Category: Community Blog

Whether using flies, gang trolls or spoons, it is great to see residents out on the lake supporting the sport fishing industry of British Columbia. As confirmed last month by fisheries biologist Steve Maricle, the size and health of Lac des Roches supports a large number of mixed species and rainbow trout fishing can be very rewarding. Several local experts have shared their knowledge on the technicalities and techniques of fishing the lake and have made this information available to the public on the Friends of Lac des Roches and Birch Lake website in several past newsletters. Some basic reminders are rainbow trout feed on the shoals; gulls feed on insect hatches and any noise in a boat will carry very far underwater and drive away even the hungriest of fish. Anyone enjoying successful fishing on Lac des Roches or Birch Lake is invited to record their catch information on a creel report, which is submitted to Maricle and used to manage the annual stocking program. Contact the writer for more information.

Boultbee bear

A beautiful black bear has taken up residency at the east end of Boultbee Road. It has been seen and heard at all hours of the day and evening fairly regularly during the past few weeks. So far, no cubs have been spotted, so making enough noise to prevent startling it seems to be all it takes to keep the bear at bay. Residents are doing a great job of keeping each other informed of sightings and notifying seasonal users and visitors of the hazard. We should be able to share our neighbourhoods with a wild bear if we use caution and common sense, whether walking in the woods or storing garbage. Be bear aware at all times.

Messy long weekend

Despite several family reunions, a celebration of life gathering and a garage sale, the area neighbourhoods were fairly quiet during the May long weekend. Most boaters were out for fishing and politely shared the lake with the growing number of paddlers and there were few off-road vehicles on the roads. The excess garbage strewn about the rest stop by animals was a terrible eye-sore but was cleaned up by Thursday noon.

Critter and nursery watch

Our neighbourhoods are filled with fawns, kits, cubs, goslings and fledglings all being protected by their parents and several residents are acting like proud and protective grandparents. Even baby ground squirrels are cute until they start digging ankle-twisting holes in the fields. Thanks to a nearby resident for confirming the exciting news that a herd of five elk have moved into the area, just west of Lac des Roches.

Blooming berries

Strawberries and Saskatoons are flowering and give hope we will have another good year of berry picking. Last year, wild strawberries were sparse and Saskatoons were late but they tasted wonderful all winter long. Rhubarb plants are just about ready to harvest. I experimented with rhubarb this winter and one concoction was particularly tasty. To make an individual serving of mock chocolate pudding, start with a servings size (1/3 cup) of unsweetened stewed rhubarb slightly warmed and add ½ tsp. cocoa powder, sweetener to taste (I use about a tablespoon of no calorie sweetener) and 2 tablespoons of skim milk powder. Stir, eat and enjoy! Adding a tablespoon or two of thawed huckleberries is a wonderful variation as the sweet berries explode into the chocolate as you eat them. A few seconds in the microwave will convert the pudding to a mousse.

Just east of Lac des Roches, Birch Lake is the summer homes to a dozen cabin owners and a popular fishing lodge. It is also where extensive logging of beetle-killed trees occurred last winter. While removal of these tinder-dry trees is necessary, residents are likely shocked by the results. Damage to the road drainage and the resulting mud holes has already surprised a resident in a four-wheel-drive truck, stuck in muddy ruts of – what is now – a logging road. Dry and warm weather will improve the usability of the road for residents and tourists not equipped with rough-terrain vehicles, however until it is repaired, conditions could restrict movement for some unwary users.

Great gardening

A local wise gardener said a rule of thumb for planting outdoors was “when the leaves are the size of a squirrel’s ear. ” Although not scientific, it certainly seems appropriate for our climate. A more systematic approach is expected at the gardening discussion on June 3. Rosely Farm, the market garden on the slopes overlooking Lac des Roches, is the site of this year’s garden tour and talk. Hosts Val and Guy Drebet will share their solutions for growing vegetables in our challenging environment. Call Wendy at 250-593-4538 for more information. The registration fee of $10 will support the Bridge Lake Community School Society.

