June 2nd, 2010

Although May has 31 days, it has come and gone quickly. From the numerous fireworks displays around the Lake, I do believe everyone had a great 2-4 long weekend. Our garden rain gauge recorded 96 mm of precipitation for the month of May. Lake levels continue to creep upwards but still about 45 cm below normal average.

Lake Water Testing: May is the beginning of water sampling and secchi disk readings and water temperature taking. I was on the ball this year and was able to take our yearly water sample on May 1st. Because Crystal Lake is considered a non-Shield lake, only one sample is required. Two locations are used- Mid-Lake Centre and Clear Bay Centre. These samples are analyzed for phosphorus content. Phosphorus has been identified as the key player in aquatic plant growth and algae blooms. Secchi disk readings and lake temperature readings are taken twice a month from May through to November. The results sheets are mailed into the MOEE (in Dorset) in early November.

WILDLIFE INVENTORY: The list continues to grow! Spring migrants as well as the hibernators are adding to our tally. To date, the list has over 70 different species of birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, and amphibians.

Turtles: It is the season for turtles to frequent our cottage roads. Please slow down and avoid them. If you feel comfortable (and it is safe to stop), guide, encourage, or direct the turtle from the road. Remember, the turtle wants to go in the direction he was heading so pay close attention!
Loons: Try to minimize the wake from your boat if you are in a loon nesting area. I know the pair of loons on Clear Bay is very close to nesting. The loons have, like the cottagers, been playing the waiting game to try and figure out this year’s lake levels.
 

CRYSTAL LAKE COTTAGERS’ ASSOCIATION INC. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING SUNDAY, JUNE 6TH, 2010 GALWAY HALL 10:00 A.M. SHARP

Hopefully you have circled this date on your calendars and plan to attend. Remember, it is your Association! Please make note of the following:
BYOM (Bring Your Own MUG)
BYOP (Bring Your Own Pen , Pencil)

AGENDA: Welcome
1. Dave Ness (Trent Severn Waterway)
2. Kerry Walsh, Peter Raymond (EAC)
3.CLCA Business:
-Treasurer’s Report
-Membership Secretary
-Current Executive
-Board of Directors
CLCA Constitution
- Vote re: Boat Houses, Septic Systems
New Business/Other Business
1. Update on the Bats (Sharon Brickman)
2. Boat Safety Inspections (Don Langlois) Adjournment