The Boultbee Road horseshoe tournament on the Thanksgiving weekend was a success with 20 two-person teams competing, and just as many spectators. The beautiful fall weather was warm enough for tossing shoes with bare hands and yet cool enough to enjoy warming them at an outdoor fire. For the third consecutive time, Kelly Raby won and her lucky partner this year was Ralph Hargreaves. Congratulations to all the participants and spectators for such a fun-filled weekend with no injuries.
Talent shines
Several Lac des Roches ladies enjoyed the silk-painting course offered through the Bridge Lake Community School Society on Oct. 17. After two hours, even the least artistic participant created a colourful and unique silk scarf under the experienced eye of Eva Bechtel. Evening and weekend classes, where area residents share their knowledge and talents, are a great way to socialize, learn and financially support the other programs the society values in our community. Wendy Dubbin is always interested in new ideas for classes and can be reached and 593-4538.
Input sought
Lac des Roches residents are encouraged to respond to the Ministry of Forests and Range’s request for public input regarding future logging in the 100 Mile House Forest District. Visually sensitive areas are part of the Visual Inventory map, which will be used to guide forest management activities in the areas. This is an opportunity for individuals and groups to share their opinions. The deadline of Oct. 31 is rapidly approaching and input must be submitted in writing. For more information, contact Jeremy Webb, Recreation Resources Ltd. at 1-800-761-5737, or by e-mail at rrl-ltd@shaw.ca.
Furry felons
The number of beavers on Lac des Roches may be growing and they are definately getting more destructive. A sighting last week of six beavers at Rock Island was very rare. Usually, residents only become aware of the beavers when they discover the aftermath of their work on the lakeshore trees. Most waterfront residents will have found gnawed stumps in the riparian zone of willow, aspen and cottonwood trees as well as their severed branches, a future meal for the furry critters, floating in the shallow water. One morning this fall, a Boultbee Road resident was shocked to find her most prized Saskatoon Berry bush gone. It was taken in the night by a busy and brazen beaver. Only fine-meshed chicken wire, wrapped around the base of the shoreline trees will deter these toothy terrors. However, they will likely just move further down the shore. Then they will likely make a meal from unprotected trees of an unsuspecting neighbour who will, in turn, unhappily find an unexpected but clearer view of the lake on their return to their property next summer.
Roaming bears
Bear activity throughout the neighbourhoods is very high as evidenced by sightings, overturned barrels and minor damage in yards. Residents must be diligent in securing garbage, compost and pet food in a way that does not invite a curious bear into their yards.