Returning loons

The day the first loon returns to Lac des Roches is as important to many residents as the date the lake is finally ice-free. These events often occur within days, if not hours, of each other. Several residents are involved with the Loon Watch program and monitor the success rate of several pairs of mating loons in surrounding lakes. Experts agree that loons provide indication on the environmental health of a watershed.

Ice off drama

Every year the ice goes out on the lakes differently and at different times. Just days after a severe rain storm, Little Lac des Roches was ice-free on April 30. Lac des Roches followed on May 5. Although the ice disappeared quickly, there was minor damage to several unprotected docks. Floating debris is abundant and will take time to be blown and lodged onto shoals and shores.

Badgers gone

There is no longer evidence of badgers on the slopes along Boultbee Road. Residents report their presence last year made a noticeable reduction in the ground squirrel population and for that reason, they may have moved on to a more bountiful territory.

Highway sights

Throughout April while residents slept, a large hauling project was underway along Highway 24. A huge piece of equipment, destined for a northern mine was taken in several 22-and-a-half foot wide pieces on the back of a flatbed. Cargo this wide needs the entire highway, so it was assisted by five pilot vehicles, and the highway was temporarily closed for up to 10 kilometres at a time to ensure the safe passage of the rig. Restricted to movement in the dark hours between midnight and 5 a.m. , the sky was lit up with dozens of flashing warning lights. The slow moving hauler emitted a much different sound than is usually heard from the faster transport trucks using this same route. It was likely the combination of strange lights and sounds that caused many household pets to be awakened and alarmed, always at around 12:40 a.m. The final leg of the three-day journey from the seaport to the mine began at the top of the Little Fort Hill, placing the convoy – snaking along the lake – at precisely the same time each trip.

Spreading thistles are a major problem in the grassland around Lac des Roches, but the Cariboo Regional District’s Invasive Plant Management team is going to help residents take control of the problem. Thanks to the efforts of several residents, property owners have been contacted and most have invited the team to assess and treat spot problems in the region. Initial application of herbicide is applied by the team free of charge to landowners and free support is available following that. Residents who may not have been contacted can call 1-800-665-1636 for more information.

Mail delivery maintained

The latest update on the Bridge Lake post office closure has a mitigated impact to residents. Since the majority of box holders responding to the survey opted for rural boxes, Canada Post had indicated that mail delivery will be moved from the store to roadside boxes located just across from the store. Residents will retain their box numbers and the Bridge Lake address. This is a temporary solution until civic addresses can determined for all customers. Relocation of other postal services to Sheridan Lake or Interlakes corner is yet to be decided.

Earth day cleanup

Thanks goes to those residents who picked up roadside refuse during Earth Day cleanup week. Unfortunately filling dozens of bags with used beverage containers has become the norm for this annual cleanup. Sadly, coffee cups, cigarette packages and food wrappers fill almost as many bags, even within yards of garbage bins at the McDonald rest stop.

Jump for Heart

Piper and Jessica Loft from McCarthy subdivision are just two of the entire student population at Bridge Lake Elementary School who are raising money for the BC & Yukon Heart and Stroke Foundation by skipping rope. The jump rope event was on May 4, but the girls have until May 11 to increase their donations. Anyone willing to add to their pledges can phone the writer.

Disturbing break-ins

Thefts at cabins on Boultbee Road have led residents to scrutinize unfamiliar vehicle and foot traffic on local rural roads. All residents are encouraged to observe and report any suspicious or unfamiliar behaviour.

Watch for rolling roches

It is unlikely that Lake of Rocks (Lac des Roches) got its name for large rocks found on the road, but that was the result from the downpour on April 26 to the cut bank near the end of Boultbee Road. Boulders loosened by the rain where small enough to clear manually but large enough to have caused serious damage if struck by a vehicle.

Road repair required

Residents of Birch Lake may be surprised and dismayed at the condition of their access road this spring. Extensive logging activity along the road has deteriorated the road to four-wheel-drive only. Wet ground and load restrictions will hamper repair until after the spring thaw and the first holiday weekend of the season.

