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A N E W S L E T T E R F R O M T H E CATA R AQ U I R E G I O N C O N S E R VAT I O N AU T H O R I T Y
Winter 2002 Issue
In This Issue
It’s A Winter
CRCA Wins Awards
W
hen people don’t like what we do, we usually hear
Wonderland! about it. However, we don’t always hear about the
many good things that we do. We’re very pleased to
S
top grumbling. Put on your
report that our conservation efforts have been recognized
tuque and mittens. Make some
by two different organizations.
snow angels and have some fun!
Or keep warm by the fire and enjoy
four extra pages of Cat Tales. City of Kingston
• Speaking of fun. We’ve got lots This past October we received two Livable City Design
of great activities on our calen- Awards for environmental protection and enhancement
dar. See from the City of Kingston. One award was for our land
What’s assembly program on Little Cataraqui Creek and the other
Happening was for our tree planting program on our own lands.
on pages 6, This was the first year of the Livable City Design
7 and 8. Awards, but certainly not the first year for either of these
• Grrr! Our two programs. The land assembly program along Little
Creature Cataraqui Creek got underway shortly after the CRCA was
Feature is the formed in 1964. The CRCA purchased many properties in
Black Bear the late 1960s and early 1970s. Tree planting of those
on page 2. properties began in the early 1970s and continues today
• Still dry after with our Tree Replacement Strategy. We have also carried
all this rain! CRCA Staff with the City of Kingston Livable City Award on with forest management plans and forest management
Yes, it’s true. on most of our properties.
See page 12. In recognizing the CRCA’s contributions to the Kingston
• We get by with a little help from community, the jury noted that:
our Friends. More on page 10. “Both the land assembly and tree planting programs
• Sometimes we even win awards. represent important incremental processes that are having a
See page 1. cumulative effect. Having so much natural open space in
• Find your way to the Cataraqui and near the urban area will be of increasing importance in
Trail. Map on page 5. the years to come.”
Stories on page 4.
• Healthy watersheds and healthy Ontario Field Ornithologists
trees on page 9. The CRCA also received recognition from the Ontario
• What do groundwater and Sudds Field Ornithologists for our acquisition and protection of
have in common? They’re both the Owl Woods property on Amherst Island, as well as for
on page 3! allowing public access to view the owls. A certificate of
• You have to have a solid appreciation was presented by the OFO at the Owl Woods
Foundation. Ours is on page 11 property on November 26. Loyalist Township, the Kingston
along with news about Tray Chic. Field Naturalists and neighbouring property owners, Rod
• We’re achieving our vision. See Barr and Paul and Gwen Lauret, were also recognized for
page 8. their contributions to protecting owl habitat.
Thank you to the City of Kingston, the Ontario Field
CRCA Staff (left) accepts a Certificate of Appreciation from the Ornithologists and the people who nominated the CRCA.
Ontario Field Ornithologists for the Owl Woods property. We really appreciate the awards!
Cataraqui Region
Canada Post Corporation / Société canadienne des postes
Conservation Authority Postage paid Port payé
P.O. Box 160, Blk Nbre
Glenburnie, Ontario
K0H 1S0 1008536
03161048
Winter 2002 Issue
Creature Feature
The Black Bear Ursus americanus
T
he black bear is the smallest powerful animals. Male black spring-born young of moose The Black Bear
bear in North America. bears are much bigger than and deer. Black bears Ursus americanus
Seeing a wild black bear is females. Adult males weigh constantly search for food to
a memorable event. But, the from 120 to 280 kilograms. In feed young and build fat for
best sighting, for you and the other words, a large male can their long winter hibernation.
bear, is a fleeting glimpse. weigh more than three large Bears may look for other food
Over the last 20 years, bears men! Adult female bears weigh sources more actively in the
and humans have met face-to- anywhere from 45 to 182 spring if the previous year’s
face thousands of times in kilograms. The largest known food supply was poor and they
Ontario. The Kingston area is black bear weighed 802.5 are in poor condition. They
no exception. Three bears have pounds (364 kg). These large may also look for alternate
been caught in Kingston this animals have been recorded food sources in late summer
year. running at speeds up to 50 and fall if the current year’s
Residents of most of km/h (30 mph). food supply is poor.
Ontario’s wild lands, bears Black bears are carnivores, Consequently, food or garbage
inhabit forests of the Canadian however they act like around homes, cottages and
Shield, the Bruce Peninsula omnivores, with only one campsites will become
and most of northern Ontario. quarter of their diet being attractive to bears.
They prefer forests with a meat. They mostly eat summer Between early July and
variety of berry-producing and fall berry crops such as late September bears typically
shrubs and trees of different raspberries, blueberries and double their body weight as over the next
ages. This habitat provides mountain ash, as well as they prepare for winter. Black 16-18
food, winter den sites and acorns and beech nuts in the bears do not hibernate during months
refuge. fall. They supplement this with the winter. They do remain following their
Black bears are large, insects, fish, carrion, and the dormant, however. Most black birth. Then
bears enter their dens by mid- female cubs
October in the north and by may continue to
early November in central have access to
Ontario. However, bears will the mother’s
stay out of their dens longer feeding territory
when fall foods are abundant. while the young
Winter 2002 Bears invest a lot of time males disperse, often traveling parts
and energy in their young (not long distances for the next few of the province. They
Cat Tales is published seasonally by the . unlike humans). Female black years. are intelligent animals with
bears give birth when they are Black bears are extremely excellent long-term memories.
about 6 to 8 years of age, and territorial. Many males will Although they have poor
then they only reproduce every wander over an area of 38 eyesight, they have a great
second year, at best. One to square kilometers to find food. sense of smell and good
four cubs are born in late Females wander less, as they hearing.
December or early January usually have their young with There are about 75,000 to
Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority while their mothers are in their them. Males travel most 100,000 black bears in
Editor dens. Most cubs weigh .2 widely, covering the home Ontario. As top predators, the
Karla Maki-Esdon kilograms at birth (.5 pounds). ranges of several females and bear’s greatest threat is from
They usually open their eyes their cubs. Immature males are humans. Black bears can live
Design, Layout and Printing when they are 40 days old. At wanderers that often encounter for 20 years or more but few
1000 Islands Publishers this time, they typically weigh people when seeking their do. They may also be killed by
Contributors 1.8 kilograms or 4 pounds. own new territory. Black bears other bears or other wildlife
Tom Beaubiah, Holly Evans, Liz Evans, Carol Forde, When bears emerge from their are generally timid and avoid such as wolves, or die at a
Stefan Foerster, Rob Gerritsen, Jim Hase, Stephen Knechtel, dens in the spring, energy-rich encounters with people, but young age from abandonment
Stana Luxford, Karla Maki-Esdon, Rob McRae, Sean Watt, food is scarce. They do not they can come into conflict or starvation.
