Thursday, December 18, 2014

Charitable Donations - BC Lake Stewardship Society

Via the BC Lake Stewardship Society




Are you struggling with finding that perfect gift for the person that has everything? Or are you considering a donation to charity this year but aren't sure which one to choose? If so, please consider donating to the BC Lake Stewardship Society!

The BCLSS has charitable status and will provide tax-deductible receipts for any donations made to our organization. The BCLSS is currently facing an unstable financial future due to difficulties in securing core funding for basic office operations. The BCLSS Board of Directors and staff have been working tirelessly to seek funding in order to continue offering programs and valuable membership and sponsorship services, such as:
  • Publishing quarterly and monthly newsletters 
  • Hosting the annual conference 
  • Answering numerous lake and water quality related enquiries that come into the BCLSS office each week. 
Please consider helping the BCLSS by making a charitable donation to ensure that our worthwhile organization can continue to provide crucial training and support to concerned lake residents and volunteers, like you!

You can donate online at https://www.canadahelps.org/CharityProfilePage.aspx?CharityID=s51252 or by sending your donation via regular post to the BCLSS office:
#203 - 1889 Springfield Rd. KELOWNA, BC , V1Y 5V5

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Verity & Roger need homes

From Sonia Walczak...

We have 2 dogs left here at Animal Health Technology that need loving homes. Here is a little more information about them:

Verity


A beautiful Husky, Shepherd mix that is 1.5 yrs old. She needs a confident owner that has good dog skills. Verity is loving, loyal and bonds strongly with her person. She would thrive in a home where she gets lots of daily exercise (she LOVES to play fetch), car rides and interaction with other dogs. She does play exuberantly with other dogs and can be very vocal when playing and greeting other dogs due to her Husky breed. Verity is still learning how to interact with cats and she can be selective with her canine friends.

Roger


This handsome fellow is an affectionate & playful 2yr old Lab mix that likes to be hugged and gives lots of kisses. Roger has gotten along with many of the dogs that he meets. He would do well in a home that can provide him with lots of daily exercise and a consistent routine. Roger has really progressed with his obedience training here at TRU and is a joy to walk and play with! He is not compatible with cats and needs a confident owner that has good dog skills. Both dogs are available for adoption and have been spayed, neutered, fully vaccinated, dewormed, microchipped and tattooed for identification. Adoption fee is $75. If you know anyone that may be interested in these 2 wonderful dogs PLEASE forward this message.

We also have 4 wonderful kitties looking for homes. More information is available on the TRU Animal Health Technology website.

Sonia Walczak
RAHT, RVT
Lecturer
Animal Health Technology
Thompson Rivers University

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

BREAKING NEWS: RCMP searching for a man suspected to be armed and dangerous

UPDATE: Kamloops This Week
"As of 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 9, police said the suspect had been located deceased in his vehicle in an area near Lac Le Jeune Road. RCMP Cpl. Cheryl Bush said he died of a self-inflicted injury and that a firearm was located inside the vehicle."


The LLJ old highway is currently blocked off. Apparently RCMP are searching for a man with a gun. There are 7 RCMP vehicles in the area. Lock your doors.

This is the only news source I can find at the moment: http://www.cfjctv.com/story.php?id=22136

"The lockdown put in place at R.L. Clemitson Elementary School in Barnhartvale has been lifted, but RCMP are still searching for a suspect they consider armed and dangerous. School District Superintendent Karl de Bruijn says the situation was sparked by a threat made by the parent of a student at the school. Police locked the school down at about 2:20 p.m. out of an abundance of caution to ensure all students remained safe. They had information that the person who made the threat may have been in possession of a handgun. At around 4:00 p.m., police began to allow students to board their busses and go home with parents. At 4:30, Mounties say they located the suspect vehicle, a white 2007 GMC pickup truck, in the Lac le Jeune area. They were searching for the suspect and asking the public to stay away. Earlier, RCMP said the man associated to the vehicle is considered armed and dangerous."

Sunday, December 7, 2014

Mailboxes Issues

In case you didn't see this soggy letter from Canada Post, posted on the outside of our community mailboxes...  I wonder why they don't put their notices IN the mailboxes? :)

click to enlarge image

Friday, November 28, 2014

Housekeeping Services

The Merritt Time Savers are offering housekeeping services in Lac Le Jeune. Call for a free in-home estimate (250) 280-1199.


Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Three cougars spotted by mailbox

Kim Hammond just reported that she saw three cougars about 200 metres from the mailboxes. Kim is grateful that she was in her vehicle!

Cougars are solitary animals, so to see three together it was likely a mother with young. Cubs stay with the mother for up to 2 years.

If you see a cougar, stay calm and upright, face the animal and make eye contact, and keep your movements slow. Cougars avoid confrontation, so are inclined to move away from you.





Invitation: Environmental Assessment Process Workshops


Download a PDF announcement to print and post on bulletin boards.




The B.C. Environmental Assessment Office and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency are inviting the public to participate in workshops on the environmental assessment process on November 25 and 26, 2014 in Kamloops. The workshops will be a great opportunity to learn more about the environmental assessment process in B.C.

