Mountain Lake Stewardship Plan
Minden Hills, Ontario
A Guideline for a Healthy Lake
1st Edition, July 2008
Contents 1.0 Introduction: What the Lake Stewardship Plan is About. What is a lake Plan ……………………………………… p. 3 Survey Results …………………………………………… p. 3 What is the community’s vision for the lake and the surrounding watershed? ………… p. 5 What is the mission of the Lake Planning Committee? ………………………………………………… p. 6 Progress Made on the Plan since its initiation p. 6 2.0 Water Quality: The Mountain Lake Catchment Basin …………… p. 7 The Wetlands ………………………………………………… p. 7 Water Clarity …………………………………………………. p. 8 Aquatic Invaders ……………………………………………. p. 9 Septic Systems ………………………………………………. p. 11 Recommendations for Water Quality Stewardship ………………………………………………… p. 11 3.0 Fish and Wildlife: Fish at Risk. Situation overview …………………………………………. p. 13 Action and Opportunities for Improvement …. p. 13 Other Species at Risk ……………………………………. p. 14 Guidelines for Protecting Species at Risk …….. p. 18 Recommendations for Fish and Wildlife Stewardship ……………………………………………….. p. 18 4.0 Natural Shorelines: Land Use ………………………………………………………. p. 19 Consider Buffer Zones …………………………………. p. 19 Restore Developed or Damaged Shorelines … p. 20 Recommendations for Shoreline Stewardship p. 20 5.0 Safe Boating: Minimize wakes ……………………………………………… p. 22 Reduce Speeds ………………………………………………. p. 22
Be Considerate with Person Water Craft ……….p. 22 Towing Skiers, Tubes, Boards ………………………… p. 22 Follow the Safe Boating Guide ………………………. p. 22 Recommendations for Boating …………………… p. 22 6.0 Vistas, Vegetation and Tranquility: Vistas ……………………………………………………………… p. 23 Vegetation …………………………………………………….. p. 23 Tranquility and Lighting ……………………………….. p. 23 Recommendations for Vista, Vegetation and Tranquility …………………………………………………. p. 24 7.0 Culture and History Document our history and culture at Mountain Lake in pictures and personal records ………… p. 24 Recommendations for Culture & History ……p. 25 8.0 Recreation …………………………………………………… p. 28 9.0 Geology ………………………………………………………… p. 29 10.0 Summary of Recommendations ………………… p. 30 11. 0 Conclusion ………………………………………………… p. 32 12.0 Credits ………………………………………………………… p. 33 Appendices I. Mountain Lake Ecosite Classifications ……………… p. 34 II. Wildlife Ecosite Preferences …………………………… p. 35 Maps i. Bathymetry (Depth Profile) …………………………… p. 11 ii. Catchment Basin ………………………………………………p. 12 iii. Nearshore Areas ……………………………………………… p. 21
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1.0 Introduction What the Lake Stewardship Plan is about The special character of Mountain Lake and the surrounding watershed includes deep clear water, hilly forested horizons, unspoiled cliffs, limited boating access, few commercial properties, and mostly private road access. Shoreline buildings tend to blend into the white pines, oaks, maples and cedars. Changes threaten this special character: These include inappropriate development, water pollution, diminishing fish populations, annoying noise and light levels, excessive boat traffic and urban-type landscaping. Members of the community surrounding Mountain Lake, both private and commercial, have shown a common vision for the long-term welfare of the lake and its wildlife, vegetation, and culture. To assist us to become the best stewards we can be, the membership voted at the June 2005 AGM to proceed with a Lake Plan. A Steering Committee was formed; it began its mission by sending a survey questionnaire to all property owners of shoreline and to those with property 1000 ft. from the shoreline. Subsequently, it compiled the survey results and these results became the basis for the Mountain Lake Stewardship Plan.
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Presents guidelines for achieving this vision including priorities and desirable actions. The document will also include a history of Mountain Lake and its surroundings. • Provides for regular reporting to shoreline owners, the surrounding community and local administrators on issues as they arise and on actions taken to achieve the vision. Lake planning is a community-based process involving input from residents, commercial owners, local residents and lake users, local government staff and elected representatives. It will be revised with new input, as a ‘living’ document, for future generations. Survey Results Almost 70% of people asked responded to the survey, an extraordinary result that lent legitimacy to the conclusions from the returns. This section summarizes the survey returns and provides the basis for the proposals and suggestions contained later in this Stewardship Plan. Figure 1 below sets out those things that the community thinks most important: Figure 1 Survey Results Showing Priority Values of the Mountain Lake Community Lake Quality Values
Water Quality Scenery/View Natural Shorelines
The Lake Stewardship Plan for Mountain Lake is a strategic document that: • Summarizes the vision of property owners and the surrounding community for the lake and watershed for the short and long terms. • Sets out principal features that characterize the lake and its surroundings.
Quality
Peace & Quiet
What is the Lake Stewardship Plan?
Sw imming Dark Night Skies Canoe/kayak/sailing Wildlife View ing Fishing Pow er Boating Hunting 0
20
40
60
80
100
120
% of Replies
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Almost 100% placed water quality as the top priority, but also over 80% of responses showed great concern for continuing and enhancing five other elements of the special Mountain Lake character: • Scenery and viewing, • Natural shorelines, • Peace and quiet, • Swimming, and • Dark night skies. In response to a question regarding negative trends over the past five years, however, over half of responders’ perceptions pointed to Personal Watercraft (PWCs or JetSkis), water levels, other boat-related factors, and at slightly below 50%, annoying noise. (See Figure 2 Below)
NegativeChanges over Five years Moderate to significant Impact
20
30
Less Evident
Removal of Trees/vegetation Wetlands
No Change
Shoreline Rehabilitation
More Evident
Shoreline Structures Forest Cover (few er trees) Commercial Development Residential Development Law ns 0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Highlights of responders’ perceptions are: • On the positive side, people noted little change in removal of trees and vegetation, wetlands and forest cover, and no evidence of commercial development. • Over 50% of responders observed, however, increased residential development, lawns, and shoreline structures.
JetSkis Water Levels Boat Wakes Boat Traffic Noise Outdoor Lighting Water Pollution Automobile Traffic Removal of Trees Development ATVs Snow mobiles 10
Shoreline Appearance
% of Replies
Figure 2 Negative Changes over Five years
0
Figure 3 Survey Results Regarding Shoreline Appearance
40
50
60
70
80
% of Replies
A subsequent question asked specifically about trends in shoreline appearance. Figure 3 shows the results of the survey.
The survey also asked for opinions regarding whether requiring creation of a shoreline buffer zone (riparian zone) of 8 to 15 meters for new development would be a good idea, and whether Minden Hills should regulate shoreline alterations. • Respondents were slightly favourable to requiring a buffer zone (53% said YES; 27% said NO; 20% had no opinion); • Results were similar regarding municipal regulation: 56% said YES; 31% said NO; 13% had no opinion. This is a long-range subject, probably requiring exploration as the Lake Stewardship Plan evolves. The issue here is the
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desirability and priority of a riparian zone for a filter of natural vegetation to preserve/improve lake quality and fish habitats. The subject of the Mountain Lake fishery receives serious attention in Chapter 3 of this Plan. The survey also explored community views regarding municipal regulation of the Mountain Lake character. Figure 4 Priorities for Municipal Regulation
%of Replies
Ne e d for Controls 80
More Controls
70
No Change
60 50 40 30 20
Towers
Communications
Lighting
ExcessiveNight
thelake
Building
setbacks from
Septic
Lawns
0
Inspections
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Respondents see the need for increased regulation of lawns, septic inspections, excessive lighting and communications towers. In reviewing this plan, readers should be aware that municipal officials must continuously balance many priorities; consequently such matters as wildlife habitat and natural shorelines, vistas and vegetation may not necessarily be a key goal of zoning bylaws and codes, and dependence on regulation may not always be effective. Also, we know that the OPP cannot monitor boating safety infractions on all lakes continuously. We in the community, then, should undertake to be our own guardians in achieving our vision for the Mountain Lake watershed. It may well be that our best hope for the future
is a strong community consensus and determination regarding the values and priorities that were reflected in the 2005 survey. Your feedback from your review of this Plan will be the first update of a number of the issues explored in the 2005 survey. Your committee will periodically present the updated priorities of the community to municipal officials. The survey also showed the approximately 206 Mountain Lake property owners to be a group with outstanding commitment to the lake and deep concern for its future: • Most are long-term owners: 54% of respondents have owned their properties for over 30 years, and 88% said that they never intend to sell. • 50% of respondents use their properties for six to twelve months per year, and the percentage of permanent residents is now about 30%; 50% of respondents said that they intend to establish permanent lake residency. Survey results were also used in our representation to Council on new zoning by-law issues of concern to owners. We thank the Minden Hills Council for generously hearing and considering our representations. The Vision All of these findings were considered in preparing a brief Vision Statement (see Figure 5 below) that will reflect the values of the community living on and near the Mountain Lake Watershed. It is important to note that a Commercial workshop produced very similar values and concerns. These are important to their livelihood as well. Figure 5 VISION STATEMENT FOR THE FUTURE OF THE MOUNTAIN LAKE WATERSHED
A place where water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, natural beauty, recreational enjoyment, and peace and tranquility are maintained and improved for present and future generations of the entire community to enjoy. 5
In addition the Steering Committee set out a Mission to assist in establishing the Vision statement above. Figure 6 THE MISSION OF THE LAKE PLANNING STEERING COMMITTEE
To prioritize and coordinate important actions and encourage the neighbourhood values that will contribute to achieving the vision of the Mountain Lake watershed community
Progress Made on the Plan since Its Initiation Progress has been made since the 2005 survey: •
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Zoning Minden Hills Council has banned all new shoreline boathouses in the municipality. In the 2005 survey, Mountain Lake residents were less clear on this issue: while over 80% said that new boathouses should not project over the water, only 50% said that new boathouses should not be permitted. Water Levels An area committee has been formed (Coalition for Equitable Water Flow) to work with the Trent-Severn Waterway (TSW) management regarding better control of wide fluctuations in water levels. TSW has formed a panel that has been conducting hearings on this issue, and will make recommendations to the MOE by the end of 2007. Your Association also made a strong presentation to this panel, setting out TSW damage to our fishery and other wildlife. Fact Finding Your Committee has commissioned and received reports on watersheds, wildlife, and forestry inventory reserves in the Mountain Lake area.
