Ms. Grace McGregor, RDKB Area C Director, provided an update to the directors of the Society at a board meeting held August 23, 2012. The following notes are from this meeting.
Project List Update – August 23, 2012
Milfoil – samples of weevils in all stages of development (larvae, pupae and insect) have been collected from a number of sites and are presently undergoing DNA testing to confirm that they are the specie with the voracious appetite for Eurasian Water Milfoil! The program is on track.
The Stewardship Society has developed cruising guidelines related to foreshore erosion by large wakes. These guidelines have been provided to a number of recreational boat operators. A fine mechanism for offenders is in place. This is consistent with the Canadian Coast Guard Recreational Vessel Operator Competency program. A ‘ten-thirty’ rule is in place at Christina Lake. This means that boat speed is limited to 10 km/hr when operating within 30-m from shore. Water skiers are required to follow an in-and out policy – that is no cruising within the 30-m shoreline zone.
The park operators at Texas Point have noticed some power boats operating within the swimmers only zone marked by white buoys. This is an offence under the Contraventions Act and may result in a fine.
Waterfront property owners are reminded that the Society has dye test kits available at no charge to affirm the correct operation of septic tanks. The Society recognizes that bringing a non-compliant septic system up to code can be a significant cost. All lake users however have a vested interest in maintaining the existing high quality of the lake water.
The Regional District Area C is working hard to encourage low impact business to locate at Christina Lake; to take advantage of the recreational opportunities available for staff. Every community across Canada is targeting the same business growth market. The point of course is to reduce homeowner tax loads whilst maintaining services.
Non-resident Regional District Area C voting for Christina Lake property owners whose primary residence is located in British Columbia is now in effect.
Operators of large boats equipped with marine toilets with holding tanks are reminded that the Christina Lake village offers a for-fee pump out service. It is a federal offence to discharge black water into Christina Lake. Since 2010, it is also an offence to discharge ‘grey’ water into interior British Columbia lakes and boats equipped with sinks and showers are required to be equipped with holding tanks to keep sink and shower discharges inboard and to pump out grey water safely in appropriate facilities – at the lake, at the Christina Lake Village.
Information concerning roof sprinkler systems for fire protection is available through the Regional District web site.
Area C of the Regional District has a lighted speed sign that drivers may have seen in the village along Highway 3. It is intended to operate this sign along both East and West Lake Drives. Expect to see it. Over the peak summer period, both these limited access roads are frequently highly congested.
Vehicle and boat trailer parking at the public boat launches is outside Regional District jurisdiction. This is primarily a cost issue. Members should be aware that government services are being cut in every area.