The workshops will answer questions like:

  • What happens in an environmental assessment?
  • How can the public participate?
  • What happens after an environmental assessment?

    At the workshops, participants will be able to speak directly with staff from both the B.C. Environmental Assessment Office and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency. There will also be opportunities to listen to presentations and ask questions.


    There will be three workshops held each day and participation will be on a first-come first-served basis.


    Where are the workshops being held?

    Kamloops Coast Hotel and Conference Centre 1250 Rogers Way in Kamloops, B.C.

    When are the workshops happening?

    Tuesday, November 25, 2014 and Wednesday, November 26, 2014 3:00 - 4:00 pm
    4:30 - 5:30 pm
    6:00 - 7:00 pm

    This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about environmental assessments. While the workshops will focus on the general environmental assessment process, anyone interested in getting information or asking questions about the proposed Ajax Project will be welcome to go down the hall to the Ballroom, where additional government staff and KGHM Ajax Inc. representatives will be happy to discuss the details of that particular project and its environmental assessment. For more information, please see www.eao.gov.bc.ca


    The B.C. Environmental Assessment Office and the Canadian Assessment Agency encourage anyone interested in the environmental assessment process to stop by, speak with staff, and get answers to their questions. See you there! 

Monday, November 10, 2014

Mid Term Summary of the Results of the Water Monitoring Program

Mid Term Summary of the Results of the Water Monitoring Program 
And Recommendations for Responsible On-going Management of Our Water Resources and Watershed
The water monitoring on October 26, 2014 will mark the date of the last sampling in the three year, level three study of water quality in Lac le Jeune (The Big Lake). There is one more year of sampling to be done on the Little Lake to complete the same level of study there. When this is completed, a full, comprehensive evaluation will be done on the accumulated information for both lakes. 
A more current evaluation for the Big Lake will be carried out as soon as the laboratory analysis of the most recently submitted water samples is available. 
A tentative evaluation of data received after approximately a year and a half of monitoring (a mid-term evaluation) yielded contradictory results* when comparison was made with accepted, standard, tables. Nutrient levels of phosphates, and nitrates were high enough to indicate that both lakes were already into the Eutrophic stage, while Secchi depth readings and the levels of algae growth (phytoplankton) were indicative of a lake that is in the latter stage of oligotrophic evolution. 
For clarification, lakes fall into three well defined categories: Oligotrophic, Mesotrophic, and Eutrophic. Lakes evolve through these three stages at a rate that is dependent upon the environment in which they are located. For example, if a lake arose as a result of glaciation at a high altitude, within a water-shed composed of bare rock the process will be much slower than one which arose through glaciation but is situated at a low altitude surrounded by rich agricultural land. The definitions are: 
Oligotrophic:
a. deep, frequently cold, low in nutrients and therefore unable to support significant growth of the algae and phytoplankton that are necessary to maintain a good fishery. These lakes are often called “young” but may be very old and if they are glacial lakes may stay for prolonged periods in the Oligotrophic phase.
Mesotrophic:
b. Often said to be in mid-life. These have higher levels of nutrients, support a moderate growth level of algae and phytoplankton and therefore are able to maintain a greater fish and animal population. They are in the process of gradual infilling from both sedimentation and lateral growth of marsh. 
Modifications were made to the sampling method as the anomalous results were thought to be the result of sampling at the wrong points in the water profile.
Eutrophic:
c. The last phase of a lakes life span. Eutrophic lakes are characterised by heavy growth of aquatic plants, algae and phytoplankton commensurate with high levels of nutrient. Infilling has made these lakes shallow, water warms and cools quickly. The heavy level of growth renders these lakes subject anoxia and therefore winter kill.
Ideally, the final results of our monitoring program will make it possible to define where in the evolutionary progression our Big and Little Lac Le Jeune stand and will provide a base line of information against which future monitoring results may be compared. Doing periodic monitoring in the future will allow us to more quickly recognize undesirable changes and to react to them more quickly and effectively. 
The responsibilities of our community to the maintenance of water quality:
Irrespective of what the final analysis of our study shows, we as a community have a vested interest in managing our water shed and lake in a manner that is most likely to keep them in the best condition possible.
There are a number of simple things we can do to achieve this:
1. Limit the use of fertilizers used on our properties. Green lawns and flower gardens look great but can be a source of added nutrient when rain and domestic watering flush excess phosphates, nitrates and potassium into the lake.
2 Limit the use of pesticides and herbicides as much as possible as many of these are long lived pollutants that have disastrous effects on the environment.  
3. Limit domestic and garden use of water as much as possible. This will lengthen the life span of septic systems and reduce the potential for run off into either the ground water or lake. 
4.Maintain septic systems and holding tanks in good condition. Have aging systems inspected and replace them before they become a problem.
5. Use de-icing salt sparingly. 
6. Where possible replace two cycle gas outboard motors with low polluting four cycle outboards or use electric motors where feasible. 
7. Use watercraft responsibly: maintain speeds that minimize wake, clean boats according to appropriate protocol when transporting water craft to and from different lakes. 
8. Where possible use washing machines and dishwashers that minimize water use and use only non- phosphate detergents. 
9. When constructing docks use only non-toxic materials.
10. Report any observed threat to our environment to appropriate authorities or our Conservation Society. 
Remember, the evolution of lakes from the oligotrophic to the eutrophic state is a natural and continuous process but we can do much to reduce the rate at which it occurs by being responsible stewards of our environment.  
Hugh Burton

Friday, November 7, 2014

Overlander Ski Club -- Registration is now open!

