireworks must be controlled by someone aged 19 or over.

If you discharge fireworks outside the permitted dates, it is considered an open-air fire and subject to a fine AND fees if the Fire Department must respond.

The SLCA reached out to Limerick Township and confirmed there is no such ban in Limerick.

South Road AED Update

Lorie Butkus-Hill — Sun, 09 Nov 2025 11:10:09 GMT

Good News: The South Road AED located at 456 The South Road is fully operational again. We also have a spare set of replacement pads. Please call 905-716-5532 to gain access as it is housed inside during the winter season.

2025 will be remembered for its water level

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 11:24:09 GMT

Joanne Burghardt, SLCA President

When Steenburg Lake's water level dropped during the summer of 2025, you either liked it -- or you didn’t.

Aided by high temperatures and a lack of rain, the lake dropped 835mm (33.18 in) from 1055mm on April 6 to 212 mm on Oct. 4, 2025 (as measured at the log dam north of the beach on Steenburg Lake North Road).

In Steenburg Lake, stop logs are used as part of a water control structure to manage water levels where water exits the lake on its way to Limerick Lake. Managed by the Crowe Valley Conservation Authority, these logs are manually placed or removed to adjust the water level.

CVCA has set two stop logs as the benchmark of 500 mm for Steenburg Lake: 11.3 inches higher than the lake level stood on Oct. 4, 2025.

A LOOK BACK….”At the present time, and on a trial basis, a manually operated log dam has been installed and if this type of dam does not prove effective then the Authority (CVCA) will probably build one of another style.” SLCA newsletter May 1966.

According to Ontario government websites, water levels dropped in 2025 primarily due to dry water supply conditions, with less-than-average precipitation and runoff, leading to reduced inflows from other water sources. This was exacerbated by high rates of evaporation during the hot summer months, and a continued upstream deficit from previous dry periods.

Over the last century, the Steenburg Lake water level has fluctuated from time to time. From what some call the ‘normal’ lows of the first half of the 20th Century to the ‘highs’ that have been documented since the mid-1990s.

Some property owners celebrated the 2025 drop in the water line as a return to levels of the 1960s and before; as good news for nesting Loons; and for shorelines often battered by waves generated by boat wakes.

But not everyone was happy. While property owners suddenly had beaches, previously unseen rocks appeared above the surface and docks stood far above the water line - like Herons perched on stick-like legs. In some cases, boat hulls and pontoons rested on the lake bottom. Unsuspecting boaters saw propellers damaged. Weeds, like the invasive Eurasian Water-Milfoil (EWM), thrived and created green masses as they soaked up the sun.

At the public beach, the usual few feet of sand had stretched to 36.75 feet by Oct. 2, 2025 (measured from the #234 EMS marker to the water line).

Historically, what have water levels been?

I reached out to Amanda Donald, Acting General Manager of the CVCA, to request historical water level data and was told the CVCA does not have that data. Luckily, SLCA member Dave Langman - and previously Rick Burke - has tracked the data in recent years. See the chart at steenburglake.ca/waterlevels.

For those of us who are not generational owners of our properties, this is the lowest we have seen the water. Frank and I purchased our cottage 11 years ago, and we have photos going back to 1989 when the water was much higher.. Like many, we had lots of beach this year, but our jet ski dock was only a couple inches from the lake bottom, and the Eurasian Water-Milfoil went crazy in the southeast corner of East Bay as it soaked up all that sunshine previously filtered by water. By October there were mats of Milfoil floating on the surface.

Above: Our shoreline in the East Bay, 1989 (left) compared to 2025 (right).

Dave Langman’s family has been on the lake for more than a century. Dave describes the 2025 water level as a return to historic levels, and fondly remembers a time when his family had a beach where the kids played. He shared these photos:

Above: Birch Island 1922 (a.k.a. Powers Island), home of the Langman’s, photo by Frank Dewey (Dewey's Island) 1922. Dave Langman says the water is lower in this photo than it is in 2025. Note the rock protruding from the water in the right of the photo.

Above: The same location from land in 1991. Same rock. Photo courtesy of Dave Langman.

Above: The same location in 2025 - note the rock on the right. Photo by Dave Langman.

So, what about next year?

Typically, as fall proceeds and colder air moves in over warm lakes, evaporation increases. And with drier than normal weather forecast for this fall, it’s expected water levels will continue to decline into winter, but at an accelerated pace.

If you believe the Farmer’s Almanac, southeastern Ontario may experience below-normal temperatures and precipitation this winter. Who knows how accurate that is, or how melting snow will affect Steenburg Lake in the spring.

CVCA usually removes the stop logs from the culvert/dam on the north road in the fall to make room for the anticipated spring snowmelt. They confirmed Oct. 9 that the logs will be removed for the winter to preserve them from the weather: the water is already below the logs.

In her column in the Fall 2025 SLCA Shoreline News ewsletter, Amanda Donald of the CVCA, says, “ …there is little CVCA can do to improve lake levels throughout the watershed. In a typical year, once the spring water levels have receded to 3 to 4 inches above summer level for Steenburg Lake, CVCA staff replace the logs into the dam at the culvert.”

Amanda’s comment suggests if the water level increases in the spring, the stop logs would be put in place in an attempt to maintain the lake level at the log dam at 500mm.

Burn ban update

Sat, 18 Oct 2025 18:59:08 GMT

The status of fire bans on the lake as of Oct 18, 2022 : NOTE: Subject to change at any time so watch their websites for updates

Tudor & Cashel
Burning permitted between the hours of 7 p.m. and 7 a.m.
Campfire that are less than 2ft x 2ft
No burning of brush
No fireworks
No daytime burning
See the Bylaw:

https://tudorandcashel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/By-Law-Fire.pdf

Questions regarding the burning regulations, or local fire conditions in the municipality? Contact the municipal office at 613-474-2583 during regular office hours or 613-334-2583 after hours.
In the news: Tudor and Cashel to look at changing fire bylaw fines – Sept. 21, 2025

Limerick

Burning permitted between the hours of 7 p.m. and 7 a.m.
Campfires permitted
No fires over 3ft x 3ft
No fireworks
No daytime burning
Read more: https://limerick.ca/services/fire-department/
Info on burn permits - https://limerick.ca/services/fire-department/daytime-burn-permits/

-- Your SLCA Team

Hastings.ca has fall colour cycling, hiking and driving routes!

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 18:16:56 GMT

Supplied by Hastings County Economic Development and Tourism

Hastings County is a gem all year long, but the reds, oranges, browns and golds of Fall are something special. Fall is the perfect time to explore in all forms: by foot, bike, motorcycle, horseback, car and by boat. The colours you find at the top of a lookout spot or reflected on a lake are some of the most breathtaking views you’ll see all year long.

Have you ever been to O’Hara Mill Homestead and Conservation Area? A half hour drive away, it’s known for having one of the most well-preserved 19th-century homesteads in Ontario and is home to seven interweaving hiking trails. You can enjoy the fall colours and fresh air as you navigate the terrain that pioneer families like the O’Haras had to tame.

If you prefer travelling on two wheels, load up your bicycles and head just 18 minutes North to the Dungannon Recreation Centre. From there, you can ride your bike on the L’Amable Beach Loop. This is just one of 23 curated cycling routes we’ve created with interactive and downloadable maps (https://hastingscounty.com/adventures/cycling).

If you prefer to take the motorized route, enjoy a car ride along one of our 14 scenic driving routes throughout North Hastings (https://hastingscounty.com/adventures/blog/fall-hikes-and-drives). Then when you need a break and would like a warm drink, stop and go for a stroll in downtown Bancroft and visit any of our unique shops or stop in at one of our cozy cafes including McG’s Cakes on Main, Wattle and Daub Café or The Muse Gallery & Café.

If you just have too much to do at the Lake, and prefer to unwind later in the day, there is a wonderful selection of performances on at the Village Playhouse in Bancroft. While in Town, if you like Mexican food, arrange a pre-show dinner at Fiesta Flavors Mexican Restaurant, just a short walk from the Theatre. Then before finding your seat at the Theatre, consider a stop at the expanded new location of the Bancroft Brewing Company and try their wide variety of locally crafted brews.

This is just a small sampling of many things to see and do across Hastings County. For example, might we add that if you're looking for a morning out on the weekend, consider heading north to Maynooth where eclectic shops, art galleries, and the locally loved Sun Run Cafe are ready to greet you. Nearby Lake St. Peter Provincial Park offers hiking paths that lead to a gorgeous lookout spot. There are tons more to explore at our website VisitHastings.ca There you’ll find information on the many fun, rural and locally loved events that happen all year long.

CVCA Low Water Response Team Declares Low Water Level III

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 18:02:39 GMT

The Crowe Valley Conservation Authority Low Water Response Team has recently reviewed current precipitation and flow conditions in the Crowe Valley watershed.

As a result of the analysis of the facts presented to the team, a Level 3 low water condition has been declared effective immediately.

According to the Ontario Low Water Response (OLWR) Program, the Level 3 low water condition is declared when a watershed receives only 40% or less of the normal amount of precipitation over a 3-month period or if streamflow reaches 30% or less of the average over a 1-month period. Level 3 is the highest of three levels, and indicates a potential failure of water supply to meet the demand.

Dry to extremely dry conditions have been observed at various locations in the Crowe Valley Conservation's watershed, especially in the month of July and August as precipitation amounts have fallen below average for these months.

Precipitation data collected at the CVCA’s gauge in the upper portion of the watershed indicates that the rainfall average for this June, July and August is now below the 3-month historical average. The current 3-month average for the precipitation gauge located at Glen Alda in the Municipality of North Kawartha is 20.27% of the historical average for this time period (55.8mm rainfall in total during the last three months). The current 3-month average for the precipitation gauge situated in the Municipality of Havelock-Belmont-Methuen is 40.45% of the historical average (Actual rainfall totalled 118.7mm in the last 3 months).

The Low Water Response Team has also been provided with stream flow gauge data to use as another indicator of dry conditions in conjunction with precipitation amounts. Typically, reduced rainfall will eventually lead to low flows since there is no water to replenish the creeks, streams and wetlands, which feeds into the larger rivers and the lakes in the Crowe Valley watershed. An observed reduction below 30% of the normal flows at the CVCA flow gauges has been confirmed. Flows below this level will also result in the necessity to declare a Level 3 low water condition.

As the lack of rainfall and low flows grip the watershed, it will continue to place additional stress on the larger the lakes in the watershed. Most of the lakes are either near or below their winter levels. The CVCA monitors lake levels daily on lakes with water control structures.

The Low Water Response Team encourages a 30% reduction water use across the Crowe Valley watershed by residential, commercial and cottage users.

Everyone can do their part in cutting back water consumption by not watering lawns, fixing leaky faucets, taking shorter showers, not washing the driveway or car and reducing non-essential uses of water while the Low Water Level 3 is in effect.

With a level 3 declaration, member municipalities have the option to implement municipal by-laws to make water restrictions mandatory if they feel that is necessary for their municipality. The affected municipalities include portions of the Municipality of Trent Hills, Stirling-Rawdon, Marmora and Lake, Havelock-Belmont-Methuen, North Kawartha, Wollaston, Limerick, Tudor and Cashel, Faraday and Highlands East.

Included in these municipalities are the Village of Marmora, Havelock and the Hamlet of Coe Hill. Water users are encouraged to monitor conditions and watch for updated advisories. CVCA staff will continue to monitor rainfall and streamflow data and keep the public informed of any changes in watershed conditions through the CVCA website (www.crowevalley.com), media, municipal newsletters, and social media outlets.