Margaret Wild, Don Wright really start gaining weight until with people especially when As recreationists we must
the berry-feeding binges of July natural foods are scarce. Black learn to live in harmony with
Send mail to: Editor, and August. Then they fatten bears are not normally these animals. If you would
c/o Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority, up in the fall when they gorge aggressive towards humans. like to learn more about bear-
P.O. Box 160, Glenburnie, ON, K0H 1S0 on foods such as beech nuts, However, on extremely rare proofing your property, there
E-mail: kmakiesd@cataraquiregion.on.ca acorns and other tree seeds. occasions, bears can be are a number of publications
Phone: (613) 546-4228 Black bear mothers have dangerous. and on-line materials that can
2 Fax: (613) 547-6474 strong bonds with their cubs. Black bears are active from help you.
They will teach their young mid-April to late fall in most
Winter 2002 Issue
CRCA Considers a Land Exchange in Kingston
A
n item of much interest in greater value of its lands for Official Plan and Zoning
Kingston during this past development purposes. This By-law Amendments are
year has been the proposed payment would be used for required to allow this
land exchange between the land acquisition elsewhere in development to proceed. At
CRCA and Jack and Isobel the Little Cataraqui Creek press time, these Amendments
Sudds. The lands under watershed. The CRCA would had been given second reading
consideration are within and benefit through physical by the City of Kingston,
adjacent to the Authority’s improvements to the Rideau contingent upon the resolution
Little Cataraqui Creek Trail trailhead, and through the of the land exchange. If the
Valleylands property, which consolidation of its wetland development proceeds, CRCA
includes the southern terminus property. The CRCA confirmed technical staff will be involved
of the Rideau Trail and areas of its approval in principle for the in the review of detailed plans
provincially significant land exchange on September for the subdivision, including
wetland. The property is 26, 2001, subject to methods to minimize impacts
located just north of King negotiating an agreement of on the wetland.
Street West, between the Creek purchase and sale at a price The CRCA has received
and the Cataraqui Golf and and on terms satisfactory to the many letters of opinion
Country Club. CRCA. At press time, such an regarding the land exchange,
The proposed land agreement had not yet been and the associated Trailhead
exchange (shown on the approved. Place proposal. Those in favour
adjacent map) would see a If approved, the land of the idea cite anticipated
total of about 1.59 ha exchange would enable the improvements to the aesthetics
transferred to the Sudds, while Llynlea Corporation to create and safety of the Rideau Trail
an equivalent land area would Trailhead Place, a subdivision trailhead. Those opposed argue
be transferred to the of 44 single family homes with that the current CRCA property
Conservation Authority. The access from King Street West. should be maintained as
lands currently owned by the An Environmental Impact public open space, and that
CRCA are upland meadows Statement concerning the the Sudds property should be
and pine plantations; the lands proposal (and an independent acquired for that purpose. This
currently owned by the Sudds peer review of that Statement) ongoing debate has raised
include a portion of the found that the impacts of the public awareness about the
significant wetland. As part of subdivision on the adjacent function of the CRCA as a
the exchange, the CRCA would wetland could be minimized property owner, and about the
receive a cash payment, by such methods as treating value of the Little Cataraqui
guided by a professional stormwater runoff, installing Creek watershed.
appraisal, representing the fences, and planting trees.
Provincial Groundwater Monitoring Network
R
esidents of Ontario are the possibility of extension. groundwater quantity and between ourselves and the groundwater workshop on
quickly realizing the The purpose of this quality. Ontario Ministry of the Saturday, January 26, 2002 in
importance of groundwater program is to collect The PGMN tries to use Environment. Elgin. The workshop will be
in light of the current drought, information on groundwater existing wells in the Once the well records geared to rural residents in
and bacterial contamination in conditions. This information monitoring network. The have been reviewed and the Leeds County, but everyone is
Walkerton and other areas, will provide conservation search for these wells has agreement finalized, the search welcome to attend.
both of which have been in the authorities, the Provincial begun in the Cataraqui Region for suitable wells to use in the The following topics will
news. The Cataraqui Region government, municipalities watershed. A hydrogeologist at network will move from a be discussed:
Conservation Authority is and others with sound the Rideau Valley Conservation search that can be done in the • the nature and importance
participating in the Provincial information on which to base Authority has been hired, on comfort of an office chair to of groundwater
Groundwater Monitoring decisions. The implementation contract, by the Ontario going out and looking at the • findings from the Leeds
Network (PGMN), as are most of the network will fill in some Ministry of the Environment, to wells to assess their suitability. groundwater study
Conservation Authorities. This information gaps. For example, review water well records to These wells will the be fitted • biosolids - toilet to field
program is made available and currently there is no find matches between existing with monitoring equipment • care of wells and septic
funded by the Ontario Ministry groundwater data for reference wells and the ideal locations and data collection will begin. systems
of the Environment. as it relates to drought for monitoring wells chosen by Groundwater Watch for
Conservation authorities will determination. Also, the lack of participating conservation more details
be providing the knowledge of groundwater authorities and the MOE. Workshop in your local
implementation of this conditions makes it difficult to At the same time, staff of Are you interested in newspaper.
network. The program will be determine the effects certain the CRCA are working toward finding out more about 3
run for at least six years with activities would have on finalizing the agreement groundwater? Plan to attend a
Winter 2002 Issue
Are Hikers, Cross-country Skiers and Cyclists Cheapskates?
S
ome might be tempted to emotional well being, and Cataraqui Trail linear park.
answer yes. “These groups Your Support is Greatly Appreciated
conservation awareness that We urge you to help
think the government accompany outdoor maintain it by purchasing an
should pay for trails!” say recreation, at truly modest annual membership for $25
members of snowmobile clubs, cost, would be recognized at and by making a tax-
❐ I wish to renew/become a Cataraqui Trail Member.
Enclosed is my tax-deductible $25 membership fee for 2002.
who pay dearly through every government level. Alas, deductible donation. Your
memberships, insurance, and instead we must seek support support is needed for the
I would like to make a charitable donation to the Cataraqui
land acquisition for their from members of the public development and upgrading,
Trail. Enclosed is my contribution for :
presence on trails. who appreciate the importance that will ensure continued
Indeed, in a perfect world, of preserving access for enjoyment for you, and
the amazing benefits to growing populations to such generations to follow. ❐ $25 ❐ $50 ❐ $100 ❐ $200 ❐ Other
physical health, spiritual and beautiful natural areas as the Name (please print) ____________________________________
A Four Season Trail
Street Address __________________________________________
Town/City_____________________Postal Code ______________
Phone No.________________ ____Email __________________
T
he Cataraqui Trail started of habitats with abundant and chomping at the bit for that Payment Options:
over a century ago when the varied wildlife, is ideal for adequate snow base that will Please do not send cash by mail
Napanee, Tamworth and nature viewing and allow these clubs at the
Quebec Railway was launched photography. opposite ends of the Cataraqui Cheque (enclosed) Amount $____________
in 1879 to connect Trail to declare the Please make cheque payable to
the Bay of Quinte season open for fun. Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority
to the Ottawa These
Valley, and became snowmobile clubs Credit Card________________________Amount $ __________
the lifeline have a long history Check One: ❐ Visa ❐ Mastercard
connecting mining, with the Cataraqui Expiry Date: Month______________________Year __________
farming and logging Trail. Many don’t
communities. realize it was they Signature_______________________________Date __________
Developed in stages who leased the rail
by several railway line from the CNR, Registered charitable number 106879158RR0001
companies, the line long before it
reached Ottawa in became the Please send this form to Cataraqui Trail,
1913. The last Cataraqui Trail. The c/o Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority,
Canadian National train ran in The Cataraqui Trail is a Ridge Runners and The Ridge P.O. Box 160, Glenburnie, Ontario K0H 1S0.