It's time to register for the 2014-2015 ski season! Earlybird rates end November 15. Season trail passes include skiing and snowshoeing. There is a full instructional program as well.

Check it out on the new and improved Overland Ski Club website!

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

TNRD Director Election

Ron McGivern is running for the position of Director, Area J, TNRD. He is very open to any questions or concerns you may have. Ron can be reached at ronaldmc@telus.net or call 250-374-5637.

 TNRD Director Election Voting Opportunities: 

 · ADVANCED VOTING DAY 
Wednesday, November 5th; 8:00am – 8:00pm Location: TNRD Office, 4th Floor 465 Victoria Street, Kamloops (Above the library)

 · ADDITIONAL VOTING DAY 
Wednesday, November 12th; 8:00am – 8:00pm Location: TNRD Office, 4th Floor 465 Victoria Street, Kamloops, (Above the Library)

 · GENERAL VOTING DAY 
Saturday, November 15th ; 8:00am – 8:00pm

AREA J Locations:
  •  Burns Residence, 3737 Ridgemont Drive, Lac Le Jeune 
  •  Ohm Residence, 5849 Buckhorn Road, Cherry Creek 
  •  Savona Seniors Centre, 6625 Savona Access Road, Savona 
  •  Best Residence, 9652 Meadow Road, Tranquille Valley 
  •  District of Logan Lake Fire Hall, 1 Opal Drive, Logan Lake
 · YES! YOU CAN VOTE BY MAIL THIS ELECTION! MAIL IN VOTER APPLICATION HERE:
Vote by Mail Application (PDF)

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

Minutes: LLJCA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - September 14, 2014

This document is available for viewing and download in our Files section. Here is a direct link.

LAC LE JEUNE CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
SEPTEMBER 14, 2014


1. Approval of the AGM Minutes of September 1, 2013

Moved by Howie Mattfeld, seconded Hugh Burton.

2. President’s Report – David Wyse

David Wyse thanked Warren Trousdell for the use of his workshop facility to host the 2014 LLJCA Annual General Meeting. He then summarized key events and plans, and acknowledged individuals who have contributed (including birds!) to LLJCA programs:

  • The lake monitoring program is nearing the completion of its third year on the big lake and its second year on the little lake. Thank you to the monitors: Bob Brown, Hugh Burton, Clay Govett,  Dick Holmes, Gord Jarrett, John Krawchuk, Howie Mattfeld, Phil Park, Jeff Perry, Jim Phillips, Al Schock, Casey Sheridan, Colleen Sherwood and David Wyse.
  • British Columbia Institute of Technology Lake technology students, as part of an annual program which selects one interior lake each spring, will be examining and reporting on aspects of Lac Le Jeune that we don’t look at in our own lake monitoring program. This examination of the lake will occur in March, 2015 and we will be provided with an in-depth report on the health of our lake.
  • Ronaye Elliott, our Area J TNRD representative, provided funding to replace the oxygen sensor in our lake probe.
  • The Red Winged Blackbirds fortuitously appeared at Lac Le Jeune on February 22nd, 2014, the day that we held our Red Winged Blackbird Social. This event was a sold-out success.
  • A letter was written to the TNRD expressing concern about the horses that will be allowed in the new development.
  • John Krawchuk arranged for a danger tree assessment on the Gus Johnson trail. John will continue to meet with appropriate ministries re this concern.
  • Dr. Muriel Whittaker generously donated to our association to help us further our objectives.
  • Our lake monitoring program is the third step in a five-step process. The fourth step is the development of a lake management plan. The fifth step is the development of a watershed management plan.
  • Our contact at the Ministry of the Environment (Marge Sidney) referred David to Debra Epps who works out of Nanaimo. Debra sent David a number of lake management plans that have been developed for some of the lakes on Vancouver Island. Debra and Marge agreed that Lac Le Jeune would be an ideal lake to be the first in the province to develop a watershed management plan. This possibility was discussed at an executive level and it was agreed that we should pursue it. Bob Brown and David met with TNRD and MOE representatives in early April, 2014 and in that meeting identified around 25 groups, individuals, ministries, etc. that should be contacted to become involved in the development of a watershed plan. At that first meeting, they also identified a process that we should use to bring the interested parties together for an initial meeting. They agreed that we should have the initial meeting chaired by a person with no connection to any of the interested parties. Shortly after this meeting, David contacted the person in charge of the Fraser River basin who agreed to chair the initial LLJ watershed meeting. Unfortunately, right after this, David began to experience some health issues and made the decision to not let his name stand again as President. He does not want to begin a process that he was not going to be able to be part of finishing, and is leaving it to the new executive to decide how they want to proceed. David believes that a watershed plan is the right way to go but recognizes that it will take a lot of time to guide it through.
  • Thank you to those who are letting their names stand for the new executive.
3. Treasurer’s Report – Corinne Schock

Corinne Schock referred to the report that was circulated. There were a few more expenses this year than last. She noted that the budget year does not line up with the calendar year of the scheduling of the AGM.