Working in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources and local stakeholders representing key water-use sectors, the Crowe Valley Low Water Response Team will determine if any further course of action is needed. The Conservation Authority will continue to provide the necessary data to monitor the low water situation and provide updated information to the LWRT.

PRESS RE:EASE FROM CVCA Sept. 9, 2025:

Second of new Steenburg Lake Community Association signs now in place

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 19:40:18 GMT

Steenburg Lake Community Association (SLCA) now has two new signs thanks to the generosithy of our members, and the efforts of the Pat Stallaert, SLCA past president.

The SLCA Board decided in May 2024 that it was time to to replace the aging signs at the public beach on Steenburg Lake North Road, and at East Bay Road on Steenburg Lake South Road. The first of these two signs was installed at the beach in the fall of 2024 by Pat Stallaert, Heather Stallaert and long-time friend and frequent visitor to the lake, Bob Gibson.

On the 2025 Labour Day weekend, Pat and Heather were joined by Dave MacDonald in installing the second sign on the south road.

Lookin' good!

2025

2024

Cottage Closing - Top 10 Safety Tips from FOCA

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 12:20:26 GMT

1. Leave no valuables at the cottage – electronics, personal items, tools etc. – unless you’re prepared to lose them!

2. Sporting goods – fishing rods & equipment, water skis, toys etc. – don’t expect them to be there next spring, if they’re not secured (locked up, hidden or both).

3. If you are leaving vehicles, make sure they’re winterized, secure and disabled – for snow machines, remove track and hide keys, ensure boats are covered and locked, outboard motors locked and slightly disassembled. ATVs disabled – leave nothing on trailers unless it is locked or disabled. Remember – “Lock it or Lose it!”

4. Secure your cottage windows and doors – close window curtains or blinds and put up shutters to protect interior from marauders (animals and human).

5. Pack up and take home all alcohol.

6. Do not leave firearms or weapons at the cottage.

7. Marking your personal items can make it difficult for thieves to resell stolen goods and will make it easier for your items to be identified and returned if found. Record the serial numbers of anything of value left behind.

8. Make a list of the property you are leaving at the cottage, and a list of the property that will return to your cottage on your first or next trip there.

9. Identify who is your cottage property key holder for alarms, thefts, weather damage or animal problems.

10.Know your local OPP Detachment that patrols your cottage community. (search: www.opp.ca › OPP Home › Contact Us or call 1-888-310-1122)

Source: Federation of Ontario Cottagers Associations (SLCA is a member of FOCA)

2025 SLCA Photo Contest Winners Announced

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 18:38:44 GMT

We received seventy-one entries in the 2025 Steenburg Lake Community Association Photo Contest – so many wonderful photographs of life around Steenburg.

The SLCA engaged three judges with backgrounds in design and photography to select this year’s winners.

Landscape

In the Landscape category we called on Kristen Ryan, a Graphic Artist and Editorial Production Manager for the Toronto Star, to give us her take on 20 entries. The winner receives a $25 Tim Hortons gift certificate.

Winner Jimmy Nevins - Star Trails

Judges’ Comment: Among many, many beautiful landscapes, Star Trails stood for the time and expertise it took to pull off this intriguing look at the stars and meteors. Well done!

Honorable Mention Kristen Carey - Morning Sun

Judges’ Comment: Steenburg Lake was at her best in this category. The beautiful mirror image, Morning Sun, drew me back time and again.

Honorable Mention Catherine Wilson-Sunset Isle

Judges’ Comment: In a category full of beautiful sunsets, Sunset Isle stood out for its dramatic cloud patterns. Catherine Wilson took full advantage of the sky by positioning the horizon low in the photo and allowing the cloud patterns and vibrant colours to be the star of the show.

Life at the Lake

Again, we called on Kristen Ryan to judge Life at the Lake, our most entered category with 29 photos. The winner receives a $25 Tim Hortons gift certificate.

Winner Vanessa Corner - Lake Monsters

Judge’s Comment: Isn’t lake life all about having fun with family and friends? The vibrant colours in this image of two little girls pretending to be lake monsters stood out from many other wonderful photos.

Honorable Mention Donna Ward - Lily Pads

Judge’s Comment: This little girl examining the Lily Pads seems fitting in this year where water levels have dropped allowing lots of shoreline exploration.

Honorable Mention Sandra Knox - Dancing Campfire

Judge’s Comment: Evening shores dotted with campfires are a bonus of lake living. Dancing Campfire captures the spark trails creating an impactful photo. The image benefits from good composition where the focal point – the fire – is placed in the lower third of the image allowing the eye to follow the spark trails upward. Nice job!

Kids Under 16

For Kids Under 16 we called on Lori Martin, Deputy Director of Content at Metroland Media Group, to judge the entries. The winner receives a $25 McDonald’s gift certificate.

Winner Jaysa Hamacher (8) - Ducks on the Mat

Judges’ Comment: Catching these friends sunbathing is a great illustration for summer fun. The wild hairdo on the bird on the left reminds me of how my own has looked after a day on the water. The bright yellow contrasts well with the blue water. Great shot!

Honorable Mention Brady Corner (8) - Sunset Ride

Judges’ Comment: Sunset Ride by Brady Corner captures the best of cottage life. The fire reds and oranges across the water carries the viewer’s eye right through the shot. The photo is framed well, capturing both the setting and the action simultaneously. Nicely done!

Honorable Mention Brady Corner (8) - Mr. Long Legs

Judges’ Comment: Mr. Long Legs by Brady Corner is a good shot. A spider on this light background really highlights the details of this insect’s body. Not a fan of spiders to be honest, but this angle helps it look less menacing. I wonder if it’s looking back at the camera.

Wildlife

And for the Wildlife category, SLCA President Joanne Burghardt put down her camera for a change and did some admiring of the photos entered. The winner receives a $25 Tim Hortons gift certificate.

Winner Karen Taylor - Bit Off More Than He Can Chew

Judges’ Comment: Bit Off More Than He Can Chew is a classic case of being in the right place at the right time – and thinking to pull out your camera! It left me rooting for the toad! Love this photo.

Honorable Mention Deb Wellman - Oh I can jump that high

Judges’ Comment: I can hear that squirrel’s mind spinning, thinking, “Oh, I can jump that high”. Comical photo that makes you smile and one we can all relate to.

Honorable Mention Deb Wellman – Finders Keepers

Judges’ Comment: So sad that this image wasn’t sharper – it’s a candid, funny shot that is well-composed. One of those images that are a happy surprise when you look back at what you’ve just shot.

Can’t wait for the 2026 Photo Contest!

How much rain have we had? See our new dynamic precipitation tracker

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 00:11:26 GMT

We have added a new feature to steenburglake.ca - precipitation data for Bancroft (as close as we have found so far).

With all the talk of lake levels and drought, the SLCA has embedded a dynamic chart on our Lake Levels page courtesy of Environment and Climate Change Canada . You can follow the chart updates to see how we are doing.

The chart updates every 5 minutes, see steenburglake.ca/WaterLevels.

SLCA participates in Zebra Mussel monitoring program

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 18:39:54 GMT

The Steenburg Lake Community Association is participating in a new Zebra Mussel Monitoring Program introduced in August 2025 by Crowe Valley Conservation Authority (CVCA).

The pilot program runs from June-September annually and monitors the presence of zebra mussels within the CVCA watershed. The idea is to discover hot spots, determine high risk areas, allow for quicker control response, and improve resource allocations.

Volunteers - like the SLCA - receive settling plates which are hung in the water and monitored for the presence of zebra mussels. We check the plate every 2-3 weeks and report our findings.

We will keep you posted on the results.

August 30, 2025 - No sign of zebra mussels on the plates. Results reported.

We are being asked to reduce water consumption by 10% due to lack of rain

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 21:02:52 GMT

Crowe Valley Conservation Authority is asking everyone to reduce water use by 10%.

The CVCA Low Water Response Team released a statement this morning saying it has recently reviewed current precipitation and flow conditions in the Crowe Valley watershed.

"As a result of the analysis of the facts presented to the team, a Level 1 low water condition has been declared effective immediately.

“Due to these stresses, the Low Water Response Team encourages a voluntary 10% reduction water use across the Crowe Valley watershed by residential, commercial and cottagers. Everyone can do their part in cutting back water consumption by not watering lawns, fixing leaky faucets, taking shorter showers, not washing the driveway or car and reducing non-essential uses of water while the Low Water Level One is in effect. Reducing water consumption in the CVCA watershed now will help reduce the risk of declaring more severe Low Water Level declarations as potentially a hot, dry summer may continue.”

Read their full release here: https://www.crowevalley.com/.../Media-Release-8-August...

-- Your SLCA Team

This is how Level 1-2-3 water levels are defined:

Level 1

Potential for water supply problems is identified (minor drought conditions). Water users will be asked to voluntarily reduce their water consumption by 10%

Level 2

Minor water supply issues are encountered. Potential for major supply problems (moderate drought conditions). There is the potential for major supply problems. Water users will be asked to voluntarily reduce their water consumption by 20%

Level 3

Supply no longer meets demand. Social & economic impacts are experienced (severe drought conditions). Voluntary measures have not produced the necessary response. Restrictions proposed by the Water Response Team may be put into action.

PS....

Don't shoot the messenger !!

Crowe Valley has placed two boards in the log dam

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 17:20:06 GMT

Acting on concerns about low water levels voiced by some SLCA members, SLCA president Joanne Burghardt met with Neil McConkey from Crowe Valley Conservation Authority Aug. 6 at the lake’s log dam.

Some like the water high, some like it low. A lack of rain this year has certainly contributed to the low lake level.

While it may not make a difference in the short term, Neil has placed two boards in the dam that controls water exiting the lake. Should we get A LOT of rain, it may help raise the level of the lake. As Neil explained:

CVCA generally attempts to lower the lake level in the fall in anticipation of spring runoff in an effort to avoid flooding.
Around May 24 they check the levels and if the water has dropped to a reasonable level the boards go in. “We check the lake level multiple times a week in the spring. The first week in May the beavers built a dam and stopped any water from flowing out. There was no point in putting logs in as there was no flowing water. The lake was perfect level.”
There is a large beaver dam about 100 yds down the creek which, if it rains, would also help retain the water in the lake.

The SLCA appreciates Neil coming out to see us, and all the feedback the SLCA has had from our members. Now it's up to Mother Nature.

2025 AGM draw winner

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 21:30:00 GMT

SLCA member Nerys Phan (pictured here with Membership Chair Lorie Butkus-Hill on the left) was the winner of the door prize basket at the Annual General Meeting held August 3, 2025. Unfortunately, we did not achieve quorum. The Board opted to go ahead with an information session that included the President's Report, a financial update, a tribute to our volunteers and a presentation on the Eurasian Water-Milfoil Study recently done for Steenburg Lake. Business requiring a vote by the members will be held over to the 2026 AGM. See the Presentation Deck from the meeting (PDF).

Look to the skies for meteors - the peak will be Aug. 11-13

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 11:21:29 GMT

Look to the night skies - the Perseid meteor shower is active.

The shower is active from July 17 to August 24 and is expected to be most visible in the pre-dawn hours of August 11-13. The peak offers the best chance to see the most meteors, potentially up to 100 per hour. However, the nearly full moon during the peak may make it more difficult to see fainter meteors.

At Steenburg Lake we are in prime viewing territory because we are rural and away from the glow of the city lights. To maximize the viewing experience, it’s advised you turn off lights that might dull the view. The best time to view is after midnight.