Friends monitor water

Members of Friends of Lac des Roches and Birch Lake gathered May 1 to expand local water testing. In addition to the volunteer level 1 testing, the Ministry of Environment will conduct level 2 testing on Phinetta and Birch lakes and Little Lac des Roches for the next three years. This data will be added to that already collect for Lac des Roches as part of its creation of a watershed plan for the region.

Surprise under melting snow

That set of keys thought to be lost on the frozen lake – and presumed drowned – has appeared from under the melting snow just blocks from the owner’s house.

Despite the extra effort to trailer snowmobiles closer to snow-filled trails, the last weekend of sledding for most of the local riders proved to be very rewarding with the excellent spring riding conditions enjoyed over the Easter long weekend. Several spouses, who opted out of sledding, organized their own all-terrain vehicle outing on the lake. Equipped with carafes of tea and coffee and some home-baked goodies, several ladies enjoyed a wildlife viewing ride around the entire lake. Several sets of fresh moose and wolf tracks were observed as well as an encounter with the ice golfers on Little Lac des Roches. The ladies politely declined the offer of a round of golf and chose to stick to their scheduled travelling tea party.

Fish science enjoyed

A presentation on the biology of trout, their habits and habitat might create a vision of a somber group of people absorbing information on a relatively dry topic. That is definitely not the case when the presenter is Steven Maricle from Ministry of Environment, expert biologist and avid fisherman – with an obvious passion for the sport and science of fishing. Add Steve’s sense of humor to the mix and you will get an enthusiastic discussion with an attentive and thoroughly entertained audience. Thirty-four people attended the Lac des Roches fishery presentation at the Bridge Lake Community School on April 18. Steve was pleased to share his knowledge of fish management in the entire watershed and it was apparent some of the well-seasoned anglers attending were surprised at some of the facts and implications water quality, spawning channels and hatchery fish stocking on sport fishing success. Thanks go out to Gord and Wendy Marshall with the Friends of Lac des Roches and Birch Lake for hosting this event and offering it to the public.

Unsafe ice

Lake ice has become unstable and unsafe and is not recommended for any activity. Although many access points are still frozen, large natural holes can be seen forming under what is now very thin ice.

Ice a playground

Lakeside Bed and Breakfast of Gerald Crescent hosted its third annual ice golf tournament on the frozen water of Little Lac des Roches on the Easter weekend. The ice conditions were ideal for the 12 participants who travelled from as far as the Lower Mainland for the event. Everyone enjoyed barbequed food served out on the ice, several rounds of golf and beautiful Cariboo spring weather.

Early birds abundant

April birding expeditions have been great successes according to organizer Wendy Marshall. The list of species sightings is ong and varied. Spring is a particularly rewarding time for birding since our area is a popular stop-over for birds migrating further to the north. The weather has been cooperating and has provided excellent conditions for early morning walks. The group typically meets at the Bridge Lake School at 7:30 a.m. and is back by noon. Future walks are planned for May 3, 10, 24, 31 and June 14 and 28 so mark your calendars.

Deadline passes

Surveys sent out by Canada Post to Bridge Lake clients were to be returned (faxed, mail or email) “no later than April 23. ” However, if the deadline was missed, residents are encouraged to respond anyways. The nearest potential locations, under consideration by Canada Post, and noted on the survey letter, are Sheridan Lake Store, Interlakes Business Corner and Mountain Café on Opax Road.

The Friends of Lac des Roches and Birch Lake invite everyone to attend a presentation on the watershed area April 18 at the Bridge Lake Elementary School. Steve Mericle from the fisheries branch of British Columbia Ministry of Environment will discuss the health of the watershed and potential problems with development and resource activity, as well as fish stocking success – a key topic of interest to many area fishers. The stocked lakes include Muddy, Little Lac des Roches, Lac des Roches, Birch and Phinetta. Mericle did a similar presentation last month on the Sheridan and Bridge lakes areas and also has information on them. The presentation from 1 to 4 p.m. is open to anyone at no cost and promises to be an informative and entertaining afternoon.

Responders first rate

A March 23 medical emergency serves as a reminder of how appreciative the residents are that several local individuals who, through volunteering with the Interlakes Volunteer Fire Department, aid and comfort their neighbours during times of crisis as first responders.

