The Ministry of Natural Resources is currently working on a decision regarding an application to rename Crane Island (Lake Joseph) to Stowe Island. But why Stowe? Let’s talk about the incredible history behind the name.
The Story Behind Stowe Island: Honouring Dr. Emily Howard Jennings Stowe
Dr. Emily Howard Jennings Stowe was a trailblazer, a woman who defied the conventions of her time to make a lasting impact on Canadian society. Born in 1831, Emily Stowe became a pivotal figure in Canada’s history as the first licensed female physician in the country. Yet her legacy extends beyond her medical achievements; she was also a driving force behind women’s education and suffrage.
Raised in a Quaker family that valued education for both genders, Emily was encouraged to pursue knowledge from a young age. Though denied entry to the University of Toronto’s medical school due to her gender, she persisted by studying in the United States, graduating from the New York Medical College for Women in 1867.
The treatment she endured set the stage for change, leading to her involvement in founding the Ontario Medical College for Women in 1883. This institution was crucial in providing women with access to medical training in Canada. Emily’s daughter, Augusta Stowe-Gullen, followed in her footsteps, becoming the first woman to graduate with a medical degree from a Canadian university.
The Stowes’ connection to Lake Joseph began in 1883, with the purchase of an island for the family’s retreat, a sanctuary for Emily and her husband, John, to escape the rigours of their work. Named “Stowe Island,” it was designed as a peaceful haven, complete with flower beds, vegetable gardens, and cozy summer cottages. Here, Emily found respite amid her relentless campaigning for women’s rights and equal opportunities.
This island, now known as Crane Island, holds a remarkable legacy. Renaming it Stowe Island would not only honour Emily’s contributions to medical and social reforms in Canada but also her enduring impact on future generations, symbolizing the vision and commitment that inspired her life’s work. She is someone worth remembering.
Old Muskoka
Much of this information is available as one resource in the fabulous book Old Muskoka: Century Cottages and Summer Estates by Liz Lundell. If you are interested in historic estates in Muskoka this is a must read. I am often look to as a resource for information about Muskoka (so flattering!!), and this is one of the books that I referred to often while trying to learn as much as I possibly could about Muskoka and the Big Three (Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, and Lake Joseph).
I hope you enjoyed learning about legacy behind Stowe Island. I will let you know if the change in name is approved by the ministry. If you have any questions, feel free to email me at len@cottageinmuskoka.ca. And don’t forget to check out our Instagram @cottageinmuskoka for more Muskoka content.
On October 23, 2024, the Bank of Canada dropped its interest rate by 0.50%. This brings the rate down to its lowest level in years, and it’s going to shake things up in the Muskoka real estate market. So, what does this mean for you, whether you’re buying or selling?
Why the Rate Cut?
Canada’s inflation has dipped to 1.6%—well below the Bank’s target. With weaker consumer confidence and rising unemployment, the Bank is hoping this rate cut will give the economy a boost. Lower rates mean cheaper borrowing, which is great news for the housing market!
If you are a Seller, this may mean that there are more Buyers qualifying for your property. Perhaps there will also be less competition. Potential Sellers who were worried about having to sell, may have some relief now.
Potential for Higher Offers
With buyers qualifying for larger loans, there’s a chance they may make higher offers on your property. This is especially true in competitive markets where multiple buyers are vying for the same home.
Should You Act Now?
It is a great time to act. For Buyers – before all the other Buyers hit the market and drive prices up again.
For sellers, listing your property could be a good plan. But, it depends on your situation. Please rely on your personal needs and the advice of a Muskoka real estate professional – we are always available to you.
Next Steps
Lenore and I are here to help you with your own unique situation. We provide personalized, professional and exclusive care. We are REALTORs with Johnston and Daniel Rushbrooke Realty Inc., and we’re here to guide you through the process.
Please contact us, and we’ll start your specific plan. Our timing is your timing, whether you want to take action today, or in five years from now.
Best regards,
Catharine Inniss REALTOR Johnston and Daniel Rushbrooke Realty, Brokerage
Today we have a guest post written by Mohamed Rizwan Bachani, the President & CEO of Unique Accounting Services. Thank you Mohamed for providing clarity on the new capital gains hike for our clients and followers!
Mohamed Rizwan Bachani Unique Accounting Services 909 Simcoe St. N., Suite 200 Oshawa, ON L1G 4W1 Tel: (905) 903-7669 Fax: 1-866-209-6945 Email: info@uniqueaccountingservices.ca Web: www.uniqueaccountingservices.ca
The implications of the 2024 Federal Budget’s increase in the capital gains inclusion rate aresubstantial and will affect many more Canadians than originally contemplated.
