Cottage news bulletins you need, in one convenient place
TSW Operations and Climate Change
This link addresses how the Trent Severn Waterway (TSW) is operated particularly during extreme events and why water levels are either higher or lower than normal. The two videos can assist property owners to prepare their waterfronts for the extremes of high and low water which will undoubtedly occur in the future.
Eels Lake Water Quality
Trent University has an active lake monitoring program that collects and analyzes water quality in the Kawartha-Haliburton region, including Eels Lake. This sampling program is part of the Trent Aquatic Research Program . The monitoring program provides a snapshot of health for selected lakes on an annual basis. Even more importantly, it provides long-term information on water quality that is necessary for detecting and understanding trends over time. Having long-term information puts the data collected each year in context, which helps with the identification of current or emerging problems in lake health.
Sign the Petition and Protect Eels Lake
The MNRF & ELCA will meet on June 29th with the support of Doug Wellman, President of both the Anstruther Lake Association and the North Kawartha Lakes Association, at which meeting this petition will be submitted to the Ministry underscoring widespread support for retaining Eels Lake's winter sanctuary designation.
Maintaining the winter sanctuary status of Eels Lake is important for both lake trout and the potential for preventing future development on the lake.
Water Health & Quality Study Results
The Trent Aquatic Research Program has released it’s most recent water health/quality study for the Kawartha region. This information is valuable to cottagers, government managers, businesses, and visitors to our region. Eels Lake is fortunate to be a part of this study.
Bass Fishing CLOSED
This is a friendly reminder that bass fishing is not open until the 4th Sat. in June (June 24, 2023) and fishing in spawning areas is prohibited. These restrictions also prohibit the catch and release of Bass.
Haliburton Highlands Health Services Update
As of June 1, 2023, emergency services will no longer be available at the Minden site. Minden & the surrounding community will be able to access emergency services at the Haliburton site. Anyone experiencing a medical emergency should continue to call 911.
ELCA Communications Regarding MNRF FMZ 15
Sandy Kilgour continues to fight for better research and data to inform the FMZ 15 decision, and to help maintain the sanctuary status of Eels lake. Please see the correspondences below.
Celebration of Research Event
The U-Links Centre for Community Based Research is inviting Haliburton County Lake Associations and members to their annual Celebration of Research.
Partnering with student researchers and faculty from Trent University and Fleming College, the initiative aims to conduct research and answer questions from community organizations. At the end of each academic year, students’ hard work is showcased at the celebration. This year, most of the research has an environmental focus and may be of value to you.
The event will feature Tanner Liang, the Water Quality Specialist from Kawartha Conservation Authority as our Keynote Speaker.
DETAILS: Great Hall, Fleming College Haliburton Campus, March 25, 1-3pm. There is free parking, free refreshments, and lots of wonderful work to be seen.
Mysterysnails Initiative
The Invading Species Awareness Program is working to address the increasing concern of mysterysnails in the Haliburton region. These mysterysnails are invasive snails that are having a variety of impacts on our environments and activities.
You can learn more about the initiative and what you can do to help!
ARTICLES OF INTEREST
The Coalition for Haliburton Property Owners Association released several articles that may be of interest to Eels Lake property owners, including:
- Septic tank tips
- Easy ways to reduce water pollution
- Local environmental organizations
- Cancer support programs
and more!
COUNTY OF HALIBURTON FOODCYCLER PROGRAM
The county of Haliburton is going live today with online order for the FoodCycler Pilot Program. The catchment area includes Highlands East residents/cottagers.
There are 500 units available for the FC30 model for $100 (retails for $499) and Maestro Foodcycler with bigger capacity for $200 (retails for $799).
BACK THE C.A.T.
Right now, there is a critical gap in the level of diagnostic care provided in our cottage community, putting you and your loved ones at risk.
