THE LAKE OF BAYS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER VOL. 28, NO. 3 FALL ISSUE 2017 currentThe purpose of the Lakeconnection of Bays Association is to promote, sustain and enhance a clean and healthy natural environment, a well-serviced community and a safe and peaceful Lake of Bays. Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare Planning together for our future generations Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC) is creating a long-term vision of how hospital services should be lymeDISEASE IN MUSKOKA delivered in the year 2030 and beyond. From 2012 to 2016, there have been 19 cases Currently there are two hospitals serving through MAHST (Muskoka and Area Health of Lyme disease reported in the regions of Muskoka and area in Huntsville and Brace- System Transformation). With ever-changing Simcoe County and the District of Muskoka. bridge. However, both buildings are getting old technology, buildings that can accommodate One case reported living in Muskoka at and fall short of current planning standards. the newest equipment are needed. the time of illness, however, none of these Standards in health care continue to evolve The Ministry of Health and Long-Term cases reported the District of Muskoka as an and aging buildings are not as adaptable. Care (MOHLTC) requires MAHC to explore exposure location. An exposure location is For instance, based on the volumes of peo- all potential models for future service deliv- any location reported by the case that could ery, even if they are unpopular. Looking out to be a potential source for where the person ple served today, the buildings would have 2030 and beyond, MAHC is considering three acquired the illness. to be 50% to 70% larger to meet current stan- For 2017 to date, eleven cases of Lyme dards. Demand for services will change in the potential models for the future: disease have been reported, two of which future, especially as the local system transforms Continued next page are residents of the District of Muskoka. However, no cases have been linked to exposure locations in the District Is what you are burning safe? of Muskoka. There’s nothing better than sitting in front of a fireplace or woodstove enjoying its warmth; as More than 400 ticks were submitted to the the leaves are turning, the temperature is dropping and winter is on its way. But is what you are Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit burning safe? Are you adding unnecessary pollutants to the air? between 2012 and 2016. Approximately 80 DO NOT BURN submissions were locally acquired black- DO BURN anewspaper x pressure treated wood legged ticks (Ixodes scapularis), only 6% of x manufactured wood which tested positive for the bacteria adry kindling and products—plywood (Borrelia burgorferi) that causes Lyme disease. all-natural fire starters or particleboard Fifteen percent of all locally-acquired black- x compressed paper adry seasoned wood products—egg cartons legged ticks submitted to the health unit were found in the District of Muskoka; however, amanufactured logs x coloured & glossy made from 100 percent paper none of those black-legged ticks tested compressed sawdust x plastic or plastic positive for Borrelia burgdorferi. cc coated materials Source:Simcoe Muskoka Health Unit x household waste For more information go to Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit’s website: And when the fire is done, use that ash to help renew calcium in our lakes. Trapped calcium smdhu.org and their is released from wood when it is burned. When the ash has cooled (outside on the ground or on Healthstats website:simcoemuskokahealthstats.org/ a rock, never indoors or on a wood surface) scatter it somewhere on your property or a nearby topics/infectious-diseases/i-p/lyme-disease woodlot (with permission, of course). The calcium will slowly be leached back into the lake where it is needed. cc 2 currentconnection Continued from Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare Two sites-not status quo­ When will a decision be made? The first potential model would be to main- some day surgery, specialty diagnostics (such MAHC has formed a Capital Plan Develop- tain two sites with Emergency Departments, as MRI), clinics (such as Dialysis), etc. The ment Task Force with broad membership of recognizing the need to further consolidate other site would have a primarily inpatient the MAHC Board of Directors, administration programs and services across the two sites. Re- focus (majority of beds) and could include in- and medical staff, hospital foundations and cent examples of single sited services include patient services such as medical/surgical care, auxiliaries, primary care, municipal representa- Gynecological Surgery, Ophthalmology (cata- intensive