Wasps and the many varieties of stinging insects are a big problem this year, at Lac des Roches and many surrounding communities.
Many residents have reported encounters with these annoying and sometimes dangerous pests. Reactions to insect stings are varied and can range from an annoying stinging sensation and minor swelling to full cardiac arrest.
Residents have been sharing their suggestions for remedies and avoidance. Foremost is to inspect the area for the source of attraction, which is likely a nest. Removal and disposal can be dangerous but is necessary.
Installing wasp attractors or feeders to a different location can be effective.
Having anti-histamines drugs, such as Benadryl, nearby can provide relief to adults and pets with the proper dosage advice. Extreme allergic reactions require medical attention, but known sufferers are usually equipped with an epinephrine injector.
Suggested topical remedies are plantain poultice or under arm deodorant.
Screened tents or gazebos are gaining popularity, as they offer the outdoor experience without any of the annoying insects, and with so few weeks of summer weather left, no one wants to be forced indoors.
Electronic bug zappers, installed or hand held, can be effective but the old-fashioned fly swatter or rolled up Free Press newspaper are a cheap and great way to maintain or improve hand-eye co-ordination for the swatter of any age group.
Fair enjoyed
Several residents have suggested the organizers of the Bridge Lake Fall Fair receive a mention for a job well done this year.
Several car loads of neighbours spent a good portion of their day enjoying the exhibits and entertainment offered at the fair. The avid quilters from our area are still talking about the wonderful needlework displays.
Congratulations go to the organizers and the participants for another successful year.
Land development
Several residents attended last week’s public hearing for the proposed residential development at the end of Lee Road, which involves an Official Community Plan text amendment and rezoning.
While Lac des Roches property owners are likely not directly impacted by the proposed changes, residents of our area have witnessed development of strata-owned subdivisions in a rural and agricultural setting and have opinions that are worthy of note.
Neighbours contributing to important community processes are to be commended for their participation.
Water levels
Several seasonal creeks have dried up this year, which may partially account for the dropping lake level although Lac des Roches is mostly fed by underwater springs.
Shallow shoals and channels are almost impassable for larger boats and swimmers may experience some tummy tickling from the prolific weeds. Varying lake levels are not an environmental concern, as past lake monitoring records indicate that large changes of several feet is a normal part of the lake’s cycle.
Bear-free berries
Thankfully, this year’s fabulous berry picking season has passed with no reported bear encounters – so far.
Last year, bears were attracted to the local Saskatoon bushes and surprise encounters were reported almost daily and several high-producing bushes were completely destroyed by our hungry and clumsy invaders. The remaining out-of-reach berries seem to be attracting only cedar waxwings and crows.
Several residents have commented that –what appears to be a bumper crop of rose hips – could still attract the bears to the neighbourhood.
Critter watch
In addition to regular deer sightings this month, residents report otters and beavers around the lake.
A surprising number of – what is believed to be – mink have been seen at several locations. These dark brown critters look a lot like a small otter, but move distinctively differently when on the shore.