Tips for Viewing:

Give your eyes about 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness.
Get comfy in a nice chair, patience is a virtue.
Dress for the weather.
Avoid using bright lights (like your phone) as they can hinder your night vision.
Consider using a red filter on your flashlight (you can use a red balloon) to preserve your night vision.

According to NASA, the Perseids is considered the best meteor shower of the year. The swift, bright meteors, frequently leave long "wakes" of light and colour behind them as they streak through Earth's atmosphere. Look for 50 to 100 meteors per hour. Perseids are also known for their fireballs.

“Meteors come from leftover comet particles and bits from broken asteroids. When comets come around the Sun, they leave a dusty trail behind them. Every year Earth passes through these debris trails, which allows the bits to collide with our atmosphere and disintegrate to create fiery and colourful streaks in the sky.” – Source: NASA

Photo by Arnas Goldberg, CC BY 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0>, via Wikimedia

Do you know the rules of safe boating?

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 11:56:01 GMT

Three things you might not know about boating laws in Ontario:

1. Bet you didn’t know when using a stand-up paddle board (SUP) you are required to either:

Wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) with a whistle
OR Carry on board a PFD, a whistle, AND a floating throw rope

2. Did you know you must have a spotter for towed sports – that includes when driving a personal watercraft (jet ski)?

3. Did you know the fine for operating a motorized boat at speeds exceeding 10 km/h within 30 meters (100ft) of the shoreline is $200. This speed limit is in effect unless specified otherwise, such as in canals or rivers under a certain width where the municipality determines the limit, or for boats operating at a perpendicular angle to the shore for watersports.

Carrying the proper safety equipment and operating safely are the law. If you get caught breaking the rules, fines vary, but generally:

General lack of safety equipment: $200 fine.
Missing or inadequate life jackets/PFDs: $200+ fine plus $100 for each missing or inappropriate size life jacket.
Operating a boat without a spotter or seating for the passenger in tow: $250+.
Careless Boating: $350+.
Failing to have a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC): $305 fine.
Underage boating: $250 fine.
Speeds exceeding 10 km/h within 30 meters (100ft) of the shoreline: $200
Impaired Boating:
First offence: Minimum $1,000 fine and potential suspension of driver's license
Second offence: Minimum 30 days imprisonment and other penalties.

5 things the OPP will look for on the lake

1. There needs to be a personal flotation device (PFD) for every person on board, they have to fit properly, show no wear or be missing fasteners. They have to be readily accessible (if you’re not actually wearing yours) and if it’s an inflatable life vest, users must be age 16 or older and you must be wearing it. The fine applies to every person on board who is not in compliance. Typically, the fine for not having the right life jacket is $200+ in Ontario.

2. Having open liquor or cannabis on board. You may transport these items, but they have to be sealed, stowed, and out of sight. The only times when you can “consume” on your boat is when you are moored or anchored and you have a permanent washroom, cooking and sleeping accommodations onboard. People in kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and other watercraft are covered under this regulation. The operator can be fined $215 and everyone else onboard can also be charged $125 per person.

3. The operator must have their valid Pleasure Craft Operator’s Card (PCOC) with them in the boat and the fine is $305 for not having the card onboard (even if you have one at home). It’s also best to have your other ID with you too. The PCOC card does not have a photo and the other ID can help establish that you are the person who holds that PCOC card. Fine: $305.

4. A spotter is required when using your boat for “towed sports” (water skiing, wake boarding, wake surfing, tubing, etc.) and that spotter must be considered reliable or competent. Obviously, you can’t safely drive the boat and watch the skier at the same time. Another part of this regulation is that there must be an available seat in the boat for every person being towed in case you need to bring them into the boat. If you are towing with a personal watercraft, it will need to be a three-seater and you can only tow one person. You have a driver, spotter and one rider—that’s three seats minimum. The fine is $250+.

5. Powered vessels require a Pleasure Craft License and the Transport Canada vessel license numbers are to be properly displayed on the bow of the vessel. You are also required to have the registration—on board—and the vessel’s ownership (or copies) too. Not having the license registration earns you a fine of $305.

Required Safety Gear

For sail or power boat 6 m or under (19’8”)

According to Transport Canada, the following boat safety equipment is required for all motorized and sailing vessels no longer than 6 m.

One appropriately-sized life jacket or PFD that is approved for use in Canada for each person on board
A buoyant heaving line (floating rope) that’s at least 15 m long
A manual propelling device such as a paddle or an anchor with at least 15 m of rope, cable or chain
A bailer or manual water pump to get water out of the boat
A sound-signalling device such as a whistle to use in the event of an emergency
A waterproof flashlight or 3 flares
Navigation lights if you’re going out during the hours of darkness or in conditions with reduced visibility
A fire extinguisher if the vessel has an inboard motor, a fixed fuel tank or any fuel-burning appliances
A reboarding device such as a ladder if the boat rises more than 0.5 m out of the water
A magnetic compass if the boat is over 8 m long or out of sight of navigation markers

If your boat is between 6 and 9 m (19”8” – 29’6”)

All of the equipment listed above, with the following change:
Both a waterproof flashlight and 6 flares

Canoes and kayaks

One appropriately-sized life jacket or PFD that is approved for use in Canada for each person on board
A buoyant heaving line (floating rope) that’s at least 15 m long
A bailer or manual water pump to get water out of the boat
A sound-signalling device such as a whistle to use in the event of an emergency

Personal Watercraft (PWC)

If every person on board a personal watercraft is wearing a lifejacket or a PFD of an appropriate size, you are only required to carry:

A sound-signalling device such as a whistle to use in the event of an emergency
A waterproof flashlight or 3 flares
A magnetic compass if the personal watercraft is navigated out of sight of navigation marks
Navigation lights if the personal watercraft is used after sunset or before sunrise or in periods of restricted visibility.

See: Safe Boating Guide

Sources: Transport Canada, FOCA

Invasive species consultant visits Steenburg Lake

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 10:57:14 GMT

The Steenburg Lake Community Association (SLCA) welcomed Invasive Species Consultant Bob Canning to the Lake July 7, 2025.

Bob joined SLCA President Joanne Burghardt and member Dave Langman on a 3-hour tour of the lake. Bob was hired by the SLCA to provide an up-to-date report of how widespread the invasive species Eurasian Water-Milfoil is in the lake, and whether it has spread since the last report was done in 2018.

We toured the entire lake, including all the little bays, while Bob mapped the Milfoil and pulled other plant samples.

The SLCA expects to have Bob’s report in time for discussion at the AGM on August 3, 2025.

If own property on Steenburg Lake and have not paid for an SLCA membership, we ask you to consider joining us. Your $40 annual fee helps pay for projects like this one. Email: membership@steenburglake.ca

Bob Canning pulls plant samples from Steenburg Lake July 7, 2025. Photo by Joanne Burghardt

The winners of the 2025 Canada Day Dock Hop competition are...

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 03:15:21 GMT

Spirit of Canada

1. The Eh Team #16

2. Fishing Bear #18

3. Dragon Fly #20

Creative Dock

1. Tim Hortons Cups #7

2. Campfire #1

3. Elbows Up #11

Patriotic Dock

1.We The North #15

2. Mark &Charles #2

3. Happy Birthday Canada #19

Website Photo Contest winner

#16 The Eh Team!

Honorable Mention

#17 Rock the Dock

Lake Partners Program get's a 5-year extension

Sat, 21 Jun 2025 19:01:23 GMT

Amid concerns about continued funding from the Province, and thanks to lobbying by the Federation of Cottage Associations (FOCA) and its members, FOCA has a signed a new agreement with the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks that enables Steenburg Lake Community Association to continue with the Lake Partners Program (LPP) over the coming five years. We will be out in the next couple of weeks for the latest round of testing.

And… the 2023 & 2024 LPP data has been released and is available digitally! Access our lake's data from links on our webpage:

https://steenburglake.ca/water-sample-archives

The goal of the Lake Partner Program is to better understand and protect the quality of Ontario’s inland lakes by involving citizens in a volunteer-based water quality monitoring program.

Scientific analysis of the samples is conducted at the Inland Waters Section of the Environmental Monitoring and Reporting Branch of the Ministry of Environment Conservation and Parks (MECP lab).

Samples are tested for total phosphorus, calcium, chloride, sulfate, and water clarity. After careful scientific quality-checking, the dataset is released to the volunteers, the public, researchers and other scientists.

The LPP dataset spans nearly three decades, and can assist in the early detection of changes in the nutrient status and/or the water clarity of the lakes, due to the impacts of shoreline development, climate change and other stresses.

Crowe Valley seeking volunteers to monitor zebra mussels

Sat, 21 Jun 2025 02:03:28 GMT

Here’s a great opportunity to help with lake stewardship.

Crowe Valley Conservation Authority (CVCA) is implementing an invasive species monitoring program and looking for volunteers who live on/or have access to the lakes in our watershed.

The first species monitoring program (and hopefully many more to come) will focus on tackling the spread of invasive zebra mussels.

The program will run from June to September during which time volunteers will be asked to place a zebra mussel settler plate (provided by CVCA) on a dock, buoy, or permanent structure that they have access to. This plate should be checked every 2-3 weeks for the presence of zebra mussels and findings will be reported to a national database.

Currently, the settler plates CVCA supplies will have a cost of around $20. The CVCA is also seeking sponsors to help cover the cost. If you’d like to volunteer, or be a sponsor, email specialprojects@crowevalley.com.

If you're using fireworks stay safe!

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 11:02:46 GMT

The long weekend is fast approaching and that often mean fireworks are part of the festivities. Let’s be safe out there!

Fireworks Safety Tips
Source: Canada Safety Council
Setting up:
- Read the instructions. This is worth repeating: read the instructions, cautions and warnings on each firework item.
- Store unused units in a closed box away from the unit being lit and do not smoke around them.
- Set up outdoors in a clear, open space. Light fireworks on a hard, flat and level surface to insure stability.
- Check the wind and have the wind blowing away from the spectators.
- Spectators should be at least the safety distance written on the fireworks label away from the display, keeping special supervision on children.
- Have a bucket of sand, supply of water and a working fire extinguisher on hand.
Fireworks show:
- Only adults (18 years or over) should handle the fireworks. If you are impaired (alcohol or drugs) do not handle them.
- Light only one item at a time.
- Wear protective eye glasses and gloves. Light at arm’s length and then stand back.
- Never lean over the fireworks and keep hair and clothes away from fire sources.
- Never attempt to re-light a “dud” or defective unit.
- Never hold a lighted firework item in your hand.
Proper Disposal of Fireworks:
- Sparklers should be immersed in a bucket of sand to cool down after burning out, as they remain very hot for some time.
- Fireworks should be disposed of safely and properly
- Clean up after use!
Fireworks and pets
Source: Ontario SPCA and Humane Society

Keep animals indoors during firework displays, making sure to close windows and doors. Startled animals may seek a place to hide and if they manage to get outside, it can be easy to lose them. If you need to take your dog outside, keep them leashed at all times to prevent them from bolting and becoming lost.

Be mindful of wildlife
Source: Canadian National Fireworks Association

Good practice for keeping wildlife in mind before using consumer fireworks means:

Remove birdfeeders and bird baths prior to any fireworks use to discourage wildlife from coming to the area.
Waiting until it is dark to use fireworks.
Do not use fireworks near nesting areas or known areas where animal hide.
Clean up after use!

Steenburg Lake Invasive Species ID weekend June 28 - July 1

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 22:21:09 GMT

The Steenburg Lake Community Association (SLCA) will hold an invasive species identification weekend June 28 – July 1 -- please do your part to support this project.

