Winter 2011-12

THE WATERSHED OBSERVER Inside this issue: Sensitive Habitat Inventory and President’s Report 2 Science Advisory Council 4 Mapping Project (SHIM) LLN and LLNC 4 Upcoming CEC Hearings 5 Award to ACC Student 6 If you have a lakefront cottage on concerned about the sustainabil- 2011 Bajkov Nominations Call 6 Winnipeg, the view of the lake ity of Lake Winnipeg and are 7 from your front deck can be spectac- asking what can be done to keep Project Updates 2011 Fundraising 8 & 9 ular, exhilarating, and restorative. it a memorable recreational des- 10 Or it can be fright- tination. 2012 Photo Contest ening when high . . .the LWF applied for and ‘Securing Our Water Future’ 12 To help water and wind Hope—A poem 13 received funds from the Lake Lake Win- combine in de- Our Legacy 14 Winnipeg Basin Stewardship Fund, nipeg, our structive events or the Thomas Sill Foundation, and Foundation adopted two posi- when thick scums Fisheries and Oceans for tions: 1 - control of phospho- of noxious algae its project . . . rus and 2 - protection of wet- advance up the lands. The LWF will soon es- beach towards your tablish positions on climate warming and , both of which are also rel- evant to the Lake Winnipeg ecosystem.

To act on these positions, the LWF applied for and received funds from the Lake Winnipeg Basin Stew- ardship Fund, the Thomas Sill Foundation, and Fish- eries and Oceans Canada for its project “Sensitive Habitat Inventory and Mapping of the Foreshore Are- as of Lake Winnipeg South Basin and Development

SHIM team on the water near Ponemah of Shoreline Management Guidelines”. The LWF Photo by Betty Jackson project addresses all LWBSF priorities including re- ducing nutrient inputs from rural and urban sources, cottage. More and more people are (Continued on page 3)

Summer 2011 Fundraising Efforts Huge Success!

See pages 8 and 9 for details.

Page 2 The Watershed Observer

President’s Report

Remembrance Day week- times (and often at the same time) filled in as treas- end heralded the freeze- urer, bookkeeper, and wrote receipts. You deserve up on Lake Winnipeg. to have your work load lightened. Over the ensuing weeks Lake Winnipeg Foundation is also pleased to ice built up on the shore- announce the establishment of a Science Advisory line and the water started Council (SAC) capably chaired by Alex Salki. The SAC to take on the appearance replaces the Science Committee. You will find a re- of a large slushie. Finally, port on SAC activities in these pages and short bios just as November gave way to December, the lake froze of its members will be posted on our website at over. www.lakewinnipegfoundation.org. Life at the lake is very quiet at this time. There’s no more The Walkathon and Lake-a-thon were the most suc- gentle lapping of water on the sand or, thankfully, the cessful events to date. This success is due to the roar of huge waves crashing on the shore. All but the combined efforts of John Heppenstall, Janet occasional summer residents have gone to resume their Sampson, Bruce Smith, Susan and Matt Hall, lives in the city with the past summer season’s activities Catherine Salki, their group of dedicated volunteers relegated to memory until next spring’s thaw. and all those who supported our efforts. Thank you For Lake Winnipeg Foundation Board members, however, all!! this time of year is a very busy one. As the Foundation’s You will find articles in this issue about the Living work on behalf of our great lake and its watershed contin- Network Canada AGM and Red Zone III which ued to increase in scope and gained a greater profile it will be held in Winnipeg in May; as well as infor- became obvious that the work load was too great for a mation on the CEC Hearings to be held sometime in volunteer Board (hard working and dedicated as they may the fall. I would encourage all of you to be actively be) to maintain. We needed an Executive Director. involved in these hearings either by making a The Board undertook a search and discovered that one of presentation, submitting your opinion in writing or our own met the criteria. Many of you will recognize Erin just attending. Your presence will make a statement Keating as our former Treasurer. Her experience with the of concern about this issue. LWF Board, business background, and CMA designation In closing on behalf of Lake Winnipeg Foundation, I makes her the ideal first Executive Director of Lake Winni- wish you all the best in health and happiness for the peg Foundation. Over the past months she has been busy upcoming year. organizing and setting up our office within the Eco Net- work space, 3rd floor– 309 Portage Ave. (MEC building), Karin Boyd developing the ED position, networking with like-minded organizations, developing and revising Board roles and protocols, planning and undertaking a myriad of adminis- trative tasks. Erin will be reporting on her activities on LWF’s behalf elsewhere in the Watershed Observer. Bea Dabrowski has joined the Board in the position of Treasurer. To support Bea in her efforts on LWF’s behalf, we have acquired a bookkeeper to undertake the day to day financial tasks and a volunteer, Diane Sallens, will be revising and managing our receipting process which tends to be very time consuming. At this point I would also like to thanks Catherine Salki, our Secretary, who at various