care and obstetrics. tives from the District of Muskoka, North and ract surgery), and Chemotherapy. Service siting South Muskoka and East Parry Sound, repre- would be based on clinical needs and service One hospital-centrally located sentatives of MAHST, the North Simcoe Mus- co-location requirements to create greater effi- The final potential model is to provide all koka Local Health Integration Network (NSM ciencies, larger volumes and critical mass, and programs and services in a single hospital site. LHIN), and the greater Muskoka community. reducing duplication of staffing and equipment. Comprehensive work would be done to deter- This task force is overseeing the planning work mine the role of potential vacated building(s) and will recommend a preferred model to the One site inpatient-One site outpatient including the ability to support local urgent and MAHC Board of Directors. Using a number of The second potential model is to maintain primary care needs, community services, Health criteria, it is anticipated that the Board of Di- two facilities with emergency care. One site Hub development, or other alternative models. rectors will consider a preferred model in the would have a primarily outpatient focus (few This exploration will include determining best spring of 2018. Following the decision, addi- or no beds) and could include services such as ways to support access for urgent care needs. tional work will be done to further develop the infrastructure to support the preferred model (what the bricks and mortar will look like). The goal is to have a submission ready for the NSM the Dwight Library is LHIN and MOHLTC by September 2018. How much is this going to cost? GROWING Regardless of the model selected, this proj- ect will cost hundreds of millions of dollars over time. The capital cost will be shared by the MOHLTC (approx. 90%) and the com- munity (approx. 10%). The community is also responsible for other costs, such as new equip- ment and furnishings, which can cost as much as the local share. Many LOBA members have already con- he Lake of Bays Township Public Library strives to be the ‘community living tributed to this process by completing the room’ for the residents of Baysville and Dwight. Both libraries are dedicated MAHC survey that was conducted through to support and protect intellectual freedom, to promote opportunities for September and October. Stay updated on their self-fulfillment and to cultivate the recreational, educational and informational work by visiting mahc.ca/planning-for-the-fu- tneeds of the community. “Our libraries are hubs of activity where you will find ture. Watch for updates in the local media, on people interacting and learning,”says Cathy Fairbairn, Dwight Branch Librarian. MAHC’s website and social media, and notice Since 2009, the number of programmes offered at the Dwight Branch has of future community information opportuni- tripled and the number of community members benefitting from those programs ties anticipated in the New Year. cc has gone up over 250%. They have also seen a significant increase in the Source:Allyson Snelling, Corporate Communications officer, Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare number of people bringing their own devices to the library to learn, work, connect with friends and create. As a result, they have outgrown their space! “We are turning to our community to help us expand the Dwight Branch to meet the growing demand for our services. If you are able to donate and support this project, any amount will help!” says Fairbairn. Contact Cathy at [email protected] or 705-635-3319 to donate and drop by the library to see the plans. With your support, the library can grow to ensure they have the resources necessary to provide fulfilling opportunities to every person. For more information PROPANE PREFERRED PRICING PROGRAM go to lakeofbayslibrary.ca. cc call or email Fraser Govan above: 705-767-3692 Artist’s rendering of the Dwight Public Library expansion. [email protected] currentconnection 3

CONGRATULATIONS LBHF. He has provided leadership when pro- ducing insightful educational YouTube videos on Lake of Bays heritage topics and initiated Bruce MacLellan the collection of documentation and record- BETTY DAY AWARD WINNER ing of oral history/stories of the lake which are By Brian Simpson and Mark McLean linked to the LBHF website. Bruce’s scope for conservancy stretches well beyond our own backyard. For the past 16 years Bruce has held a board position with the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) which is the country’s larg- est land trust. The NCC has preserved nearly 3 million acres of important ecological land. As of this September, Bruce became chair of the board of the Nature Conservancy of Canada.