Eurasian Water-Milfoil (EWM) , an invasive species, is spreading in Steenburg Lake. If left unchecked, EWM has the potential to choke out native water plants and pose a risk to boaters and swimmers.

We are not alone. Most lakes in the area have EWM in varying degrees. Limerick Township has taken the step of creating a Milfoil Task Force whose members are the presidents of the local lake associations. This is to combat the spread of the weed.

This summer the SLCA is focused on spreading the word about what EWM looks like, the damage it can do, and how to control the spread. AND we need to identify how widespread the problem is.

On the weekend of June 28-July 1 we invite all property owners on Steenburg Lake to help us identify where EWM exists, and any other invasive species such as zebra mussels and banded mystery snails – both of which have been identified in the lake previously.

Here’s how you can help:

Survey your shoreline out to about 3m deep
Collect and photograph a sample of any plant that might be EWM
Collect and photograph samples of any mussels and snails
Upload those photos, along with the GPS coordinates of where they were taken, to EDDMapS.org (https://www.eddmaps.org/report/plants.cfm?state=35&country=260&imgproj=1268)

EDDMapS, or the Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System, is a web-based mapping system for documenting invasive species distribution in Canada. Reports go directly to experts in the field, who will review all reports and verify that the reported species is correctly identified before it gets added to a distribution map: you might even get an email asking for additional photos to help confirm.

Submit your photos using one of the following methods:

EDDMapS app on iPhone (download from the APP store https://apps.apple.com/us/app/eddmaps/id1497390237)
EDDMapS app Android download at https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bugwood.eddmapsone&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=
EDDMapS Online: https://www.eddmaps.org/report/plants.cfm?state=35&country=260&imgproj=1268
Step by step instructions for EDDMapS: https://www.eddmaps.org/about/step_by_step.html
NOTE: There are many sections to fill out, however, this is not always possible. The most important thing is to get good photos and note your location. Once those have been uploaded to EDDMapS they will be triaged and checked by an expert who will determine if the ID is correct, therefore all reporting is good whether you are confident in your identification or not. Here is a link to what happens once you’ve submitted a report: https://www.invasivespeciescentre.ca/isc-blog-post-what-happens-when-you-report/

OR Report by Phone: Invasive Species Hotline – 1-800-563-7711

More about EDDMapS:

In Ontario, the Invading Species Awareness Program (ISAP) is the province’s verifier. The distribution maps generated by EDDMapS are generally used by professionals such as foresters, public works, researchers, and land managers, but are accessible to the public. If you want to learn more about the invasive species you’re reporting, there are profiles built into the app.

SLCA Volunteer Canvassers are Out and About

Lorie Butkus-Hill — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 13:26:11 GMT

Summer is on our doorstep and that means our volunteer canvassers will be visiting you throughout the months of June and July. 18 canvassers covering 18 areas around our lake will be collecting membership dues (if needed) and distributing a useful information package to each property. Thank you for taking the time to meet with them and for your support to the SLCA!

Part 1: How lake associations around Steenburg and beyond are dealing with Eurasian Water-Milfoil

Fri, 30 May 2025 20:52:51 GMT

By Joanne Burghardt, SLCA president May 2025

The Steenburg Lake Community Association (SLCA) continues to research how to control and remove Eurasian Water-Milfoil (EWM). In this article we look at recent control and removal projects around Steenburg Lake and elsewhere in Ontario.
-------

Three years ago, a staff report for a Crowe Valley Conservation Area (CRVA) board meeting described the spreading problem of Eurasian Water-Milfoil (EWM) in area lakes.

“An invasive species, the aquatic plant Eurasian Water-Milfoil, is beginning to establish itself in lakes and create problems for residents and cottagers in the Crowe Valley watershed.” – Crowe Valley Conservation Authority (CRVA), April 21, 2022, Agenda item

EWM is an invasive perennial which, once established, can form dense underwater mats of vegetation that can negatively impact the ecosystem of a waterbody, including displacing native plant species, altering food-web structures, reducing macroinvertebrate abundance and diversity, and degrading the quality of fish habitat.

These thick mats also reduce the aesthetic appeal of a water body, decrease property values and impact recreational activities such as swimming and boating, and can clog industrial and power generation water intakes.

At their April 2022 Board meeting, the CRVA reviewed a request from Twin Sisters Lakes Ratepayers Association (TWLRA) asking for the CRVA’s support of the use of herbicides to control EWM in the lake. The request was denied citing the negative side effects herbicides can have on the lake ecosystem.

At the time, the CRVA suggested Twin Sisters-Lakes “implement nonchemical solutions similar to those implemented in the Chandos Lake Eurasian Watermilfoil Management Plan prior to moving forward with the application of potentially dangerous pesticides, since the control measures of removal, placing of benthic mats seeded with native plants, and the use of biocontrol all have a much lower impact on the health and wellbeing of other animal and plant species in the ecosystem and do not impact water quality”.

Attempts to reach TWLRA for an update on their situation were unsuccessful.

The Chandos Lake Property Owners Association (CLPOA) initiated their Eurasian Water-Milfoil Management Project in 2018, in association with Trent University. The research project focused on managing EWM with two pillars: use of benthic mats seeded with vegetation, and the release of milfoil weevils (a biological intervention).

The mats were made of biodegradable materials, such as coconut husk. They were laid on the lake bottom after EWM was removed. To further accelerate restoration of the site, native aquatic plants were seeded in the mat.

The SLCA reached out to the CLPOA and was advised the seeded mats had been expensive and labour intensive.

They report some success using floating tarps in the spring to cover large areas of the lake infested with EWM. Large tarps supported by pool noodles are floated over large patches of EWM early in the spring and anchored in place. They stop the sun penetrating the water and the EWM doesn’t grow,

The success of using milfoil weevils to naturally attack the EWM was unclear.

Chandos now focuses their invasive species control on educating their property owners on identification and stopping the spread. A source of concern, says their spokesperson, are their public boat launches where Clean, Drain, Dry protocols are not followed, and invasive species can enter the lake.

Read more about the Chandos project: https://clpoa.ca/our-lake/love-chandos-lake/eurasian-watermilfoil-management-project/

Wollaston Lake Home and Cottage Association (Coe Hill) Began looking at EWM following a lake survey done in 2017 by FOCA (same time Steenburg had ours done). They began with education. Every year they hold an education event, usually at their association BBQ.

By 2021 the executive couldn’t keep up with it so they formed an EWM Action Committee to take over and that year started installing yellow floating markers to mark their EWM beds and get boats to avoid driving through them. Similar to the rock markers on Steenburg, Wollaston installs the yellow buoys each spring. In 2025 they are up to 60 markers (about 4-8/bed).

One of their members is a local councillor who pushed for harvesting to open up channels through the milfoil for boat traffic. They harvest an area 3mx40m every year, by fall it grows back.

They continue to use biodegradable coconut shell benthic mats, installing up to 10 per year in a partnership with a Belleville dive club. The mats degrade over 5 years, no plastics. They have a standing permit to treat 25,000 metres of lake area and use that same permit year after year as long as they don’t change the treatment area.

In 2024 and in 2025 they received grants from the Invasive Species Action Fund (Invasive Species Centre/OMNR): $1,000 for the installation of benthic mats to reduce the prevalence and spread of Eurasian Water-Milfoil; $1,000 for the installation of Transport Canada approved floating signs on marked beds and for boating channel creation via mechanical harvesting of Eurasian Water-Milfoil In 2021 they received a $1,000 grant to manage the infestation of Eurasian Milfoil in Wollaston Lake through broad community engagement and education. This is in addition to grants from the municipality and in-kind donations of benthic mats.

In 2025 they are polling property owners (about 250 in total) to gauge interest in using the chemical ProcellaCOR FX to kill EWM. Est. cost $34,000 each of yr 1, 2 and 4 to kill it.

They used a reverse contour map of the lake to calculate where milfoil might spread to based on water depth to help educate their members.

Picard Lake Cottage Association (Peterborough) (2025) received a $1,000 grant to test two different methods of EWM mitigation for their effectiveness – floating tarps and underwater manual removal.

Actions being taken by lake associations in Limerick Township in 2025:
Tri-Lakes Association
- Spring Lake – Report the lake is ‘pretty much ruined’ by EWM. Applying for government grant to fund the use of a mechanical weed harvester.
- Brinklow Lake -- unknown
- Robinson Lake -- Individuals are experimenting with benthic mats.
Limerick Lake (LWRA) – Report they do not have EWM currently
Sweets Lake -- unknown
Steenburg Lake (SLCA) -- Has embarked on an aggressive education program on identification, control & elimination; seeking quotes for a lake survey to identify where the problem areas are.

Limerick Township struck a Milfoil task force in April 2025, chaired by Councillor Glenn Locke, including the presidents of the local lake associations. The group met once in April, shared some ideas and concerns about EWM. Rob McGowan of the Ontario Invasive Species Program gave a brief overview of EWM at the May 21, 2025, council meeting. At that meeting, Coun. Locke said the task force will not be meeting again, noting it is up to the lake associations to move forward locally.

SEE PART 2 on control measures and what some lake associations have adopted

Part 2: Methods to control EMW - local lakes focus on education with some use of benthic mats and herbicides

Fri, 30 May 2025 20:17:32 GMT

PART 2 By Joanne Burghardt, SLCA president May 2025

Control Measures

Source: CRVA, Invasive Species Centre)

1.     Manual:
Does not require a permit if certain benchmarks are met, see details here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/remove-invasive-aquatic-plants`
a.   Hand Removal:
i.     Advantages: Simple, effective and selective with minimal impact on native aquatic plants. Can reduce biomass and percent cover. Potential for increased community awareness and involvement.
ii.     Disadvantages: Not always effective as it is very difficult to remove all plant material; does not eradicate. Time consuming and labour-intensive, only practical for isolated patches.
b.     Raking:
In certain situations (i.e. deeper water) raking may be combined with hand pulling to try and remove all floating plant fragments. In deeper water, guide the rake along the plant and spin the rake so the stems get wrapped around the rake before pulling it up from the water.

“Worldwide perhaps the most used form of aquatic plant management is hand pulling. The goal of hand removal is to remove the whole plant including the root; this can sometimes be difficult, though, as many aquatic plants are brittle. Operation costs for hand removal are minimal; that fact coupled with the highly selective nature of hand removal makes it popular.” – Lakes Environmental Association, Maine USA https://mainelakes.org/invasives/milfoil-control/physical-removal/
Once the plants have been removed, they are placed into a mesh dive bag and taken off site to be composted. The greatest challenge during hand removal is to remove as much root as possible and to keep the plant from breaking apart, or fragmenting.
– Lakes Environmental Association, Maine USA
https://mainelakes.org/invasives/milfoil-control/physical-removal/

2. Benthic Barriers:
Requires a permit, see details here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/remove-invasive-aquatic-plants

Benthic barriers, bottom screens, or benthic mats are covers laid on the bottom sediment of a water body to block sunlight, preventing plants from photosynthesizing and suppressing their growth. These barriers target the rhizome, the main method of spread, and can restrict growth in small, localized areas.

Difficult to install, require ongoing maintenance.