Freeze-up November 2011 Photo by Karin Boyd Winter 2011-12 Page 3

SHIM (con’t from page 1) rehabilitating priority aquatic ecosystems that port from cottagers and businesses in Gimli support nutrient reduction and sequestration, (Bruce and Linda Benson), in Matlock (Bruce and enhancing research and monitoring ca- Smith, Betty Jackson, pacity to assist in decision making. Tannis Froese and Florence Eastwood), in Beaconia (Dave and Cindy Crabb) and Victoria If you have ever wondered about the variety Beach (Karin Boyd, Janet Sampson, Birch- of shoreline types in the south basin, how wood Inn) ensured a safe and successful much of it remains natural, what and how monitoring program. The SHIM field program many species inhabit this coastal strip, or was truly a community effort and a clear ex- how many cottages and marinas there are, ample of how much care and concern the you will be able to find this and other data in shoreline residents have for our lake. the SHIM report, which is to be completed by March 31, Data analyses and reporting, as well as pro- 2012. All of this information was collected ject management, are contracted to Whelan during the SHIM Enns Associ- field program that ates who have took place from extensive ex- July 31 to August perience with 7, 2011. Aided by provincial and the boating expe- national envi- ronmental is- rience and skill of sues. They will the Bensons, a assess the col- Gimli family of lected fore- fishers, the LWF shore invento- SHIM field crew, ry, fish, wild- led by Bruce SHIM team loads the boat for a day on the water. life, and mapping McDonald (from Photo by Betty Jackson data using an Wildsight, our Living Aquatic Habitat Sensitivity Index to delineate Lakes Canada partner in BC) and including Zones of Sensitivity and Key Habitat Areas Lisette Ross and Pauline Bloom (Native Plant around the South Basin which will form the Solutions DUC), Desiree Stratton (University basis of Shoreline Management Guidelines. of Manitoba), and Annie Eastwood (student Based on examples in British Columbia, it is volunteer), recorded GPS located observa- hoped that these guidelines will be adopted tions and sampled the shoreline from River- by governments and responsible authorities ton on the west side to Wanasing Beach on around the South Basin for science-based de- the east. From helicopter and fixed wing air- cisions on shoreline use applications. As the craft, Darwin Monita (Aquatic Ecosystem Ser- LWSBF is a joint federal-provincial program, it vices) took digital video images of the shore- is anticipated that the interest expressed by line for use in the SHIM report and on the Manitoba in the SHIM project will serve to en- LWF website. The remarkable stretch of fa- courage the acceptance of the guidelines for vourable weather and terrific logistical sup- provincial regulatory use.

Alex Salki, LWF SHIM project coordinator Page 4 The Watershed Observer

Lake Winnipeg Foundation Science Advisory Council (SAC)

The Lake Winnipeg Foundation has established a Sci- Dr. Gregg Brunskill – research scientist, formerly FWI, ence Advisory Council to provide scientific advice to the now retired Australian Institute of Marine Science LWF Board of Directors on matters related to Lake Win- Dr. Harold Welch – research scientist, retired FWI Dr. Robert Hecky - former research scientist FWI, now nipeg and its watershed. The growing number and com- professor University of Minnesota Duluth plexity of questions received from members, the public Dr. Greg McCullough – former research hydrologist and other organizations, required the LWF to assemble FWI, now post-doc University of Manitoba, CEOS a group of qualified professionals to examine and pro- Dr. Brenda Hann - professor, Biology, University of vide advice on these matters. Individuals invited to sit Manitoba Mr. Michael Stainton – research associate, FWI on the SAB were mainly retired federal scientists with Ms. Nancy Loadman – lecturer, University of Winnipeg long careers in aquatic ecosystem research or academ- Mr. Alex Salki – research biologist, retired FWI, consult- ics teaching at the Universities of Manitoba, Winnipeg, ant zooplankton taxonomy and Minnesota. Dr. Henry Venema, PhD - Director—Natural and Social Capital, International Institute for sustainable Develop- Members of LWF Science Advisory Council include: ment Dr. Raymond Hesslein – research scientist, retired Career details of SAB members will be posted on the Fisheries and Oceans, Freshwater Institute (FWI) LWF website in the near future. Dr. Lyle Lockhart – research scientist, retired FWI Alex Salki, Chair

Living Lakes Network and Living Lakes Network Canada

In March 2010, the Lake Winnipeg Foundation officially al range of factors such as climate warming, exotic joined Living Lakes of the to sponsor species, wetland loss, flooding and nutrient loading that now Lake Winnipeg in the international network of lakes and directly impact Lake Winnipeg will require international coop- wetlands requiring habitat protection and water quality eration and attention. ENGO networking will improve the improvement. Lake Windermere (British Columbia), likelihood of government collaboration or agreements to and Lake Winnipeg have both gained recognition as Ca- remedy water problems. nadian representatives in the LLN. The importance of In 2010, establishment of Living Lakes Network Canada this international association was recognized again in (www.livinglakes.ca) by the LWF, Wildsight and the Global November 2011 when Living Lakes received for the Nature Fund, strengthened our capacity to bring attention fourth consecutive year the distinction as the “Official and solutions to Canadian water issues. With Dr. David Project of the UN Decade of Education for Sustainable Schindler, Bob Sandford, Merrell-Ann Phare among other re- Development 2005-2014”. spected Canadian authorities on its Advisory Council, the Joining the LLN was a natural step in the growth and LLNC offers science-based information to communities con- evolution of the LWF. The Global Nature Fund and the fronted by aquatic ecosystem issues in all parts of Canada. LWF hold many ideals and principles in common. Mem- Now with 5 members, the LLNC will be holding its 1st Annual bership in the LLN partnership has brought increased General Meeting in conjunction with Red Zone 3 in Winnipeg, public awareness, greater international attention to Lake May 22-24, 2012. Watch the LWF website for upcoming de- Winnipeg and enhanced opportunities to share infor- tails. mation and advice that could benefit our lake. The glob- Alex Salki, Living Lakes Liaison Winter 2011-12 Page 5