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•
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Community Consensus Your Committee has met with local businesses to build consensus regarding the commonality of interest between the goals of property owners and the business community. Education Your Committee organized a “Dark Skies” event that dramatised in an entertaining way how excessive lighting affects wildlife and also undermines the beauty of the night skies. Fisheries A member of your Lake Association executive has been participating in a review of the state of the Mountain Lake fishery, and identified deficiencies and a number of threats that require resolution for sustainability of lake trout and bass fisheries for the long term. Thanks to monitoring of spawning beds by four of our members during the 2006 fall spawning, we qualified for a government grant to enhance the main spawning bed. This was carried out in July, 2007. The picture below shows the crews at the site.
The next chapters address the status of each of the components of the owners’ vision for the lake, and present recommendations for achieving that vision. Finally, the last section summarizes the action recommendations set forth in the individual chapters.
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2.0 Water Quality Mountain Lake is characterized as an oligotrophic lake: this type of lake has low nutrient concentration with a high degree of clear water. This is typical of northern lakes in the Canadian Shield. The lake has two deep sections of over 100’ depth, one at each end of the lake. Two maps are included at the end of this chapter: • Map 1 shows a depth profile for Mountain Lake; • Map 2 shows Mountain Lake and its watershed or catchment basin, that is the area within which any water (stream, rain, run-off) flows into Mountain Lake. Looking at Map 2 in detail, it shows: • The overall position of Mountain Lake relative to other lakes, and to Highway 35 and other roads. • The Catchment Basin (shown as a yellow and black boundary surrounding the lake). Any water within this boundary flows towards Mountain Lake. • Wetland areas, (shown as tan and whitish areas on the map) both within and nearby the Catchment Basin. • Main geographic features as bays, streams, forests and terrain. The physical data describing this catchment basin are shown in Figure 7 below: Figure 7 Physical Data for the Mountain Lake Catchment Basin Area (Hectares) % of Catchment Basin Waterbody 335.69 33.0 -Mountain Lake 321.05 31.59 -Other 14.64 2.07 Wetland Area 21.04 2.07 Catchment Basin 1016.31 100.0
While developing a Lake Stewardship Plan for Mountain Lake, we learned of the important role that our few wetland areas can play in the long-term health of the lake and our continued enjoyment of it. Wetlands at Mountain Lake Wetlands are a combination of land and water, often known as marshes, swamps, bogs and fens. Marshes are the typical wetland dominated by lilies, cattails and/or rushes. Swamps are dominated by trees and/or shrubs, and fens and bogs are peat lands that develop over time as a result of stagnant waters. While wetlands were once thought of as mosquito-infested wastelands, best dealt with by draining, filling or paving, we now know that wetlands are a vital part of our ability to have a good quality environment, and that we need to protect them. Wetlands provide: • Water filtration: remove contaminants, suspended particles and excessive nutrients, improving water quality and renewing water supplies. • An irreplaceable habitat: a nesting, feeding and staging ground for waterfowl, reptiles and amphibians, and potentially for species at risk. o Also significant to mammals such as feeding areas for moose, muskrat, mink, otter, raccoon etc. Coniferous swamps are valuable summer and wintering areas for wildlife because they are cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter o Wetlands in the landscape provide a diversity of habitats and with a diversity of habitats comes a diversity of wildlife • Groundwater recharge and discharge. • Flood control – retention of water in the landscape • A source of oxygen and water vapour. In particular, wetland areas can provide filtering and sources for underground water, so vital to those of us that depend on wells
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You can see from the Map 2 that Mountain Lake has only a few small wetland areas, one at Fairfield Bay, but the primary wetland areas are at the South end of the lake. The size of the Fairfield Bay wetland is not clear, however: Ducks Unlimited data show it to be much larger than shown on this map, with a swamp extending from Fairfield Bay northerly to the next bay. The forest resource inventory data show a dominance of black ash, tamarack and cedar in this area and these species are all wetland species. Although the wetland areas are small at Mountain Lake, they still provide some function in regard to groundwater recharge, flood control and water filtration. At the south end of the lake and at Fairfield Bay, highway runoff is filtered through the wetland, reducing the salinity of the waters and possibly removing other contaminants such as oils and gasoline. The western shoreline does not have much protection from these contaminants, and owners in this area might consider zones of natural vegetation to protect their water resources. Protecting Mountain Lake Wetlands Development will be the single greatest threat to our wetlands. This document and map represent the first step: to inform owners of the locations, vulnerability, and importance of wetland areas. With this knowledge, owners can ensure that property development projects, including roads and homes, as well as waste disposal, do not interfere with the functionality and scope of our limited wetland areas. The monitoring program does not measure potability of the water, and drinking of untreated lake water is not recommended.
We need to acquire greater knowledge of our wetlands health and scope. We are grateful to Paul Heaven who assisted us in beginning this work. We will also review Minden Zoning By-laws for opportunities to assist council to improve protection of wetlands in the township as a whole. Water Clarity Each year we participate in the Ministry of the Environment’s Lake Partner Program and with Environment Canada’s Ice Watch program. For the Lake Partner Program, a water sample is submitted for analysis of the nutrient content (see the section on algae later in this chapter) in the early spring. Mountain Lake water clarity has been consistently good for over fifteen years. Clarity is measured using a Secchi Disc, and observing the depth at which the disc is no longer visible. The Secchi Disc program is also conducted as part of monitoring within the Lake Partnership Program. It provides another indicator of phosphorous levels. Figure 3 below shows that the Secchi clarity measure has been consistently between five and seven metres since about 1992. This reading is interpreted as `good`. Figure 8 Mountain Lake Water Clarity M ountain Lake M e an Se cchi 9.0 Secchi Depth(m )
for drinking water. Also, while mosquitoes do breed in swamps, so also do their predators, such as dragon flies.