Moved to adopt the Treasurer’s Report as circulated. Seconded by Jim Phillips.

4. RCMP report – Cpl. Kathleen Thain

Kathleen Thain provided an update on events and trends during the past year, and responded to questions. Main points:

  • Due to medical leave there are only 2 members in the Logan Lake RCMP Detachment. They have received great support from the Merritt detachment.
  • Kathleen asked that we continue to submit reports as that is the best way to deal with issues such as speeding.
  • RCMP response times to seem to be the same as last year. There are fewer callouts so far this year (63 last year, this year 1/3 of that)).
  • The speed limit change to 120 km on Highway 5 was done without consultation. Concerns should be directed to local MP.
  • Alcohol related crashes are down
  • Logan Lake RCMP now have ATVs and are identified by yellow jacket uniforms
  • Kathleen acknowledged Ken McPherson for his assistance in locating a lost hiker who would otherwise have been out all night. This is a great example of community assistance; Ken is very familiar with the area was able to assist using his own ATV.
  • There are concerns about garbage on the old highway, including beer cans. RCMP can ticket based on witness statements. Record plate number, location and time of day.
  • Noted the new signs by mailboxes indicating that Lac Le Jeune is a Citizens on Patrol community.
5. Citizens on Patrol – Carolyn Chandler

Carolyn Chandler and Colleen Krawchuck are currently volunteering for the Citizens on Patrol program. Carolyn described the duties and activities over the past year, and was enthusiastic about the positive impact of the program in our community. They began doing local patrols in January, 2014 – two times per month. It is a process of getting to know the neighbourhood, and to notice what is normal and what appears unusual. Additional volunteers are needed.

6. Lake Monitoring Program – Marg Sidney/Hugh Burton

Hugh expanded on David’s report regarding lake monitoring and the British Columbia Institute of Technology involvement. We do some of this data collection and research already, but the BCIT program is more intensive and they collect more information. The program is currently underway at Logan Lake.

We are currently at the 3rd level of lake monitoring; the 5th level is watershed management. There has never been a full watershed management plan done.

Hugh noted that we have changed sampling parameters, so it would be best to extend sampling so that we have at last 3 years of consistent data. The new LLJCA Executive Committee will need to decide if we want to proceed along this line. Funding is available.

Additional volunteers are needed for the Lake Monitoring Program. Hugh plans to contact the Thompson Rivers University biology department to see if there is interest in becoming involved.

Hugh thanked those who have contributed to the project over the years.

7. Discussion Topic (LLJCA mandate and non-stewardship issues)

This question regarding the need to amend the constitution to allow the LLJCA executive to act on behalf of the community regarding issues of common interest or concern was discussed. It was noted that there are liability costs associated with establishing a Community Association, and a new or expanded mandate would mean dealing with many more issues. At present LLJCA is tasked mainly with maintaining contact lists, acting as a contact point for community related updates and enquires, and disseminating information of interest to all residents. It was decided that the Conservation Association should continue to work in that capacity, and the question will be revisited if new concerns emerge.

8. Ajax Mine Citizen Advisory Committee

The Lac Le Jeune representative position is vacant. Corinne Schock will follow up with Brenda Phillips who might be willing serve on this committee.

9. TNRD Area J report – Ronaye Elliot

Ronaye reported on events in area J, namely the process Savona is undergoing to renew and maintain the public dock and park, waste management in Tranquille Valley, and discussions regarding dangerous dog bylaws in other areas. There was nothing reported about Lac Le Jeune specifically.

10. Elections

Several Area Representatives were willing to continue in their positions. Elections were held for the remaining positions. The 2014-2015 Executive Committee is as follows:

President  – Corinne Schock
Vice President  – Cynthia Swain
Treasurer  – Carolyn Chandler
Secretary – Sylvia Currie

Area Representatives

Lac Le Jeune Drive East – vacant (Jacquie Brugger will follow up)
Old Town Site – Jacquie Brugger/ Pat Burton (shared position)
Little Lake – Jenny Perry
Lookout Road – Jim Phillips (replacing Pam Sheridan)
Lower Subdivision – John Krawchuk
Upper Subdivision – Howie Mattfeld

Meeting adjourned at 12:50.


Thursday, September 18, 2014

Suspicious activity on Lac Le Jeune Road

UPDATE: Excellent news! This turned out to be nothing to worry about. It was a neighbour returning from a late night shift and was placing a borrowed item on the deck.

This report is from Kecia Turunen:

Last night at about 1:30 am we were woken up by our dogs frantically barking out the front window. A second later our porch motion detector light turned on. Thinking it was a bear or other animal we went to investigate only to discover someone get into a waiting vehicle at the end of our driveway. RCMP were notified. The car sounded like a manual 4 cylinder with a rattling exhaust.