Bruce’s passion and dedication has focused on creating a legacy for future generations by conserving, restoring and managing the natural areas of significant biological diversity…

ruce MacLellan was presented with Bruce’s passion and dedication has focused As climate change and land developers put the prestigious Betty Day Award at on creating a legacy for future generations by pressure on our ecosystems and species habi- LOBA’s AGM, July 8. The award is conserving, restoring and managing the nat- tat, we need the voices and influence of volun- named in honour of Betty Day, an ural areas of significant biological diversity, teers and advocates like Bruce to protect our active volunteer who passed away and recognizing the built and cultural her- natural heritage. He is a trusted advocate for Bsuddenly in her term as LOBA’s president in itage of the Lake of Bays community. He has conservation and a supporter of many causes, 1992. The award is given to a LOBA member been a board member of LBHF for 14 years. such as health, welfare and education that are whose volunteer activities have significantly Ten of those years were devoted to serving vital to the wellbeing of our community. Bruce furthered the goals of the Association. as president. In that period 50 per cent of is a bridge builder and motivator in that he Bruce is best known for his involvement the Lower Oxtongue River was acquired for reaches out to individuals, governments, local with the Lake of Bays Heritage Foundation permanent conservation. Bruce and his wife, organizations and national agencies to ad- (LBHF). Under Bruce’s leadership this con- Karen Girling and their daughters, Sara and dress issues and encourage co-operative solu- servation charity acquired three ecologically Ally have promoted and advocated conser- tions. Bruce MacLellan is most deserving of significant properties, greatly increased our vancy through effective public relations, fund the Betty Day Award for exemplary volunteer knowledge of the cultural heritage of the lake raising, outreach educational programs and service and we have been well served through community and established educational pro- generous donations. Bruce has self-published his efforts. cc grams about natural heritage. He has been a two books, “Postcards From Lake of Bays” and consistent advocate for the importance of her- “Back Again at Lake of Bays”, which are not above: Bruce MacLellan, right, recipient of the itage preservation and its undeniable link with only significant as historical records, but all of 2017 Betty Day Award and LOBA President Ian economic tourism. the proceeds from book sales have gone to the Beverly at the AGM. 4 currentconnection

By Nancy Tapley of LAKE OF BAYS

n a breezy day in Dorset, October 5, Refreshments were served in the Lake of Chief Phyllis Williams of Curve Lake First two beautiful heritage plaques— Bays Maritime Museum, adjacent to the S.S. Nations; Chief Philip Franks, Wahta Mohawks one in English and French, and Bigwin. Along with sandwiches and desserts, First Nations, MP Jamie Schmale were also one in Ojibwe—were unveiled to a selection of Anishinaabeg foods were pro- in attendance, as were representatives from celebrate the history of the An- vided, including bannock, smoked trout and both Huntsville and Algonquin Highlands Oishinaabeg on the Lake of Bays. This was a col- cornbread. A large photograph of Chief John councils. As can be seen by the list of digni- laborative venture with the Township of Lake Bigwin was on display, to remind us that his taries, this was a ‘big deal’. This is the second of Bays Heritage Celebrating Advisory Committee, the summer grounds the were on theAnishinaabeg Island that car- Heritage plaque the Township has worked in Ontario Heritage Trust, and the First Nations ries his name, and his winter farm was just partnership with the Ontario Heritage Trust Chippewas of Rama. A long time in the plan- around the bay from the Trading Bay narrows. to erect—the first was to celebrate the Portage ning and partnership, the event was a special Flyer, at South Portage—and the Heritage moment. The Honourable James Bartleman This was a collaborative committee is proud and honoured to have (27th Lieutenant Governor of Ontario), Chief been part of this. Rodney Noganosh, MPP Norm Miller and venture with the Township of A note of special thanks must go to Bruce Mayor Bob Young addressed the assembled Lake of Bays Heritage Advisory MacLellan, who first brought the idea for crowd of about 120 people. A prayer was lead these plaques to the Township Heritage Com- by Elder Myrna Watson from Rama, and the Committee, the Ontario mittee, and to all the committee members and childrens’ choir from the Mnjikaning Kend- Heritage Trust, and the