8.0 7.0 6.0 5.0 4.0 3.0 1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
Ye ar South End
North End
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Ice Watch is a federal government (Environment Canada) program that keeps statistics on the dates that lakes freeze over and thaw on an annual basis. There may actually be more than one cycle in a given year. The data are collected from volunteers and the trends assist in assessing the impact of global warming. Algae: A Balanced View What are Algae? In freshwater lakes, algae are tiny aquatic plants. They make their food in the form of starches or oils by using the energy of sunlight and nutrients from the water. Several thousand species of algae live in Ontario’s waters. The major factors that determine the type and amount of Algae in our lake are: • the amount of sunlight that penetrates the water. • the concentration of nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorous. • water temperature. Are algae good for a lake? Algae are critical to the life of our lake since they: • are the base of the food chain • convert nutrients to organic matter • oxygenate the water Oxygen plays an important role in determining the type of organisms that will live in a lake. Some species, such as trout, need consistently high oxygen levels to survive. Algae produce oxygen as a by-product of photosynthesis but also take in oxygen for respiration. Respiration occurs all the time, but photosynthesis occurs only when sunlight is available. Extreme oxygen fluctuations place great stress on fish and other creatures in a lake. Problems arise in a lake when the balance between the plants and animals
(zooplankton or fish) is upset. The introduction of pollutants and nutrients can result in excessive algae growth. How can I protect my lake? • Try to maintain a natural shoreline to increase nutrient uptake by plants and reduce erosion and nutrients leaching into the lake. • Use low phosphate detergents and soaps, and avoid using soap directly into the lake at all. • Avoid fertilizing. • Maintain your septic system.
Aquatic Invaders The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) manage their Invasive Species Watch in support of tracking invasive species in Ontario lakes. This is a volunteer based monitoring program to detect the presence/absence of aquatic nuisance species in Ontario lakes. Specialized filtering equipment is used to obtain samples at several locations on a lake. We first participated in this program in 2003, and subsequently in 2005 and 2007. The most common aquatic invading species transferred by boats being moved from one lake to another are described below: Spiny Water Flea The spiny water flea was detected in our OFAH samples in Mountain Lake as well as the many other lakes that make up the Gull River system. All three samplings (north basin, south basin & near the boat launch) contained the spiny water flea. The spiny water flea is a tiny crustacean that grows to about 1 to 1.5 cm and has a long tail spine with barb like projections. Because of this extremely sharp tail spine, this invasive crustacean has very few predators. It comes from Europe and was first detected in Lake Ontario in 1982. This flea competes with other zooplankton species for food but it is not a desirable
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prey for some smaller fish. It is still too early to determine if spiny water fleas will alter our aquatic ecosystems to the detriment of fish populations. This species is also a nuisance to anglers when they become entangled in fishing lines and downrigger cables. Once they become established in a lake, there is no way to eradicate them. Zebra Mussels Tolerant of a wide range of environmental conditions, these mussels have managed to spread throughout all of the Great Lakes as well as into many inland lakes. They filter the water and because of their high numbers rid the lake of not only pollutants but also much needed nutrients, resulting in a change in the lake’s physical attributes. This can destroy the habitat of some native species while making the lake better suited for other native species. This year’s samples revealed the good news that we are still free of zebra mussels. While Mountain Lake calcium levels may prevent invasion of zebra mussels, this species has shown a high capacity for adaption and diligence in bringing craft to this lake must continue.
Preventing the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species With over 180 non-native species already established in the Great Lakes and a new one arriving every 8 months, preventing their spread can seem like an overwhelming task. Yet, there are simple things that you can do to stop their spread. Boat Operators • When removing your boat from a lake, inspect the boat, trailer and all accessory equipment that has been in the water. Remove all plant and animal material before leaving the launch.
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Drain water from motor, live wells, bilge and transom wells immediately, before leaving water access area. Do not drain into the lake. Before transporting your boat to another water body, wash your boat, tackle, downrigger cables, trailer, and other equipment with hot water, or spray with high-pressure water; or, let your boat dry out in the sun for five days.
Anglers • Empty bait buckets on land. Never dump a bait bucket into a lake if it has water from another water body in it, and never dump live fish from one water body into another. Not only can this result in the introduction of a new species into a lake, it is also illegal. • Learn to identify the different species of baitfish and distinguish them from invasive fish such as the round goby. Buy your bait where you fish and dispose of unused bait and water on land or in the trash, not in the lake.
Swimmers’ Itch Some shoreline residents report instances of swimmers’ itch. Swimmers’ itch is caused by a parasite that is associated with snails and waterfowl, most typically in shallow water. Our biggest problem is with seagulls at the south end of the lake where it is shallow with little turnover of the water. The gulls like to stand on the rocks in the water and thus the condition of the shoreline has little effect on swimmers’ itch. The gull problem at Mountain Lake may be in part due to the ideal conditions at the south end of the lake, including the proximity to the food source at the Scotch Line landfill. The best way to combat Swimmer’s Itch is after exiting the lake to towel off briskly to remove the parasite.
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Septic Systems Septic systems are typically the largest single source of phosphorous in our lakes. Most septic systems do not retain phosphorous after five to ten years. Regular pump-outs (once every three years is recommended) can prevent phosphorous from entering the lake.
Map 1: Mountain Lake Depth Profile (Bathymetry)
Your Association will continue to work with other lake associations with respect to advancing testing of septic systems in the area.
Recommendations for Water Quality Stewardship 1. Protect wetlands: a. Develop and distribute guidelines for development within the Mountain Lake Watershed; guidelines to include wetland protection from development. b. Assign volunteers to monitor development proposals in the watershed. c. Consult with Minden Hills Council regarding necessity to protect wetlands. 2. Continue to participate in the MOE Lake Partnership Program, including monitoring for clarity and nutrients. 3. Develop and distribute guidelines for good practices for: • use of chemicals, • protection of shoreline plants, • controlling nutrients and growth of algae • septic systems. 4. Continue to participate in the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters’ Invasive Species Watch in support of tracking invasive species in Ontario lakes.
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Map 2: Mountain Lake Catchment Basin
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3.0 Fish and Wildlife Fish at Risk It is with regret that we open this discussion by stating that lake trout and bass are the main species at risk in Mountain Lake. With respect to lake trout, anecdotal evidence of this comes from observation of the spawning bed at the south end of the lake. In 1983, in a single night, over 80 lake trout were observed in spawning activity. In comparison, in October, 2006, during four nights, only eleven lake trout were seen spawning in this area. Lake trout normally return to their place of birth: thus, each October, the trout will attempt to spawn there even though the spawning bed in this area has deteriorated due to severe variations in water levels, reduced depth, phosphorous enrichment, and higher water temperatures. As a result, over time, fewer and fewer trout hatch in the following spring, and the population has been decreasing each year. Water level management by the Trent-Severn Waterway has particularly affected survival of lake trout, smallmouth bass, and loons on Mountain Lake: • The TSW dropped lake water levels to winter lows at the end of October, 2006, potentially destroying many of the lake trout spawn in shallow water such as the south end of Mountain Lake. Subsequently, in March, 2007, about two weeks before the spawn hatch, TSW executed a further one- to two-foot drawdown, compounding the harm done the previous October. It is estimated that 90% of lake trout spawn were destroyed in Mountain Lake this year. • Similarly, observers report that the number of bass fingerlings in the lake this year is the lowest in memory.
In June, 2007, a loon was nesting on Mountain Lake until TSW raised the water level by about one foot, drowning the nest.
Fortunately, largely as a result of the representations at TSW hearings in 2007, the TSW consulted with Lake Associations to obtain recommendations for timing of dropping lake levels to protect spawning fish. Latest observations are that on Mountain Lake the trout are plentiful at the spawning beds. There is reason for optimism, but diligence must continue. The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has designated Mountain Lake as a self-sustaining lake trout lake, thus it depends on natural reproduction for stability. Stocking can be problematic and ceased in 1991. Clearly, the self-sustaining assumption has become inaccurate, and action is required. Less than 1% of Ontario’s lakes support lake trout. This is a special resource, not to be squandered by thoughtless actions. Sudden, severe and badly-timed water level variations affect badly the food supply and forms of life in the littoral zone at our shoreline. They can also contribute to drying of local wetlands. Rock bass also affect the bass population: • Rock bass compete with smallmouth bass for the same food items, such as minnows and crayfish; rock bass often outnumber smallmouth. • Rock bass raid the nests of smallmouth, and eat the young ones if the male bass is drawn away from the nest or is caught out of season. Programs to catch rock bass in quantity are encouraged, and anglers must not fish for smallmouth out of season. Actions and Opportunities for Improvement As noted in the Introduction to this document, your Association, along with many others made strong
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representation to the TSW panel on water levels. Under the 1985 Fisheries Act, TSW is to ensure that there is adequate water in lake trout spawning beds after the fish have spawned and before eggs have hatched. Further, TSW has a mandate not to raise water levels during the period that loons are nesting. The 2007 enhancements to the deeper spawning bed will also assist in sustaining and improving the natural reproduction capability. In addition, the community in the Mountain Lake watershed can do much to assist in building an environment in which our lake trout, bass, loons, and other wildlife can thrive.The following paragraphs describe ways to enhance the fish population on Mountain Lake. Support the fish habitat Maintain and improve the habitat: Removal of rocks, weeds and woody debris, can be devastating to fish populations. Underwater structures such as logs and rock piles not only allow fish to have a place to rest, feed, and spawn, but also provide them with protection from predators. Harmful substances What goes on your lawn and down your drain goes into your lake! That includes fertilizers applied to lawns near the water. Rain and irrigating will carry these fertilizers into the lake and encourage rapid and prolific growth of aquatic plants and algae. Aquatic Plants Aquatic plants support the micro organisms that fish require for food and they provide natural habitat and are a primary food source for aquatic birds. In addition to providing a source of oxygen in the water, aquatic plants help stabilize loose sediment and are an effective natural breakwater, keeping waves from eroding the shoreline.