Keep vigilant everyone.

Saturday, September 13, 2014

Found kitty

UPDATE: The kitty is now back at home on Osprey

A sweet little grey tabby cat has been hanging around Marmot Street. She seems frightened, and like she would prefer to be inside.

If you know who this kitty belongs to please call Coleen at (250) 828-0185.

Prep for LLJCA AGM


Chair In Sky by Nicki Varkevisser 
1. Bring a chair

2. Bring a mug if you think of it. We'll have disposable cups, too.

3. Read the minutes from the 2013 AGM, and print out if you want your own copy. The balance statement is a separate document. Printed copies of the 2014 AGM Agenda will be available at the meeting.

4. Bring $10 for membership fees (for new application, or renewals if applicable)

See you Sunday, September 14th at 11:00 a.m. at 5865 Lac Le Jeune Road.



Friday, September 12, 2014

Cougar in the neighbourhood

This afternoon around 4:30 p.m. Dave Falcon was on the trails with his mountain bike and dog, Ukie, at the end of Lac Le Jeune Road near the pond. Dave stopped to clear some branches when Ukie began to bark. At first he assumed there was a calf on the trail, since cattle are often found grazing in that area. However, the dog's bark became frantic, then Dave saw something moving in his direction approximately 20 metres away. It was a large cougar, with ears pinned back.

Dave attempted to call Ukie but there was a flurry of activity and loud noises, then silence. Assuming that Ukie did not win the struggle, and for his own safety, Dave left the area. Back home he was telling the story to his neighbour when who runs down the street? Ukie!

Ukie is at home resting, with no apparent injuries. It's a complete mystery how he survived the encounter.

This isn't Ukie, but is a reasonable facsimile, and probably what she is doing right now!

We're so happy about the END of this story! Meanwhile, keep your pets and kids safe. Dave has contacted the Conservation Officer Service.

Here is an excerpt from the Safety Guide to Cougars from the BC Ministry of Environment website:


If you meet a cougar:
  • Never approach a cougar. Although cougars will normally avoid a confrontation, all cougars are unpredictable. Cougars feeding on a kill may be dangerous.
  • Always give a cougar an avenue of escape.
  • Stay calm. Talk to the cougar in a confident voice.
  • Pick all children up off the ground immediately. Children frighten easily and their rapid movements may provoke an attack.
  • Do not run. Try to back away from the cougar slowly. Sudden movement or flight may trigger an instinctive attack.
  • Do not turn your back on the cougar. Face the cougar and remain upright.
  • Do all you can to enlarge your image. Don't crouch down or try to hide. Pick up sticks or branches and wave them about.
If a cougar behaves aggressively:
Cougar
  • Arm yourself with a large stick, throw rocks, speak loudly and firmly. Convince the cougar that you are a threat not prey.
  • If a cougar attacks, fight back! Many people have survived cougar attacks by fighting back with anything, including rocks, sticks, bare fists, and fishing poles.
Cougars are a vital part of our diverse wildlife. Seeing a cougar should be an exciting and rewarding experience, with both you and the cougar coming away unharmed. However, if you do experience a confrontation with a cougar or feel threatened by one, immediately inform the nearest office of the Conservation Officer service.

Monday, September 8, 2014

Injured hawk

Do you know someone with expertise in capturing injured birds? There is an injured hawk at the Meadow Creek Golf Club in Logan Lake. The Wildlife Park in Kamloops will take the bird if someone is able to capture it.

Via Carolyn Chandler

Cougar - Logan Lake

Conservation Officers are advising Logan Lake residents and visitors to keep an eye out for a cougar. The cougar has been spotted near the golf course and campground, and is coming unusually close to people.

Cougar closeup.jpg

"Cougar closeup" by Art G. - originally posted to Flickr as Those Eyes. Licensed under CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

Thanks to Carolyn Chandler for the heads up!

Saturday, September 6, 2014

~ REMINDER!~

The Lac Le Jeune Conservation Association Annual General Meeting will be held on Sunday, September 14 at 11:00 AM. The location is 5865 Lac Le Jeune Road (at the top of the hill,the first driveway to the right just past Heron Road). This is the same location as last year's meeting. Hope to see all of you there!


Thursday, August 28, 2014

Western Gall Rust

Lodgepole pine with multiple galls.
Old stem gall. Note rough surface of bark.
Symptoms resulting from complete girdling.
Infections on stems of young trees often result in hip cankers as the trees grow.

Do any of these images look familiar to you? You may have pine trees invested with Western Gall Rust. Kathy Wyse contacted the Ministry of Forests to ask about this problem, and was advised that this is a common health issue in young pine. Galls on the main stem will girdle the tree and kill it.

What can you do about it?

  • Cut off and burn all galls that are on branches. This will reduce the spread on your own trees, but keep in mind that spores travel several kilometres. 
  • Cut off the main stem below the gall and burn the tops. The tree will then grow like a bush, but it will live. 