Local crafts

Our talented neighbour Eva Bechtel will show a few of her many crafting talents this month at the Bridge Lake Library’s Community Showcase. Eva’s fabric painting is well-known, as several area ladies proudly wear the silk scarves they painted at one of Eva’s classes, hosted by the Bridge Lake Community School Society. Her display will include examples of her painting, knitting and beading, which may be offered in future craft classes.

Logging changes everything

Logging east of Lac des Roches has changed the viewscape for decades to come. With the border of thick pine trees gone from the sides of the road, driving Highway 24 is like being in a whole new place. Just west of the Opax Café, travellers can now get a glimpse of pristine Birch Lake, previously hidden by several kilometres of dense forest. One neighbour has lamented the loss of an exceptional huckleberry patch to the logging vehicles, but will get some enjoyment from scouting out the untouched forest for a new source this summer.

Birders active

Wendy Marshall will lead the first summer birding expedition April 12. The destination is Green Lake and the birders will be in search of bluebirds, cranes hawks, and others species. People with any level of birding interest are invited to join in on this fun morning, which will start out and end at the Bridge Lake Elementary School. Meet at the school at 7:30 a.m. where car pooling and fuel cost sharing will be arranged. Let Wendy know if you are attending by tonight (April 11) at 250-593-2327. The group will be back at the school by noon.

Rural critters

It is satisfying to see the return of so much wildlife, as it reinforces the fact, that despite deep lingering snow and below zero temperatures, spring is here. For several weeks, the noisy crows have drowned out the more pleasant songs of the robins and blackbirds. There are daily sightings of the year’s firsts – two being Canada geese on April 2 and a lone butterfly on April 3.

Friends’ activities

Friends of Lac des Roches and Birch Lake met March 23 to review their year’s planned activities. Volunteer members will continue to monitor lake quality and submit data to the BC Lake Stewardship Society, as well as provide community communication through its membership newsletters and regular postings to its website at www.lacdesroches.org.

In February, deep slush and water on top of the ice on Lac des Roches had severely restricted the winter activities normally enjoyed by residents on the frozen lake. There wasn’t much fun in slogging through slush in boots or pulling stuck sleds out of eight inches of water. The ice conditions have improved significantly in March. The top of the slush layer has frozen to the point of supporting significant weight – even that of sleds and all-terrain vehicles. Despite inadequate snow on the lake for skiing or snowshoeing, walking or jogging on the ice is safe and enjoyable, especially since the surface is crusty and provides traction for most boots. Enjoy the ice playground for a while yet, but always use caution.

Burn piles or snow piles

April 2 fire bans in the Cariboo will certainly reduce fire hazards throughout the region, but they will impede backyard cleanup in the Lac des Roches area. Late season snow and cold night temperatures have left deep snow on most properties in this corner of the forest region. Somewhere under the snow are all those downed trees and branches from the fall and winter windstorms. Most residents agree that at the slow melting rate we are seeing in late March, it is doubtful we will see clear driveways and lawns before May.

Safer roads

A maintenance crew was quick to respond to a downed evergreen tree on Boultbee Road caused by a windstorm on March 12. The tree missed power and telephone lines, but posed a hazard to vehicles and would have impeded snow plowing. Road crews have also been out regularly sanding the hilly roads all around the lake, which is especially appreciated by the many pedestrians using them.

Out of bounds

Once again avid snowboarders have amazed residents by taking advantage of knee-deep snow in the area. The boarders hiked above Boultbee Road then glided downhill, across the road and down toward the lake, followed by a hike back up the road in very deep snow. While the huge amount of effort for such a short glide shows an amazing passion for the sport, their path was evidence of disrespect for private property.

Wild wildlife

Both foxes have been spotted around the neighbourhood although they don’t seem to be together any longer. The blonde-coloured fox that frequents the area has been spotted with an injured leg, but seems to be managing well on three healthy legs. While it may be tempting to feed or nurture an injured animal, neither is appropriate.