Pollution and Erosion Pollution and erosion are two reasons for excessive plant and algae growth. When a lake receives an overload of nutrients from either sewage, added fertilizers leaching through the soil, or erosion, aquatic plants and algae tend to overgrow. During the summer, adult lake trout stay at approximately 40’ depth. Interestingly, the spawn which hatch, ideally in midMarch, spend the summer at about the 90’ level in order to avoid the larger trout who, given the opportunity, would eat them. It is therefore critical that we ensure that the water is not enriched to cause oxygen depletion. This would force the young trout up where they would become prey for larger trout. Without these safe, deep areas, a trout population would soon disappear. Shoreline erosion Shorelines may begin to wash away or become susceptible to erosion with the absence of natural vegetation. Natural shorelines will contribute significantly to supporting our fish population. Actions and precautions are discussed in the next chapter. Stocking History: Stocking in Mountain Lake began with 1000 Lake Trout in 1923 and 500 Smallmouth Bass in 1924. Bass stocking was terminated in 1950. Lake Trout stocking continued until 1991 when it was believed that the lake was capable of sustaining the population by natural reproduction. Two introductions of other species proved to be unsuccessful: 1200 Brook Trout (1940) and 50,000 Walleye (1932). Pike and Muskellunge introductions in lakes above ours may well account for suggested sightings of both of these species. Habitat and Other Species at Risk Appendix I (p 34) maps the ecosites in the Mountain Lake Watershed. The legend on the map identifies the area of each ecosite, its percentage of the total watershed forest cover,
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and the trees that dominate each ecosite. Table 1 below duplicates the map legend for reference here: Table 1 Forest Cover by Ecosite Ecosite
Area (Hectares)
12 17 22
13.11 56.79 17.03
% of Forest Cover 3 12 4
24
57.50
12
25
97.04
21
26 27
128.71 29.91
28 6
32
11.47
2
33
1.64
0
34
8.91
2
35 Total Area
41.78 463.90
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Description Red Pine Poplar-White Birch White Cedar-Other Conifer Sugar Maple-Red OakBasswood Sugar Maple-BeechRed Oak Sugar Maple-Basswood Sugar Maple-White Birch-Poplar-White Pine White Cedar-Black Spruce-Tamarack White Cedar-Other Conifer White Cedar-Lowland Hardwood Lowland Hardwood
In summary, the Mountain Lake watershed represents a rich mosaic of ecosites ranging from shade tolerant and shade intolerant hardwood forests to dense moist coniferous forests. Each Ecosite represents a different habitat type with unique ecological functions and features. For example, dense coniferous forests can provide excellent thermal cover for wildlife during the colder winter months and hotter summer months. Cedar dominated forests also provide a valuable food source for the local deer population. Whereas ecosites with a
forest composition that includes hard nut trees such as red oak provide a valuable food source for species such as black bear, deer and squirrels. It will be a central part of our stewardship to maintain this diversity of habitats and thereby maintain the diversity of wildlife. It should be noted that some of the habitats/ecosites are more limited than others in the watershed, specifically the coniferous forests such as Ecosites 32, 33 and 34. Given their low representation and that these areas are typically very moist to wet, efforts should be made to ensure these habitats are not further fragmented or drained. On a landscape scale the Mountain Lake watershed has an Ecosite composition similar to the County of Haliburton as a whole with a few exceptions. Ecosites 12 and 35 are both limited in the County with a representation of greater than 1% and 2% respectively. Ecosite 35 represents 9% of the Mountain Lake watershed and therefore is contributing to the habitat composition at the landscape level as well. Appendix II tabulates the amphibians, birds (Avifauna), mammals and reptiles that have a preference for each ecosite. Using the colour codes set out with the map, residents can identify the ecosites for their property locations, and derive a priority for action to protect the habitat in their area. Recent mapping of suitable habitat for Species at Risk has identified suitable habitat for American ginseng, Goldenwinged warbler, Blanding’s turtle, Spotted turtle, Stinkpot, Eastern hognose snake, Milk snake and Ribbon snake within the Mountain Lake watershed. It is important that property owners become aware of these species to take the necessary steps to avoid actions which could contribute to demise of these species. With knowledge, people will ensure that harmless reptiles will not be attacked.
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Other threats to Species at Risk include habitat loss, illegal harvesting/collecting, and road kill. It will be a central part of our stewardship to document Species at Risk and ensure they are not subject to persecution and their habitats remain in a natural state. Some of the species under threat already include the wood turtle, the eastern hognosed snake, Keen’s bats, and the southern flying squirrel. These are described below in greater detail. The status of Species at Risk (SAR) is set out in at www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca Eastern Hognose Snake The Eastern Hognose snake is one of the world's most interesting species and best animal actors. When confronted, its first defence is an aggressive display in which it spreads its neck horizontally, inflates its body, hisses loudly, and strikes. The very impressive display has earned it the name of "Spread Adder" and other frightening names. This is all an act. The strike is made with a closed mouth, and it is very, very rare for a Hognose to actually bite a person, even when handled.
If aggression fails to send the threat on its way, the Hognose will pretend to die. It will writhe, open the mouth, let the tongue dangle, salivate and get dirt in the mouth, roll onto its back and become motionless. If picked up the snake will be totally limp and feel like a dead snake. If the threat moves out of the snake's view, it will begin to peek around in a few minutes, and, if the coast is clear, right itself and crawl away. The only flaw in its death act is that if rolled it onto its stomach it will immediately roll onto its back. The Eastern Hognose snake has the southwest end of Mountain as its preferred habitat; this snake is protected under Ontario's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act and is protected under the Ontario Species at Risk Act, as of June 2008.
American ginseng American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is categorized as endangered, both provincially and nationally. This perennial herb prefers rich, moist, undisturbed and relatively mature, sugar maple-dominated deciduous forests with a closed forest canopy specifically dominated by sugar maple, white ash, bitternut hickory and basswood. The primary threats to American ginseng are illegal harvesting and habitat loss and degradation. The market value of wild American ginseng remains high despite legal cultivation and exportation of ginseng. If populations are harvested below their minimal viable population, estimated at approximately 170 plants, local extirpation can result. American ginseng is a shade tolerant species with specific habitat requirements and therefore heavy logging operations that open the forest canopy significantly can be detrimental. Physical damage can also result from the skidding and felling of logs. If populations are located in the Mountain Lake Watershed, this information should be treated as sensitive and the population should be monitored to ensure no illegal harvesting occurs. Blanding’s Turtle The Great Lakes St. Lawrence population of Blanding’s turtle (Emydoidea blandingii) is categorized as threatened, both nationally and provincially. Blanding’s turtles use a wide variety of habitats. Although Blanding’s turtles use edges of larger lakes they prefer small ponds and marshes with emergent (e.g. Carex spp or Typha spp.) or submergent and floating vegetation, and mucky substrates. The water quality is typically high with a relatively high amount of dissolved oxygen. Crustaceans, particularly crayfish are favourable food items. Insects, leeches, worms, small fish, tadpoles and frogs, snails and some plants are also part of their diet. Blanding’s turtles are also highly mobile and will utilize upland habitat for nesting, basking and summer dormancy.