3.     Mechanical:
Requires a permit, see details here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/remove-invasive-aquatic-plants
a.     Mechanical Harvesting:
i.     Advantages: Direct relief and immediate results. Effective when repeated, moderately inexpensive; removes plant biomass in the short term (weeks to months) and can reduce plant growth the following year.
ii.     Disadvantages: Labour intensive. Non-selective control measure will indirectly harvest other plant, fish, and macroinvertebrate species. Harvesters can also fragment rhizome pieces, contributing to further spread. Any fragments left behind are at risk of re-rooting and growing. This problem can be mitigated by containing and removing fragments during mechanical harvesting. Milfoil can also return at a faster rate than untouched areas due to nutrient release during dredging and aeration of the bottom.
b.     Dredging or Suction Harvesting:
i.     Advantages: Longer-term solution.
ii.     Disadvantages: Disruptive; Very limited areas, usually small areas within larger waterbodies. Slow, expensive. Increases water depth. Milfoil can return at a faster rate than untouched areas due to nutrient release during dredging and aeration of the bottom. Algal blooms can also result from nutrient release. Non-selective; water quality impacts.

4. Biological: ( Indications are that biological remedies such as milfoil weevils have largely been discontinued)

Requires a permit, see details here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/remove-invasive-aquatic-plants
Biological control is the use of an herbivore, predator, disease or other natural enemy to reduce established populations of invasive species. Most invasive species have no natural enemies in their new habitats. Biological control aims to re-establish an ecological balance between the invasive species and its natural enemies by selecting highly host-specific natural enemies from the country of origin and moving them to the country where the invasive species is a problem.

5. Chemical: Aquatic Herbicide:

Requires approval from the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, see details here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/remove-invasive-aquatic-plants

Advantages: Currently two herbicides in use – Reward (Diquat) and the newer ProcellaCOR FX. Effective and fast acting, requires only a short exposure time. Robert McGowan, Aquatic Project Specialist with the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, says he has used all methods of removal, including herbicides.
ii. Reward: Reward works by killing off the parts of plants it touches. As a broad-spectrum herbicide, diquat can harm many non-target species. In a study that tested the sensitivity of native and non-native aquatic plants such as Eurasian water-milfoil to a range of diquat concentrations (4.7 – 1,153 ug/L), diquat was found to be highly lethal to all plant species. A low concentration of 74 ug/L (below the label recommendation) resulted in 100% mortality of all aquatic plant species. Indirect effects also include lethal effects on invertebrate species using aquatic plants for cover. In addition, plant dieback can lead to problems with dissolved oxygen and eutrophication. It is not effective in turbid waters. Areas that have been treated cannot be used for recreation or human consumption for at least five days, which could create a negative public perception. It may also be less effective on hybrid water-milfoil. “

https://www.greencastonline.com/products/reward-landscape-and-aquatic-herbicide/turf

iii. ProcellaCOR FX: A newer herbicide, is touted as a selective, systemic aquatic herbicide used for controlling invasive aquatic plants like Eurasian Water-Milfoil. It's approved by Health Canada and Canada.ca and is works by mimicking plant hormones, causing abnormal growth and ultimately killing the plant from the inside out. It’s also very expensive. https://sepro.com/aquatics/procellacor-fx

David Lean, a retired freshwater biologist, is not fan of using herbicides to kill EWM. Born in Apsley, Lean is a long-time cottager on Jack Lake.

In an interview with outdoorcanada.ca, he raised his objections to using the herbicide Reward (Diquat Dibromide) to get rid of weeds.

Among his concerns: it doesn’t kill the roots, the plants could come back; herbicides could get into drinking water, other native plants will be killed as well as organisms that fish eat.

In the outdoorcanada.ca article, Lean recommends using a rake to remove weeds, then letting nature take its course for the rest. It could take up to 10 years, he says, but nature will balance itself out. “Every invasive species has an advantage for a short time because their natural enemies aren’t present yet,” Lean says. “If you go out and spray, you affect this balance, and you’ll prolong the problem.” https://www.outdoorcanada.ca/whats-the-best-way-to-combat-eurasian-watermilfoil-opinions-are-divided/

Farlain Lake Community Association (FLCA) in Tiny Township was the first freshwater lake in Canada to use ProcellaCOR FX to treat Eurasian Water-Milfoil since it's registration by Health Canada in 2023. In 2018 they were awarded a $199,800 Grow grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) for the treatment of 17 sites. The lake was treated in September 2024. The treatment exceeded their expectations. Four weeks later EWM was dead and other native plants remained healthy and untouched.

https://www.midlandtoday.ca/local-news/aquatic-invasive-plant-appears-to-be-eradicated-in-farlain-lake-9556676

https://farlainlake.ca/our-lake/eurasian-watermilfoil

The Mazinaw Property Owners Association in Bon Echo also researched ProcellaCOR FX: estimated cost to treat their lake was $125k for the application and 3-year management of 23 known patches over 15 hectares of the 1630-hectare lake.

An excellent news article on the decision-making process Mazinaw used when deciding their plan of attack: “Mazinaw Lake Property Owners Plan To Use Chemical Treatment On Eurasian-Milfoil” Frontenac News, Sept. 4, 2024.

https://www.frontenacnews.ca/addington-news/item/17506-mazinaw-lake-property-owners-plan-to-use-chemical-treatment-on-eurasian-milfoil

For comparison, Fairlain Lake’s surface area is 109.6 hectares, Steenburg Lake 281 hectares, Mazinaw 1630 hectares.

IMAGE: Buck Bay in Mazinaw Lake, thick EWM masses

Disposal of EWM:

Dispose on dry land, above the high-water mark, at least 30m from water to prevent material from re-entering the water.
Small amounts can be put on land to dry and then be mulched, buried, composted or left to decompose.
Gardens or farm fields are excellent disposal sites.
Plant material can be sealed in a black plastic bag and left in direct sunlight for about one week then discarded in household garbage.
Limerick Township does not allow large amounts of Milfoil to be disposed in the waste site. Small amounts mixed in with regular household garbage is permitted if the weeds have first been left to sit for 1-2 weeks in the sun in a construction grade garbage bag.
Tudor & Cashel Township will accept milfoil at their waste stations if it is dried. They urge you to exercise caution to ensure it doesn’t accidentally get dispersed on the way to the dump.

Restoration:

In some invaded systems, planting a reclaimed area with native vegetation can help prevent the reestablishment of the invasive species. Once an invasive aquatic plant is removed, EWM can return or something else can become established. This can be curtailed by planting the treated area with native plants. In one study on Cedar Lake, transplanted species were chosen that would match present species in the lake and cover a large surface area.

More information:

Benthic mats: Canadianpond.ca https://shop.canadianpond.ca/products/lake-bottom-blanket
Lake weed rakes: Search Google ‘lake rake to remove milfoil’
‘An Introduction to Milfoil Control Methods’ at Lakes Environmental Association, Maine https://mainelakes.org/invasives/milfoil-control/physical-removal/
'What’s the best way to combat Eurasian watermilfoil? Opinions are divided' (Jack Lake, Apsley) https://www.outdoorcanada.ca/whats-the-best-way-to-combat-eurasian-watermilfoil-opinions-are-divided/
Also, https://www.outdoorcanada.ca/INVASIVE/
And https://canadainvasives.ca/

Sources: Ontario Invasive Plant Council, Crowe Valley Conservation Authority, Limerick Township, Tudor & Cashel Township, Lake Associations

Injured turtle comes home to Steenburg

Mon, 12 May 2025 22:58:07 GMT

Photo by Selena Bruni

Steenburg welcomed a special returning resident to the lake on Mother's Day, May 11, 2025. Welcome back to this 15-year-old female snapping turtle. She was released after spending the winter at the Kawartha Turtle Trauma Centre in Peterborough where she was recovering from being hit by a car and loosing her beak. The trauma centre is run by the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre. This turtle was originally from our lake and the volunteer was so happy she could be released back to Steenburg. If you happen to spot her you will notice that she has a bit of a smooshed in face, that is her new smile (-:

Updates: Limerick Township drops proposal for new boat launch on Steenburg Lake

Wed, 07 May 2025 16:16:56 GMT

by Joanne Burghardt, SLCA president

May 21, 2025 - Drop this topic and move on.

That's the word from Limerick Township on their proposal for a public boat launch on Steenburg Lake South Road.

At their May 21 Council meeting, council dropped the issue of a public boat launch on Steenburg Lake South Road citing the results of a survey done to gauge public opinion on the proposal. The survey asked, 'Would you want a public boat launch on South Steenburg Lake Rd.?'

May 15, 2025 - Survey says....taxpayers overwhelmingly say no to a new municipal boat launch on Steenburg Lake South Road.

Limerick Township has proposed a public boat launch on Steenburg Lake, to be located on Steenburg Lake South Road between 432 and 448. The property is at the boundary between Limerick and Tudor and Cashel Townships.

The results of a survey posted on May 6 by Limerick Township are included in the agenda for the May 21, 2025 Council meeting. Billed as a way to gauge public opinion on the proposal, the survey asked simply 'Would you want a public boat launch on South Steenburg Lake Rd.?'

The results contained in the May 21 agenda are as follows, with 86 votes:

YES - 18.6% (16 votes)

NO - 79.07% (68 votes)

Undecided - 2.33% (2 votes)

There is still time to register your vote before the May 21 Council meeting. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JCB65Q5 "

In their comments, some proponents of the boat launch lobbied for a year-round boat launch and possibly an expansion of the current public launch which is closed 3 months in the summer to allow for public swimming), two lobbied for a public launch that is free.

Opponents of a new boat launch cited concerns about the introduction of invasive species, careless boaters, noise, pollution, congestion on the south road, road safety, excessive boat traffic, unsuitable location and the expense of installation and maintaining the new site. Many noted there are already two boat launches on the lake: one public, one private.

Read all the comments in this PDF excerpt from the May 21 agenda..

Limerick Council will be asked to decide next steps on this proposal at their May 21 meeting. Limerick Community Centre, 7645 Highway 620, 12:30 p.m. See their full agenda here.

To keep our members informed, the SLCA will continue to update this document as next steps in the proposal occur.

May 7, 2025 – SLCA post to Steenburg Lake FB page

UPDATE -- I reached out to Limerick Township last night for further info on the boat launch survey they posted yesterday on their website https://limerick.ca/. They intend to share the results of the survey at the May 21 Council meeting and possibly have a public meeting in June. Whether you do, or do not, favour a new boat launch, you can make your feelings known by filling in the survey ASAP.

May 6, 2025 Survey posted at limerick.ca

Screen capture of notice of survey on limerick.ca, May 7, 2025

Text of notice

"Steenburg Lake Boat Launch Proposal Survey

Every year Staff and Council are approached about a boat launch on Steenburg Lake South Road. We have created a very short survey to gauge where residents stand on this. This survey will take less than 1 minute to complete, but will be very helpful to staff and Council moving forward. Thank you in advance for your participation. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JCB65Q5 "

Screen capture of survey intro limerick.ca, May 7, 2025

Text of survey

"South Steenburg Lake Boat Launch Survey

The Limerick Township proposes a public boat launch on Steenburg Lake, located on South Steenburg Lake Road.

The community is divided on this decision. Please take a few minutes to complete this survey to better assist Limerick in the future.

1.Would you want a public boat launch on South Steenburg Lake Rd.

Yes
No
Undecided

2.If a public meeting is hosted would you attend in person or via Zoom?

Yes in person
Yes via Zoom
No for either in person or Zoom
Undecided
Would you prefer a morning meeting?
Would you prefer an afternoon meeting?
Would you prefer an evening meeting?

3.Please provide a short response regarding your position on the public boat launch."

May 6, 2025 – SLCA post to Steenburg Lake FB page

Hi folks, just a quick update. At today's Tudor & Cashel Council meeting (ongoing as I type this) the Council voted to notify Limerick Township that T&C has no interest in furthering discussions on a public boat launch on the south road. During the brief discussion it was noted by Councillor Brent Taylor, a resident of the lake, that Steenburg currently has 2 viable boat launches, the proposed site would require a lot of development work, parking and traffic concerns, and the threat of the introduction of invasive species to the lake would require ongoing monitoring at the launch site. Not that I don't love a good council meeting LOL but this one is now moving into its third hour .... I'm moving on.