Spring hazards

Slick ice from melting snow is an annual spring hazard made even more treacherous on the sloped properties around the lake. Different compounds used for boot soles have varying gripping capabilities, but not be adequate for walking safely in these changing weather conditions. Ashes and sand sprinkled on icy walk paths are solutions, but must repeated as the grit melts into the ice. Ice spikes that slip on and off boots are a worthwhile investment. Sliding snow and falling icicles from structures are a real threat to people and pets and should not be under-estimated for their destructive power. Where hazards exist, property owners should restrict access with flagging or barriers wherever possible.

Correction

Due to my spelling error, I would like to clarify that it was Mobergs’ dog, Sherpa, which succumbed to her injuries. Her friendly greetings and puppy-like antics are missed by many.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada officers from Clearwater and Kamloops have been out checking lakes in the Lac des Roches area. Since access to remote lakes improves during freeze-up, cold weather and significant snowfall in February has made sledding into the area an ideal and economical method of transportation for the team. Al Woloshyn, resident and frequent user of the area trails, accompanied the team on Feb. 28. He was able to point out the many frozen paths where the local sledders “ride the meadows” to find short cuts to some of the more remote lakes. There are several issues with the lakes and lake users in both summer and winter. However, a key concern is the widespread problem of aquatic invasive species (AIS). Several species of non-native and unwelcome fish have been introduced into the North Thompson watershed accidentally and/or intentionally, according to the officers. Native species often cannot compete with the AIS and are lost forever from traditional habitats
While the provincial Ministry of Environment personnel are the contacts for fish monitoring and stocking programs in this area, the problem of AIS crosses government jurisdictional boundaries. Officer Graden Cameron explained “these fresh-water lakes empty into the Thompson River, bearing salmon, which is a federal issue. ”
Salmon and salmon-bearing streams affected by invasive species from lakes will carry the problem to the ocean and potentially impact creatures in the entire aquatic food chain, from shell fish to whales, and decimate the fishing industry. While there are many causes of AIS, transportation of live fish as bait is a known problem and it is illegal. It is extremely costly to eradicate AIS from a lake once it’s established, but it is being done to contaminated lakes throughout the province to protect the fisheries. Officer Monte Bromley noted the public could be involved in the solution and help prevent the spread of AIS by its own due diligence when moving from lake to lake. The public is encouraged to report sightings of any of the invasive species, including yellow perch and small-mouth bass, to 1-888-356-7525 (DFO) and reporting any questionable activities observed near lakes to 1-877-952-7277 (RAPP). Additional information on the problem, as well as pictures of the foreign species, is at www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Meter men

Smart meters have been installed for BC Hydro customers not refusing the new technology. Deep snow and cold temperatures on the installation days were obvious hindrances to the contractors. However, they soon discovered avoiding snow-drifted driveways and cutting paths through treed lots was the best way to access meters at most seasonal residences.

Snow ball champs

Once again, the Lakeside B&B Beavers of avid slo-pitch players, walked away with the trophy from the Ryan Larson Memorial Snow Ball Tournament at the Interlakes ball diamonds, March 3-4. The Beavers consist of Jamie and Jacquie Moberg of Lac des Roches and eight of their good friends who travel from the Lower Mainland to play in the annual tournament. Jamie says the teams were “knee-deep in the snow and things were pretty slick. ” Aside from the aches and pains of using otherwise dormant muscles, there were no known injuries sustained by the members of the seven teams who enjoyed a spectacular weekend of ball playing.

Wildlife sightings

The lack of fresh cougar sign is a relief, but residents should still be cautious. Several deer and moose have returned and are feeding near Boultbee Road.

Goodbye good dog

Condolences go out to Jamie and Jacquie Moberg for the sudden loss of their canine companion, Shep. She will be missed by the entire neighbourhood.