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Due to their high level of mobility Blanding’s turtles are detrimentally impacted by roads. As well as the incidental crossing of roads by adults, the selection of road shoulders by gravid females as nesting sites increases vulnerability of the adult females and the hatchlings to road mortality and pet/trade collection. Loss of marsh habitat has also impacted populations Stinkpot The stinkpot (Sternotherus odoratus) is categorized as threatened nationally and provincially. Stinkpots prefer shallow marshy areas with a soft substrate and are rarely found at depths greater than 2 m. Stinkpots do not venture onto land except to nest. On the Precambrian shield stinkpots nest in rock crevices located on rock faces exposed to direct sunlight. These sites do not need to be immediately adjacent to a marsh as stinkpots will travel along a littoral zone of a lake to reach a suitable site. Nests are typically found within 45 m of water. Stinkpots cannot stay out of water for extended periods of time as they are highly susceptible to desiccation and therefore their home ranges are limited to single bodies of water ranging from 50 - 155 ha in size. A lake with numerous small marshy bays would also be suitable. Hibernation occurs underwater, burrowing into approximately 30 cm of mud Motorboat traffic, fishing and habitat destruction through shoreline development (loss of nest sites), wetland drainage and pollution are the primary causes of population decline. On the Canadian Shield suitable nesting sites may be limited due to the additional need for direct sunlight to compensate for the cooler temperatures. Therefore shoreline development on the Canadian Shield may be more detrimental than in other areas.
Wood Turtles (Mud Turtles) Adult Wood Turtles are omnivorous; hatchlings and juveniles may be more carnivorous. The diet includes berries, tender leaves of shrubs, flowers, fiddleheads and mushrooms, as well as invertebrates including earthworms, insects, and slugs. Aquatic foods include dead fish, snails, tadpoles, insect larvae and algae. It may also feed on newborn mice, other turtle eggs, the eggs and young of ground-nesting birds. Wood Turtles in the wild can live more than 30 years; captives live up to 58 years. The maximum age is thought to be 70. The Southern Ontario population is estimated at 412 individuals. The species is fully protected in Ontario against harvesting or collection for commercial pet trade since 1984. Keen’s Long-eared Bats The Keen's Long-eared Bat is a small, brownish bat with grey under parts and long rounded ears. Adults measure between 79 and 88 mm and weigh 7 to 9.5 g. Keen's Long-eared Bats occur in dense mature forests. This bat roosts in trees, in brush, under loose bark, or in rock crannies during the day, and spends the night catching insects (mosquitoes)on the wing. It spends the winter hibernating in a cave. Individuals have been known to live up to 18 years. Owls are likely predators of the bat. Habitat loss, through logging and forest fires, seems to be the main limiting factor for Keen's Long-eared Bats. Pesticide poisoning from affected insect prey may also be a factor. Southern Flying Squirrel The Southern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys volans) is a permanent resident of mature deciduous forests throughout
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its range. Seldom seen, this nocturnal rodent sleeps in tree cavities during the day. It is not a true flier, but glides from tree to tree using furry membranes between the front and back feet as sails. This species was delisted as “Species at Risk” in March 2006, but remains as “Special Concern”. Small populations in remnant woodlots are at risk due to forestry practices which remove old trees required by flying squirrels for sleeping, nesting and storing food.
herbicides, persecution and road mortality. Maintenance of habitat should be a central guideline in considering expansion, modification, and landscaping at our properties. Persecution is a principal cause of decline for many of our snakes and therefore it is essential for landowners to be aware of the snakes in our area and know that they are not threatening. As habitats become fragmented, more and more reptiles suffer from road mortality and illegal collecting; a problem that can only be addressed by increasing our watchfulness. For our part, the lake Association will undertake to have experts available to assist in this regard, as well as continue to keep municipal officials aware of your views on these matters.
Other Species at Risk in Our Area: • • • • • • • •
Engelmann’s quillwort Peregrine falcon Golden-winged warbler Spotted turtle Wood turtle Five-lined skink Milk snake Eastern Ribbon snake
Guidelines for Protecting Species at Risk Again, the major threats to Species at Risk are loss of habitat due to inappropriate development and pollutants such as
Recommendations for Fish and Wildlife Stewardship 1. Continue support as member of Coalition for Equitable Water Flow and maintain contact with TSW. 2. Continue monitoring spawning beds and related risk factors affecting lake trout and bass. Report annually. 3. Encourage the community regarding: a. Removal of rock bass. b. Fishing only in season. c. Supporting the fish habitat at the shoreline. d. Preventing pollution by fertilizers, highway runoff, and poor septic systems. e. Preventing erosion. f. Avoiding destruction of habitat of endangered species. 4. Obtain expert advice in sustaining and restoration of all wildlife habitats and provide this information to the community. 5. Continue to coordinate with municipal councils on habitat protection and restoration. 6. Continue participating in Bird Studies Canada as a member of Loon Watch.
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4.0 Natural Shorelines Land Use Shoreline land around Mountain Lake is patented land (privately owned) except for a publicly accessed boat launch area at Ministry of Natural Resources property which is maintained in cooperation with the lake association. Winter snowmobile access can be made as well at a road allowance point. Most development is residential, and the Minden Hills Zoning By-Law, February, 2006, has it zoned as such. There are currently two Commercial activities on the lake – both small resorts – which are considered strong partners in lake-related values and concerns as well as association activities. Other businesses in the area have expressed similar values. Development in many areas of shoreline is fairly dense – owing to earlier standards permitting smaller lots than required by current zoning. Part of one shoreline is rocky bluff and undeveloped, and was the basis for the name of the lake. Lakers and visitors alike cherish the untouched beauty and charm of this natural area. Responses to our survey show 30% of property owners as permanent residents, with stated expectations of an increase to 50% permanent by 2015. Official local municipal documents indicate strong support for sustainable development and environmental protection in the area. 1. The June, 2003 Minden Hills Official Plan encourages groups and associations to develop secondary plans, such as Lake Plans, to document detailed guidance for specific geographic areas. In addition, the Official Plan sets out key purposes: • to ensure that land use planning contributes to the protection, maintenance and enhancement of water
related resources and aquatic ecosystems, on an integrated watershed management basis; • to provide for the conservation of the natural environment, including wetlands, woodlands, Areas of Natural & Scientific Interest (ANSI), fish and wildlife habitat – lakes, rivers and streams, on an ecosystem management basis. 2. The Haliburton County Official Plan of August 2003, modified February 2006, quotes a “Smart Growth” principle as follows: • The natural environment forms the basis for Haliburton’s way of life, and its stewardship is central to this Plan. • Policies and actions are to “protect the integrity and function of the ecosystem; ground and surface water resources, and maintain the diversity of natural features, natural hazards.” Consistent with the above, approximately 90% of the respondents to the 2005 survey place high values on scenery and viewing and natural shorelines, but have seen increasing evidence of residential development and groomed lawns. Support for shoreline buffer zones was tentative, however, as only 53% approved of an 8 to 15 metre shoreline buffer zone for new development and about half the respondents supported more controls on lawns. A fully naturalized shoreline is generally considered the best approach to protecting the lake’s edge.
Consider Buffer Zones to Help Protect Our Lake In view of the previously-noted opportunity to create a wildlife-friendly environment in our watershed, we urge our community to think about the many benefits of maintaining a shoreline buffer zone: • Provide food and shelter for many fish and wildlife species. • Protect your property and investment for future generations and for the prosperity of the local community. • Hold onto fine bottom sediments, keeping them in place. • Take less work to maintain than a larger lawn.
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Absorbs wave energy, preventing shoreline erosion and ice damage. Prevents surface runoff and contaminants from entering lake water.
to stabilize eroding shorelines. Brush layers can be used on steeper banks where deeper reinforcement of the soil is needed.
To achieve these benefits, this Plan encourages a buffer zone of native vegetation.
Over time, by doing the small things well, we can ensure that our wildlife can flourish and our vision for the lake can be achieved.
• •
The buffer zone can be as little as three metres wide, as long as it contains a variety of native species. This can be accomplished by: • Maintaining a smaller lawn away from the waterfront; a pathway may be mowed for access down to the water. • Replanting areas that lack trees and shrubs, and maintaining those areas that already exist. Plant native species of trees and shrubs with a variety of other aquatic and upland plants. • Keeping all new development at least 30 metres away from the shoreline.
Restore Developed or Damaged Shorelines •
•
Vegetated Buffer Zone Biodegradable erosion-control fabric can be effective when used with native plants; it holds the soil while allowing plants to grow through it. Loose Rock Buffer Zone In some instances, loose rocks can be placed on a gradual slope and used to stabilize an eroding shoreline. Native shrubs and vines should be planted among rocks and will provide natural protection to absorb and dissipate wave action.
Recommendations for Natural Shoreline Stewardship 1. Develop a set of guidelines that will assist shoreline residents to provide for the long-term protection of the lake, its wildlife, and the value of the properties and businesses in the Mountain Lake community. (This initial draft of this document will be distributed prior to the Association’s Annual General Meeting in June, 2008) 2. Establish a volunteer group to monitor development proposals, variances, and zoning bylaws in the Minden Hills area. 3. Continue to keep Minden Hills Council informed about ongoing survey feedback from the Mountain Lake community. 4. Encourage the adoption of shoreline buffer zones and the restoration of developed shoreline using native plants.