First staff who have worked so hard to bring it all aaswin Elementary School sang O Canada, together. It is by remembering where we have as well as a song in Ojibwe. What a delight to Nations Chippewas of Rama. come from that we find a way ahead. see and hear these shining young people raise For more information go tolakeofbays.on. their voices in their native language here on ca/content/heritage-advisory-committee- part of their native land. Harvey McCue, Chair and heritagetrust.on.ca and ramafn.com. cc of the Ontario Heritage Trust, and CEO Beth Hanna also spoke at the ceremony. The Chip- above left: The childrens’ choir from the Mnjikan- pewa Travellers, an outstanding drum group, ing Kendaaswin Elementary School. above centre: then lead the honour song on the main dock A portrait of Chief John Bigwin. above: From left, adjacent to the plaques. Appropriately, there Beth Hanna, Chief Rodney Noganosh, Elder Myrna was a loon in the narrows watching all that Watson, MPP Norm Miller, The Honourable James Bartleman and Harvey McCue. left: One of the two took place. plaques commemorating the Anishinaabeg history at Lake of Bays. currentconnection 5 During the late winter months, the Area Area Steward will try to contact those members Wendy Gibson who have not yet renewed their membership. Stewards Sometimes the member’s contact informa- tion has changed. Sometimes the member has simply forgotten. We want to ensure that these members are included in our yearbook By Linda Robinson publication, as well as receiving our mailings he Lake of Bays Association is fortu- and newsflash bulletins. nate to have an active group of Area Stewards. These individuals act as The success of our lake a liaison between property owners/ association depends on renters and the Association. Each Area our Area Stewards After serving as LOBA’s Executive TSteward is assigned specific road(s) or a neigh- Coordinator for 10 years (2006 - 2016), bourhood. They help to spread the word about is- Currently we have 43 participants. The Wendy Gibson looks forward to sues that concern us around the lake community. success of our lake association depends on our continuing her involvement as In June, we have an annual “Meet and Greet” Area Stewards. They serve as a communication a volunteer. for Area Stewards where they pick up materials. link between their neighbourhood and the As- During the summer months, the Area Steward sociation. Suggestions, questions, issues and Wendy joined the Board of Directors contacts people on their road list, who may not concerns may arise that would be helpful for in September and is a member of the know about the Association and encourages the Association, in order to sustain a peaceful, Communications Committee, which is them to join. As well, our Association has a healthy lake community. This is very helpful for Welcome Package program. These packages, everyone. Please contact your Area Steward as involved in the content and direction containing useful information about living in the concerns arise. You can check the yearbook for of LOBA’s Yearbook, newsletter and area, are delivered by the Area Steward to new a listing of the Area Steward in your area. online presence. Wendy and her property owners in the community. At the end If you have some spare time, please con- husband Scott are both lifelong of August we have an Area Steward “Wind-up”. sider volunteering. Our lake is large and our cottagers on Lake of Bays and enjoy This is a chance for Area Stewards to get together, member concerns are varied. Together we can all four seasons with immediate and meet other Area Stewards on the lake, and share take steps to sustain the reasons we choose to extended family on Whiskey Bay. concerns and ideas for the following season. be here on Lake of Bays. cc

Renew you LOBA membership for 2018 by A call to renew December 15, and your name will be en- EMERGENCY your membership tered in a draw for these fabulous prizes… NUMBERS Bigwin Island Golf Club On the waterfront or dock and win $800 golf package for four Rafters The Lake of Bays Fire Department would great prizes! Baysville - $100 Gift Certificate like the residents of Lake of Bays (The Lake) Season 2 Season Garden Market to purchase Emergency Number signs for Baysville - $75 Gift Certificate their waterfront or dock. Response times Clark’s on Main are delayed when firefighters are searching Dorset - $50 Gift Certificate for a particular property with no waterfront Oxtongue Craft Cabin & Gallery identification. While an actual fire would Dwight - $50 Gift Certificate be relatively obvious, most call outs are for Lake of Bays Brewing Company medical emergencies and smoke alarms. Baysville - $40 Gift Certificate If you live on a water access property or