1979, and CN donated the old year round, shared use Riders, plus the Athens and Telephone (613) 546-4228, ext. 304
line to the Cataraqui Region recreational trail. It serves District Snowmobilers provide e-mail: cattrail@rideau.net
Conservation Authority. Now hikers, joggers, cross-country the prime financial support Web: www.rideau-info.com/cattrail/
the abandoned railway skiers, cyclists, horseback from user groups. They groom
provides a new kind of riders, birders, naturalists and the Trail and post speed limit Families and friends gather just patrolling the Cataraqui Trail
connection to history and to snowmobilers. The trail is and safety signs. Off season, for the adventure of a ride during all seasons to catch
nature. groomed for snowmobiling in they repair and rebuild bridges through the countryside or to those who would misuse the
The 104 kilometre the winter and open to and assist with trail take a shortcut across a lake trail and deter those in
recreational trail is lined with snowmobilers bearing a maintenance. for a winter picnic. Of course unauthorized vehicles. The
testaments to our past: hamlets current Ontario Federation of Hats off to those dedicated there are always those few OPP now have a special team
and villages, active and Snowmobile Clubs trail permit. snowmobile clubs whose who abuse the sport by called SAVE (Snowmobile ATV
abandoned farm-steads, old grooming allows me to walk trespassing or driving Vessel Enforcement Team).
mills, regenerating forests, my dog and ski! recklessly and endangering Already they have solved two
historic bridges, forgotten
Winter on the others. Sadly, this reflects back cases of dumping; making the
mines and the historic Rideau Cataraqui Trail on snowmobilers as a whole. offenders responsible for
Canal. Bicycles and hiking boots Ride Safely But if enthusiasts treat their clean-up and restoration.
The trail cuts through are being stored away for the When snowmobiles were machines and the use of Offences could lead to
rugged granite hills of the next season. In their place, introduced into the Canadian designated trails properly and anything from fines to actual
Canadian Shield and pastoral engines are being tuned and market, I doubt the with respect and privilege it charges being levied.
limestone plains, wanders cross-country skis are being manufacturers had any inkling should be a great ride for So, if you see an
beside lakes readied. Then come the fervent that these machines were everyone this winter. unauthorized vehicle or
and streams, wishes for snow, snow and destined to become almost a Hikers, skiers and anyone misusing the trail, call
and crosses more snow! Snowmobile way of life for so many people. snowmobilers alike will have your local OPP. They’ll be on
fields, forests clubs, the Lennox and Trappers, hunters and company on the trails from the trail, in more ways than
4 and wetlands. Addington Ridge Runners and fishermen now have a fast run now on. Along with one.
The trail’s mix the Rideau Ridge Riders, are to traps and fishing holes. volunteers, the OPP will be
How to Find the Cataraqui Trail
any people have called the Cataraqui Grenville Road 1, 1.3 km south of Highway off Leeds-Grenville Road 9 (Chaffeys Lock station. Parking available beside trail on
Region Conservation Authority offices 15. No nearby restaurants or stores. Road) - 3.6 km from Highway 15 & 4.7 km east of highway. Stores and restaurants in
asking for details on how to find the Otter Lake - Km. 17.8. Access is from from Chaffeys Lock. No nearby restaurants village.
Winter 2002 Issue
M
Cataraqui Trail. The trail is the former Leeds-Grenville Road 5, 0.1 km south of or stores. Yarker - Km. 87.5. Going along Lennox &
Canadian National Railroad running from Highway 15. No nearby restaurants or Chaffeys Lock - Km. 43.1. Access is at Addington Road 6, turn uphill on Cutler
Smith Falls to Strathcona. It can be used by stores. junction of Indian Lake and Opinicon Road opposite the Old Bank Cafe. Trail is
hikers, bicyclists, horseback riders, cross- Portland - Km. 24.8. Travelling along Roads - 1 km west of lock. Seasonal on Sidings Street. Stores and restaurants in
country skiers and snowmobilers. Highway 15 take Portland Station Road restaurant beside canal. village.
The route of the trail is shown on the (next to Rideau Realty office). Trail is 0.7 Maple Leaf Road - Km. 58.8. Access is 0.1 Camden East - Km. 95.0. Trail crosses
1:50,000 scale EMR maps of 31C/16 Perth, km from Highway 15. Stores and km from junction of Opinicon and Maple Lennox & Addington Road 4 0.4 km north
31C/9 Westport, 31C/8 Gananoque and restaurants in Portland. Leaf Roads. No nearby restaurants or stores. of village. Store and restaurant in village.
31C/7 Sydenham. In total there are about Forfar - Km. 29.6. Access is 0.4 km Perth Road Village -Km. 60.7. Access is Newburgh - Km 98.7. Trail is on Main
50 public road crossings. This page southeast of Forfar along Leeds-Grenville on Frontenac Road 10 and 0.6 km north of Street at north end of village. Food and
describes the main access points and Road 42. Store and cheese factory in Perth Road Village. Corner store at south stores in village.
shows them on the map below. village. end of village. Strathcona - Km. 102.2. A recent addition
Highway 15 - Km. 34.5. Access is off Sydenham -Km. 71.7. Access is on of the Strathcona Paper factory has made
Smith Falls - Km. 0. The trail starts behind Highway 15, 2.5 km north of Elgin and 3.5 Frontenac Road 19 - Bedford Road. Trail the trail more difficult to find. Go to the
Harveys and Tim Horton’s on Highway 15 km south of Crosby. No nearby restaurants runs between the beer store and IGA. south end of Finlay Street and trail is to
at the south end of town. Restaurants and or stores. Parking available beside trail on Stores & restaurants in village. northeast of factory buildings. No nearby
stores nearby. east of highway. Harrowsmith - Km. 78.2. Access is on restaurants or stores.
Lombardy - Km. 9.1. Access is from Leeds- Chaffeys Lock Road - Km. 37.6. Access is Highway 38, 0.1 km north of OLCO gas
Cataraqui Trail Access Points
5
What’s Hap
K
eep warm and active Hours of an Outdoor Centre with improve your technique. Winter Mammals Registration fee is $5.00
during the winter and lots of great programs for Cross-country ski lessons Sunday, per team.
spring in one of our Operation the whole family. are offered on Saturdays January 13 1:00 p.m. - Cross
conservation areas. Visit Conservation Areas In the early spring, from January 5 to March (2:00 p.m.) Country Ski Loppets, 5
our web site at 7:30 a.m. to dusk daily plan a visit to our sugar 2, weather permitting. Have km or 10 km.
www.cataraquiregion.on. Little Cataraqui Creek bush to enjoy the sweet Register in advance, or you ever wanted to Registration fee is $2.50
ca to find the conserva- Outdoor Centre taste of maple syrup. As on the day of the lesson, discover what beaver, per person or $5.00 per
tion area closest to you. 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. the snow melts and at the Outdoor Centre. muskrat and other fur team.