A fast, accurate diagnosis can make the difference between life and death. A CT scanner is desperately needed by Bancroft emergency room physicians so they can act quickly and accurately. Those who live full-time at the lake may need ongoing testing should they have an unfortunate illness where regular monitoring is crucial to treatment plans.
The North Hastings Fund Development team is committed to raising $2.5 million for the purchase of this equipment and the necessary renovations to accommodate it. Your investment today means a tomorrow with faster, accurate care, that delivers targeted emergency support, and ongoing diagnostic abilities to you and your loved ones when you are at the cottage.
Let’s Back the Cat and together, we will save lives.
How to give: Call 613-332-2825
Ways to give: Cash. Cheque or E-transfer
Charitable # 11921 5556 RR0001
FRESHWATER FISH WEBINARS BY WATERSHEDS CANADA
Catch two exciting webinars happening this month as a part of Watersheds Canada's free Freshwater Stewardship Community (FSC).
The first webinar taking place Jan 18th is highly relevant to Eels Lakers as it focuses on fish - like lake trout - what is happening to their populations and habitat, threats and success stories, and how communities can take local action to help.
BASC ONLINE STORE OPEN FOR 2023 TREE & SHRUB PROGRAM
Just in time for holiday gift giving, the Bancroft Area Stewardship Council is launching its 2023 Tree and Shrub Program.
There are some new species this year and two favourite bundles are back: the Algonquin bundle, (species important to Indigneous peoples), and the Shoreline bundle, (a mix for restoring a more natural waterfront to your property).
The Butterfly Garden Kit is also back for another year giving you the perfect mix of five different species that will attract all important butterflies and bees to your yard.
Fisheries Management Zone 15 Plan And The Detriments To Eels Lake
We need YOU to voice YOUR opposition to the MNRF Advisory Council’s draft plan regarding fishing on Eels Lake by November 28th. This proposal poses the following risks to Eels Lake:
- Loss of “designated lake trout sanctuary” status
- Detrimental effects to our lake trout population
- May no longer be considered an “At Capacity” lake (currently prohibits development through lot severances and subdivision)
ELCA Board Member Sandy Kilgour has done extensive research on the plan, has acted as a vital liaison, and has carefully considered the risks to our lake health and community. Review Sandy’s detailed summary below, and submit your concerns to the MNRF no later than November 28th.
Jingle & Mingle in Support of Community Care
You’re invited to a night of fine dining, dancing, beverages and mingling Sat., Dec. 3 at the North Kawartha Community Centre. All proceeds go to Community Care! See poster in link below for times, menu, tickets and other info.
The Decibel Coalition - Oct 31 Newsletter
In this newsletter, you’ll find information about Transport Canada proposing Decibel limits, The Canadian Marine Advisory Council, and more.
Highlands East Municipal Election - Voting Guide
You’ll find information about the various wards, official candidates, eligibility information and more!
Apsley Food Delivery Service
Community Care has secured a food delivery service to Apsley, from Morello's Independent in Peterborough delivered by ERB Transportation to the North Kawartha Community Centre.
This initiative is important and requires at least 30 participants per week to maintain its services.
CHA Newsletter
The Coalition for Haliburton Property Owners has compiled some interesting articles for cottagers including: Advice and help with Shoreline Makeovers; Sobering news for Pond Hockey enthusiasts; Info on an organization that really benefits our community; Endangered Ladybugs and more!
Secretary/Receptionist Employment Opportunity
The Corporation of the Township of North Kawartha is accepting applications for the position of Secretary / Receptionist. The Secretary / Receptionist is responsible for providing an accessible and enhanced level of customer service on behalf of the Township, and promotional and clerical support to Council / Committees, the Chief Administrative Officer, Clerk, Department Managers and other Administrative Staff..
Fire Safety Information
North Kawartha Emergency Services has provided the ELCA with important burn information including residential burning, responsibilities, reporting a wildfire, and more.