If we all check the trees in our yards and do what is recommended, it could save some of our young trees.

From the Ministry of Forests and Range website:

Distribution: Throughout B.C. Host 
Susceptibility: Highly susceptible species are lodgepole and ponderosa pine. 
Signs & Symptoms: Western gall rust produces round woody swellings on stems and branches. Orange spores are produced on galls in late spring. These spores directly infect other pines through elongating leaders and branch shoots. Suitable climatic conditions that occur every few years result in "wave years" of infection. The fungus is an obligate parasite and remains alive as long as the host branch or stem. However, infections stop releasing spores after about age 10. Most stem infections occur below a height of 3 m. Hip cankers result in distorted growth from partial stem girdling. Infected bark can be fed upon by squirrels.  
Damage: Western gall rust is very common throughout the range of lodgepole pine. Stem galls often lead to mortality either through girdling or through stem breakage. Branch galls do not cause serious harm. The disease is usually more evenly distributed throughout stands than blister rusts, which require an alternate host. 
Can Be Confused With: Small galls can be confused with Comandra infections, particularly when spores are present. Gall rust produces distinct woody swellings while blister rusts do not.
Thank you, Kathy Wyse, for looking into this!

Photos from Forest Practices Branch, Ministry of Forests and Range.

Monday, August 25, 2014

Missing: 3 Black Labs

UPDATE: Good news. The dogs were found by some people out geocaching near Knutsford -- quite a few kilometres from home! They are a little tired but in good shape.

Have you seen black Labrador Retrievers in your neighbourhood or on the trails?

They escaped from Ken and Gina Mcpherson's yard on Osprey Road this morning around 9am and have not yet returned home.

If there have been any sightings please phone Ken - 250-819-2023 or Gina 250-819-0656. These phone numbers are also on the dogs' tags.

Thank you so much for your assistance locating them.


Thursday, August 14, 2014

Western Toads

Thanks, Sonia Walczak, for alerting us that the Western Toad migration has begun!



These little guys migrate across Lac Le Jeune Road, starting around the Michell Ranch for about 1 km south, every mid to late August. The migration takes a few days.

If all residents took the Coquihalla during these few days there would be many less toads being killed on the road as they cross. They are so small right now I’m sure many people don’t even notice them on the road.

Today I saw 2 biologists meeting with the Ministry of Transportation to see if we can build a culvert for the toads to use to cross the road.

Western Toads are on the provincial Yellow List, and are considered a species of conservation concern!
Visit the “frogwatch” website for more information.

Tuesday, August 5, 2014

RCMP News Release


news release

FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION

File Number: 2014-428

Summary: Break and Enter to a residence August 2, 2014

In the early morning hours of August 2, 2014, a residence in Logan Lake had its front door broken into with a lot of force, causing significant damage to the door jam and frame.

Unknown person(s) entered the residence where an elderly couple were sleeping and unaware. Nothing was taken from the residence and only a light was left on in the dining area of the residence.

A person of interest was described as being observed in the immediate area at approximately 6 AM and police are interested in identifying the male and speaking with him. It is unknown of the male's involvement, but he was descibed as a white male, 5'10" - 6' tall, between 17-25 years of age wearing beige pants, white camoflage shirt and a ball cap.

If anyone has any information that could lead to the identity of these suspects or vehicles please contact the Logan Lake RCMP at 250-523-6222 or Crimestoppers at 1(800) 222-(TIPS) 8477.

Respectfully,

Cpl. K. THAIN 
Logan Lake RCMP 
250-523-6222 

Monday, August 4, 2014

Dog found in lake

I just received this information, and will update this post if we receive a description of the dog or further news.

UPDATE: The dog is mid-large and brown. She is recovering nicely, and in very good hands with Dawn.

UPDATE #2:  Happy ending! The dog has been reunited with her family -- Kim and Clay on Marmot.


A dog was found in the middle of the lake today. She was exhausted and hungry. She barely kept her head up as she swam in, and seemed disoriented when she got out.

 The dog is currently with Dawn Killough in Kamloops 250-573-3755

Saturday, August 2, 2014

Hold the date

https://flic.kr/p/Dmr74
The Lac Le Jeune Conservation Association Annual General Meeting will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2014. Location and time to come.

Draft Agenda


  1. Approval of AGM minutes of September 1, 2013 
  2. President's Report
  3. Treasurer's Report
  4. TNRD Representative Report
  5. Citizens On Patrol Report
  6. RCMP Report
  7. Discussion Topic
  8. Lake Monitoring Program Report
  9. Ajax Mine Citizen Advisory Committee Representative
  10. Elections



Monday, July 28, 2014

The curious moose

Hana and Miro Struss sat quietly in their truck to watch a cow and calf moose. The mom left the scene, then the calf followed, but not before getting a good look at the photographer :)







Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Enjoy


In contrast to the post earlier this week showing the devastation caused by a group irresponsible individuals, this is what you'll find if you wander down the Gus Johnson trail a little further. A beautiful bench made by John Krawchuck. 

Monday, July 14, 2014

Who does stuff like this?