There are special Monday to Friday nature awakens, join us Cost is $11.00 per pelts feel like or touch a This annual winter
winter activities at Mac 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for great spring activities. person or $8.50 per real animal skull? Join fun day is hosted by the
Johnson Wildlife Area in on weekends and holi- person for annual pass wildlife rescuer and Canadian Ski Patrol -
Brockville and winter days from January 1 to Frontenac Zone. (If poor
May 5
Winter Activities holders. expert Gary Ure for a
and spring programs at Evening Skating Group lessons are session on winter ski conditions exist, the
Little Cataraqui Creek Come one-hour in length. mammals at the Outdoor alternate date is February
Conservation Area in Mac Johnson Private lessons can also Centre. 10.)
out and skate
Kingston. Wildlife Area every Friday be arranged. Group
Take Highway 29 north in January lesson times are as Brown Bag Seniors’ Winter Wonderland -
Entry Fees from Brockville to and February from 5:00 follows: Program Winter Fun! Fireside Coffee House
Gould Lake and Tincap, turn east on to 9:00 p.m., weather 10:00 a.m. - lessons for Thursday, January 17 and Evening Skate
Little Cataraqui Creek Debruge Road and drive permitting. The lights will children 14 and under (10:30 a.m.) Friday, January 25
Conservation Areas have for 2 km to the main be on and you can warm (children must be able to Calling all seniors (6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.)
a daily entry fee. The fee entrance. Enjoy 11 km of up by the bonfire or in put their own equipment who love to get together Bring your musical
is $4.00 per person for hiking and cross-country the warming hut. Call on or a parent must be and celebrate in the fresh instruments, stories, and
adults and children over ski trails, a Nature 546-4228 ext. 501 for available to assist the air of winter. Meet at poetry for an evening of
12, $2.00 per person for Centre, picnic facilities rink conditions. child) 10:30 a.m at the sharing and
children 12 and under, and a skating rink. Ice Rink Rental 11:30 a.m. - all ages Outdoor Centre. Weather entertainment around the
with a maximum fee of The Friends of Mac Host your own 1:30 p.m. - all ages permitting, we’ll try out crackling fire in the
$10.00 per car. Annual Johnson Wildlife Area skating party! Rink rental skis and snowshoes. So Outdoor Centre West
passes are available for will be serving hot includes a bonfire and Programs and think snow! Otherwise Hall. You can also bring
$50.00 per year and chocolate and coffee at access to the warming we’ll take a winter walk. your skates and enjoy
Activities Dress for the weather gliding under the stars on
provide unlimited access the skating shelter every huts. Call Shannon Ski Waxing and bring your brown Kingston’s largest natural
to both of these Sunday in January and Fleming at 546-4228 ext. and Repair Clinic bag lunch for afterwards. skating rink. Whether
conservation areas. February from 11:00 a.m. 222 for more information Sunday, you want to participate
Donation boxes are to 3:00 p.m. (weather or to make a booking. January 6 Little Cat Classic Ski or just want to warm up
located at our other permitting). Equipment Rentals (2:00 p.m.) Loppet after your skate, our
conservation areas and at Cross-country skis The
our boat ramps. Your Little Cataraqui Creek and snowshoes are Sunday, January 20 fireside coffee house has
Canadian Ski Patrol will Pre-register for each something for everyone.
donations help to Conservation Area available for rent at the be providing a hands-on
maintain these facilities, Outdoor Centre. A event 30 minutes before All ages are welcome.
We have great ski waxing and repair start time. The day’s This coffee house is a
so please make a facilities including 13 km limited selection of ice clinic. So bring your skis,
contribution each time skates is also available. events include: monthly event hosted by
of groomed cross-country wax and any questions 10:00 a.m. - Winter musical talent Paul
you visit. ski trails, a natural ice Cross-country Ski Lessons with you. Be prepared to
Learn how to ski or Relay Triathlon, Skate, Arnold.
rink, warming huts and have fun. snowshoe and ski.
Canada’s
Premier Paddlesport Centre
1/2 Hour North of Kingston
On the water at the entrance to Frontenac Park
SYDENHAM, ON (613) 376-6220
web site: www.frontenac-outfitters.com
pening 2002
Snowshoe Tour ation call Stana Luxford certified professionals Kingston Field Naturalists Remember the exciting season of Maple
Sunday, at 546-4228 ext. 251. and experienced staff will be giving a slide delicious smell of Madness theatre.
January 27 from Hiker’s Haven for show and talk about pancakes, the tasty
(2:00 p.m.) Winter Photography an informative session on winter birds in the area. maple syrup and the Sugar Bush Stories
Bring the Sunday, February 3 gear and advice for This is a must for all beautiful fresh air at the Tuesday,
whole family out for a (2:00 p.m.) winter camping. those interested in birds. sugar bush? Take a March 12
snowshoe tour over the Join Philippe Baud, Be sure to bring your tractor-drawn wagon (10:00 a.m.,
frozen marshes, fields local nature Brown Bag Seniors’ warm clothes and head back to our sugar bush to 11:30 a.m.,
and forests with Bill photographer, for a Program - Meet out for your own birding see how maple syrup 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.)
Murdoch of the Rideau fantastic slide show of Musician and Artist Don journey after the talk to was made in the olden Share in sugar bush
Trail Association. You’ll nature in winter. If you McCallum search for winter birds. If days and how it is made stories of the past and
have an opportunity to enjoy nature Thursday, February 21 you are lucky, a Black- now. We’ve got special present. We will be tell-
look for signs of animal photography this is an (10:30 a.m.) capped Chickadee may activities happening on ing tales in the General
tracks, scat, chews and excellent program for Join Don McCallum even say hello! different days throughout Purpose Room of the
much more! you! Philippe will be at the Outdoor Centre for the program. Outdoor Centre. Any
also giving tips on how a talk on the digital Introductory story tellers who wish to
P.A Day Winter Sports to take those difficult process as applied to Orienteering Clinic Maple Madness share sugar bush or nat-
and Adventure Day winter shots. paintings. Weather Sunday, March 3 Guided Tours ure stories are welcome.
Friday, permitting, we’ll take a (2:00 p.m.) Saturday, March 9 All ages are invited.