Bancroft Refillery Survey
The North Hasting Community Integration Association in Bancroft is interested in starting a "refillery" in the Bancroft legion building. They would like to gauge the interest of local residents and have created a quick survey!
TSW Update
The CEWF has released an update regarding TSW High Water Levels.
Casino Night Fundraiser
On Saturday June 25th, support Community Care Apsley and the Apsley Lions at their Community Casino Night! The evening includes casino games, prizes, a cash bar, and a 50/50 draw.
Trent-Severn Waterway Partial Closure
The Trent Severn Waterway announces a partial closure due to high water levels and flows.
Robot Camp!
Robot Camp is coming to the Glen Alda Community Centre! Kids will build robots and compete with them in robot soccer matches!
FOCA Information
Did you know that the ELCA is a member of FOCA? FOCA is the Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Associations, a not-for-profit organization representing volunteer associations and individual property owners all across Ontario. For more information about how FOCA serves the ELCA and our lake community, see the document below!
Volunteers Needed for Land Between Charity
The Land Between Charity is a conservation non-profit organization working to protect and restore natural spaces and wildlife in Southern Ontario’s last intact wilderness. They run community science and education programs that give local residents opportunities to help protect wildlife populations and connect with nature in a meaningful way.
As spring approaches, The Land Between is getting ready for a busy season, and needs volunteers. They run a variety of community science programs where community members help survey their areas for wildlife and contribute to keeping native Ontario wildlife populations safe. The Turtle Guardians program works to protect Ontario’s native turtle populations, while other programs work with snakes, birds, and invasive plant species. Most programs run from approximately the middle of May to the end of September. Volunteers can participate at any age and from almost anywhere in the province.
Township of North Kawartha Quarterly Newsletter
The latestTownship of North Kawartha newsletter has been released. Content includes:
- 2022 Municipal and school board elections
- Mayors' update
- Council meeting schedule
- Municipal office holiday closures
- Parks and recreation events, COVID-19 update and programs
- Garbage & recycling
- and more
The newsletter has not yet been uploaded onto the TNK website, but you can subscribe to newsletters and see past newsletters below.
Kawartha Highlands Water Quality Report 2022
The Trent Aquatic Research Program monitors lake health in the Kawartha-Haliburton region as part of its aquatic research and educational activities. The monitoring program provides a snapshot of health for selected lakes on an annual basis. More importantly, it provides long-term information on water quality necessary for detecting and understanding trends over time. Having long-term information puts the data collected each year in context, which helps with the identification of current or emerging problems in lake health. Below you’ll find Dr. Paul Frost’s water testing results, which include data from Eels Lake.
Job Postings in the Township of North Kawartha
Please find below job openings for the Township of North Kawartha, including:
Building Inspector/ByLaw Enforcement Officer; Planner; *Accounting Office Assistant; *Assistant Swim Instructor; *Building Department Assistant; *General Labourer (Parks & Recreation); *Roads General Labourer
*summer position only
Community Safety and Well-being Survey
A survey has been launched to gather public input for the creation of a Community Safety and Well-being Plan on behalf of the City and County of Peterborough, Trent Lakes, Selwyn, Douro-Dummer, Havelock-Belmont-Methuen and North Kawartha. It is being administered by the City of Peterborough on behalf of the partner municipalities, and is open until April 1, 2022.
ABC Seniors Town Hall
The Anstruther-Burleigh-Chandos Seniors group invite seniors and their family members to take part in a Town Hall meeting with Mayor Amyotte, the OPP, and the North Kawartha Library.
News Articles from the COHPOA
Below are five news articles complied by the Coalition of Haliburton Property Owners Association, including:
1. Creating a floating wetland
2. The meanest and Wiliest (Blue Green Algae)
3. Voting with our lake health in mind
4. Need for health care staff in Haliburton County
5. Keeping our lake young
Planner Job Opening in North Kawartha Township
The Township of North Kawartha is currently seeking qualified applicants for a Planner.
