M.D. not ready to deal with garbage on lake

Chris Clegg
South Peace News

Garbage left on Lesser Slave Lake this past winter and spring by ice fishermen has caught the attention of the M.D. of Big Lakes and Joussard Community Association. JCA met May 8 and demanded that something be done to stop the problem next year. M.D. Reeve Myler Savill attended the meeting and heard JCA wanted to take the drastic action of cutting off public access to the lake; something Savill was confident council could not do legally. JCA did make it clear to the M.D. that something has to be done. “The debris is detrimental to the lake,” said Savill at the M.D.’s May 9 meeting. He added that council would have to act quickly to prepare for next winter. “If we want to get involved we will need lead time,” said Savill. Savill cautions any action council takes will not only affect the ice off Joussard but about three-quarters of the lake area that encompasses M.D. boundaries. Council had asked acting CAO Jeff Renaud to check into the matter of who has jurisdiction but he was away on a course. “I think our jurisdiction ends. . .at the high water mark,” said Kinuso Councillor Ken Killeen. “I think we’re probably done right there. “It’s not a good thing,” added Killeen. “It is a concern. I don’t blame them.” Gilwood South, Sunset House Councillor Randy Ehman suggested a reward similar to Crime Stoppers for catching violators. “We won’t hire special policemen,” said Ehman. Council eventually tabled the matter pending Renaud’s report on jurisdiction. They also agreed to contact Fish and Wildlife to see what plans they might have for next fishing season. Ehman was adamant, however, that it was up to local people to take action. “We’re great at saying it’s the fed’s fault, it’s the province’s fault.” Last winter, just over 100 fishing shacks were erected on the lake near Joussard. A few people left garbage on the lake prompting the concern. It has also been suggested that increased enforcement by Fish and Wildlife and perhaps the M.D. of Big Lakes special constable might curtail the problem. It’s also been suggested that each ice shack be registered that would make it easier to catch violators or perhaps offset the cost of increased enforcement. Fish and Wildlife district officer Steve Cross said in an earlier interview that the M.D. does have jurisdiction to charge and prosecute. “It’s the same as throwing garbage in the ditch. It’s leaving debris on the ice. . .so they can enforce it,” says Cross.

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