February 1 Little Cat Classic Ski walk in the woods. Ski or Come out for a (10:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m.,
(8:30 a.m. to Loppet snowshoe if you wish. hands-on, introductory 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.) Puppet Shows
4:30 p.m.) (Alternative Date) Bring your lunch, water session on using a map It’s the first day of Wednesday, March 13
Give your child(ren) Sunday, February 10 to drink and dress for the and compass. All ages Maple Madness 2002 (see March 11)
an opportunity to have a (See January 20 listing for weather. welcome! The skill of and we’re celebrating by
P.A. Day full of winter more details.) map and compass having guided tours back Play Like the Pioneers
adventure and fun. We’ll Come out with your Love Is In the Air reading will help you in the sugar bush. Thursday, March 14
be cross-country skiing, family for a hike and Fireside Coffee House with your hiking (10:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m.,
skating, sledding, or eyes only scavenger hunt and Evening Skate adventures, road trips Sweet Water Celebration 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.)
snowshoeing through the where you take only Friday, February 22 and many other outings. First Nations Dance Bring your family out
fields, forest, and pictures and leave only (See January 25) Be prepared to put your Presentation and to hop along in our
wetland areas at Little footprints. Afterwards (6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.) new skills to practice by Legends three-legged races and
Cataraqui Creek warm up in the West participating in our Sunday, March 10 sack jumping races just
Conservation Area. Pre- Hall with a hot drink. Winter Birds various mapping Dancers from the outside the Outdoor
register for our special Our Brave Feathered activities. Come dressed Tyendinaga Mohawk Centre. Try your hand at
day program. Drop-off Winter Camping Clinic Friends for the weather. Territory will put on a sawing wood or tapping
begins at 8:30 a.m. and Sunday, February 17 Sunday, presentation of a tree back at the sugar
the program runs until (2:00 p.m.) February 24 Maple Madness traditional aboriginal bush - just a few of the
4:30 p.m. Bring your Calling all hikers, (2:00 p.m.) March 9-17 dances and what these jobs that many pioneer
lunch, snacks, drinks, campers and outdoor Have you (March Break) dances mean. Also, hear families had to do during
warm and extra clothes, enthusiasts or those keen ever wondered how the March 23 and legends of how maple sugaring off in the
sleds and skates. on learning about winter birds who have stayed 24 syrup was discovered. springtime.
Cost is $30.00 per camping and preparing the winter survive? Or March 30 and 31
child and you must pre- for winter outings. Join how to find winter birds? (9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.) Puppet Shows Puppet Shows
register. For more inform- A speaker from the Monday, March 11; Friday, March 15 (see
Wednesday, March 13; March 11)
Friday, March 15 and
Sunday, March 24 Pre-St. Patrick’s Day
CLOTHING EQUIPMENT ADVENTURE (10:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., Celebration
1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.)
Save 15%
on all regularly priced
All the puppets have
been practicing and are
Traditional
Highland
Dancers
tents, packs and excited as ever to fill you Saturday,
sleeping bags in on what’s happening
DOWNTOWN KINGSTON WEST March 16 (1:00 p.m.)
114 PRINCESS STREET BAYRIDGE LOEB PLAZA
WE ALSO RENT - GUIDE - INSTRUCT this year in our sugar A must-see show of
Visit us at our new location across from Indigo bush. Join us at the Out-
tel 613.549.3747 tel 613.384.3747 at 272 Princess St., Kingston, Ont. the Connemara Dancers
fax 613.549.7947 fax 613.384.9968 door Centre for another
546-4757 (Continued on Page 8
What’s Happening (continued from page 7)
who will be dancing in the sugar bush. Meet at aboriginal culture. Join Contest starts at 10:00 or the rocks alongside impact. The CRCA will
the General Purpose the Outdoor Centre. Betty Maracle of the a.m. and runs until 2:00 the road? Mark Badham, also be hosting a
Room at the Outdoor Tyendinaga Mohawk p.m. Judging will take geology expert from community open house.
Centre at 1:00 p.m. Sweet Water Territory for a special place at 2:15 p.m. The Queen’s University, will Come out and meet the
These dancers will knock Coffee House presentation on the maple syrup prize will be be giving an informative staff and join in the fun
your socks off! Join in Friday, March 22 maple ceremony and the awarded to the most talk on the rocks of the of learning to live more
the pre-St. Patrick’s Day (6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.) traditional uses of maple creative Spring Kingston area. All ages lightly on the earth!
celebration and take in Bring your musical syrup as a medicine. Celebration drawing. If welcome.
some traditional Irish instruments, stories, and Presentations are at you’re lucky you may Spring Fever Coffee
dances. poetry for an evening of 10:00 a.m. and 1:30 even get to visit with the Brown Bag Seniors’ House
sharing and entertain- p.m. Bush Bunny for some Program Friday, April 26
St. Patrick’s Day ment in the Outdoor tasty treats! Spring Flowers (See March 22)
Celebration Centre West Hall. All Musical Entertainment Slide Show (6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.)
Sunday, ages are welcome. Come with David Archibald Spring Awakenings Thursday,
March 17 and celebrate sugaring- Saturday, Nature Art and Hobbies April 18 Mother’s Day
Find the off time. This coffee March 30 Open House (10:30 a.m.) Recycled Craft
mysterious house is a monthly event David April 7 Think Sunday, May 5
leprechaun and will be hosted by Archibald, a local (10:00 a.m. April showers and May (2:00 p.m.)
roaming around the musical talent, Paul musical entertainer, will to 4:00 p.m.) flowers. Winnie Smith Always rushing to get
sugar bush and Outdoor Arnold. be leading in the sugar Talented will be with us to talk a Mother’s Day gift
Centre for a tasty green bush celebration with local crafters and artists about those very things ready? If you want to
treat. For good luck, get music and fun. Show will be displaying and and will be presenting a make something for your
your face painted with a French Heritage Day demonstrating their slide show. Bring your Mom this program is for
times are at 10:00 a.m.,
shamrock! Saturday, March 23 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. work. The art and lunch, water to drink and you! Bring out the whole
Learn traditional, in the West Hall of the hobbies will include dress for the weather. family (even Mom) to
Brown Bag Seniors’ French Canadian folk Outdoor Centre. some of the following: create an
Program songs, stories and much stained glass, sewing, Earth Day Celebration environmentally friendly
Sugar Bush Visit more at the Outdoor Spring Celebration and knitting, scrap-booking, Learning to Live Lightly spring Mother’s Day gift.
Thursday, March 21 Centre. French Canadian Creative Drawing wood finishing, print Sunday, April You’ll be decorating your
(10:30 a.m.) culture and the sugar Contest making, woodworking, 21 (1:00 p.m.) very own reusable pots
It’s that time again! bush go hand-in-hand, Sunday, nature painting, and Celebrate with recycled materials.
The sap is running and so join us for some March 31 wood sculpting. Earth Day by Once your pot is
pancakes are cooking. stories and musical fun! Enter a participating decorated, you’ll get to
We’ll walk out to the Spring Kingston Rocks! in an Ecological plant it with some of
sugar bush have a tasty Magical Maples Celebration Creative Sunday, April 14 Footprint workshop. your Mom’s favourite
pancake treat ($1.25 per Sunday, March 24 Drawing Contest (all (2:00 p.m.) Discover what your garden herb such as basil
pancake) and hike back. The maple tree has a ages) that can win you a Curious about those footprint on the earth is or chives.