April 23, 2025 – SLCA post to Steenburg Lake FB page

At today’s (April 23) Limerick Council meeting the subject of a public boat launch on Steenburg Lake came up. I was there for another reason. After some discussion between councillors and staff about whether or not property owners on the lake want a public boat launch, Council directed staff to approach Tudor & Cashel to gauge their interest in exploring the installation of a launch on the South Road where the two townships meet - near the snowplow turnaround.

Staff and councillors raised some red flags during the discussion including the very steep grade at the proposed site, the need for public parking on site, the risk of invasive species entering and exiting the lake via boats, people congregating at the boat launch, and the fact the launch location would be abutting existing cottages/homes.

This is all very preliminary and I'm told any movement forward would take quite some time. Should Tudor & Cashel agree to explore the idea, there will likely be public sessions held by both Councils to gauge public interest.

The Steenburg Lake Community Association (SLCA) will be following developments and we will pass that information along to you as it comes in.

-- Your SLCA Team

Night Lights: outdoor lighting is changing rural areas

Tue, 06 May 2025 19:00:00 GMT

by Robert Dick, for the 2021 FOCA Lake Stewards Newsletter

The attractions of cottage country include green and blue vistas during the day, and the soundscapes and starry skies of late evening. But the latter attraction is quickly changing, and the culprit is a “green” lighting technology.

I refer to the proliferation of white-light LED fixtures. They are marketed as low energy and cheap; however, these attributes promote outdoor lighting where previously there was none. LED fixtures consume so little energy compared to the older incandescent lights that many cottagers leave them on all night and even when their cottage is vacant. What was once a dark countryside has now become illuminated as an extension of urban lighting patterns shifts across the landscape.

Something modest becomes a blight when multiplied by thousands of residences. It is ironic that a product developed to save energy and preserve the environment is having the opposite effect: LEDs are causing a 2.2% per year increase in outdoor lighting!

Within your lifetime, the sky will be twice as bright, and we will be using twice the energy for lighting. Why does this matter? How can something as simple as a door light affect the night?

First, outdoor lighting fundamentally changes the aesthetics of the night. The night sky is featureless “black” when we are next to bright lights. It reduces the visibility for both people and animals. Many animals don’t want outdoor lighting. It makes foraging animals vulnerable to predators. Although moonlight illuminates the countryside for about a week each month, the rest of the time there are long periods of darkness when the animals can gather food in relative safety, and star gazers and late-night walkers can enjoy the night darkness, free from glare.

The proliferation of light is caused by outdoor lights on buildings, along laneways and shoreline lighting. Whether used for landscaping or waterfront “enhancement”, outdoor lighting changes the night environment and disrupts the ecology of wildlife. It also undermines the enjoyment for those who may prefer the natural night they can’t get in the city.

PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS:

1/ Changing White to Amber White is the most impactful colour of nighttime lighting. The glare from white light appears about 5 times brighter than amber light for the same wattage of lamp. Since bugs are not attracted as much by amber light, you will also reduce the pesky bugs on your property. Simply swapping out the white lamp for an amber bug light will reduce the impact of the glare. For LEDs, white light is the combination of blue plus amber. So, you can add a filter to block the blue light components. Inexpensive amber film can be used to line the inside of light fixtures such as coach lights. At the relatively low light levels after dark, our eyes perceive this colour as candlelight. You can buy a very inexpensive sheet of filter material by Roscolux (Deep Straw #15) online (e.g., from www.bhphotovideo.com). Line the inside of the light fixture window or diffuser with one or two layers to achieve amber light.

2/ Shielding Exterior Building Lights An unshielded door light can be seen for miles, yet only a fraction of the emitted light will illuminate your entrance or steps. The problem is solved by purchasing downward facing fixtures, or creating a simple DIY reflective shield. If you use the pattern found at www.csbg.ca/BLOG.HTM#22, this project is suitable for your kids or grandkids. Important notes: Use this only for florescent or LED light bulbs (not incandescent or other bulbs that get hot when lit). If the bulb uses more than 60W, the material used should be metal, not cardboard.

3/ Modifying a Coach Light Coach lights are designed to look good in the daytime, but at night they produce a lot of glare and light trespass. Depending on the specific design, these can be modified to produce very little glare and to more uniformly light the area, which increases the visibility over the area. As an example: this fixture has the lamp in the lower half, and the light shines out through glass in the upper and lower sections. We modified it by using a screw-in plug receptacle from a local hardware store that raised the lamp into the upper section. We then cut reflective material to block the upper windows. More light is now reflected through the lower windows and onto the ground. The owner can use lower wattage lamps. During the day, the fixture did not look like it was modified but at night this modest shielding cut glare and light trespass, while increasing visibility around the entrance.

How you can help:

Light pollution can be easily reduced with some simple solutions:
Shield your light fixtures so light shines where you need it, not over your neighbour’s property. Everyone will see better without the glare.
Use amber “bug lights” – not white light. Amber will reduce the impact of glare and will also attract fewer mosquitoes.
Use lower wattage lamps. To judge how much light you need, go for a walk at night and approach your lights after becoming dark-adapted. This will be what the animals see. If your lights are bright, dim them down or use a lower wattage bulb.
Turn off your outdoor lights when you don’t want to have visitors, when you go to bed, and certainly when you are away. We’ve been told to use light to make our homes safer, but without an active security system, outdoor lighting won’t protect your property, it just puts it on display for thieves and vandals.

To read up on more lighting tricks, the colour of light and illumination levels, visit Robert’s blog: www.csbg.ca/truths-myths.htm

Cottage Opening - Top 10 Safety Tips from FOCA

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 23:53:25 GMT

Source: Federation of Cottagers' Associations. The SLCA is a member of FOCA.

Start the cottage season right with these tips from the Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Associations:

1. Check your car’s lights, signals, tire pressure and fluids before the trip to the cottage.

2. Assemble a first-aid kit for your cottage and your car. Already got these? Review the contents of the kits and replace any missing or expired supplies.

3. Review the condition of boat(s), including fuel lines and tanks. Ensure that all required safety equipment is on board and in good repair.

4. Check your electricity meter and interior wiring, cords and plugs for any signs of gnawing or other damage before turning on your power for the season!

5. Install and maintain cottage smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

6. Remove dry leaves and debris from the cottage roof and/or eavestroughs to reduce fire risk. (Remember: use ladders with caution!)

7. Boating in spring weather? Beware of the dangers of cold-water immersion. Get more tips for boating and cold-water safety, here: https://foca.on.ca/safe-boating/

8. Talk to your insurance representative to review your cottage, car and boat coverage. Bear in mind that many property insurance policies carry exclusions related to water damage – check yours and be sure you understand what you are covered for.

9. Prepare for extreme weather events by creating a family emergency preparedness

plan for the cottage. Just like at home, consider what your family would need to survive at the cottage for 72 hours in a time of emergency.

10.Talk to your neighbours, and plan for emergencies by identifying vulnerable people as well as potential community volunteers.

The Turtles Are Coming

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 13:50:21 GMT

Author: Think Turtle Conservation Initiative

Turtle sightings are starting to trickle in, a sign that spring is finally taking hold.

After months beneath frozen wetlands, Ontario’s turtles are beginning to stir. Don’t be surprised to see them sluggish—basking quietly on logs or lingering near the bottom, soaking up warmth to jumpstart their systems. Their pace will pick up as the days grow longer and temperatures rise. Mating begins, journeys to seasonal habitats get underway, and feeding resumes.

If you come across an injured, sickly, or unresponsive Turtle anywhere in Ontario, please call the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre at 705-741-5000 when you are with the Turtle. They offer free medical care and will arrange transport through their impressive Turtle Taxi network if the finders cannot drive the Turtle themselves. OTCC's new address is 2785 Television Road, Peterborough.

Photo by: Think Turtle Conservation Initiative

Turtle Taxi Volunteers

Last year, the OTCC admitted over 2,300 injured turtles, their highest number of admissions ever. Thanks to the kindness of volunteers across the province, many were transported to safety and received the treatment they needed.

The OTCC’s Turtle Taxi network plays a vital role in turtle rescue. Drivers are needed across Ontario to help transport turtles and sometimes even medical supplies. If you have a vehicle and a big heart, you can help—no turtle experience necessary.

Turtles are transported in enclosed containers; drivers don’t need to handle them directly. If you’re interested in volunteering, contact the OTCCs at 705-741-5000 or email volunteer@ontarioturtle.ca.

Wildlife In Distress

Should you encounter wildlife other than turtles in Ontario that are sick, injured or abandoned please consult the Ontario Wildlife Rescue website for the Ministry of Natural Resources & Forestry (MNRF) licensed wildlife rehabilitator nearest you. An experienced rehabilitator will help you decide what the next steps should be. The Ontario Wildlife Rescue website is an excellent resource when wild animals are in need http://www.ontariowildliferescue.ca

About TTCI

Think Turtle Conservation Initiative (TTCI), founded in 2018, is an award-winning volunteer group engaged in provincial awareness initiatives and species recovery efforts in North Hastings and neighboring communities. Utilizing evidence-based information and data in support of its mission, TTCI works with community leaders, organizational representatives, and concerned citizens to drive change and build partnerships in pursuit of strategies to protect Ontario's turtles from the threat of extinction.

Source: https://thinkturtle.ca/ (April 2025 blog post)

Catch And Release Tips

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 14:05:16 GMT

Source: Ontario.ca / Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources e-newsletter Oct. 5, 2024

There’s nothing better than spending a day on the water and sharing a picture of your catch, big or small! When practicing catch-and-release, it’s important to handle fish with care to ensure their survival after their release. This is particularly important when taking photos, which can often lead to extended periods of air exposure.

Here are some guidelines to help you capture that perfect shot while keeping the fish’s health a priority:

Prolonged air exposure can be harmful, even fatal. Keep the fish submerged as much as possible, and only lift it for a brief photo. Ensure your camera or phone is ready to go before you bring the fish out of the water.
Improper handling can cause injury. Avoid touching the gills or eyes, as these are particularly sensitive areas. For larger, heavier fish, do not hold them by the jaw alone. This can dislocate the jaw, making it difficult for the fish to feed afterward. Instead, support the body horizontally, cradling the fish with both hands if necessary.
Before handling the fish, wet your hands or wear wet cloth gloves. This helps to reduce the removal of the fish’s protective slime coat. The slime coat is essential for the fish’s health, as it protects against infections and helps with swimming.

By following these best practices, you can enjoy the sport of fishing and share your experiences through photos without compromising the health of the fish. Learn more information about catch and release best practices such as landing techniques and recommended gear.

TIP: Hooked an invasive water plant? Don't toss it back

Photo Credit: Invasive Species Centre

We’ve all been fishing and reeled in a weed – that’s right – we mean an aquatic plant. That weed could be Eurasian Water-Milfoil (EWM), an invasive species found in Steenburg Lake. EWM spreads when fragments of the plant break loose or are cut loose by a boat propeller. If you hook one, please do not toss aquatic plants back in the lake. Instead dispose of them on land either in the garbage or by burning. Help prevent the spread of invasive plants.

Thank you for supporting our Early Bird giveaway!

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 03:37:28 GMT

Our partnership with Cottage Life has proven to be a big hit.

Nearly 80 families on Steenburg Lake took advantage of the SLCA’s Early Bird Membership Fee offer and will receive a free 3-edition summer subscription to Cottage Life magazine, and one ticket to the spring Cottage Life Show.