a Dwight Garden Centre property where a fire may not be visible from $25 Gift Certificate the water, a waterfront Emergency Number Thank you to these local businesses whose generous donations support the Association. sign could significantly assist firefighters Please support them.Your membership fees allow us to continue our work to “promote, response to your emergency needs. Signs sustain and enhance a clean and healthy natural environment, a well serviced community and a safe and peaceful Lake of Bays”. are about $50 tax included and a sign with Don’t wait. Renew today! Go to loba.ca and click RENEW. You can renew and pay online post is about $70 tax included. Contact the or download a membership form to renew by mail. New members click JOIN. Building and Bylaw department. Questions about your membership? Please contact Beverley Govan at 705-767-3395 or email her at [email protected]. what’s your number? 6 currentconnection Roots of Japanese Knotweed can travel more An update from the invasive species team than nine metres (30 feet) and can easily break through foundations and even break up paved roads in their path. Invasive Species LIST has identified Phragmites on Ronville By Caroline Konarzewski Road and Japanese Knotweed on Old Hwy. IN LAKE OF BAYS 117. Because these were located on Lake of nvasive species are not wanted in Lake of Bays Township property these growths were 1. Bays. They can take over by choking out reported to the Township. Steve Peace con- indigenous flora and fauna and threaten- firmed that the Township is presently- mak ing to destroy our beautiful refuge here in ing arrangements for both of these stands to Muskoka. Their presence could affect the be treated appropriately. Monitoring these Ivalue of our properties, our infrastructure, our stands will be done annually and they will be economy, our society and our health. sprayed again as needed in order to eradicate Some of the invasive species that are of them. We appreciate that the Township is be- most concern include Giant Hogweed and ginning to recognise the serious threat that Wild Parsnip. Because the sap of Giant Hog- invasives pose and that they are taking action. weed and Wild Parsnip can cause serious sec- Last year LIST was able to identify several ond and third degree burns to the skin when stands of Phragmites and Japanese Knotweed 2. exposed to sunlight the Province of Ontario along District of Muskoka Roads in Lake of has designated them as noxious weeds which Bays. LIST reported these stands to Jamie Del- must be treated and eradicated. aney, Manager of Environmental Compliance Steve Peace, Superintendent of Public for the District. Delaney has confirmed that Works for the Township of Lake of Bays con- the stands of Phragmites were sprayed with firmed that two to three years ago some Giant approved herbicides. The Japanese Knotweed Hogweed was found in the Tally Ho area. The stands have been added to the list of invasive Township arranged for the plants to be treated species in the Township to be treated. This ac- as prescribed by the Province of Ontario and tion from the District is much appreciated. the Giant Hogweed plants were eradicated. LOBA wants to ensure that these and other This year Wild Parsnip and Garlic Mustard invasive plants in Lake of Bays are eradicated. were identified on private properties by the LIST will continue to work at identifying and LOBA Invasive Species Team (LIST). LIST was reporting sightings of invasive terrestrial spe- able to advise the owners of the best methods cies, educating our members about invasive of removing these nasty invasive plants. In both species, and doing what we can to ensure the cases the property owners acted responsibly appropriate authorities take the necessary ac- and eradicated these invasives appropriately. tions to eradicate them. Also of major concern are Phragmites and If you suspect that you might have an inva- Japanese Knotweed. Among other concerns, sive species on your property please contact the dried, dead stalks of Phragmites do not de- LIST at [email protected] for assistance 3. compose easily and form thick mats of dried in identifying and dealing with the problem. 1. Wild parsnip Glenmount Road. tinder that can become a serious fire hazard. 2. Garlic mustard in the forest. 3. Phragmites, Howland and Centre St. Huntsville. 