LWF in Action

Above: SHIM team, photo by Betty Jackson

Far right: Display, Catherine Salki in attendance Above: St. Avila raingarden LWF and the Upcoming CEC Hearings

There has already been a lot of information in the tions to the Minister of Conservation. The forum takes media about the upcoming Clean Environment place within the guidelines of the Terms of Reference laid Commission (CEC) hearings regarding MB Hydro's re- out by the Minister of Conservation. (see cecmanito- quest for a Final License to regulate Lake Winnipeg. A ba.ca). Organizations interested in funding assistance lot of information that becomes very confusing, even can apply when the specifics of the hearings are an- for those of us speaking about it every day. This is an nounced. Funds are provided to hire technical or legal attempt to summarize what MB Hydro is asking for, experts to prepare the argument and/or a project coordi- what the CEC hearings actually are, and how Lake nator to Winnipeg Foundation (LWF) is planning to be bring all involved. the infor- The Province of Manitoba issued the Interim Licence mation for Lake Winnipeg Regulation in 1970 and Manitoba together, Hydro completed project construction of the Jenpeg travel and Generating Station in 1976. The Interim License gives accommo- Hydro the ability to regulate Lake Winnipeg when the dation, level measures between 711 and 715 feet. MB Hydro relevant has continued to receive extensions of the Interim materials, License annually? and in December of 2010, sub- accounting mitted a request to receive a Final License which and au- st diting, would expire on August 1 , 2026. The application falls Water station—Walk 4 Water, Matlock telephone, under the Water Power Act, as The Environment Act Photo by Roberta Koscielny does not apply because the project was completed photocop- before this legislation came into force. It was an- ying, and other similar expenses. nounced in July of 2011 that a CEC hearing would take Lake Winnipeg Foundation has made a decision to be a place regarding this request. Participant in the hearings and will focus on the effects of CEC is an arm's length provincial agency that encour- Hydro's Lake Level regulation on Nutrients, Wetlands, ages and facilitates public involvement in environ- and Eco-Systems. We recognize a need for a much great-

mental matters and offersadvice and recommenda- (Continued on page 6)

Page 6 The Watershed Observer

(Continued from page 5) and will be an invaluable source of information as we go through the process. er amount of research in these areas and see this process Please feel free to contact Erin Keating at as one avenue to achieve this. We realize that to be a Par- [email protected] with any feedback, ticipant we must be prepared to participate in all pre- advice, or questions and watch our website for hearing and hearing activities. Our Science Advisory Coun- important advancements in the process. cil has already begun the discussion regarding the Hearing

Award to Assiniboine Community College Student

Pictured here is the first-ever recipi- use her complet- ent of the Lake Winnipeg Foundation ed studies to help Entrance Bursary. It was awarded to in her own com- Assiniboine Community College stu- munity. We were dent Alexandria Turnbull, shown here not the only along with Sheila Grover and Janet group to recog- Sampson of the LWF’s Education nize her talents as Committee. This award is within the Alexandria re- Environmental Studies Water and ceived scholastic Land Management program at the awards from college in Brandon MB. It is a two- three other or- year course of study where the stu- ganizations at a dents train in the technical aspects of special Assini- watershed and land management, boine Community which is where Alexandria is in her first year. The program College Awards Celebration held in Brandon on 24 is intense and hands-on, which is just the way this dynamic November 2011. She was very grateful for the cash young student likes it. award, which she told us that she would put to- wards books and tuition. We view it as an invest- Alexandria hails from a farm near Pipestone, Manitoba, ment in the future. Congratulations Alexandria! south of Virden. She loves the fresh-air life and hopes to

2011 Alexander Bajkov Award Call for Nominations

Do you know someone who is a hero to the lake? Some- teaching, policy-making and environmental activ- one who has worked toward the health of Lake Winni- ism. You probably know a deserving person or peg and its watershed, and cares passionately about group. To tell us about why they should receive fixing its problems? If so, consider nominating that per- the 2011 Alexander Bajkov Award at the LWF’s son for the Lake Winnipeg Foundation’s annual Alexan- annual general meeting this spring, just go to our der Bajkov Award. website at http:// www.lakewinnipegfoundation.org/the- Just to make it more appealing, we’ll even tell you how foundation/bajkov-award/ for criteria and a to pronounce it: by-koff. Easy! nomination form. We would love to hear from This award can be given to an individual or a group who you but hurry: the nomination date for this year’s have contributed in areas such scientific research, the award is January 31, 2012. arts and entertainment, writing and journalism,