• Bioengineering Techniques Vegetated geo grids and bundles of branches, or “wattles,” staked into the bank will protect the shoreline from eroding. Live stakes or posts of willow or red osier dogwood also work
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Map 3: The Nearshore Areas of Mountain Lake The Ministry of Natural Resources conducted a survey of the shoreline of the lake in the late 1970’s. The shoreline characteristics are shown in the map. The other important shoreline areas are the the lakeextremely trout spawning shoals lake trout spawning shoals. Lake trout need clean sediment free rubble to spawn in, and any debris on the shoals will cause low oxygen levels between the rubble, causing egg mortality. The owners of this area of shoreline have a particular responsibility to avoid shoreline disturbances or any input of sediment, sand, nutrients or debris. We are extremely lucky to share our lake with these magnificent fish, so please let’s take care of them.
Neary Report June, 1990
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5.0 Safe Boating Power boating is one of the great recreational pleasures enjoyed by Mountain Lake owners and visitors; it is a source of enjoyment that brings grandparents, parents and children together. Our 2005 survey, however, showed that over half of the community consider that power boats and Personal Water Craft (PWCs) have had increasingly negative impact over the five years from 2000 to 2005. Like many pleasures, it appears that power boating brings most enjoyment to all when it is accompanied by courtesy, consideration, and safe practices. Accordingly, the following sets out recommended guidelines for power boating that encourage safety, appropriate noise and wake levels, and recognition of legal limits for boating. Minimize wakes Large wakes can erode natural shorelines, disturb loon and duck nesting sites, and damage neighbours’ parked boats and floating docks. Be especially careful in narrow channels, in shallow water, and near shore. Reduce speeds Also in narrow channels and near shore, speeding boats are a threat to swimmers, small boats, kayaks and canoes. Remember that the maximum legal speed within 100 feet of shore is 10 km/hr. Be considerate with Personal Water Craft (PWCs) PWCs are fun to operate, but be sensitive to widespread intolerance to them. Stay mainly towards the centre of the lake, and move to several different areas when “playing” with wakes.
Towing Skiers, Tubes, Boards. Some of the laws pertaining to towing people on skis, tubes and boards do not appear to be well known: • The spotter must be at least sixteen years old.. • To be used for towing, PWCs must have enough seat space for the driver, the spotter, and for carrying the person(s) on the device being towed, i.e. for water skiing, there must be seat space for three: the driver, the spotter, and the skier.
Protect the environment Avoid spillage of gas and oil, don’t throw garbage in the lake, and clean boats and trailers when transporting boats from other lakes prevent importing invasive species. It is vital that boat operators take precautions and use the appropriate facilities, such as fuel transfer devices, when refilling tanks or discharging used water. Use absorbent pads to soak up oil, fuel or anti-freeze spills before discharging your bilge water. Also consider installing a bilge filter and converting to four-stroke cycle engines Follow the Safe Boating Guide Obtain the Pleasure Craft Operator’s Card to learn to operate your boat safely and legally. Recommendations for Safe Boating Incorporate the guidelines set out above into a “Friendly and Safe Boating Guide” and distribute to the Mountain Lake community.
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6.0 Vistas, Vegetation and Tranquility Vistas We use the term “vistas” to characterize the view from each location on Mountain Lake. Survey returns indicated strong preferences for maintaining and enhancing the existing views of rolling forest-covered hills and natural shorelines. Perhaps implicit in these preferences are selections of subdued tones for buildings that blend into the natural shades of trees and rocky outcrops. More explicitly, the survey expected protection from back lot development, either from commercial or residential development. Current by-laws offer such protection, but exceptions can be sought and approved, and the community must be alert to these exceptions. In addition, other lakes in our area have seen clear-cutting of large sections of shoreline prior to the construction of very large residences. This document, in part, is intended to present a set of values in this respect so that the community may state whether indeed these values are in fact supported, and may communicate this to newcomers and developers. Vegetation The type of forest varies somewhat across the ecosites surrounding Mountain, but the dominant species on the high ground are hard and soft maple, basswood and oak. At most shorelines, maple, poplar and birch can dominate but white cedar is extensive in some areas. Frequently white cedar has been cleared, but should become part of any shoreline restoration. While a lesser percentage of the forest coverage, white pines have become a significant feature of the Mountain Lake vista in most areas. Appendix 1 (p 34) – shows a map of the forest inventory of Mountain Lake; its data
are approximately 25 years old, however, and visual updating is required. Tranquility and Lighting The 2005 survey indicated strong values for peace and quiet and dark night skies. Approximately 48% of respondents noted that noise had increased over that past five years and about 37% said that increased lighting had had a negative impact in this period. The following quotation from a presentation to FOCA by Karl Scheifer (Beak International) sets forth a shoreline development scenario that could arise from unrestricted development and that has been observed at certain lakes near large urban areas. Six Stages of Shoreline Development Stage 1: A single road is brought to the shoreline at a single access point. A few cottages are cluttered at the access point. Stage 2: A marina is built at the access point and water access lots are opened up. The shoreline is quickly developed to about 30%. Stage 3: Road access is developed to almost all of the shoreline and the shoreline develops to capacity within 1 to 3 generations. Stage 4: Driveways, cottage additions, garages, boat houses, and docks are added. Loss of habitat, reduction in nearby wildlife, loss of dark skies becomes increasingly evident. Buildings dominate the environment. Stage 5: Full density around the shoreline is achieved with loss of natural shoreline, declining water clarity and quality. More marinas, resorts, and golf courses are added. Stage 6: Back lot development, infrastructure development and increased commercial development occurs. The lake takes on the look of an urban development.
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Clearly, the quiet and darkness of the lake’s shorelines is important to the survey respondents. The primary component of dealing with this issue is consideration for others. Accordingly, your association will provide detailed guidelines on both these issues. Recommendations for Vistas, Vegetation and Tranquility 1. Scenery and Vistas: a. Encourage Council and staff to observe the letter and the spirit of County and Municipal Official Plan guidelines for growth. b. As for “Natural Shorelines”, provide guidelines to prevent inappropriate development (Clearcutting, shoreline lawns, multiple dwellings) and support of habitats, and suggestions for development that respects the nature and character of the lake. 2. Dark Night Skies: a. Encourage consideration for neighbours. b. Provide information regarding the best lights and lighting configurations for wildlife and night viewing. 3. Peace and Quiet: Use newsletters and meetings to encourage respect for neighbours.
7.0 Culture and History Iroquois Indians were reportedly trapping in the Haliburton area from 1648, for approximately 100 years. After 1740,
Chippewa, Mississauga, and Potawatami tribes inhabited the area. A notable battle occurred at Lake Kashagawigamog. It is concluded that Mountain Lake was used by these tribes to transport goods on the Gull River Route. Europeans made inroads and manipulated a land surrender in 1785. In 1818, a major acreage within the County was signed away. Surveys were identifying township boundaries in order to open them for settlement, and in 1857 timber possibilities were identified. Minden Township was deemed 60% cultivatable. Logging “Alligators’ were amphibious vessels mounted on log rollers or wheels and were used to transport logs from Twelve Mile Lake to Mountain, and from Mountain Lake to the Gull River. A writer reports that in 1865, Frederick Shove who farmed at the south end of the lake, portaged his family’s boats and baggage on a sled the 1 ½ miles to the Gull River. Mr. Shove has been listed as a squatter on that property. His son John ‘must certainly have been the first white child born in Minden Township’. [Reynolds] That was January, 1855. Another reported squatter, the Bond family, settled on Sintonia Point, claiming 200 acres for a time, then leaving. In 1886 Henry Willingford Brooks received 219 acres by Crown Grant at the location. Mr. Brooks was a school-master who walked the four miles to a Scotch Line school. Farmers on the lake included Jeremy Taylor, whose daughter Jane married James Fairfield and contributed largely to the Tweedsmuir History and the History of Minden. Names of Cox, Sinton, and Burton, who farmed and likely cut timber, are well remembered. Early photos show cleared fields that now have heavy tree growth.
