Editorial
Everyone recalls their favourite lake when growing up. Fishing with dad, laying on the beach getting sunburned, waterskiing for the first time . . . it was paradise.
Today, no one can deny that Lake Windermere is a recreational gem, not to mention an ecological haven for wildlife.
Wikipedia says it was once known as Lower Columbia Lake, with an average depth of 15 feet (4.6 metres). It was apparently given its current name by a G.M. Sproat in 1902 because it resembled Lake Windermere in Cumbria, England.
At 17.7 km (10.5 miles) in length, our Lake Windermere is one of the largest lakes in the Kootenays.
But like all lakes, many people take it for granted, rarely thinking about its health and the impact they are having on its values.
A survey released by the Lake Windermere Ambassadors has uncovered several concerns regarding the lake’s capacity to accommodate all of its recreational uses. Respondents revealed a “strong preference” for non-motorized activities, with some saying there should be a restriction on the number of boats allowed on the lake (due to safety concerns). Quite a number (48 per cent) of survey respondents indicated they often feel unsafe on the water.
The Columbia Valley RCMP is called out quite regularly to deal with watercraft incidents on Lake Windermere during the summer months.
In addition to safety issues, concern has also been expressed over the lake’s ecological health when it comes to large boat waves and shoreline erosion. This has prompted suggestions of new boating regulations and enforcement, which may end up being a burden in itself.
Not everyone agrees there is a conflict here that requires fixing, particularly via new ordinances. But it would be naive to think we can continue our recreational exploits on a shallow lake without some kind of harmful impact on its long-term health.
Instead of head-butting and debates between different factions, we need to work together to protect our lake. Besides, aren’t we all in the same boat?
Lyonel Doherty, editor