Winter 2011-12 Page 7

P ROJECT U PDATES

St. Avila Raingarden a series of berms, bioswales and dry creek beds leading water into a raingarden. “DOWN THE DRAIN” is a innovative project trans- forming the grounds of École St. Avila and Rich- The bioretention system addressed the water challeng- mond Kings Community Centre into a unique natu- es, enabling improved recreation and playing fields that ral play/recreation and educational landscape. would have a long term positive effect within the Lake Winnipeg Watershed. The bioretention system also The school and community centre share about 14 solved the challenge of making the school grounds more acres of vast flat land for playing and recreational engaging through extensive ‘natural play’ opportunities, fields. But frequently, large puddles, mud patches, and it also provides a wealth of educational opportuni- and invasive weeds have ties! Who would have thought dealing with drainage in had a significant negative an environmental manner would provide such opportu- impact on activities nities and benefits! throughout the year. Trees were planted and Native Plant Solutions began In 2008, the school’s Par- filling the swales and raingarden with native plants. Stu- ent Advisory Committee dents, teachers, parents and the community provided set out to make the much ‘hands on’ support. In 2012, additional tree and school grounds more en- native plantings will occur, along with installation of gaging to students, who seating areas and interpretive signage, since the space is spend significant time also heavily used by the broader Ft Richmond communi- outside. Because the ty. school gym is half the recommended size for the school population, students are outside for gym at This bioretention project has generated extensive inter- least once/cycle. The fields were often wet/ est and has been a catalyst for engagement: saturated, students would be uncomfortably wet, . Upwards of 18 schools have toured the site and parents were frustrated with excess laundry, and are developing similar projects school janitors were cleaning up mud non-stop! In addition, there were no shade trees or seating are- . Twelve community organizations including the as… just one big flat wet field to play on, day after St. Norbert Farmer’s Market are working togeth- day after day. er to develop a similar site / project in St. Norb- ert Drainage issues had to be resolved before play structures, benches, or trees could be were in- . Eight partners including the Province of Manito- stalled. Whatever the drainage solution was to be, ba, Dept. of Education and Water Stewardship a key requirement was the need for an environ- are developing a Manitoba Guide for Storm- mentally-friendly approach. So the Parent Com- water Management for use by schools and the mittee engaged the expertise of Scatliff + Miller + public Murray Landscape Architects. The landowners, City . World Water Day 2011 was celebrated with of Winnipeg and Pembina Trails School Division, plans underway to make it an annual event each provided extensive support towards the pro- . The Minister of Water Stewardship has made ject, along with 25 community partners (LWF being multiple visits and is engaging the school with one of these) who provided financial and/or tech- on a water quality testing project nical support. . The teachers are taking focused educational wa- Following extensive community consultation, it was tershed courses supported by Pembina Trails decided that a bioretention system was the solu- School Division and Green Manitoba tion, and in 2010 eight acres was sculpted to create (Continued on page 10) Page 8 The Watershed Observer Page 8

S UMMER 2011 F UNDRAISING A CTIVITIES

Grindstone W4W greatly appreciated. The 2nd annual Grindstone Walk for Water was a The VB WALK FOR WATER was co- great success. Over 40 walkers in bright yellow Walk chaired by the dynamic duo, Susan for Water t-shirts raised over $3,670 for LWF. and Matt Hall, who with a terrific gang This year we were surprised by the involvement of the of volunteers, pulled off a fun and Grindstone kids! Our Top Kid Fundraisers were Jillian successful event. Special thanks to and Katelyn Wallmuth ($526) and Matt and Susan who made the effort Gabriella and Niall Reid ($326). Jenn O'Neill-Salki's to educate and enlist the support of homemade cookies were a treat for everyone after the young adults in this community by hosting a beer and the 5 km walk. The prize donations were great this burger night at their cottage to explain the LWF goals of year, thanks to Grindstone artists Don Bridges and finding and funding long term solutions to Lake Winni- Darryl Kowal, Panache Management, Dave's Septic, In excess of $50,000 was peg’s problems primarily residing in the watershed and H.P. Tergesen & Sons, Jerry's Day Spa, and the Salki providing assistance for education and research projects raised this year for the Family. Lots of our walkers said they're starting to col- that will help remediate and sustain the Lake for future Foundation! lect their 2012 pledges at Christmas! generations. A huge thanks to our volunteers, Karen Haluschak, Many thanks to all those Sandi Wagner, and Mel Romas, for coming all the way A big thank you to Victoria Beach Club president, Melanie who supported these Charbonneau, past president John Heppenstall, and the out to Grindstone Park to help us set up and for man- efforts in any way! aging the registration table. For the lake! VB Club event conveners for their support of LWF efforts to pro- tect the lake. A spe- cial