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It was gossiped that Sir Sam Hughes had a pet scheme to build a canal from Mountain Lake to the Gull River. The building of the dam between Twelve-Mile Lake and Mountain Lake raised water levels appreciably and we are fortunate to avoid the extreme fluctuation experienced by a number of lakes in the Gull River watershed. By early 1930’s James and Jane Fairfield were renting small cottages on the shore of what is now Fairfield Bay. Many early renters soon bought land to build for themselves, and by 1937 an Association was formed for the bay. Early considerations were: mail delivery, mosquitoes, and fluctuating water levels. Picnics & social gatherings were popular, and they prepared and maintained a history of that area. We are fortunate to have an excellent document, prepared by M. C. Roszell. Many names of cottagers from the 1930’s are still present on today’s rolls or have roads named in memory. Other commercial properties were: Mountain Park, Hart Lodge, Sun Valley and Ogopogo. There are now approximately 225 properties on the lake. Our current Association began in answer to a proposed subdivision. A petition was presented to Council in opposition. “Cottagers were tortured with visions of backlot development complete with streetlights scarring the shores.” [Anthon, Minden Times] Patrick Daniel hosted over 100 people in August, 1978, and the MLPOA was born. Over the intervening years many worthy and dedicated people have served on it. The Association has been very active (and proactive) in water testing, loon surveys, gypsy moth survey, representation regarding water levels, septic tank inspection, trout spawning bed rehabilitation (twice), support for Library building and for the Haliburton Highlands Hospital Foundation for many years, and representing owners on FOCA and to Council. Also, importantly, building community spirit by supervising picnics, sailing races, canoe races, swim races and game activities; golf tournaments, providing merchandise with the Lake logo to proudly wear and use; and annual General
Meetings which provide best information to owners and members. We have evolved from an association of cottagers to one of property owners, as many of the former group now call Mountain Lake’s shores ‘home’. Mr. Roszell’s closing expresses the feelings of many: “Men and women have come here, each of them with a dream in his or her heart, a dream of being able to find here a shelter from the rush and hurry of the world, a place in which once more they could find time to rest, time to laugh, time to forget responsibility and to grow young in heart again. Here the air seems clearer, the sunshine on the water brighter, the song of the birds sweeter, the stars at night larger and closer than elsewhere.” Recommendations for Additions to the Culture and History Information 1. Request community members to look for documents, family histories, maps and pictures to increase the information base of the Mountain Lake and surrounding community. 2. Encourage volunteers to undertake preparation of a booklet suitable for publishing for the Mountain Lake community.
25 Courtesy D. Hadfield, 1970’s
Fairfield Bay Cottages 1956 Postcard D. Hadfield
From Mountain Park Cottage Resort Postcard circa 1950’s. H. Gray
1942 – ‘Looking North’ Courtesy M. Denyer
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View from Hwy 35, 1940
I. Daniel Old Bridge
B. Roszel
Resources: At Minden Library; • In Quest of Yesterday – Haliburton Highland, 1968, Nila Reynolds; • Echoes of the Past, • Tweedsmuir History, and: “History of the Fairbourne Beach District” (Fairfield Bay), M. C. Roszell; thanks to Bill Roszell “History of the Mountain Lake Property Owners’ Association”, 1983, Jeanne Anthon, in Minden Times; Minutes Book of the Fairbourne Beach Association, 1937 to 1950. Kept by Ruby Baldwin, thanks to Betty Ann Crosbie.
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8.0 Recreation The primary recreation of lakers is enjoying time with family and friends. Clear, sparkling water supports the favourite activities of swimming, boating, canoeing, kayaking, waterskiing, sailing and fishing in the summer months. Wildlife provides interesting viewing year round. Winter sees snowmobiling, skiing, ice fishing & some skating enjoyed by residents and numerous visitors. Nearby communities provide excellent shopping and dining as well as many sights both historic and memorable. Over many years, the Lake Association has provided regattas, picnics, long-distance swims and other social activities. We meet our neighbours, find our commonalities, join in the games and food, and just enjoy our families and neighbours.
Sailing race
I. Daniel, 1975
‘Long-distance Swim’ 2001
Diving Tower
D. Benson
F. & H. Gray
Picnic, 2001.
D.Benson
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9.0 Mountain Lake Area Geology The Mountain Lake area lies within metamorphic rocks of the Grenville province of the Canadian Shield. This band of metamorphic (re-melted) rocks lies between the younger sediments (limestone etc) of the Great Lakes lowlands to the south and the older Pre-Cambrian rocks to the north. The immediate area of Mountain Lake lies along a geological contact between predominantly granitic gneiss to the west and predominantly marble breccia to the east. A zone of hard (weather resistant) granitic gneiss within the marble breccia also exists forming the extensive cliff that is present along the eastern shoreline.
thorium all within similar rock units (marble breccias) as we have along the east side of Mountain Lake.
Industrial Mineral Activity and Potential There are numerous occurrences of industrial stone within both the granitic rocks and marble units around the lake. One small active quarry operation exists at the south west corner of the lake adjacent to highway 35. This small operation (on private property) produces slabs of granitic gneiss to be used for walkways and other landscaping and construction applications. Given the nature of the rocks in the area, other similar small operations could be of interest to some property owners. Just east of Mountain Lake a marble occurrence is noted and past quarrying activity took place.
Land Tenure and Mineral Rights According to a review of the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, Mining Land Tenure Maps (Plan M-1633 – Minden), all the land in the immediate lake area is classified as Freehold Patent for both surface and mining rights. This means that the mineral rights have been sold to property owners along with the surface rights. Land owners therefore own the mineral rights thereby preventing other parties from staking claims to those same rights. There are a few areas where mineral rights have been returned to the crown however there has been no recent mining claim staking activity or interest.
Metallic Minerals There is one occurrence of gold noted just west of Mountain Lake. Under current economic conditions it is very unlikely that this would be of any economic interest. Further south in the area of Miners Bay and continuing along the marble units north towards Minden, there are numerous occurrences of cobalt, copper, nickel, zinc, molybdenum, uranium and
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10.0 Recommendation Summary Community Value
Water Quality
Fish and Wildlife
Objectives
Maintain and improve water quality
Increase lake trout and bass population Enhance & protect habitat of all species
Recommendations
1. Protect wetlands: a. Develop and distribute guidelines for development within the Mountain Lake Watershed; guidelines to include wetland protection from development. b. Consult with Minden Hills Council regarding necessity to protect wetlands. 1. Continue to participate in Lake Partnership Program, including monitoring for clarity and nutrients. 2. Develop and distribute guidelines for good practices for use of chemicals, protection of shoreline plants, algae and the related habitats, and septic systems. 3. Continue to participate in the Ontario Anglers and Hunters’ Invasive Species Watch in support of tracking invasive species in Ontario lakes. 1. Continue support as member of Coalition for Equitable Water Flow and maintain contact with TSW. 2. Continue monitoring spawning beds and related risk factors affecting lake trout and bass. Report annually. 3. Encourage the community regarding: a. Removal of rock bass. b. Fishing only in season. c. Supporting the fish habitat at the shoreline. d. Preventing pollution by fertilizers, highway runoff, poor septic systems. e. Preventing erosion. f. Avoiding destruction of habitat of endangered species. 4. Obtain expert advice in sustaining and restoration of all wildlife habitats and provide this information to the community. 5. Continue to coordinate with municipal councils on habitat protection and restoration. 6. Continue as a member of Loon Watch.
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1. Develop a set of guidelines that will assist shoreline residents to provide for the longterm protection of the lake, its wildlife, and the value of the properties and businesses in the Mountain Lake community. (This initial draft of this document will be distributed prior to the Association’s Annual General Meeting in June, 2008) 2. Establish a volunteer group to monitor development proposals, variances, and zoning bylaws in the Minden Hills area. 3. Continue to keep Minden Hills Council informed about ongoing survey feedback from the Mountain Lake community. 4. Encourage the adoption of shoreline buffer zones and the restoration of developed shoreline using native plants.
Natural Shorelines
Safe Boating
Vistas, Vegetation and Tranquility
Culture and History
Develop a “Friendly and Safe Boating Guide” and distribute to the Mountain Lake community.
Maintain Natural vistas and tree lines. Maintain bluffs in natural state. Reduce intrusion of lighting and noise on the community
Develop widespread appreciation of the history and culture of Mountain Lake
1. Scenery & Vistas a. Encourage Council and staff to observe the spirit of County and Town Official Plan guidelines for growth. b. Provide guidelines to prevent inappropriate development (Clear cutting, shoreline lawns, multiple dwellings) and support of habitats; provide suggestions for development that will respect the nature and character of the lake. 2. Dark Night Skies: a. Encourage consideration for neighbours. b. Provide information regarding the best lights and lighting configurations for wildlife and night viewing. 3. Peace and Quiet: Use newsletters and meetings to encourage respect for neighbours. 4. Develop and publish suggestions to assist owners and builders to consider the values of the community for new buildings, expansions, and external decoration and lighting. 1. 2.