Upon completing under ice training exercises at Lac des Roches, the United States Coast Guard Dive Team members got a special treat on their last day Feb. 2. On a short layover from demonstrating Yamaha snowmobiles, Jamie Moberg offered sled rides around the lake to the members of the team, several of whom have never experienced snow and lake ice, let alone cruising perched atop state-of-the-art sleds. Several team members also strapped on borrowed skates and enjoyed some pond hockey on Jamie’s rink. One member said, “This was two more items off his ‘bucket list’. "

Cougars and critters

A small cougar had been sighted at the front doors of residences at the west end of Lac des Roches with tracks to the McDonald rest stop. Two separate sightings of a bobcat or Canadian lynx on the Wavey Lake Road were reported. One sledder thought he was approaching a dropped backpack on the trail until it suddenly rose on four legs and scurried into the bushes.

Cruising cranes

Wendy Marshall reports cranes have been spotted near Bridge Lake and Kamloops and says, "This is very early; our first sightings are normally in early April, occasionally in late March. " She would like to hear from residents who may enjoy a similar encounter.

Substantial snow

The weight of the heavy snow on the lakes is causing the water to seep up through cracks and holes, creating a hidden layer of slush between the ice and the snow on top. Snow covers all the trails and field in the area with depths ranging from a few inches to several metres where the wind has built magnificent snow drifts. Snow and the plowing and shovelling of it has become a popular exercise once again and the topic of most neighbourhood conversation.

Being prepared

Residents are encouraged by Cariboo Regional District Area L Director Bruce Rattray to complete the personal survey offered on the CRD website www.cariboord.bc.ca for emergency planning purposes.

Burbot fishing

Ice fishing is a sure cure for cabin fever at Lac des Roches. While fishing for trout can be productive, night fishing for burbot is particularly pleasant if you enjoy the quiet and solitude that comes with bundling up for chilly temperatures and sitting in the dark. I recently got the notion to try burbot fishing and I’m definitely hooked on this perfect pastime. Armed with suggestions from neighbours and advice from the local sporting goods store staff, I’ve been out almost every night since, dangling my line in a hole in front of my house. A newcomer to the burbot test, I have told neighbours about daily of the sights and sounds I enjoy for a few hours each night. I’ve watched the stars and the international space station move across the clear sky, witnessed countless satellites, shooting stars and a fantastic display of the northern lights. I’ve sat through wind, hail and snow storms, keeping warm with double layers of down feathers and hot coffee; been visited twice by a fox; and heard several owls that close enough to be heard over the din of some weekend revelers. Best of all, I have heard the sounds of trees falling in the forest after a squall of wet snow. It provides some exercise, particularly when a vital piece of equipment, such as the fishing rod, is forgotten. I’ve been assured it will be even more enjoyable when I finally catch a burbot. With its mild white meat, when prepared like halibut, it tastes like halibut, but when prepared like lobster, it is an excellent imitation. Until then, "It is all about the fishing – not the fish."

While based out of Seattle, the 20 members of the United States Coast Guard Dive Team came from all over the U.S. to train under the ice at Lac des Roches. Evidently, some newer members from the southern states had never seen snow before. In the past, the team trained in Alaska, but since that option has become uneconomical, they have found Lac des Roches a suitable alternative. The Canadian Navy Dive team has used Lac des Roches for similar training for several years in the past although the Vancouver Olympics interrupted their schedule for the last three years. Both teams plan to return to the lake in the future.

Messy fishers

There has been some ice fishing activity on Lac des Roches. It was disappointing for one resident to discover the significant "footprint" left by a small fishing party using the lake on the night of Feb. 4. While the garbage left behind was easily removed for proper disposal, the cut trees and charred logs will be a loss and an eyesore for years to come. Fishers should pack out what they bring in and pack in suitable heat source material rather than destroy pristine public land.

Highway unites businesses

Luca Lanzoni of Lac des Roches Resort, one of the seven directors of the Fishing Highway Tourist Association spoke to members about several topics at the annual general meeting on Jan. 26. Luca leads the group’s initiative on possible fish stocking inequities in South Cariboo lakes. In addition to its popular website and upcoming Facebook page, the group is actively pursuing designating Highway 24 as "The Fishing Highway" and improving business marketing through additional tourist signage at strategic locations along the highway.

Budding bushes

Picking pussy willows on Jan. 31 any year is a rare occurrence at Lac des Roches. The warm weather following last month’s nasty cold snap seems to have fooled some trees to exhibit spring sprouting behaviour. The calendar indicated 85 per cent of our "winter" was still to come, regardless of spring-like weather conditions. Hopefully, the willow trees exhibiting these premature pussy willows will survive any resurgence of winter weather in February and March.