Grindstone Group celebrates Walkathon thank East Side Fundraising Efforts you goes out to Lise Bourassa at Saffies Store in Albert We wish to thank Victoria Beach and surrounding Beach who sponsored a LWF information night, August communities for their excellent support of the Lake 4th, featuring “Save My Lake” at Saffies outdoor theatre Winnipeg Foundation 2011 LAKE-A-THON fundraising under the stars. Thanks to that supportive community events. They raised $43,824 of the $54,348 LAKE-A- Team Saffies entered the Walkathon with much enthusi- THON total, to support new and ongoing LWF pro- asm and many donations. On September 3rd Saffies store jects. Many thanks to all the walkers, runners, swim- sponsored a community auction to support seven local mers and golfers who proved that you can do what organizations that make a difference in the community. you love and help the lake. To all the volunteers, prize LWF was again honoured with a donation from this gen- donators and to our great sponsors we send the erous community. heartiest thank-you for your time, for your efforts on our behalf and for your financial support. You are 2011 GOLF FORE WATER John Heppenstall did an amaz- (Continued on page 9) Winter 2011-12 Page 9

ing job of organizing the LWF's inaugural As you can see from all these events, two terrific th golf tournament held August 30 at Larters, things are going on here: the communities on the in St. Andrews, raising over $16,600 for the east side of Lake Winnipeg have educat- LWF. Forty golfers enjoyed great weather, ed themselves to the issues facing the lake and share skill contests, a pregame lunch and an after- a sense of urgency to take action, and... we definite- noon of golf with friends. Thanks to the generosity of the sponsors, a fun-filled day ly know how to keep the fun in fundraiser! culminated with dinner, wine and terrific prizes. Plan ahead to enter 2012 GOLF FORE Matlock WATER next summer and combine your pas- Residents and businesses of Matlock and its sur- sion for golf with your passion for Lake Win- rounding area were strong supporters of the Walka- nipeg. thon again this year. Thirty-five registered walkers and another twenty-five family and friends did the VB GOLF CHALLENGE On walk. In excess of $50,000 was Saturday August 6th the The volunteers that made it all work included Don raised this year for the “Battle of the Sexes” took Bowles, Carla Gamble, Lila Goodspeed, Barb Morris, Foundation! on a new twist switching up Barb Oberding, Bruce Smith and Andrea Vincent. from last year's tennis, to Many thanks to all those golf at the VB Golf Club. who supported these Diane Eyford went head to efforts in any way! head against a rather inter- estingly attired John Hep- penstall. Both scratch golf- ers played right down to the wire in a sudden-death tie breaker. In the end the one wearing the skirt won… Congratulations John! Their Golf Challenge raised $2570 for the LAKE-A-THON and they had a lot of laughs and fun along the way.

Matlock group PARTY FOR WATER On Sunday July 31st our friends at Photo by Roberta Koscielny the Sandbar in Grand Beach/ Grand Marais hosted a new fundraiser. Close to $1900 was raised at this family Special thanks go to Susan Hadfield and Dave bar-b-que and social. Special thanks to Erin Keating and Oberding for their annual contribution with their Tyler Gray for planning and organizing a great party, “Hot Dog and Drink for a $3” special that they pro- delicious food, excellent prizes and family fun. Most vide after the walk. And thank you to Georgeanne importantly, this event raised awareness for the issues Schau of the Matlock Rec Centre for all her help. facing Lake Winnipeg and the efforts and projects of LWF in the Grand Marais/Grand Beach community. If anyone has questions, ideas, or just wants to help CONNAUGHT BEACH 800 m SWIM She’s at it again!!! us with the 2012 LAKE-A-THON Ella Carmichael reprised her 2010, eight hundred me- Gimli ~ Grindstone ~ Matlock ~ Victoria Beach tre swim as her Lake-a-Thon activity.. Ella, now age 87 please email [email protected] years young, easily completed the course twice on two If you have not yet received your tax receipt phone separate weekends. She was joined by fellow LWF members Bob McInnes and her grandchildren, Andrea (204) 275-6733 or email [email protected] for and Christiaan van Woudenberg. Congratulations, Ella further information … a number of receipts have on inspiring us to be active and involved. been returned because of changed or inaccurately recorded addresses!

Page 10 The Watershed Observer

2012 Photo Contest

Remember to have those cameras poised for the next con- test! The 2012 photo contest will be open for entries in September...details in the spring summer newsletter.

The categories will include:

 Summerscapes  Winterscapes  Recreation  Sunrise / Sunset  Weather Grand Prize Winner—2010  Wildlife on the Lake Category: Weather Photo by Marj Birley

“Lake Winnipeg storm swamps the pier at Victoria Beach” Projects Update (con’t from page 7)