Haliburton County Looking for Physicians & Nurses
Haliburton County currently has multiple full-time Physician, Nurse Practitioner and Nurse positions available, with flexible opportunities to work part-time as a summer locum or just a few shifts in our ER. Haliburton County’s Physician Recruitment Program offers a Return of Service incentive of up to a maximum of $150,000 over 6 years for Physicians moving to our area to practice Family and/or Emergency Medicine. Interested? Email Physician Recruitment Co-ordinator, Wendy Welch, at wwelch@haliburtoncounty.ca or call 705 935 0314.
Geographic Names Board Seeking Comments
The Ontario Geographic Names Board is seeking comments on current name proposals to officially name a creek and an island located in the Township of North Kawartha. Based on your feedback, the Board may make a recommendation to the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry to officially adopt the proposed name(s).
Hydro One’s Seasonal Rates Elimination implementation
The Ontario Energy Board announced it’s official plan to eliminate the Hydro One Networks Inc. seasonal distribution rate class (approximately 148,000 customers) and move those customers into one of three Hydro One residential rate classes, according to their density.
Amending Bylaw No. 26-2013
This submission below to North Kawartha Township Council is made on behalf of and with approval of the Board of the ELCA concerning the Amending Bylaw, rejecting added density and its impact on lake health and by Ambrose Moran expressing the view that this ‘Tourist Trailer’ Bylaw should not be permitted in Shoreline Residential or Island Residential Zones.
Thank you to Sandy Kilgour for his thorough work.
FOCA Member Benefits
The link below describes benefits to supporting the Federation of Ontario Cottagers’ Associations
Eels Lake Water Quality Report 2020
Below is the 2020 Water Quality Report for Eels Lake and additional background information on the data presented. These reports aim to track changes in water quality and food webs in Kawartha and Haliburton regions. This report provides a summary of the data collected on Eels for the past 5 years and compares these results to other lakes in this general region.
Questions this water quality report are welcome and should be sent by email to paulfrost@trentu.ca.
To learn more about the Trent Aquatic Research Program and how you can help support the water science that produced this report, please visit https://mycommunity.trentu.ca/tarp
Invitation to Comment - Center Lake Development
Developers are trying to absorb almost the entire shoreline of Center Lake (near Cardiff) raising concerns from Paudash Lake Conservation Association (PLCA) and the ELCA. Paudash Lake Conservation Association (PLCA) is objecting to this proposal and would appreciate support from fellow Lake Associations.
You are encouraged to review the below documents and the letter from Paudash containing significant objection points. Once you've reviewed the information, Highlands East residents may wish to send an email to Pauline Capelle @ Ministry of Natural Resources & Forestry (MNRF): Pauline.Capelle@Ontario.ca as follows:
Subject line: Invitation to Comment: Centre Lake CLUPA Amendment and Disposition of Crown Reserve - EASTERN SHORELINE
Email: "Hello, I'm in support of Paudash Lake Conservation Association (PLCA) objecting to this development proposal."
Closing: Your Name, Highlands East
Highlands East Voluntary Level 4 Septic System Inspections
Septic systems are the single largest polluter of our lakes! Thankfully, Highlands East created a voluntary Level 4 septic inspection as of May, 2021. A Level 1 inspection is very basic, whereas a Level 4 inspection leaves nothing to chance. Benefits of the program include:
Identify damaged or malfunctioning septic systems not found with the current Level 1 program
Enhance the protection of our water quality in Highlands East
Protect your investment by confirming septic system is operating as designed
Township of North Kawartha - Clear Garbage Bags
Effective June 1, the Township of North Kawartha will be switching to a Mandatory Clear Garbage Bag Program. This means that all garbage normally collected at the curbside, or taken to the Transfer Stations will now need to be in clear bags.
TSW Haliburton Sector Reservoirs
Below is the update on the current situation with respect to water management of the TSW Haliburton Sector reservoirs.