Skaters excel

Congratulations to Giorgia and Alice Lanzoni of Lac des Roches and their good friend Brittany Boyd for skating so well in the Williams Lake competition Feb. 4-5. Their dedication to the sport and rigorous practice schedules were evident by the impressive marks given by the judges for their individual and team performances.

Active logging

Pine beetle salvage logging between Birch Lake and Lac des Roches is underway. Slash burning in the same area is the source of plumes of blue smoke and the layers of smoke hanging over the lake on the recent cold, calm mornings.

Friends involved

In response to the Cariboo Regional District’s appeal to community members to participate in the Emergency Planning exercise and the meeting Feb. 11, executive members of Friends of Lac des Roches and Birch Lake are committed to this initiative. Information on the plan and how it involves our community will be posted on the society’s website.

Wandering wildlife

Several moose have been spotted on the road and in the woods near the east end of Boultbee Road and one was observed crossing the frozen lake. Badgers have been busy digging huge holes in the south-facing slopes at the west end of Boultbee Road. Deer, absent for the past month are now leaving fresh tracks all over the neighbourhood, although no sightings have been mentioned.

Despite calm, frigid air at Lac des Roches on Jan. 18, BC Hydro has advised several residents that the untimely four-hour power outage was due to "a wind storm. " The loss of TELUS phone service coinciding with the power outage made the situation quite grave for some of the more vulnerable members of our community, as residences are outside of cellular range. Temperatures in the area were around -40 C, making it difficult for several propane-powered back-up generators to start. Frozen fingers and frozen water lines were the most serious incidents reported.

Help available

The January outage of power and phones was another example of how quickly our residents will come to the aid of their neighbours. No one in our area should ever feel they couldn’t expect or ask for help when they live among such resourceful and caring people. Thanks to all of you who do so much for this community.

Quiet ice

The extreme variations in ambient temperatures we have experienced during the last few weeks would normally result in lake ice cracking and shifting sending out loud and eerie noises. The blanket of snow and drifts on the ice are acting like mufflers, as there has been barely a peep coming from the lake. Silent cold and calm nights are relatively rare and especially breathtaking during the darkness of the new moon. Star and satellite gazing on a moonless night has been spectacular and may even reward the gazer with a glimpse of the northern lights with the recent solar flares.

Extreme training

For the last week of January, residents and Highway 24 travellers will notice an increase of activity on Little Lac des Roches. Once again, Lac des Roches Resort is host to a dive team conducting winter training exercises in the chilly waters under the ice.

Hot on a cold morning

Hot coffee and tea with a slice of birthday cake was enough for half a dozen Boultbee Road walkers to tough out the -22 C air on Jan. 16. Refreshments and baked goodies were enjoyed as well as great conversation, to celebrate another birthday for longtime resident Elsie Clarkson.

Wandering wildlife

Four otters were spotted travelling together around the lakeshore and through yards. Wolf tracks were observed near Little Lac des Roches, as well as a sighting of a large cat, thought to be a cougar. Although there have been few sightings of ermine, their considerable numbers and activity is evidenced by thousands of tracks everywhere. Several residents have commented the fox has become very aggressive, often a result of either sickness or having been fed regularly by humans, accidentally or on purpose. Residents are asked to be careful with any food or food scraps placed outdoors as a nuisance fox is often destroyed for the safety of humans and domestic animals.

Successful fishing

Several groups of ice fishers appear to have had some success before the cold snap, taking burbot out of the big lake. The conservation officer has been around and reminds anglers heading out for either day trout fishing or night burbot fishing, the regulations call for one line, one hole and one licence per angler.

Missing Buffy

Condolences go out to the Lanzoni family for the loss of their friendly dog, Buffy, which went missing in early January. Extremely cold temperatures and predator tracks in the area cast doubt that she will return; however, in case she has found a safe refuge in the area, she is a longhaired black medium-sized dog, missed by her family.