Greater Twin Lakes Stewardship Society (GTLASS)
Presidents Report 2022
GTLASS is an integral component of the Twin Lakes community. It has no mandate to control lake water levels or influence development yet is an important set of eyes and ears to monitor not only lake health but the land surrounding Twin Lakes.
Twin Lakes is also a vital buffer zone adjoining the White Lake Basin which is considered an important habitat for numerous endangered species. One such species, the Western Painted Turtle has become the current project for GTLASS members. With funding from the Public Conservation Assistance Fund (PCAF) a dedicated group of community residents observed and recorded nesting behaviors at various points around the lake during the spring and summer of 2021. This year the Penticton Indian Band (PIB) has come on board with a grant to provide a turtle culvert under East Lake Road with fencing along the road edge to guide the turtles to their nesting sites. GTLASS data has been shared with Band biologist Mat Macpherson who previously coordinated the Rattlesnake study around White Lake. This type of cooperation and involvement is an important aspect of the GTLASS mandate. It is hoped we will be able to work with the PIB over the next couple of years to maintain and supplement a follow up study to monitor the success of the culvert.
Lakeshore health is often an indicator of lake health and a recent, jointly funded study of Twin Lake shore properties involving a partnership with the Southern Interior Land Trust (SILT) Watersheds Canada and the Canadian Wildlife Federation gave valuable information to LNID residents. Each homeowner was given a report about the observed health of their shoreline and how they could improve and enhance its function to reduce erosion and improve species habitats. GTLASS applied for and received a shoreline improvement grant that is going toward adding new plants to the area around the boat launch public access point.
A new, unexpected addition to the boat launch area is the floating fishing dock. It has been funded by monies collected from fishing permits and is expected to be a popular spot for local anglers. However, while popular with fishers of all ages it may create an additional concern regarding parking and lack of toilet facilities. A pilot study is underway to have toilet facilities available for the ice fishing season with funds available from Freshwater Fisheries.
Following another stressful fire season because of the Keremeos Creek fire, many of our lakeshore residents and outlying communities realized the importance of Fire Smart awareness. The Twin Lakes Fire Society, under the direction of Richard Heller, is busy organizing and planning Fire Smart activities and directives for the coming year. (See the latest GTLASS minutes for the spring event).
As the current year draws to a close, I would like to thank all those who have been involved with activities on and around the lake. I believe we are a community that is truly concerned about the Twin Lakes environment, whether as members of LNID or friends of the neighborhood. As LNID members you have the responsibility to your own lake shore health but more importantly, the sustainability of the truly spectacular ecosystem we live in. I would strongly encourage you all to step up and become involved in GTLASS in some capacity. Reach out to those friends who live off the lake and check the LNID web site for upcoming activities and initiatives. Feel free to contact myself or post comments and questions on the GTLASS blog site.
Dave Hetherington
President GTLASS