4. Japanese Knotweed. Difference between native, non-native & invasive species INDIGENOUS/NATIVE SPECIES have existed in a given area prior to European settlement. They are well adapted to the area and thrive with very little care. ALIEN/NON-NATIVE SPECIES have been introduced by human action from another geographic region to an area outside its natural past or present distribution. They do well along with indigenous plants but may take more work in order for them to thrive well. INVASIVE SPECIES are harmful non-native/alien species whose introduction or spread threaten our environment, our economy, our society, and our health. They can take over by choking out or killing indigenous and non-native plants and destroy the natural habitat of birds, animals and fish. Some can even cause structural damage to our cottage and home foundations. If you are removing any invasive species from your property, place them in a strong, black plastic 4. bag, leave the bag in the sun for a week and then dispose of them in the garbage. Do not put invasive species in yard waste and do not compost invasive species. cc currentconnection 7 he Lake of Bays Association is pleased LAKE OF BAYS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL to announce the appointment of Kathy INTRODUCING Ogryzlo to the Board of Directors, as Kathy Ogryzlo Treasurer, effective July 8, 2017. As a TChartered Professional Accountant with oth- er not-for-profit board experience, she will be ph to charged with overseeing the financial admin- istration of the association, reviewing proce- contest dures and financial reporting. Since the summer of 1955, Kathy has spent Open to all Lake of Bays Association most summers at Lake of Bays and it has been members and families for submission in a constant and a priority in her life. Having the following categories. updated the cottage to allow year-round occu- pancy, and with husband Richard retiring this LIFE at the LAKE: fall, Kathy and Richard plan to spend a great people, pets and dwellings deal more time at the lake. Having a little more flexibility, time and NATURE: the luxury of current technology, Kathy de- wild plants and animals cided it was right to answer the call for a Trea- LANDSCAPE: surer for LOBA. “Despite our home base be- land, water, and sky ing in Calgary, with the ability to e-mail and conduct meetings via conference calls, it does Photos must be previously unpublished not matter as much these days where one is and submitted—one per individual, physically. As an accountant, it is easy to find per category—in digital format to Aben a spot where you can contribute and I am very Graphics: [email protected] before much looking forward to filling this role and *DECEMBER 15, 2017. Subject line working alongside a very accomplished and of email, Lake of Bays Photo Contest. passionate group of people who are involved Contestants agree to the use of their with LOBA,” says Kathy. photos for the Lake of Bays Association We are delighted to have Kathy on board, yearbook, newsletter, website and social and are looking forward to continuing work media sites. *Note new date above: Kathy and Richard out for a walk. with her. cc Winter pantry UPDATE Starting at the beginning of November, the Win- The Winter Pantry, based out of St. Ambrose Anglican ter Pantry is open every other Wednesday, 1:00 Church in Baysville, was created in 2016 by enthusias- to 6:00pm on a drop in basis or they will arrange tic church and community volunteers who recognized confidential food pickup up at other times. that providing community food support during the long, They offer a cup of coffee with a warm piece cold winter was paramount. When the Health Hub in Dor- of pie and a visit to the kitchen, while people set identified families who were not receiving food support, wait their turn to visit the pantry and select their they expanded their service area to include both communities. food. In addition to the non-perishable food that is do- Fundraising with the Antique Car and Boat Show (special thanks nated, they provide fresh meat, bread, fruit, vegetables, cheese, to Wayne Donaldson and Susan Pond), they have raised money eggs, yogurt, margarine, and milk, consistent with their mission over the past two summers and have established the Dorset and to provide healthy, nutritious and full meals. Everyone can take Baysville Liquor stores as food collection points where cottagers whatever they need to refresh their cupboards and each family is (and others) can drop off non-perishable goods. provided with frozen meat to last them three or four days. Last year the Pantry served 19 families in Baysville and Dorset Last year the Winter Pantry was able to obtain and distribute for a total of 54 people and this year they are set to serve more. A Crock Pots to families and they have lots of cook books for inspi- few single seniors use the Winter Pantry, however the majority of ration. They plan to provide Christmas hampers again this year their clients are hard-working parents who just need a bit of help with all the fixings for a wonderful Christmas dinner. Stay tuned during the winter season. Most people are faced with reduced for news of Community Dinners which provide a great meal and hours of work or layoffs during the winter when the huge hydro the opportunity to visit with your neighbours. cc and propane bills arrive. 8 currentconnection President’s report Volunteers, amended bylaws, the OMB outcome & Fairview and Langmaid’s Island