. The U of M and students are monitoring / do- joins Cook’s Creek on its way to Lake Winnipeg. The ing thesis on the ‘Down the Drain’ project Edie Creek Retention Basin was built and operated by the R.M.of Springfield. . ‘Down the Drain’ will be featured at the ‘Sustainability: Educating for ACTion’ confer- Now completed, the retention basin controls the ence in 2012 flow of water from approximately 15 square kms, funneling it into a large dugout surrounded by a clay Janice Lukes, École St. Avila dike that releases water slowly when the threat of downstream flooding has passed. Its primary func- tion is to protect farmlands, homes and barns, as well as infrastructure downstream of the basin from spring runoff and rain flooding. Now nearly com- plete, the project proved its value this last spring as it slowed the runoff from the snowpack melt and heavy spring rains. During its planning stage, Ken Lucko, a council mem- ber of the R.M. of Springfield, approached Lake Win- nipeg Foundation with a vision of the project as more than a municipal earthworks: would we be interest- ed in helping to turn the quarter section of land around the retention basin into a full wetlands habi- St. Avila project tat? With what we have come to understand about the value of wetlands to the health of the watershed, Edie Creek Constructed Wetlands: we signed on with great interest. Its one thing to A Pilot Project Succeeds read about or study wetlands but something quite more wonderful to be involved in creating one. This engineered wetlands project is adjacent to High- way 12 and about 3.5 kms. south of the town of Anola, The site is composed of several features including 24 kms. east of Winnipeg. The water from Edie Creek Winter 2011-12 Page 11

large open fields to the north and west, full wood- white spruce trees were planted in the adjacent field lands further on the west and scrub on the south after this summer’s drought, to grow tall and become perimeter. The horseshoe-shaped retention basin part of the riparian ecosystem. All these plants, while scoops below the prairie level and is contained with- small now, will grow to take their place in natural in a clay dike on three sides, with a simple control wetlands management. device to release the water. Decrepit farm buildings Dry summer conditions delayed plantings until rain on the site were removed, their wells filled and the was predicted in the fall. Meanwhile the last hay crop land mechanically raked in preparation for planting. harvested from the fields adjacent will When we toured the site be donated to Interlake farmers who in October 2010, the are in serious need for their livestock. landscape was stark, raw and muddy, a wetlands Ken Lucko smiled ruefully as he sur- only in the imagination, veyed the site with me this October. The waterfowl have come and gone, Grand Prize Winner—2010 but a fully-functioning retention pond ready to the plants are tiny, the site still utterly Category: Weather Photo by Marj Birley handle the spring thaw. immature in its covers. But the poten- tial has been realized; the water is “Lake Winnipeg storm swamps the pier at One year later, Ken slowed and filtered, the habitat is de- Victoria Beach” proudly showed off all the features we had veloping and the animals have begun to made it their own. Five years from planned to bring the site Photo by Sheila Grover to life. In terms of habi- now, it will be a verdant wetlands as tat, to give nesting geese well as a functioning flood retention and ducks dry spots, earthen islands were ploughed basin. randomly within the basin dugout. Duck nesting box- Sheila Grover, es on steel posts are being installed to prevent rac- Education Chair, Lake Winnipeg Foundation coons from clambering up and stealing eggs in mid- Dead Horse Creek Update night raids. Amphibious and invertebrate creatures will migrate from nearby ditches and the persistent Lake Winnipeg Foundation joined several granting shriek of spring peepers will bloom here as early as and government agencies in funding a significant new next May. Mammals in abundance drink from the study, Dead Horse Creek Project, through the Univer- water in the basin, a small amount of which is re- sity of Winnipeg. The creek with its colourful name tained year-round; these include deer, fox, coyotes runs through agricultural lands around Morden, Win- and the odd wolf, as well as many smaller animals. kler and Plum Coulee in southern Manitoba before The food web will be enriched as the habitat devel- making its way to the Red River. These small munici- ops and diversity builds. palities use passive sewage treatment systems that are typical of many regions throughout the Lake Win- As for the water quality aspects of wetlands, the en- nipeg watershed, in both Canada and the United gineered ecosystem in Edie Creek Retention Basin States. Sewage is treated in a series of settling ponds, works much the same way a natural marsh does. called cells, where the solids sink and the effluent Water will be slowed in its headlong rush, detained make its way into ever-clearer cells before being dis- by riparian vegetation and marsh plants with deep charged into the creek. This discharge happens each roots that will reduce erosion while filtering out and spring, monitored by law, and again in the fall if re- holding nutrients and pollutants that would other- quired. Many municipalities discharge their lagoons wise enter the water system. Upon the dike, a robust in mid-June, after fish in the waterways have mix of prairie grasses including alfalfa, fescue and spawned, and it is this concentration that adds to the canary grasses has been seeded and will grow up and problem. fall over to provide both food and habitat, eventually naturalizing to become perennial forage and sending (Continued on page 12) roots deep into the prairie soil. And 40,000 tiny

Page 12 The Watershed Observer

Projects Updates (con’t from page 11)

