The sound of chainsaws and plumes of smoke after a windstorm are sure signs of tree damage. Several large trees went down on private properties during the Nov. 21 windstorm. One neighbour lost three large green spruce trees, one putting an end to the useful life of a boat that was in dry storage. While we hear about extreme weather occurring around the globe, it seems we are not immune to our own shifts in weather patterns. Most residents agree that our area seems to be experiencing more frequent and severe windstorms.
Bridge replaced
Plowed snow on Wavey Lake Forestry Service Road in mid-November sparked the curiosity of several residents. A morning’s drive up the road put an end to the speculation of what activity was underway. A damaged wooden bridge above cow camp was being replaced with a concrete structure. Three excavators worked on both sides of the ravine to lift and set the precast pieces in place. Workers explained the replacement is necessary to support the equipment that will be logging in the area.
Icy waters
Despite strong winds, many of the small lakes in our area froze over when the temperatures dipped to well below zero in mid-November. Little Lac des Roches was iced over on Nov. 19 after a particularly cold and calm night. The waves caused by steady wind and the occasional mild temperatures have taken out most of the ice that had formed on the big lake. Pockets of established ice on the shores of the big lake – more than four inches thick – are preventing access to the open water for any recreational use, as are the chilly air and water temperatures that are normal for this time of year.
Fallen tree takes out power
Although no one witnessed the impact or the fire, the charred bark and limbs provided the evidence the spruce tree resting on the power lines at the end of Boultbee Road shorted out and caused the power outage on Nov. 21. The tree must have burned for some time before extinguishing itself. There were several residents around to report the outage to BC Hydro?, which is so important when the outage is isolated to a small, remote area, particularly one so close to the end of the power grid. The tripped breaker at the beginning of the road is always an indicator of how localized the problem is.
Welcoming winter
Freezing followed by thawing, which are typical weather patterns in November and December, can make enjoying certain winter activities challenging. It may be too soon to set out ice candles, but there is plenty to do in the outdoors. Residents are pulling out their snow boots, ice cleats and walking poles to continue their daily walks around the neighbourhood. While skiing and skating are a bit iffy, there is adequate snow on roads, trails and grassy fields to enjoy early season snowshoeing. Snowmobilers have been observed enjoying the nearby mountain trails although sleds must be trailered for several kilometres to avoid excess gravel and rocks on access roads.
Trail hospitality
The Bridge Lake Bushwhackers Snowmobile Club has placed its warming hut up near cow camp on Wavey Lake Road. The warming hut is available for all trail users and courtesy, and respect for this private property is expected. Club membership information is available in the hut.
Feathered friends
Birders are reminded of the Christmas Bird Count on Dec. 17. Call Wendy at 250-593-2327 for details.