ship staff on eradication efforts. Our 43 Area keep you informed through our Newsflashes Stewards distributed close to 80 Welcome Pack- From September 12 to 14, the LOBA ap- ages to new property owners on the lake. We peal to the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) participated at both the July 1, Rock the River regarding the decisions of the Lake of Bays Ian Beverley event (which was a success despite the rain) Council and of the District of Muskoka to ap- President, Lake of Bays Association and the Baysville Walkabout. prove the reduction of minimum waterfront Fairview Island has been purchased by the back lot size from ten to seven acres, in the hile not the best weather-wise, Konrad Group, and we have been monitoring Township of Lake of Bays Official Plan, was volunteers and staff of LOBA and commenting on their plans for develop- heard. Regrettably, the OMB Decision was not were busy through the sum- ment. Many of our members have expressed the one we were hoping to achieve. It is an ex- mer months. At our Annual concern about the new owners’ proposal to tremely short decision particularly consider- Meeting, held on July 8 in have the island rezoned to commercial zon- ing the extensive evidence that was called and WDwight, we confirmed an Amended and ing, to allow for a corporate retreat. Access to the very thoughtful evidence of our five wit- Restated By-Law for the Association, and the island has also been raised as an import- nesses which clearly demonstrated that there changed the number of Directors to 18. We ant issue. We have relayed the concerns of our was no need or basis for the change in back also heard a thought-provoking presentation membership to the Town of Huntsville and at lot sizes and no planning evidence to support from the District of Muskoka. the time of writing the Town has yet to make Council’s decision. While our legal counsel Between July 1 and Labour Day our wa- a decision. advised that the OMB decision could be chal- ter-testing volunteers, led by Deb Cumming, Langmaids Island has also recently been lenged and likely overturned, our Board has sampled our water five times for phosphorus bought. Representatives from both LOBA chosen not to do so because of the addition- and once for bacteria, at 20 locations. The and the Lake of Bays Heritage Foundation al cost and time that would be involved. It is LOBA Invasive Species Team (LIST) also had will have attended a Stakeholder Workshop time to move on. a busy summer, identifying invasive plant on October 24, hosted by the new owners to Best wishes to all our members for the up- stands around the Township and working discuss and provide input regarding the future coming holiday season. c c with property owners, and District and Town- of Langmaids Island on Lake of Bays. We will

District of Muskoka AT WORK FOR US Many aspects of Lake of Bays living rely on programs or services provided by the District of Muskoka—from waste management to lake system health mon- itoring to community services and health hubs. To learn more about the role of the District and its programs and services, the Lake of Bays Association invited District of Muskoka staff to speak at our AGM in July. Michael Duben, Chief Administrative Officer, described what the District does CURRENT CONNECTION is published periodically and how the District works closely with area municipalities (including the Town- by The Lake of Bays Association for the infor- ship of Lake of Bays and Huntsville) to provide programs and services that make mation of its members. Suggestions, inquiries, manuscripts, photos, etc. can be sent to: Lake of Muskoka one of the greatest places in the world to live, work or play. Molly Bays Association P.O. Box 8, Baysville ON P0B 1A0 n Ross, Communications Officer, shared social, economic and demographic trends Phone: 705-767-3395 Fax: 705-767-1044 n info@ that impact every life in Muskoka—and challenged members to find ways we loba.ca n www.loba.ca n www.facebook.com/ can work together to strengthen our communities. Graham Good who leads lobaontario/ the District’s Geographic Information System, demonstrated ways to explore Muskoka using interactive tools available to the public through the District’s Muskoka Web Map. You can view their presentation at: http://loba.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/District-of-Muskoka-Over- view-Presentation-for-Community-_-July2017final.pdf