Come enjoy the spring at special significance in bottle of maple syrup. rocks in your back yard and how to reduce your
A CRCA Work Plan for 2002-2007 The CRCA is committed to implemented will depend
Achieving the Vision
supporting conservation efforts largely upon the availability of
in all ten watersheds of the funding. It is anticipated that
Cataraqui Region. The Work the Work Plan will be revisited
Plan suggests actions that on annual basis, to ensure that
could be undertaken to the Conservation Authority is
Where are we going? How vision for the Conservation Work Plan for 2002-2007, safeguard the quantity and working in support of the
will we get there? These are Authority, as well as broad structured around the five quality of water, protect vision endorsed by its strategic
two of the basic questions goals and objectives for the goals in Cataraqui to 2020. The against flooding and erosion, plan.
addressed by Cataraqui to next twenty years. The full text purposes of the Work Plan are promote the stewardship of If you have an idea on
2020, a strategic plan which of Cataraqui to 2020 can be to identify those actions by forests, wetlands, and streams, how the CRCA might further
was adopted found on the Authority web members, staff, and our manage Conservation conservation efforts, please
by the CRCA site,www.cataraquiregion.on.ca partners that will help to Authority properties, and contact Rob McRae, Resource
in March of under the heading of What We achieve our vision, to assign encourage public involvement Planner at (613) 546-4228 ext.
2001. The Do. priority to those actions, and to in conservation work. The 224, or via email at
8 strategic plan During the fall of 2001, identify the resources required extent to which actions listed robmcrae@cataraquiregion.on.ca
outlines a members and staff developed a for their execution. in the Work Plan will be
Winter 2002 Issue
Little Cataraqui Creek Buffer Project Fall Tree
T Planting
he Cataraqui Region Conservation Conservation Area. With the help of
Authority, in partnership with the many volunteers from the Church, Canadian
other agencies that make up the Forces Base Kingston, Frontenac Peniten-
Kingston Wetlands Working Group, are tiary, the CRCA, and Queen’s University
currently working on the Little Cataraqui students, 1500 native trees and shrubs
Creek Buffer Project. The project is were planted. Special thanks is extended
attempting to reduce the amount of to all that participated.
sediments, nutrients, and pollutants that These plants will help improve the
enter Little Cataraqui Creek by establishing water quality of the creek and will also
a buffer of native vegetation along the discourage Canada Geese who enjoy
banks of the creek. manicured lawns that are mown to the
This fall we completed the second water’s edge.
phase of planting for this project. Four If you have any questions or
locations were selected for the fall comments about this project, or would
planting: The Bay Park Baptist Church, like to discuss the plantings planned for
Frontenac Penitentiary, Lion’s Civic Park, the spring of 2002, please call Tom
and the Little Cataraqui Creek Beaubiah at 546-4228 extension 240.
Healthy Watershed Program: Agriculture F all is a great time for
planting trees. Normally,
the CRCA staff would be
busy in the fall planting
T
he Cataraqui Region
Conservation Authority is
offering a rural water quality
Areas Eligible for the Program trees in school yards and
along roadsides with com-
improvement program called munity volunteers. Not this
Healthy Watershed Program: year, however. Despite
Agriculture. The purpose of the applications to 12 different
program is to provide financial funding organizations, the
assistance as well as technical CRCA failed to receive any
advice to farmers who grants for our Large Stock
implement Best Management Planting Program. As a
Practices on farms. This result, many planned com-
program is made available by munity projects will have to
The Agricultural Adaptation wait until next fall.
Council with funds from Agri- We were able to plant
culture and Agri-Food Canada. trees on CRCA properties
To be eligible for the under the Tree Replacement
program you must have an and Management Strategy.
Environmental Farm Plan and These trees were planted to
live in the program area replace trees damaged dur-
detailed on the adjacent map. ing the 1998 ice storm.
Grant rates range from 50 Large caliper trees were
per cent to 75 per cent, with planted at various conserv-
the possibility of two-thirds of ation areas and along the
the landowner’s share being Cataraqui Trail. The CRCA
in-kind donations. The grant would like to thank the
ceiling is $5,000 per on-farm Township of Rideau Lakes
project. Eligible projects for their contribution to the
include buffer strips and wind- planting project at Portland
breaks, alternative watering Station. The use of their
devices, livestock restriction, tractor and back hoe made
stream bank stabilization, low the work a lot easier. CRCA
level crossings, and surface office staff helped to plant
water run-off management. the trees at Little Cataraqui
Land retirement at $300/acre Creek
for one year, is also eligible. Conserv-
For more information ation Area.
please call Holly Evans at
(613) 546-4228 extension 244.
9
Winter 2002 Issue
Friends of Mac Johnson Wildlife Area
T
he CRCA is fortunate to the handicapped accessible and guided hikes. The event days during the months of considered.
have a group of dedicated trail (Trail 1). A major effort was well attended and a large January and February. These Skaters and skiers are
volunteers that works to was the erection of cedar rail crowd enjoyed a special will be hosted on Sundays welcome to drop by, meet the
maintain and promote the Mac fencing around the foundation presentation by Leslie Hunt of from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Friends and warm up with a
Johnson Wildlife Area. As of the Joyce farm site. This is the Kemptville office of the at the warming hut, weather hot drink. You can also warm
usual, they have had a busy being developed into an Ministry of Natural Resources. and conditions permitting. up by the new bonfire pit, built
and active fall and they are interpretive site with a plaque. Leslie is an intern at the MNR Saturdays and an evening by the Friends and CRCA staff,
getting ready for the winter The Joyces used to live on office. Her slide presentation skating event are also being with a donation from DuPont.
season. part of the Mac Johnson on Species at Risk created an
Fall Work Day Wildlife Area property. All that interest in her work.
The Friends held their Fall
Work Day on Saturday,
remains of the farm are parts of
the stone foundations from the
The Friends would like to
thank Leslie, as well as News from Other
Conservation Properties
September 22. Among the house, barn, well and representatives from the
many jobs completed were the outbuildings. Brockville and Area Field
installation of a new Purple Fall Open House Naturalists who helped to lead
A
Martin house near the The annual fall Open nature hikes. reminder for all visitors to CRCA properties. Most of our
Trumpeter Swan compound, House was held on Sunday, Winter Skating Days properties have posted hours from dawn to dusk. Of
cleanup of the flower beds, September 30 with displays, The Friends will once course, those times vary during the year. Dawn means one
and cleanup and weeding of nature activities for children, again be hosting winter skating half hour before official sunrise and dusk means one half hour
after official sunset. After dusk and before dawn, our
properties are closed and you should not be there. Please
note that Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area opens at
7:30 a.m.
We have been busy this fall getting our boat ramps, dams,
forest properties and other conservation areas ready for winter.
Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area
The previously approved, but never built, road to the
Outdoor Centre is now under construction. The new road will
provide direct access to the Outdoor Centre from the main
access road. Once completed, you will no longer have to
Above: Cedar fence around Joyce Farmstead
drive through the Administration Office parking lot to reach
the Outdoor Centre. This should make it easier for visitors to
Left: Leslie Hunt, MNR at Fall Open House
find the Centre.
Friends of Lemoine Point
These improvements will also include expanding the
parking lot at the Outdoor Centre. This will help reduce
parking problems during peak periods like winter and spring.
Entrance and gatehouse improvements are also underway.