LOCATION: Big Bay (on the beach with the bench)

DATE: During the weekend -- July 12 and/or 13

FOUND: Save On shopping bag (fabric, new), several empty zip lock bags, aluminum foil, beer cans and bottles, Johnsonville weiners, cigarette butts, folding camping chair, roasting fork.







What you don't see in this collection of images is the photo of the campfire site -- the same location that has been used in the past few weeks. These individuals might be interested in this:
Anyone who causes a wildfire through arson or recklessness may be fined up to $1 million, spend up to three years in prison and be held accountable for associated firefighting costs.
We're watching you.

Campfire Ban

Campfires to be banned within the Kamloops Fire Centre

Effective at noon on Wednesday, July 16, all campfires will be prohibited throughout the entire Kamloops Fire Centre.
This prohibition will remain in place until the public is notified that it has been rescinded. A map of the area covered by the campfire ban is available online here:See a map

This step is being taken to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety. The fire danger rating is currently "high" throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre, with scattered pockets of "extreme".

With the current trend of warm and dry weather, wildfires in the region have displayed very aggressive behaviour and required additional fire suppression resources. Human-caused wildfires can divert critical resources and crews from responding to naturally occurring wildfires.

Open burning is also prohibited throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre. This prohibition applies to open fires of any size, fires with a burn registration number, industrial burning, fireworks, tiki torches, sky lanterns and burning barrels. The prohibition does not apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes, or to a portable campfire apparatus with a CSA or ULC rating that uses briquettes, liquid or gaseous fuel, as long as the height of the flame is less than 15 centimetres.

The open burning prohibition covers all BC Parks, Crown and private lands, but does not apply within the boundaries of local governments that have forest fire prevention bylaws and are serviced by a fire department. Please check with local governments for any other restrictions before lighting a fire.

Anyone found in violation of an open fire ban, including campfires, may be issued a ticket for up to $345. Anyone who causes a wildfire through arson or recklessness may be fined up to $1 million, spend up to three years in prison and be held accountable for associated firefighting costs.

To report a violation of the campfire ban within the Kamloops Fire Centre, please call 1 844 NRO-TIPS (1 844 676-8477) or fill out the reporting form at: www.for.gov.bc.ca/hen/nrv/

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call 1 800 663-5555 or #5555 on your cellphone.

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, go to: www.bcwildfire.ca

You can also follow the latest wildfire news --

On Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
On Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Friday, July 11, 2014

Wildfire Management Branch: News Release

Drying trend increases risks in Kamloops Fire Centre

KAMLOOPS - The weather in the Kamloops Fire Centre will remain hot and dry for the next seven to 10 days. This increases the potential for wildfires to ignite in a region that's already seeing high temperatures and little precipitation.

Due to these conditions, several areas of the Kamloops Fire Centre are experiencing an "extreme" fire danger rating, with the remainder of the region rated as "moderate" to "high".

So far this year in the Kamloops Fire Centre, the Wildfire Management Branch has responded to 123 wildfires that have burned over 349 hectares. There are currently over 295 personnel fighting wildfires in the province and 60 of them are working on the 14 active fires in the Kamloops Fire Centre.

Current open fire prohibitions for the Kamloops Fire Centre can be viewed online here. Updates on any bans and restrictions will be posted on this site throughout the summer.

Since the rest of the province is experiencing similar weather conditions, these fires serve as reminders to everyone to be extremely cautious and vigilant when carrying out industrial activities. Industry personnel need to pay particular attention to the Fire Danger Class rating for their operating area, available at: this link

They should also ensure that they use the appropriate weather station data for the area where they are operating and adhere to the shutdown formulas outlined in the Restrictions on High Risk Activities, available online at: this link

Remember that if you see or cause a wildfire, you have an obligation to report it, take action with available resources and extinguish it if it's practicable to do so. Please ensure that you carry out industrial operations in accordance with the Wildfire Act and Wildfire Regulation.

The Wildfire Management Branch appreciates the continued efforts and co-operation of the forest industry and other stakeholders regarding fire prevention and reporting.

This bulletin in provided for general information only and is not to be used for operational planning or to make operational decisions. More information about wildfires in B.C. is available at: www.bcwildfire.ca

To report a wildfire, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on your cellphone. 

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Monday, July 7, 2014

Goose Lake

"Honkers" by Gerry
This recent blog post — whither Goose Lake Road? — by Mel Rothenburger includes some interesting history on the Goose Lake area.

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Campfires

A reminder about campfires from the BC Wildfire Management Branch:


Photo https://flic.kr/p/a6LxKd
Although large-scale open burning is now prohibited in many regions of the province, small and
contained campfires are currently permitted in all six of B.C.'s fire centres. Detailed information
about burning restrictions in B.C. are available on the Wildfire Management Branch website here.

