From your GBA Rep. – Claudette Pintwala

 

! Þ Important Reminder!  Choose the GBAF as your Charity of choice

 

“The Bond that unites us all is an emotional attachment to the Bay – the Georgian Bay feeling – and a passionate belief that the Bay must be protected.”

 

All GBA Director’s were treated to an informative presentation given by 4 committed people, all driving forces behind the work of the Greater Bay Area Foundation.  The quote above comes from that presentation.  The “all” in the quote refers to Aboriginals, boaters, seasonal users/cottagers, and residents of the Bay area.

 

Those in attendance at the South Channel Association AGM last August will remember the marvelous presentation given by our guest speaker, Roy Schatz, the President of GBAF, who outlined the many projects (research and education) that are supported through your charitable donations.

 

Without the support of the Foundation’s Research, the Georgian Bay Association would not be able to be the efficient watchdog group that it is.

 

Through your dollars, they can invest in convincing science and Stewardship such as:

-         High Resolution Satellite Imagery – now set to capture from Parry Sound to Key River (a key resource for many studies such as wetland protection, wildlife, water levels, etc.)

-         The Bay Keeper Programme launched in 2003 (watch for the Boat) with Mary Muter as our Georgian Bay Keeper

-         Water quality tests

-         Forest Ecosystem Management

-         Ongoing work in creation of the Eastern Georgian Bay World Biosphere Reserve

 

With access to these resources, GBA Directors are able to effectively persuade government and other stakeholders of the importance of following crucial issues of concern to our member associations, such as the South Channel.

 

Their research projects cost tens of thousands of dollars.  If you share in “the passionate belief that the Bay must be protected,” then I urge you to generously support these projects. (Pledge cards can be found in the insert of your GBA Update, and tax receipts will be given)

 

Recent Advances:

 

Fisheries Committee:  The main topic of the October Fisheries Workshop focused on the most serious threat, invasion of exotic species to the fisheries and aquatic ecology of the Great Lakes.  Read the article in GBA Update.  Also discussed was the need for local cottagers to help ‘spread the word’ about the new fishing regulations.  The cormorant problem is still under study and a report is expected late this year.  There is a need to spread awareness of GBA’s concerns about open netcage aquaculture farms operating in Georgian Bay’s clean waters.

 

Boating Committee:  DVD’s are the upcoming thing for navigational maps.  Traditional charts will likely become more expensive.  Environment Canada has hinted there may be reductions in Marine Weather Forecasts.  GBA will urge for them to be kept to a regular reporting system.  There is new research in support of regulating the mandatory use of PFD’s – can view details at www.csbc.ca . GBA is urging the Canada Coast Guard to not cut back on the seasonal upkeep of navigational aids.  In regards to safe boating as well as other issues, all cottagers are advised to call OPP for whatever concerns us (noise from power boats? unsafe handling of PWC’s? snowmobile/ATV concerns?) whenever the issues arise. Without your calls, they cannot document as proof the need for more enforcement and patrols on our waters. (1-888-310-1122, OPP’s toll free number)

 

Water and Air Environment Cluster:  Water levels are still going down, and the predictions are not good. GBA is seeking Canada Great Lakes Regulations for the control of ballast water dumping from foreign ships (the source of invasive exotic species). GBA is urging new energy initiatives from Ontario’s Minister of Energy – with a focus on conservation and fair pricing structures

 

Government Relations:  GBA gained a private meeting with the Federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans to discuss boating issues (eg. noise pollution from ‘muscle boats’) and impress on him our concerns about the operations of fish farms (aquaculture) in Georgian Bay.

 

Worthwhile Events!  Plan TO travel:

            Please circle these dates on your 2004 calendars:

*GBA’s 87th AGM, Thursday, March 4th, 7:30-9:30 PM, Location TBA

*Get Ready for the Bay Day, Saturday, Apr 3rd, 9 – 1:00, Kelk Corp.,

 

Continuing to Serve:

            GBA Director’s and Executive and Committee members will continue their volunteer efforts to meet, plan, and take action throughout the “off season” on behalf of the SCA and other member associations (representing 4200 families) of eastern and northern Georgian Bay.  View our web site (soon to be revised!) at www.georgianbay.ca