T
he Friends of Lemoine Point working title of Trees Please) purpose of the signs is to At the same time, the City of Kingston is building a road
have also been a busy and has been established. The goal discourage foot traffic and just south of Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area. This
active group this fall. They of the program is to encourage allow the forest undergrowth road comes out on Division Street across from McAdoo’s
have been working on a donations to help restore the to regenerate, restoring the Lane. This is a City project being undertaken on lands owned
number of initiatives including original composition and health of the forest. The signs by the City of Kingston.
reforestation, removal of garlic character of the woodland at say Ground Under Repair.
mustard, a membership blitz, Lemoine Point Conservation Most people are complying Appreciation Night Improvements
visitor counts, and closing of Area. So far, donated funds with the signs. Friends who are At our Appreciation Night held in August, we were to
unauthorized trails. have been used to purchase in the conservation area are plant trees and make other improvements on our properties to
The Friends have also been 108 native shrubs and 20 large also spending time speaking to recognize the volunteer contributions and donations from
a presence at this busy and caliper trees. These were visitors about why it is various people and groups. We are pleased to report that all
active conservation area, planted by volunteers on important to stay on the 18 trees have now been planted at various locations. The ski
speaking to visitors about the November 3 in an area authorized trails. rack recognizing the Canadian Ski Patrol will be put to good
importance of leashing their between the north entrance The CRCA would like to use this winter at the Outdoor Centre. The bench honouring
dogs and staying on the trails and the north parking lot. thank the Friends for their the Foundation has been installed at the intersection of trails 1
and allowing the forest to Restoration of the woodland is dedication to Lemoine Point and 2 at Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area.
regenerate. one of the key goals contained Conservation Area. They are
A new in the Lemoine Point helping to provide a presence Fencing at CRCA Dams
Heritage Conceptual Plan. in the area, which we would What is with the chain link fencing at our dams? Recently
Forest Signs were placed this not be able to provide with we have secured chain link fencing to the existing railings at
Program spring on some unauthorized current staffing levels. some of our dams. This is an extra safety feature for our staff
10 (formerly trails through the wooded that operate and maintain the dams.
given the areas at Lemoine Point. The
Winter 2002 Issue
Foundation News Tray Chic Fundraiser
T
his year’s annual auction and raffle items.
Xeriscaping programs. Last year, more than
fundraiser, Tray Chic, was Despite a smaller than nor-
6500 area school children
O
n Thursday, September 27,
were able to learn more about co-hosted by the CRCA mal crowd and a hospitalized run the event, the donors, the
the Cataraqui Conservation
nature and the environment and the Cataraqui M.C., we still managed to advertisers, the artists and the
Foundation held a most
thanks to your contributions. If Conservation Foundation. The raise $7,500 for the Outdoor people who came out that
successful event. The speaker
you have already made a event which was held on Centre and Little Cataraqui evening. We would also like
was Jennifer Bennett of
donation, thank you. If you October 18, featured hand- Creek Conservation Area. to thank the staff at
Sydenham. Jennifer’s talk was
have not, we hope that you painted and decorated trays Thank you to the Arlington’s for providing the
about xeriscaping - gardening
will consider donating to this donated by local artists, as volunteers and CRCA staff facilities and for serving us a
in drought or low water condi-
worthwhile program. well as many other silent who helped to organize and delicious dinner!
tions. She is a wonderful gar-
dener, author of many garden- Fundraising Initiatives
ing books and articles, and a and Membership
very good speaker. The The Foundation is
Outdoor Centre was packed currently looking at additional
with people and they were not ways to attract more members
disappointed. and to raise additional funds.
As well as the gardening During the winter, we plan to
talk, there were excellent be at Little Cataraqui Creek
displays by Neil’s Flowers, Conservation Area promoting
Simple Country Pleasures from our organization and selling
Napanee, Simply Landscaping, memberships. Winter is the
Hearthmaker’s Energy Co- busiest time of year at Little
operative, magazines from The Cataraqui Creek and many of
Limestone Gardener, and our current members are
secondhand books from Berry people who use this facility.
and Peterson. Businesses Grizzly Grill • The Home Depot • The Kingston
Funds raised through member- Brewing Company Ltd. • The Landings • The Pilot
We were lucky to also Ace Auto Leasing Ltd. • Agnew Food Services •
ship fees help to contribute to House of Kingston • The Walt Disney Company •
Alcan Rolled Products Co. • Ambassador Resort
have wonderful raffle prizes the CRCA’s education and land Thousand Islands Playhouse • Trailhead • Queen’s
Hotel & Convention Centre • Athlone Inn • Bell
donated by Gardening Life acquisition programs. Canada • Brafasco • Bread & Butter Bakery and
University • United Rentals • Upper Canada
Magazine, Niagara Parks Office Systems • VIA Rail Canada Inc. • Wallack’s
We have also formed a Fine Pastries • Canadian Tire-Kingston Centre •
Commission, Harrowsmith • Walter’s Computer Sales and Consulting •
committee to look at the Card’s Bakery • Cataraqui Woods • Catering by
Country Life, the Campus Windmills Restaurant • W.I. Villager Ltd. •
feasibility of holding some Craig • CFE Equipment Inc. • Chez Piggy
Wishbone Delicatessen
Bookstore, Marianna’s Hair fundraising events such as an
Restaurant Ltd. • Classic Custom Framing • Curry
Stylists, Kingston Horticultural Village • Coffee & Company • Collins Bay Marina Individuals
art show, theatre night or guest Inc. • Collins Safety Equipment • Cooke’s Fine Reg Aitken • Faith Avis • Robert Bateman • Wilma
Society, Potter’s Nurseries, speakers. This committee is in
Lone Star Cafe, The Kingston Foods • Copy & Addressing Services • Cornerstone Bernabei • Joan Drady • Nancy Foster • Stewart
the process of drawing up a Gallery • Dave Jones Sport Shop • Diva Esthetics • Fyfe • John Gerretsen, MPP • Patricia Hudson
Brewing Company, Simply multi-year plan. Dover’s • Ducks Unlimited • Expressions Fashion Mills • Anne Hutchison • Mary Lee • Karla Maki-
Landscaping, and Simple Boutique • Family Dental Practice • First Canada Esdon • Richard Martin • Janet Miles • Peter
Country Pleasures. Inns • Frankie Pestos Italian Eatery • Gananoque Milliken, MP • Lisa Morriss-Andrews • Elizabeth
With the success of this Coming Events Boat Line • Gananoque Inn • Glen Lawrence Golf Munt • Anne Murray • Bill Murdoch • Watson
presentation, the Foundation is The following events are in Club • Glen Supply Co. Ltd. • Golden Griddle Ogilvie • Dr. Brian Overgaard • Connie Redden •
considering inviting other the process of being organized Restaurant • Grand Theatre • GUSTO Italian Robert Runciman, MPP • Herb Salter • Jack and
guest speakers or hosting other for the spring. All three events Restaurant & Bakery • Hamilton Beach/Proctor- Jane Stockdale • Jack Sudds • Doug Zwicker
events. will be taking place at the Silex • Hershey Canada Inc. • Holiday Inn Advertisers and Sponsors
Outdoor Centre, Little Catara- Waterfront • Hoppin’ Eddie’s • Jack Wolfskin •
Anchor Concrete • Brad Johnson & Associates •
qui Creek Conservation Area. Jerome Taylor Auto Mall • Jungle Cat World •
Partners in Outdoor Keith’s Deli • Kingston Expert Tees • Kingston Field
Country 96 • Cumming Cockburn Ltd. •
Cunningham Swan Carty Little & Bonham LLP •
Education - April 11 at 7:00 p.m. Tea
Naturalists • Kingston Frameworks • Kingston
Evertemp • Jack Bowes Auto Service • Secker, Ross
Frontenacs • Kingston Symphony Association • Lag
The Foundation has two Tasting and Presentation by & Perry Chartered Accountants • The Glass House
Jags • Len Corcoran Excavating • Loyalist Township
main goals for fundraising - Leslie Allan, Tulipwood Teas, • Thomson Jemmett Vogelzang Insurance • XCG
• M&B Computers • Marrello Hairstylist • Marine
conservation education and Kingston. Desserts, tea and Consultants Ltd.