Here's some important information about campfire use:

- Always find out if any burning prohibitions are in effect. Check the Wildfire Management
Branch website at: www.bcwildfire.ca
- If campfires are allowed in your area, bring a shovel or keep at least eight litres of water
nearby to properly extinguish your campfire.
- Campfires cannot be larger than 0.5 metres in height and 0.5 metres in diameter.
- Do not light a campfire or keep it burning in windy conditions. Weather can change
quickly and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material and start new fires.
- You must maintain a one-metre fireguard around the campfire. This is a fuel-free area
where all flammable materials (grass, kindling, etc.) have been removed.
- Never leave a campfire unattended.
- Make sure that the campfire is completely extinguished and the ashes are cold to the
touch before leaving the area for any length of time. Also ensure that cigarette butts are
properly extinguished and are not tossed away carelessly.
- You may be held accountable for damages and fire suppression costs if your negligence
results in a wildfire.

So far this season, the Wildfire Management Branch has responded to over 300 wildfires, the
vast majority of which were caused by people. Every human-caused fire is preventable.

This time of year, before wildfire risks increase significantly throughout the province, is an ideal
time for individual homeowners and communities to take simple steps to reduce the potential
impacts of wildfire. Be proactive, be practical and be FireSmart. More information about fire
prevention and the FireSmart program can be found online here.

Sunday, June 29, 2014

Mailboxes Broken Into


The Lac Le Jeune mailboxes were broken into -- this time Unit 9. The RCMP have been notified. Thanks to Carolyn Phillips for the update and photo.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Citizens On Patrol Update: Wildfire

Carolyn Chandler and Colleen Krawchuk are the Citizens on Patrol (COP) representatives for Lac Le Jeune. In one of their reports to the RCMP they mentioned the tree/ dead wood debris throughout the neighbourhood, on Crown lands, park, private & vacant lots etc. This is a serious fire trap, in part due to the beetle and, in other cases, just dead tree debris.

The RCMP agree & have passed the information on to Forestry. Hugh Murdoch at Forestry contacted Carolyn to say that he will start to gather information that may be useful to the community. Hugh mentioned the bcwildfire.ca website, which has links to advice for fire smarting your home & property & fuel management. He also said he would involve the regional district & perhaps we would like to consider a community meeting to review what we should all be doing to manage this risk. There are many new residents who were not here at the time of the Frog Lake fire, 1994 or earlier fires.

This proposed gathering could be part of the Lac Le Jeune Conservation Association Annual General Meeting (yet to be scheduled) or a separate event. At this point this is just a heads up, so if you have suggestions please post comments.

Many thanks to Carolyn Chandler and Colleen Krawchuck for your continued work with the Citizens On Patrol project!

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Lively Community Garage Sale!



Lots of action during the June 21 garage sale on the weekend! First time I've ever seen traffic jams on Lookout Road. This little sweetie told me that a really nice lady gave her these wings for keeps. :-)

It seems our Kijiji listing mentioned a 6:00 a.m. start. I guess when I added the details I was working in a different time zone. What can I say? 

Thanks to everyone who helped out. If you see any fading signs or shrinking balloons around the neighbourhood please dispose of them.  



Monday, June 16, 2014

Open fire prohibition set for Kamloops Fire Centre

Open fire prohibition set for Kamloops Fire Centre

Effective at noon on Sunday, June 15, 2014, the current open burning ban will be expanded throughout the entire Kamloops Fire Centre to include the Salmon Arm Fire Zone and Clearwater Fire Zone. This is to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect the public.
Anyone planning to light a Category 2 or Category 3 fire in the Salmon Arm Fire Zone or Clearwater Fire Zone must extinguish it by noon on June 15.

This prohibition will remain in place in the Clearwater Fire Zone and Salmon Arm Fire Zone for elevations above 1,200 metres until Sept. 15, 2014. For all other elevations in those zones, this prohibition will remain in place until Oct. 1, 2014.

This prohibition will remain in place in the Kamloops, Vernon, Penticton, Merritt and Lillooet fire zones until Oct. 15, 2014, or until the public is informed otherwise.

A map of the affected areas is available online at: See a map

Specifically, this open fire prohibition applies to:

- The burning of any waste, slash or other materials.
- The burning of stubble or grass.
- The use of fireworks, sky lanterns or burning barrels of any size or description.

This prohibition does not ban campfires that are a half-metre high by a half-metre wide (or smaller) and does not apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes.

This prohibition covers all BC Parks, Crown lands and private lands, but it does not apply within the boundaries of a local government that has forest fire prevention bylaws in place and is serviced by a fire department. Before lighting any fire, residents should check with local civic authorities regarding any current prohibitions.

The Kamloops Fire Centre stretches from the northern border of Wells Gray Park to the U.S. border to the south, and from the Bridge River Glacier west of Gold Bridge to the Monashee Mountains east of Lumby.

For information about open burning and tips on making responsible burning decisions, please download one of the open burning guides at: See a guide

Anyone found in contravention of an open fire prohibition may be issued a ticket for $345 or, if convicted in court, may be fined up to $100,000 and sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person may be subject to a penalty of up to $10,000 and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call *5555 on your cellphone or call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free.

Media Contacts:

Kayla Pepper
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Kamloops Fire Centre
250 554-5530

Kelsey Winter
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Kamloops Fire Centre
250 554-5964
Fire Centre Bulletin 2136