After several extremely dry summers in the past decade, the unmistakable drone of fire response aircraft often stirs up strong emotions. Such was the case for several residents on July 12 when a lightning storm, travelling through the North Thompson River Valley, ignited a forest fire on a hill at the east end of Lac des Roches. Several reports of the smoke and flames prompted the immediate response by a spotter plane, followed shortly after by two bombers with fire retardant that appeared to successfully suppress the fire. Strong winds through the following day re-ignited the fire, which prompted two more bombers to attack the fire. Rain showers that night may have assisted with the final extinguishment of the fire. Despite the amount of precipitation we are receiving this year, fires are still a hazard and residents are encouraged to continue their diligent watch of the surrounding areas and report suspected fires to 1-800-663-5555.
Pets on vacation
Several medical emergencies concerning domestic pets on the July long weekend prompted me to advise residents of their options. The Lakeland Veterinary Clinic on Horse Lake Road in 100 Mile House is approximately 45 minutes away by vehicle but is the closest pet-care facility. The office number is 250-395-3110, which will prompt callers to an after-hours emergency number. Poison Control is available through 9-1-1 to assist with pet poisonings.
Roads maintained
Residents are thankful for the grading and applications of dust control to the local roads in mid-July. Smoother roads make for better cycling and decrease the noise from empty boat trailers travelling to and from the boat launch. The dust blown around from those few days of dry weather was making hanging laundry out on the clothesline a bit of a challenge.
Flowers
Sweet-smelling clover has replaced the dandelions as the predominant flowering weed in lawns and seems to be a more acceptable sight to landowners. Wild and domestic flowers are bountiful and thriving in the warm and wet soil found in the yards around the lake. Bog orchids, one of the more fragrant wild flowers, can be found along the forest roads and trails where water pools and in some of the wetter areas close to the lake.
Weed watching
Thistles and burdock were the most concerning invasive plant species treated by the team from Williams Lake in mid-July. Thistles tend to choke out edible grasses and grains that are preferred by domestic and most wild animals. Burdock plants develop large round burs, which become entangled in the hair and fur of animals and affect their ability to keep their coats groomed. Property owners who did not get treatment of invasive plants this year will be at the top of the list for next summer.
Aggressive wildlife
Several doe with fawns are feeding along Boultbee Road and there are many others nearby. Wildlife is unpredictable and can portray aggressive behaviour, which has been witnessed lately. Regardless of their reputation as gentle forest creatures, it is best to keep children, pets and adults a good distance away from deer.
Friends meet
Friends of Lac des Roches and Birch Lake met on July 16 to discuss watershed issues. The society provided input to the Special Committee on Timber Supply Committee, noting the effect logging activity can have on a sensitive and pristine area, such as Lac des Roches. The next scheduled meeting is the annual general meeting in October. Residents are reminded that current memberships expire at the end of August and the new mailing address for renewals is Box 193, Bridge Lake.