Additional Development on Eels Lake
Several members of our board have been busy investigating what may become of the large lot for sale on Eels Lake. There has been a lot of buzz about the property in our cottage community! ELCA board member Sandy Kilgour has compiled detailed information to dispel any myths and to properly inform cottage owners.
Public Open House: Proposed Disposition of Crown Reserve Abutting Centre Lake
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) has received requests to purchase the Crown reserve on Centre Lake. The MNRF will be conducting a future public consultation with respect to this request, inviting any individual who would like to address this issue directly with Council. If you do not wish to attend a virtual meeting, you may submit comments in writing to the Clerk.
TSW Water Management Update - Apr 9, 2021
This newsletter touches on how the forecasted precipitation and March weather affect the outlook for water levels in the TSW.
Hydro One Networks Inc. - Elimination of Seasonal Rates
The following document touches on the Ontario Energy Board’s Decision to Eliminate the Hydro One Networks Inc. Distribution Seasonal Rate Class.
Coalition for Equitable Water Flow - Low Water Levels
CEWF has been getting comments and questions from member associations about the current lake levels. Reservoir levels are lower than normal for this time of year.
Federation of Ontario Cottagers Associations March Newsletter
This month’s newsletter contains information including dock floatation foam, healthy shorelines, road associations, water levels and more.
Planning for Our Shorelands
On Saturday, March 13, 2021 the ELCA participated in a webinar presented by Watershed Canada. The presentation dealt with the importance of a healthy shoreland ecosystem, the definition of its’ four distinct zones, how these interact both biologically and from a users perspective, and what external issues affect them. Specifically these are increasing demand for recreational properties, shoreland developments that are not sustainable over time, and the negative complexity of the resulting impact on land and water species. It is generally felt that more could be done to change a deteriorating situation.
The work also undertook a survey of elected local municipal government officials and their respective staff, associated land use planners, and lake and river associations to determine their current state of readiness to address the problem. They found a poor level of knowledge and local preparedness as well as complaints of lack of both provincial support and long term situation monitoring. The most important issues impacting the current situation was identified by those surveyed as pollution, boat traffic and lack of user knowledge. It was concluded that the situation requires more effective party networking, additional education and the wider application of best practices.
Algae and Algal Blooms
There has been an increase in blue green algae blooms in Ontario recently, The Coalition of Haliburton Property Owners Associations is providing this fact sheet on how to identify blue green algae blooms and what to do if you do suspect one.
Haliburton Highlands Health Services
Need information about hospitals, long-term health care, community programs, and more?
Coalition for Equitable Water Flow
Interested in Eels Lake water levels and the TSW?
North Kawartha Community Care Needs Our Help!
Did you know Community Care in Apsley is the only full time social service agency in the Township of North Kawartha? They have been impacted by COVID – 19. As an essential service, they have remained open and continued to support seniors and adults with physical disabilities through programs like Meals on Wheels, essential transportation to medical appointments, grocery and Foodbank deliveries. Their biggest fundraiser has been closed since March 16th and like many, are suffering a financial loss. Consider making a financial donation to help support these programs and services in the Township of North Kawartha.
Limited Visitor Access/Basic Services Resume at TSW National Historic Site
Starting June 1, 2020 the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site will offer limited visitor access and basic services along the entire system, with the exception of Swift Rapids lockstation.
Septic Reinspection
Level 4 vs Level 3 Septic Reinspection – do you know the difference? This 17 minute podcast will explain. The differences that can affect the health of your lake are highlighted
Cottage Life
Cottage Life celebrates the people, activities, and places that make Canadian cottaging special. Content includes information, products, and professionals needed to enjoy cottaging!
Sale of Shoreline Road Allowances & Shoreline Work Permits
There is a possibility that Minden Hills will step in and help protect our lakes
Inspections & Septic Pumping
Click here to access the article.