Request community members to look for documents, family histories, maps and pictures to increase the information base of the Mountain Lake and surrounding community. Encourage volunteers to undertake preparation of a booklet suitable for publishing for the Mountain Lake community
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11.0 Conclusion
2. Periodically consult with the community to update the Association’s information base regarding values, concerns, and priorities.
The Mountain Lake community’s primary values are water quality, scenery, natural shorelines, peace and quiet, swimming, and dark night skies. Principal concerns include increased personal water craft (PWCs), water levels, boat wakes and traffic, and noise. Negative trends reported include residential development, lawns, and shoreline structures. While not identified in responses to the survey, threats to the Mountain Lake fish and loon populations have emerged in the last year, mainly as a result of water level variations, and thus this Lake Plan includes wildlife protection as a priority item.
4. Continue to participate in The Lake Partnership Program, the Invasive Species Watch, Loon Watch, the Coalition for Equitable Water Flow, and Ice Watch. Maintain contact with Trent-Severn Waterway management.
This Lake Plan sets out the following strategies to support these values and address these threats:
5. Seek out expert advice on all areas of priority and concern.
1. A knowledgeable, concerned, and involved community is the best approach to enhancing the above values and dealing with these threats. To this end: a. Develop and distribute sets of best practices for each of these values, and concerns. b. Work with key commercial enterprises in the area to ensure that there is consensus regarding the long-term mutual benefit from these values.
In addition to the above, because of the interrelationship of the lakes, this Lake Stewardship Plan will include coordination with the Horseshoe and Twelve Mile lake associations to expand the above approach across this larger watershed.
3. Periodically meet with municipal officials to report on the current values and concern of the community.
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12.0 Credits Randy French, of French Planning Services, has been an invaluable resource in guiding us in the process, evaluating information, providing materials, and lending encouragement. Paul Heaven, of Glenside Ecological Services Limited, created mapping and provided vegetation and forest information. We have been much assisted and advised by the Ministry of Natural Resources, Minden, especially David Flowers, fish biologist, and Bev Clark, Ministry of the Environment, Dorset. Minden Hills and Haliburton County have provided by-laws, maps, and other information, and have been helpful and cooperative. The Bernie Neary Report for Mountain Lake, June, 1990, has a huge amount of information which he kindly agreed to us using. Doug Conroy, geologist, contributed the geology assessment. Other credits occur in the text.
Thank you to Carol and Bruce McClennan, Ogopogo Lodge, for hosting a workshop for commercial interests. Dorothy (Fairfield) Hadfield, George Fairfield, Bill Roszell, Betty Ann Crosbie (Baldwin) and Marilyn Denyer contributed much to our historical collection of writings, photographs and information. On behalf of the committee, we would like to send a special thank you to the Resident and Commercial owners who have graciously contributed to this report. Lastly, our gratitude goes out to the Mountain Lake Property Owners Association for their support and backing of this process. Committee Members: Jeanne Anthon Don Benson Ruth Benson
Marc Bernier Doug Gilpin Patti Johnson Bruce MacMillan
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Appendix II Wildlife Ecosite Preferences Wildlife with a Preference for Ecosite 12 Amphibians American Toad Avifauna American Crow Blackburnian Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Blue Jay Brown Creeper Cedar Waxwing Cooper’s Hawk Eastern Phoebe Eastern Wood-pewee Gray Jay Hermit Thrush Long-eared Owl Magnolia Warbler Norther Flicker Northern Perula Olive-sided Flycatcher Pileated Woodpecker Pine Warbler Prairie Warbler Purple Finch Red-bellied Woodpecker Red Crossbill Red-breasted Nuthatch Red-eyed Vireo Solitary Vireo Whip-poor-will Yellow-rumped Warbler Mammals Big Brown Bat Eastern Pipistrelle Keen’s Myotis Little Brown Bat Lynx Porcupine Red Squirrel
Silver-haired Bat Southern Red-backed Vole Wildlife with a Preference for Ecosites 17, 24-27 Amphibians American Toad Blue-spotted Salamander Northern Redback Salamander Red-spotted Newt Spotted Salamander Tetraploid Gray Treefrog Avifauna American Crow Barred Owl Black-and-white Warbler Black-capped Chickadee Black-throated Blue Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Blue Jay Broad-winged Hawk Brown Creeper Canada Warbler Cedar Waxwing Cooper’s Hawk Downy Woodpecker Eastern Phoebe Eastern Wood-pewee Great Crested Flycatcher Hairy Woodpecker Least Flycatcher Northern Flicker Northern Perula Northern Saw-whet Owl Olive-sided Flycatcher Ovenbird Pileated Woodpecker Red-eyed Vireo Red-shouldered Hawk Red-tailed Hawk Ruby-throated Hummingbird Scarlet Tanager Sharp-shinned Hawk Solitary Vireo Swainson’s Thrush Veery
Warbling Vireo White-breasted Nuthatch Wild Turkey Wood Thrush Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Yellow-throated Vireo Mammals Big Brown Bat Black Bear Eastern Chipmunk Eastern Pipistrelle Grey Squirrel Hoary Bat Keen’s Myotis Little Brown Bat Masked Shrew Northern Short-tailed Shrew Porcupine Pygmy Shrew Raccoon Small-footed Bat Smoky Shrew Southern Flying Squirrel Southern Red-backed Vole Wapiti White-footed Mouse Woodland Jumping Mouse
Wildlife with a Preference for Ecosite 22 (Presapling) Avifauna Cedar Waxwing Chipping Sparrow Common Yellowthroat Magnolia Warbler Mourning Warbler Nashville Warbler Tennessee Warbler Mammals Deer Mouse Least Chipmunk Red Fox Wildlife with a Preference for Ecosite
32 (Immature) and 33-34 (Mature) Avifauna Barred Owl Bay-breasted Warbler Blackburnian Warbler Black-capped Chickadee Black-throated Green Warbler Blue Jay Broad-winged Hawk Brown Creeper Canada Warbler Cedar Waxwing Eastern Screech-owl Evening Grosbeak Golden-crowned Kinglet Gray Jay Great Horned Owl Hairy Woodpecker Hermit Thrush Northern Flicker Northern Parula Northern Saw-whet Owl Oven bird Pileated Woodpecker Prairie Warbler Purple Finch Red-eyed Vireo Red-headed Woodpecker Ruby-throated Hummingbird Rusty Blackbird Scarlet Tanager Sharp-shinned Hawk Swainson’s Thrush Veery Warbling Vireo White-breasted Nuthatch Wilson’s Warbler Winter Wren Wood Thrush Yellow-bellied Flycatcher Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Yellow-runped Warbler Yellow-throated Vireo
Four-toed Salamander Northern Redback Salamander Red-spotted Newt Spotted Salamander Spring Peeper Western Chorus Frog Wood Frog Mammals Big Brown Bat Black Bear Eastern Chipmunk Eastern Pipistrelle Hoary Bat Keen’s Myotis Little Brown Bat Marten Masked Shrew Moose Northern Short-tailed Shrew Pygmy Shrew Raccoon Red Squirrel Silver-haired Bat Small-footed Bat Southern Red-back Vole Star-nosed Mole White-tailed Deer Woodland Jumping Mouse Reptiles Wood Turtle
For All Ecosites Listed Here – 12, 17, 24-27, 22, 32, 3334 Wood Turtle has a Preference
Wildlife with a Preference for Ecosite 35 (Mature) Amphibians American Toad Blue-spotted Salamander Four-toed Salamander Northern Redback Salamander Red-spotted Newt Spotted Salamander Wood Frog Avifauna Barred Owl Cedar Waxwing Eastern Screech-Owl Great Horned Owl Northern Flicker Northern Saw-whet Owl Red-headed Woodpecker Ruby-throated Hummingbird Veery Warbling Vireo White-breasted Nuthatch Winter Wren Wood Thrush Yellow-throated Vireo Mammals Big Brown Bat Black Bear Eastern Chipmunk Eastern Pipistrelle Hoary Bat Keen’s Myotis Little Brown Bat Masked Shrew Raccoon Southern Red-backed Vole Star-nosed Mole Woodland Jumping Mouse Reptiles Wood Turtle
***Denotes Species At Risk Amphibians American Toad Blue-spotted Salamander
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