Museum of the Great Lakes • Margann Fitzpatrick
land acquisition. One of our raffle items. Interiors Ltd. • Mills Flowers • Minos Restaurant • Tray Artists
annual fundraising drives is - May 28 at 3:30 p.m. Myles Acres • Napanee Golf and Country Club • Hazel Allen • Shirley Bailey • Susan Beyette •
our Partners in Outdoor Cataraqui Conservation Natural Heritage/Natural History Inc. • Neil’s Joyce Coulter • Valerie Dalton • Elizabeth Evans •
Education appeal. Letters were Foundation Annual General Flowers Ltd. • Olden Green • Ontario Federation Corinne Farber • Nelly Griffioen • Shirley Hulley •
of Anglers & Hunters • Parks of the St. Lawrence • Jean Lawson • Lynda MacRae •
sent out earlier this fall to Meeting
Pasta Genova • Peach Tree Inn • Rainer’s Catering Dave Schell • Elizabeth Schell •
potential and past donors. Your - June 25 Ecology Award and Audrey Sims • Allison Smith •
• Ramekins Casual Fine Dining • River Mill
valuable contributions help to Strawberry Social Restaurant • Rosemount Inn Bed & Breakfast • Janet Sorbie • Cathy Stefan •
support the CRCA’s Shantero Productions • St. Lawrence Cruise Lines • Lilianne Vanderhout • Christine
conservation education
11
Tara Natural Foods • Tir Nan Og • The Bay • The Watson • Joan Wilson
Winter 2002 Issue
Yes, We’re Still Having a Drought
T
he summer of 2001 in area creeks are still period of above average Response Team has water their lawns every CRCA jurisdiction) draw
was the driest in more well below average for precipitation, the decided to maintain the day throughout the their drinking water from
than thirty years for this time of the year. situation will not Level 2 drought summer. This supply is Lake Ontario, what
most of eastern Ontario. Drought generally improve enough to condition through the by no means would happen if that
The January through occurs slowly, over a withstand another dry winter, with ongoing inexhaustible. There is a supply were
October precipitation long period of time. year. The hope for the monitoring. Given the finite amount of water contaminated so it could
levels in the Kingston Recovery from a drought winter is a greater than uncertainty of spring available each year in not be used as a source?
area were approximately will also take a long average amount of snow, conditions, the WRT Lake Ontario to use Couple that with a
80 per cent of the period of time. The with a gradual melt decided to maintain this without taking more year like this past year,
average precipitation for current drought situation through the springtime to level until it was shown water out of the system where there is not
that period. has been the result of a increase the amount of that conditions had than can be replenished, enough groundwater to
August, September prolonged period water percolating into definitely improved and slowly drying up the supply the households
and October 2001 had (approximately 5 years) the ground for water stabilized. lake. As an analogy, if (45,000 people) that rely
near average of average, to less than table recharge. However, It has become Lake Ontario were a 2 on it and there would be
precipitation. Flow in average, precipitation. if this does not occur apparent that most litre pop bottle, the a major disaster.
area streams, which had With the very dry year of over the winter and people on municipal amount of water Everyone relies on water
been non-existent 2001, there was no extra spring, and 2002 is water systems do not available for use in any to survive and
midsummer, started to capacity in the surface another dry year, regard drought year would be 15 conservation of that
show a return to normal water or groundwater, conditions next summer conditions as a problem. millilitres, or 1 resource is imperative to
in early October, after and essentially, the could rival, or be worse, They see Lake Ontario as tablespoon. In addition, a continued clean, steady
two months of average system ran out of water. than conditions this year. an inexhaustible supply given that 7 million source.
rain. However, the flows Without a prolonged The CRCA Water of water and continue to people (135,000 in the
Mac Johnson Wildlife Area Nature Centre
New Lights and New Fees Merry Christmas
from the Staff &
N
ew interior lights, down for held on December 8 at Members of the
courtesy of a another winter Fulford Mansion.
donation from the at Mac
Cataraqui Region
Royal Bank, have been Johnson During the day, until Conservation Authority
installed at the Nature Wildlife Area. 4:00 p.m., people will
Centre. This will be a big Although they bid on silent auction
help to the school groups did not items, tour the mansion
and other groups who
make use of this facility.
produce any
cygnets this
and enjoy music and
Christmas goodies. A
Nearby and Natural...
Effective January 1, year, everyone receipts will be provided black tie evening gala All Year Long
2002, the rental rates for remains hopeful that next for donations of $10.00 begins at 6:00 p.m. The
the Nature Centre will year will be more or more. For more gala features gourmet
increase to $30.00 per successful. information, please call food, a silent art auction, • Frontenac Provincial Park - 12 kms
day and $1.00 per As the weather turns Stefan Foerster at the music and dancing. Half north of Sydenham. Open year round. Enjoy
person plus GST. We colder, the other the proceeds from the the autumn splendor. 160 kms backpacking/
Mac Johnson Wildlife hiking trails and 48 interior backwoods camp-
hope to put the Trumpeter Swans, Area at (613) 345-1990. silent art auction will be sites. 613-376-3489
additional revenue into released into the Wildlife directed to the Trumpeter • Murphy’s Point Provincial Park - Just
other improvements to Area in May 2000, have Gala to Benefit Swans at Mac Johnson southwest of Perth on Big Rideau. 20 km of
the building. returned. They have all Wildlife Area. groomed x-country ski trails, operated by Tay
paired off. From the four Trumpeter Swans The CRCA (and the Valley Ski Club. 613-267-5060
News from the remaining pairs, three As Cat Tales goes to swans) would like to • Charleston Lake
have returned to the press, Brockville is thank Jane Yaeger for her Provincial Park -
Trumpeter Swan swan compound. No gearing up for a unique hard work and 15 kms north of Hwy. 401,
exit #659. 2 km and 6 km x-
Compound cygnets have been and exciting fundraiser to dedication. We’ll have a country ski loops depending
Milli and Mac, our observed. benefit the Trumpeter full report on the event on snow conditions. Operated
resident These swans will Swans. Jane Yaeger, a in the Spring/Summer by Friends of the park. 613-
have to be fed over the local artist and dedicated edition of Cat Tales. 659-2065
swans,
are winter. Donations for volunteer has organized TOLL FREE RESERVATIONS,
feed are greatly a benefit called A Voyage 5 months in advance: 1-888-ONT-PARK.
settling Or visit us on the internet: www.ontarioparks.com
12 appreciated. Income tax of Beauty, which will be
