Lac des Roches residents have spotted baby ducks swimming in a bay below Boutlbee Road. There was some fear raised by neighbours earlier this spring that the low water levels could cause some of the waterfowl to build nests too low and they would, therefore, be susceptible to flooding should the water level rose naturally or boats created wakes that reach the shoreline. At least one duck family has survived and many more are expected. This is a critical time of year for the survival of the young ducklings and boater are reminded that any loud noise produced by any species of waterfowl in late spring and early summer is likely a distress signal, often as a result of boaters venturing too near a nest or young fledglings. If frantic calls are heard, boaters should leave the vicinity immediately and avoid travelling into the same area for the next month. We all need to encourage the continued health and reproduction of our local waterfowl population.
Bring on the rain
Each of the recent daily downpours are decreasing the risk of wildfires in the area. The much-needed moisture has prompted spring growth as evidenced by the buds finally appearing on the young evergreens and the welcome flower blooms on the many wild Saskatoon bushes. The lake level has risen a few inches, which will help residents reinstall docks and launch their various water crafts for the summer season. Newly planted garden seeds appear to be suffering from excessive moisture and cool night-time temperatures but everyone agrees the rain is preferred to an uncontrollable drought. The slow start to outdoor gardens will give residents more time to develop a plan on how to guard their greenery from the inquisitive and hungry deer during the upcoming summer munching season.
Neighbours helping
We may not be building barns around the lake, but a recent project on Boultbee Road had all the characteristics of a good old barn raising, as many of the neighbours came out to maneuver a new dock into the water. Steve and Kelly Raby put the word out that they could use the muscle power of a few strong men, and about a dozen hardy neighbours showed up to help. With wives and children looking on, these "human cranes" lifted the new dock into the water without incident, injury or damage to the shoreline.
Possible assault hoax
In May, an e-mail story began circulating around the South Cariboo of an assault on a lone traveler at the McDonald Rest Stop on Highway 24, overlooking Lac des Roches. It has not been confirmed if the incident was reported to any detachement of the RCMP in the vicinity, and it may be another example of an Internet hoax. It did, however, initiate some worthwhile discussion among area residents about personal safety and due diligence of those who often walk the roads around the lake for exercise or travel alone on the highways. Let us hope this was just a story, but realizing it could happen, we must ensure precautions are taken to protect ourselves and our families from harm.
Friends meeting
Friends of Lac des Roches and Birch Lake will hold its next meeting une 16. This will be the last scheduled meeting before the annual general meeting Aug. 25 at 7 p.m. at Bridge Lake Elementary School. All are welcome and annual memberships are available for $10 per family.