Phase 1 of the Dead Horse Creek Study took place this er 2,4-D which runs off the cultivated areas, flushed per- summer, seeking to determine baseline data on the sonal care products and pharmaceuticals including a sur- discharge from these three communities, that is, moni- prising amount of carbamazene, an anti-convulsive drug. tor the chemicals, nutrients and dissolved greenhouse The antibiotics commonly used to treat bacterial infections gasses as well as the volume of the stream over the also pass into the waterways and indiscriminately kill off summer season. Using a series of 12 test points up- the helpful bacteria. stream and downstream of the three municipal la- Phase 2 of the Dead Horse Creek Project will focus on goons discharge points, sophisticated equipment was awareness of these findings, as well as more monitoring. used to collect the data over time on the particulate University of Winnipeg professor and team member Bill and dissolved material and gasses by the field staff. Buhay spoke at the Winnipeg Millennium Library recently Authentic field work this is, with researchers in hip about their summer season’s findings, and while it is not waders and standing in currents, frequently in water good, he observed that there are solutions to reduce this visibly soiled by the effluent, handling wet, costly sci- situation. Most significantly, we as citizens need to under- entific equipment. stand that wherever we are in the watershed, our behav- This season’s data revealed a number of factors. The iours affect water quality and we have the power to concentration of pollutants spiked considerably after a change things. Use less water so we don’t have to treat as common effluent discharge, the ratios tapering with much wastewater. Lake Friendly products, which endorse time and/or heavy rainfalls that dilute the toxins. The the Ecologo stamp, should be used not just at cottages Winkler lagoon aerates the sewage, which results in a around the lake but wherever we are. Don’t flush unused higher oxygen mix to precipitate much less methane. drugs, consider natural methods of fertilizing your proper- High levels of methane and nitrous oxide were found ty such as composting, and make sure that your elected in dissolved form, both of which are far more harmful representatives know your concerns. to the environment than the better-known carbon di- In the case of the Dead Horse Creek Project, Phase 3 is oxides recognized as culprits for harming the atmos- looking ahead to implementing possible solutions such as phere. As ammonia in the treated sewage quickly staggering the discharge of sewage lagoons along a water- changes into nitrates, oxygen is used up and anoxic way to reduce the shock, building sewage treatment wet- (dead zones) areas occur. Phosphorous washes off the lands and increasing community water stewardship. The cultivated fields into the creek and makes its way to creek studied here may be unique in the concentration Lake Winnipeg by August to feed the unwanted and combination of its harmful pollutants but the pattern growth of blue-green algae there. As well, there were is the same throughout any settled watershed. And we all a host of organic micropollutants including the fertiliz- have a positive role to play in helping the healing. ‘Securing Our Water Future,’ Manitoba’s part in a national discussion series

Robson Hall in the Faculty of Law at the University of Lake Winnipeg Watershed Initiative and Norm Brandson Manitoba on the 17th of October was the scene of sig- with the Forum for Leadership on Water. The discussion nificant discussion by experts on water management cast a bright light on some of the causes of the extensive issues drawn from leading Canadian and international damage and financial costs that floodwaters wreaked examples. The guest speakers included Bob Sandford, throughout Manitoba this past summer and prompted ex- EPCOR Chair of the Canadian Partnership Initiative in cellent questions from the floor as to what we can do as Support of United Nations’ ‘Water for Life Decade’, with citizens and organizations. local panelists Merrell-Ann Phare with the Centre for In addressing the issue of climate change adaptation and Indigenous Environmental Resources, Vicki Burns with (Continued on page 13) Winter 2011-12 Page 13

(Continued from page 12) ship strategy. While we already have some of the water governance, Bob Sandford launched the dis- platforms for this sort of collaboration existing in cussion by observing that any study of water in to- our watershed, there is much to be done. The day’s context raises the specter of unpredictable new provincial government gives the province of patterns within the hydrologic cycle where both Manitoba a fresh start in providing informed and drought and intense rainfall producing flooding were effective leadership in securing a water strategy evident within this very summer season. This varia- for all the affected watersheds. As water travels bility is likely to become greater in the future and as quickly across jurisdictions and boundaries, we we have just witnessed, will result in extensive and also the need the federal government to develop costly damage not just to public infrastructure such a national water strategy. Municipalities carry a as roads and bridges but to our entire built environ- significant burden in dealing with wastewater ment. Warming temperatures will affect water quali- outcomes while struggling with inadequate tax ty especially in areas dominated by lakes such as the structures. As private citizens, it is our role to extensive Lake Winnipeg watershed, capable of cre- bring this issue to the fore by making the water ating ‘atmospheric rivers’ that can overwhelm hu- management and security a priority for our elect- man systems while on their way to becoming the ed representatives of all levels of government. ‘new normal’. This unpredictability may threaten wa- Various organizations have policy roadmaps in ter quality as life’s vital force, making water security place or have the scientific data to assist policy- and management a crucial part of sensible adapta- makers in moving towards protection for this cru- tion. New governance structures will be essential to cial resource but what remains to be put in place counteract jurisdictional fragmentation and engen- are the public priority and political will. der a higher degree of effective collaboration. Water is a human right, a precious resource The panelists pointed to a new water policy govern- which must be safeguarded for today and future ance model recently adopted in the Northwest Terri- generations. The rapid deterioration of water tories that crossed federal, territorial and Aboriginal quality in the Lake Winnipeg watershed is a clear governments all with jurisdiction over water to make manifestation of this need for protection and the the kinds of reforms possible to meet the challenges valuing of water as a scarce and precious re- of climate change with an integrated water steward- source.

