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.