KENORA—The message out to boaters by the Lake of The Woods District Stewardship Association is clear: “Watch Your Wake!
With summer fast approaching, it is important to go over boat safety and remember how to stay safe while playing at the lake.
According to their post, they caution boaters about high water levels and how it is extremely important to watch your boat’s wake. “With the high water levels in the region it is crucial now more than ever to watch your boat’s wake. Due to these high water levels a boat’s wake can have heavier impacts on ecosystems than one might think.”
The Association also highlights the condition of the natural shorelines around the region, and how they are at a higher risk of the effects of the increased water levels. “Natural shorelines are at most risk with the increased water levels, the immense boat wakes can easily damage aquatic habitats.”
In addition, the nesting areas of the Loon can be affected. “Wake can disrupt shoreline nests, particularly those belonging to loons. Loons lay their eggs early into the summer months making them very susceptible to wake damages.”
With erosion escalating the amount of sediment entering the lake, this affects the spawning grounds of a variety of fish and can damage waterfront properties. Furthermore, they explain how wake can harm boat structure, docks, and how the movement of water will rock vessels against a solid dock ultimately causing damage. Boaters are asked to be cognizant of one thing: “When you are within 30 metres of shore, it is important to keep your boat below 10 kilometres an hour.
The consequences of boat wake can affect swimmers, canoers, and paddle boarders and can ultimately lead to injuries. Courtesy towards everyone using the lakes is of utmost importance. Enjoying the Lake of the Woods in the Association view point is something they want everyone to do.
A final message that Lake of The Woods Stewardship Association sends is focused on debris which may be present in the water. “Drive slow and always be looking ahead for logs and other forms of debris that might be floating further from the shore than normal.
For those who may have any questions or require more information visit: #watchyourwake #lotwr #lowdsa #lakesmart #boatsafety