Our official campaign period will begin May 1 when emailed reminders will go out, but you are encouraged to pay your $40 membership fee as soon as possibe.

1. CLICK 'LOG IN' in the top right corner of the steenburglake.ca home page.

2. Once logged in, CLICK your name (top right of the page) to be taken to 'Your Profile' page.

3. CLICK 'RENEW' on Your Profile page and follow the payment instructions. You can pay online, by e-transfer, cheque or cash.

4. We encourage you to update your Profile and Privacy Settings while renewing your membership.

Questions? Email membership@steenburglake.ca

Eurasian Water-Milfoil subject of 2025 education program at Steenburg Lake

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 03:41:51 GMT

Joanne Burghardt, SLCA President
Alastair Gorman, SLCA Lake Steward

Eurasian Water-Milfoil (EWM) is an invasive water plant present in Steenburg Lake. We are not alone; the invasion is widespread throughout Ontario. And while it is nearly impossible to eradicate, we can minimize or halt the spread.

The SLCA Board voted at the January meeting to take the following actions aimed at halting the spread of EWM, including:

Continue the Clean, Drain & Dry campaign.
Launch an EWM education program to assist our members in identifying EWM and understanding how to remove it by hand.
Invite a representative from the Invasive Species Centre to present a workshop for lake members.
Remain vigilant to the appearance of a 'floating mat' which would require further attention.

Watch for more information on identifying and controlling EWM in our Spring newsletter. There are also reading materials in the Invasive Species section of steenburglake.ca.

BACKGROUND:

In 2018, an invasive species survey, conducted by the Federation of Ontario Cottage Associations (FOCA), identified EWM in several spots on Steenburg Lake.

EWM readily propagates by way of stem fragmentation and has likely fostered the subsequent spread throughout the lake.

In August 2024, several property owners reported EWM in the area of their docks. We don’t know how long it has been there, but to date we have not seen it breaking the surface and forming the dense floating mats it is known for, nor any reported evidence of flowering.

See our Invasive Species page for helpful materials

The Invasive Species Centre put us in touch with Jeff Berthelette, Invasive Species Awareness Program Outreach Liaison, Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH).

Jeff’s observations:

EWM is an aggressive invasive species. Once you have it in your lake it will be there indefinitely. Almost impossible to eradicate. It will come back.
EWM is widespread in the area lakes.
EWM has bloom and fallback years. It will grow exponentially and then die off when it has absorbed all the nutrients it needs to survive. It will come and go.
Jeff echoed what we already knew: management strategies are not easy, and they are very expensive. Lake-wide herbicide treatment can only be done by a licensed professional, under strict conditions, and it is prohibitively expensive.
The weed can be removed manually under strict conditions but there is a high risk of spreading it if bits and pieces float away and root themselves.
EWM generally grows in up to 3 metres of water but can root itself in as much as 30 feet.

Jeff’s recommendations:

Large crops of EWM can be roped off to keep boat traffic away, avoid chopping it up and spreading it.
Floating mats of EWM can be roped off to keep boat traffic away.
Clean, Drain & Dry boats to avoid spreading to other lakes.
Launch a program on the lake to educate owners on what EWM looks like and how to safely remove it by hand from their shoreline. You do not need a work permit under the Public Lands Act, if you can follow all of these rules:

you are the waterfront property owner or conducting work on behalf of the property owner
minimize the removal of native aquatic vegetation (e.g., wild rice)
dispose of the plants/material you remove on dry land to prevent it from re-entering the water
use, operate or store any wheeled or tracked machinery/equipment on dry land, or on a barge or vessel
only use mechanical devices (e.g., rake, cutter bar) or your hands to remove plants, and do not dredge the bed of the waterbody
do not carry out work during fish spawning season or during the time of other critical fish life stages, as set out in the In-water Work Timing Window Guidelines (May 1 – July 15 and October 1-May 1).

Snowmobile trails - there's an app for that!

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 20:00:00 GMT

International Snowmobile Safety and Awareness Week is fast approaching – Jan. 18-25, 2025.

Did you know?

It has been more than 70 years since the first snowmobile was made.

There’s a familiar name behind the invention of the snowmobile, you might have heard of it -- Bombardier.

Joseph-Armand Bombardier, a Quebec mechanic, invented the motorized sled in 1927 using a propeller. Bombardier used the wheel and track system to further improve his invention, and in 1935, the first snowmobile was born.

Did you know?

Each winter, snowmobilers ride an estimated 150 million km on Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) snowmobile trails .

Did you know?

There’s an app for snowmobiling trails in Ontario. The ‘Go Snowmobiling Ontario’ app displays trails, points of interest, Snow Tours and your current position. As long as it’s regularly connected to the Internet, it also provides the latest trail conditions and allows you to plan your route. You can learn more about the app and download it here: https://ofsc.evtrails.com/#

Did you know?

You can take an online snowmobile safety course. The Safe Riders! Snowmobile Safety Awareness Program provides basic essentials about snowmobile safety and includes short quizzes to help you test your knowledge about safe snowmobiling practices. Take the course here: https://www.ofsc.on.ca/safe-riders/

Tips for riding with caution, care & control on OFSC Trails

Source: Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC)

In addition to snowmobile trail safety fundamentals like avoiding alcohol/drug impairment and excessive speeding, and to always “know before you go” on any ice, the OFSC reminds snowmobilers of best practices for recreational riding with caution, care and control on OFSC Prescribed Snowmobile Trails, including:

Always stay on the trail
Only ride trails showing as Available (Green) or Limited Availability (Yellow) on the ITG
Ride within your abilities and comfort level
Know your sled and its capabilities, keep it well-maintained
Always ride with a companion(s)
Ride in single file on the trails
Ride your side of the trail
Leave plenty of space between you and the sled ahead
Take responsibility for the rider behind you
Be especially vigilant coming into corners or cresting hills
Pass groomers and other riders cautiously
Always stop at crossing roads and take extra caution riding trails on active logging roads
Slow down at night or when visibility is poor, when non-motorized users are on the trail, or when passing through towns or residential areas
Stay alert to the trail ahead and aware of your surroundings
Stop on the trail at locations with clear sightlines in both directions
Check area the ITG and weather conditions before your ride
Before leaving home, notify someone where you will be riding and when you expect to return
Always carry an emergency kit, snacks, extra fuel, a tow rope and a communication device.

Safety considerations for bubblers

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 21:22:22 GMT

Source: Federation of Ontario Cottagers Associations & Cottage First Insurance

With the temperature dropping, our thoughts turn to preparing our cottages for the cold and snow to come. For some, this means closing the cottage until the spring. For others, it is a time to prepare for life on the lake during the winter. Regardless, we all do our best to prepare our properties to withstand the toughest weather Canada can throw at us. Some property owners have opted to give their waterfront structures a helping hand, through the installation of bubblers.

What Are Bubblers?

For those who are unfamiliar, ‘bubblers’ are a type of de-icing system, intended to prevent the build-up of ice at or around waterfront structures like docks and boathouses. There are several different types of systems, but generally these devices use air or propellers to create zones of agitated and warmer water to prevent ice from forming. Protecting our cottage properties is understandable and an increasing number of cottagers in Ontario are turning to these devices as part of their winter preparation.

However, if you are a regular bubbler user, or if you are considering installing one at your property, it is important to plan carefully and be sure that you are not contributing to a significant hazard on the lake.

Creating a Hole in the Water

Bubblers are often turned on and left largely unattended by property owners throughout the winter. Without careful planning, management and consideration of the nature of your waterfront area, your bubbler can de-ice a significantly larger portion of the water than is necessary to protect your property. This is especially true in shallow or sheltered areas, or when several bubblers are active near one-another, with multiple property owners inadvertently creating a massive hole in the ice, hundreds of feet in size. These holes in the ice can pose a serious safety risk to winter users of our lakes, especially at night or during storms with poor visibility.

Legal Implications

Section 263 (1) of the Criminal Code of Canada is very clear that those who make or cause to be made an opening in ice are under a legal duty to guard the opening in a manner adequate to prevent persons from falling in by accident, and adequate to warn them that the opening exists. If you fail to perform these duties, the Code states that you may be found guilty of serious offences, up to and including manslaughter.

Risk Management Considerations

If you chose to operate a bubbler to protect your property, please make sure you are taking all steps possible to ensure the safety of all lake users and consider taking these risk management steps:

Place and angle your devices with care to keep the impacted area as localized as possible;
Talk to your neighbours to avoid doubling up in an area. It is possible that one bubbler will do the trick.
Equip your system with a thermostat or timer control. Running 24/7 creates oversized openings.
Place clear signs near the bubbling area, visible from all directions noting “Danger Open Water”.
Run an amber light to mark the hazard at night and during storms. Do not use a red light, as this can be mistaken for the brake lights of a snowmobile and draw people towards the risk, rather than turn them away.
Monitor your property. If you cannot be present, have someone check regularly to ensure the system is operating, the affected area is appropriate in size, and that the warning lights and markers remain in place.
Where possible, a knowledgeable and experienced contractor should be used to configure the system.

Summer or winter, safety on the water is a top priority!

Source: Federation of Ontario Cottagers Associations & Cottage First Insurance (the SLCA is a member of FOCA)

Posted November 2024

Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre 50/50 Fundraiser Deadline Nov. 25

Sat, 16 Nov 2024 20:49:54 GMT

The Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre (OTCC) has announced the return of their online 50/50 fundraiser.

OTCC - home of Kawartha Turtle Trauma Centre- is a registered charity whose goal is to protect and conserve Ontario’s native turtles and the habitat in which they live. They accomplish this by operating a turtle hospital that treats, rehabilitates, and releases injured turtles, by performing extensive research in the field to further conservation initiatives, and by running a comprehensive education and outreach program. A record 2,300 turtles were admitted to the turtle hospital in 2024.

Funds raised by this raffle will support the Centre’s ongoing efforts to help Ontario’s turtles.

The raffle pot has surpassed $38,000. According to the OTCC the raffle winner will take home at least $19,000, which means the same amount will go to helping the turtles.

Ticket sales end Monday, November 25, 2024, and the draw date is Tuesday, November 26, 2024.

For more information about the 50/50 Raffle or other ways to help turtles, e-mail info@ontarioturtle.ca, phone 705-741-5000, or visit their website at ontarioturtle.ca.

Public consultation on mandatory PFDs, have your say by Nov. 4

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 10:56:37 GMT

Transport Canada has opened a public consultation on the question of mandatory personal flotation device (PFD) wear for recreational boaters.

Did you know Canada averages 111 recreational boating deaths each year? According to Transport Canada, not using a personal flotation device (PFD) or lifejacket is a leading cause of death among recreational boaters, accounting for 89% of all fatalities.

For those ‘human powered’ vessels, kayakers are more likely to wear a PFD (78%), while our canoer friends are less likely (41%).

The Drowning Prevention Research Centre Canada produced a report in 2021 that tracked recreational boating-related deaths in Canada from 2008 to 2017.

Key takeaways:

most people who died due to a recreational boating-related incident weren’t wearing a PFD or lifejacket
most of the people who died were adults
most recreational boating-related deaths involved powerboats, followed by canoes
the most common incident that led to a death was a capsized vessel, followed by a person falling or being thrown overboard

At the Federation of Cottager’s Association (FOCA) 2024 Spring Seminar, Sgt. Dave Moffatt of the Marine Unit of the OPP gave a slide presentation about PFDs and fatality rates. See his slides here (download PDF, 4 MB)

Have your say on the issue of mandatory PFDs here, and share your comments by November 4, 2024.