H OPE

Hope for Lake Winnipeg Is hope for all of us We must find solutions We have no choice It is our responsibility We are Stewards of the Earth She is our home We are tied to this ancient place We have no other place to go

~ Karen S.E. Stock SHIM team, August, 2011 Photo by Betty Jackson

Page 14 The Watershed Observer

Our Legacy … Fifty Ways to Improve the Lake!

With apologies to Paul Simon and to paraphrase that great hit song, “There must be fifty ways to leave your mark on Lake Winnipeg”. So the 3rd Floor, 303 Portage Ave. question is, what kind of lasting impact will you Winnipeg, MB R3B 2B4 choose? Will you pee out the back Jack or make A healthy lake and watershed now and for a new plan Stan? future generations. The Lake Winnipeg Foundation is committed to Membership Application* a vibrant and healthy Lake Winnipeg. This sim- ple statement reflects upon rivers, streams,  1 YR ($40) 2 YRS ($60)  Student ($15/YR) aquatic habitat, riparian areas and their ecosys- PLEASE PRINT tems, agricultural land, municipalities, cities and all the people that live within the watershed. As Name ______members of the Lake Winnipeg Foundation, we Address ______collectively, choose to leave a legacy of positive action and sustainable living to protect and City ______Prov/State ______maintain this great lake now and into future. Postal/Zip Code ______This is the vision we share and now is the time Email ______for advocacy and action and for plans and pro- jects. Home Phone ______What actions can we take to improve the water Cottage Address ______quality of Lake Winnipeg? Cottage Phone ______1. Use Lake Friendly and Ecologo products in Lake Winnipeg Foundation does not share any personal information. your homes and businesses. METHOD OF PAYMENT 2. Take hazardous chemicals to depots set up  Cash Cheque Money Order for safe disposal. 3. Return unused pharmaceuticals to the phar-  Visa  MasterCard macy. Do not flush them down the toilet. Card #______Expiry ____ /____ 4. Stop fertilizing lawns and gardens with prod- Name on Card ______ucts containing phosphorus. 5. Pick up pet waste. *Existing members will be sent a renewal notice prior 6. Maintain septic fields in good working con- to the expiration of their membership. dition. 7. Support projects to restore wetlands and (Office Use) Receipt No.______riparian areas along streams, rivers and around Membership Expiry Date ______lakes. 8. Declare to your elected officials that the

health of all lakes is an important issue.

Winter 2011-12 Page 15

Winter freeze-up and sunrise, western shore, November 2011 Photo by Bruce Smith

9. Lobby for sound practices in the area of sations not finger pointing discussions with wastewater treatment at the municipal level and in other concerned individuals. cities throughout the watershed. 18. Lead by example at home, at school 10. Buy rain barrels and use untreated/rainwater and in your work place. to water your gardens. 19. Make Lake Winnipeg a topic for discus- 11. Conserve water rather than wasting a precious sion at all political levels. resource. 20. When you feel the rain on your face 12. Lobby politicians for a national water policy. make a pledge to keep it pure enroute to 13. Renew your membership in LWF and support the lake. out fundraising efforts. Add your thoughts to this living list. 14. Give a membership in LWF as a present to a While writing this piece I realized that one or two individuals can go only so far but like minded friend. collectively as members of LWF we can ac- 15. Become inspired by reading Lakeland by Alan complish greater things. Please take a mo- Casey and share this wonderful book about Canadi- ment to think about your legacy and your an Lakes with friends and colleagues. ideas for Lake Winnipeg and send them to Teach a child to love the natural world in all 16. us. Together we can build a living list of seasons. action plans, big or small. Can we hit that 17. Educate yourself about best practices in land magic number of fifty ways to help this and water management and have positive conver- great lake? Yes we can.

Page 16 Winter 2011-12

THE WATERSHED OBSERVER

The Watershed Observer is a publication of the Lake Winnipeg Foundation, a registered Canadian Charity.

Established in 2005 with a mandate to actively promote the health of Lake Winnipeg, the foundation is dedicated to achieve this goal through support for research, public education, advocacy and management.

Board of Directors Karin Boyd, President Bruce Smith, Past / Vice President A Really Big Watershed! Catherine Salki, Secretary Bea Dabrowski, Treasurer Lake Winnipeg’s watershed (shown in Jesse Cringan Dick Dawson orange) is almost one million square kilo- Lila Goodspeed metres. Sheila Grover Bill McDonald Kristie Pearson When measured by surface area, it is the Alex Salki 10th largest freshwater lake in the world. Janet Sampson Millions of acres of productive agricultural Executive Director: Erin Keating cropland drain to the lake.

Lake Winnipeg Foundation Almost 7 million people live in the water- www.lakewinnipegfoundation.org 3rd Floor, 303 Portage Ave. shed plus several times more farm animals. Winnipeg, MB R3B 2B4 Volume 11, Winter 2011-12 Water drains into Lake Winnipeg from four The Watershed Observer Editor: provinces and four states. Katharine Walton

Printed on 100% recycled paper