Bancroft Council could move forward with a bylaw to block off a public boat launch on Clark Lake.
Council discussed the idea during its meeting today. This stems from concerns that zebra mussels could spread into the lake, and in turn, the town’s water treatment plant.
Staff recommended a number of steps the town could take to protect the lake, including blocking off the public boat launch. However, notice would have to be given that council intends to do so. Councillor Mary Kavanagh says she hopes staff will be able to have the bylaw ready for approval by next month.
A special council meeting is expected to be held in March to put forward the bylaw. If council passes it, residents can appeal the decision.
The town is not recommending that the shore road allowance be closed off, so that the public can still access the lake by foot.
Council also discussed future steps to protect the lake. This included whether or not canoes should also be restricted on the waterbody. Deputy Mayor Charles Mullett says he is more concerned about boats than he is canoes.
On the other hand, Councillors Mary Kavanagh and Wayne Wiggins both say they would like all water vessels, including canoes, banned on the lake. Deputy Clerk Lianne Sauter says there would be no way of enforcing canoe restrictions.
Staff is also recommending that council asks Hastings County to include Clark Lake in its source protection plan, and that it holds public information sessions about the risks of invasive species. Council can’t implement a law to restrict motorized boats on the lake, but can encourage people not to use them.