Cottage closing safety tips from FOCA

Sat, 12 Oct 2024 21:18:37 GMT

Source: FOCA.on.ca. The SLCA is a member of FOCA

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 the weeks prior to Victoria Day—especially if the owners are not using them regularly in the fall, winter or spring. From the Labour Day weekend onward, many cottage and seasonal property owners begin considering the closure and winterizing of their properties. The Federation of Ontario Cottagers Associations (FOCA) wants to help you protect your investment, year-round. Remember, the cost of owning a cottage or summer property could include the frustration and irritation of repairing damage and replacing stolen property, if no one is living there or checking it regularly.

Cottage Closing Tips from FOCA:

Secure your windows and doors.
Close window curtains or blinds, and put up shutters to protect the interior from marauders (animal or human), storm protection and theft prevention.
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.
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 # can help deter a thief or aid in property recovery.
Remove all food, and anything that may attract animals.
Pack up and take home all alcohol.
Don’t leave firearms or weapons at the cottage.
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.
Defrost and unplug the refrigerator. Place an open box of baking soda inside the refrigerator to keep odours away.
If you have propane appliances make sure they are properly shut down.
Drain all water pipes, water heaters and fixtures, to avoid freezing.
Scatter moth balls in the attic and anywhere small animals or bugs might gather.
Organize snow removal if it will be required over the winter.
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.
Designate a year-round contact or key-holder for: alarms, thefts, weather damage or animal problems.
Know which police force patrols your cottage area (OPP Bancroft).
Set up a network of neighbors 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.

Minions have gone south!

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 16:53:13 GMT

A shout out to Keith Fletcher who keeps us safe on the lake over the summer by marking those rocks that might otherwise damage our motors.

As of October 9, Keith has removed our yellow ‘Minions’ and replaced them with the winter water jug markers.

Keith ensures the markers are out around the May long weekend, removes them around Thanksgiving weekend, and during the summer boating season he maintains the markers.

Thanks Keith!

Bird lovers get ready for a Big Day October 12

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 11:37:14 GMT

Hey bird lovers, here’s something you can do with the whole family this Thanksgiving weekend – it’s October Big Day on Oct 12, 2024.

October Big Day is your chance to join with other bird lovers around the world in recording the birds you see right here at Steenburg Lake.

Last October nearly 36,332 people from 191 countries submitted 83,735 checklists with eBird. In Canada, a total of 337 species were reported through 6,728 checklists from all 13 provinces and territories. You can explore all of the Canadian 2023 October Big Day stats here.

Whether you are here at the lake, or home, or travelling on 12 October, you can join in this global celebration. Participate from anywhere—even from home!

TIP: Download the free Merlin Bird ID app to help you to identify the birds you see and hear on October Big Day. Upload your recordings to your eBird checklists to help Merlin identify more birds by sound.

For more information about October Big Day and how to participate, visit ebird.

This website is currently in transition

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 17:50:55 GMT

If you see something wonky going on with the website it's because we are currently transitioning to a new design and new hosting service.

The site has been completely re-designed, things have moved around, we might even have dropped or added some features, some features might not be entirely functional yet. Don't worry, we're on it! Lots more information to come on how it works so stay tuned.

Your feedback will be most welcome and appreciated.

If you are a Paid Member who manages your property's member account you will soon receive an email urging you to sign into the new website with a new password, change your password, read and accept the new Privacy Policy and check your profile information and your privacy settings.

Any questions can be directed to President@Steenburglake.com (that's me!)

Thanks, Joanne

Post breach water test results are in

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 15:46:15 GMT

The results of water testing done by the SLCA after the August 12 beaver dam breach are in.

Our lake steward, Alastair Gorman, took the water samples on Sept. 2 and had them sent to a lab for analysis.

Samples were taken in the East Bay near where the water came into the lake, and halfway between the beach and the outlet to Bass River.

We sent the results to the Ministry of Environment (MOE) and Hastings Prince Edward Public Health for their information. In both cases no red flags were raised, they were happy with the results and praised our clean lake. That said, the SLCA has no expertise to interpret the results so if you have any concerns you can contact public health at (613) 332-4555.

Both the MOE and Public Health asked we remind our members who use the lake for their drinking water to make it a practice of testing your drinking water on a regular basis.

This testing was in addition to the Lake Partner Program and done at the expense of the SLCA. Another great reason, if you haven't already done so, to support your SLCA with your annual Member Fee of $30. More info on how to pay here.

The Steenburg Lake Community Association participates in the Lake Partner Program, a province-wide, volunteer-based, water-quality monitoring program – the largest of its kind in Canada.

Each year, hundreds of volunteers collect total water samples and make monthly water clarity observations on their lakes.

The goal of the Lake Partner Program is to better understand and protect the quality of Ontario’s inland lakes by involving citizens in a volunteer-based water quality monitoring program.

SLCA in touch with MOE over water quality

Sat, 24 Aug 2024 03:56:52 GMT

The Steenburg Lake Community Association (SLCA) continues to make inquiries about any impact on the lake’s ecosystem that might result from the August 10 beaver dam breach.

The Ministry of the Environment (MOE) does not do water testing when the incident is a natural occurrence such as the breach of a beaver dam. It has however suggested some tests we can do — our lake steward Alastair Gorman is looking into that.

Given it’s been nearly two weeks since the breach, the MOE says the water released into the lake will have been diluted by the vast volume of water in the lake. Testing done now could provide a baseline against which to compare future tests.

If you use the lake for drinking water and are concerned about its quality, the MOE suggests you continue your regular water testing and include bacteria, Giardia, nitrate and methylmercury.

As recommended by the MOE, the SLCA will reach out to the Ministry of Natural Resources to discuss impacts on the fish population.

I’m also waiting for input from the Federation of Ontario Cottage Associations (FOCA).

……..

Did you know? The water renewal rate for lake flushing in Steenburg Lake is estimated to be about 2.2 years. This means that taking into account all the inputs from streams, precipitation and snow melt the entire volume of water in the lake would exit via Bass Creek over two years.

Volume of water released by beaver dam breach estimated to be around 2.3 million cubic feet

Sat, 17 Aug 2024 00:39:31 GMT

Following a beaver dam breach that caused significant flooding along Steenburg Lake North Road at McGeachie Conservation area on August 11, 2024, SLCA president Joanne Burghardt reached out to Crowe Valley Conservation Authority General Manager Tim Pidduck with questions about the incident.

Tim Pidduck, General Manager

Crowe Valley Conservation

“The Crowe Valley Conservation Authority (CVCA) was notified of a beaver dam break north of Steenburg Lake early on the 12th of August 2024 resulting in a deluge of water entering the lake.

"These natural events do occur throughout our watershed at various times of the year and are relatively common, especially during periods of high water in the spring when a number of factors determine when or if a beaver dam break will occur.

“This dam break occurred during the summer season during a storm event that swept through most of Eastern Ontario. Although the total amount of precipitation was considerably less than expected, in all likelihood, other conditions leading up to the failure were a factor as well. This could include any one of or a combination of the age of the dam, its height, water pressure exerting on the structure, wave action due to the storm wind, high water levels prior to the storm, maintenance issues (was the dam abandoned due to predation or other causes such as old age, illness, injury or even territorial dispute) or was it already in a weakened state due to other natural causes or even human intervention. Without any evidence, the cause of the dam failure will never be known, unlike structures built by humans who must find out why a structure failed.

“CVCA staff have estimated the amount of water released into Steenburg Lake was approximately 2.3 – 2.5 million cubic feet of stored water behind the dam. There would have been additional water from the flow of the creek itself, which is virtually impossible to measure without an hydraulic analysis of the creek. Suffice to say, it was a large volume of water that unexpectedly occurred without any warning causing damage and disruption at the point it entered Steenburg Lake.

“The level is certainly high and CVCA staff have confirmed the lake rose approximately 17.5 cm (7 inches) due to the flow from the dam and the recent rainfall on the weekend. The lake is dropping and should start to resemble normal conditions within 7 to 10 days. However, this will depend on how much additional rainfall is received in the area during this post beaver dam break and when it occurs. Approximately 30 to 35 mm is expected this weekend, therefore it may reduce the lowering of the lake than what staff have estimated.

“Presumably there was a significant amount of silt, potentially some natural detritus material and likely some human garbage (hopefully very little) from the sudden surge of water. Depending on what contaminants were being stored in the silt and the volume released into the lake will determine if there are any environmental concerns. Testing and monitoring conducted for a period of time would likely be required to gauge what the effects would be on the ecosystem. Unfortunately, the CVCA does not have the staff or resources to complete this type of work to determine if there is any risk to the lake’s ecosystem.

“The CVCA has owned the McGeachie Conservation Area since the mid- 1990’s. The dam break at this location has happened twice in the approximately 30 years of ownership, which may or may not coincide with the natural beaver pond/dam break/beaver meadow cycle.”

Note: The SLCA Board will continue its regular water testing routine, and will reach out to the CVCA to determine if there is further testing we should do to monitor the affect of the dam breach on the lake’s ecosystem. – Joanne Burghardt, President SLCA, Aug. 16, 2024.

Steenburg Lake Community welcomes 6,000 yearling splake

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 12:10:00 GMT

Did you know that Steenburg Lake is one of two lakes within a 10km radius regularly stocked with fish by the Ministry of Natural Resources & Forestry (MNR)?

According to the MNR, Steenburg Lake was last stocked in the spring of 2024 with 6,000 yearling splake. Nearby Robinson Lake received 264 yearling Lake Trout.

Seventy-eight percent of the annual stocking effort happens in spring. There are an estimated 5.7 million fish making their way to over 1,000 waterbodies across the province this spring.

When it comes to transportation to remote locations, helicopters play a big role, stocking more than 800,000 fish into over 600 lakes. Additionally, over 1.2 million fish are stocked by boat, with a focus on lake trout rehabilitation programs.

MNR stocking trucks travel over 230,000 kilometers each year, delivering 200 tonnes of fish. That's like circling the earth 5.75 times! From the Great Lakes to inland lakes, these fish will help continue to enrich our waters for Ontario's anglers and aid in further supporting the province's thriving waterbodies.

Learn more about Ontario's fish stocking program.

SOURCE: MNR

Loon Platform Update—A big effort for the next generation

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 19:22:26 GMT

by Rick Burke
Last year I decided to make some new Loon nesting platforms that were more durable and that would actually float. Some plans were found on-line from Minnesota, so I contacted them to get further details and understanding of their experience with these.

The new platforms required some expensive pipes for the frame and Kris Landon came through by providing this. Kris and his Dad Bill Landon delivered it to the lake last spring and Bill Landon, James Conquer (Landon/Conquer/Sanderson cottage) and I helped assemble the new platform bases which was no easy task.

The new platforms stayed at our cottage until this spring where my wife Diane and I completed the remainder of the assembly.

Once ready, we had to get them down to the water and deployed to an appropriate spot. Dale Taylor and his wife Sandy, along with Diane and I carried them down to the water, loaded them on Dale and Sandy’s boat and positioned them for the Loons. Nesting materials were added to the top of the platforms as well.

This all happened before my deadline of May 1st. This process took many hours of work and couldn’t have happened without those involved. A big thank you to Kris Landon for his very generous donation, and to Bill Landon, James Conquer, Dale Taylor, Sandy Lang and Diane for all their hard work to make this project a reality.

We are hopeful that these platforms work and assist with the hazards of fluctuating water levels and monstrous boat wakes, but know that it may take a few years until the loons discover them and are comfortable nesting on them.

We are renting them out for $1500/month for any interested loon couple.....