The 2024 Federal Budget has proposed significant changes to the capital gains inclusion rate, a move that has potentially significant tax and financial planning implications for taxpayers, especially those involved in recurring or singular high-value transactions. We will look into the specifics of these changes, their impact on different types of taxpayers, and outline strategic tax planning opportunities that could be advantageous before the new rules come into force.
The capital gains inclusion rate is not a direct tax. However, it determines how much of a capital gain must be included in a taxpayer’s taxable income. Since 2000, the rate has been set at 50%. For example, if an individual realized a capital gain of $100,000, only $50,000 would currently form part of taxable income.
The 2024 Federal Budget has proposed to increase the inclusion rate from 50% to 66.7% for dispositions of capital property occurring on or after June 25, 2024. For businesses and trusts, this rate applies to all capital gains. However, individuals will retain the 50% inclusion rate on the first $250,000 of capital gains per year. This change means a greater portion of capital gains will be taxable, effectively raising the tax burden on investments. Consider the following examples:
Impact on Individuals:
Example 1 ($100,000 total capital gain): $50,000 would be considered taxable income (50% of $100,000). As such, there is no change compared to the existing rules
Example 2 ($300,000 total capital gain): $158,333 would be considered taxable income (50% of $250,000 = $125,000 + 66.67% of $50,000 = $33,333). Hence, an additional $8,333 is added to taxable income compared to the existing rules (50% of $300,000 = $150,000)
Impact on Corporations and Trusts:
Example 1 ($100,000 total capital gain): $66,667 would be considered taxable income (66.67% of $100,000). Hence, an additional $16,667 is included in taxable income compared to the existing rules (50% of $100,000 = $50,000)
Example 2 ($300,000 capital gain): $200,000 would be considered taxable income (66.67% of $300,000). Hence, an additional $50,000 is included in taxable income compared to the existing rules (50% of $300,000 = $150,000)
Who Will Be Affected?
This change will predominantly impact: 1. High-income earners and affluent investors managing substantial capital gains 2. Business owners selling their shares for a significant gain 3. Corporations with investments in real estate, marketable securities and other capital assets 4. Estate inheritances where sizable capital gains are a factor
Tax Planning Opportunities
While it may seem like the simplest solution would be to incur capital gains prior to the proposed effective date of June 25, 2024, there are several variables at play and customized professional advice is vital to maximizing your tax savings. Some potential options are listed below to consider.
1. Realizing Gains Before the Change
Realizing the sale of assets before June 25, 2024, allows individuals and corporations to benefit from the current lower inclusion rate. Some potential pitfalls to this strategy include triggering alternative minimum tax. If selling residential real estate, properties held less than one year may be subject to the residential property flipping rule resulting in 100% of the gain being included as taxable income.
If a taxpayer has realized/unrealized capital losses, crystallizing a capital gain prior to June 25, 2024, becomes worth considering. This option may lead to cashflow issues as the tax needs to be paid without receiving any proceeds.
2. Strategic Use of Lifetime Capital Gains Exemptions
Maximizing use of the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE), which is increasing to $1.25 million, can significantly reduce taxable gains from the sale of qualified small business corporation shares and similar assets. Involving a family trust in the share ownership should be considered to potentially multiply the LCGE.
3. Revisiting Estate and Succession Plans
With higher future taxation on gains, revising estate and succession plans to incorporate these changes is crucial, potentially involving earlier transfers or restructuring of asset ownership. Life insurance planning to account for increased capital gains taxation on the death of a shareholder should also be reviewed.
4. Corporate Investing
Corporations might want to consider crystallizing gains prior to June 25th to enhance the corporation’s Capital Dividend Account which will otherwise be reduced from June 25th. The CDA represents the non-taxable portion of a corporate capital gain that can be extracted from the company tax-free. The cash obtained by the individual shareholder can then be invested in capital property and take advantage of the lower capital gains inclusion rate on the first $250,000 of annual capital gains which would not otherwise be available at the corporate level.
Also, consider investing in certain corporate class mutual funds that are structured to defer capital gains and provide for cash flow in the form of tax-free return of capital prior to their disposition. Corporate owned permanent life insurance with an investment component also serves to provide estate planning combined with tax free appreciation.
Conclusion
The upcoming increase in the capital gains inclusion rate presents both challenges and opportunities. Taxpayers, particularly those with potential high-value sales of capital property should consult with their tax advisors to assess the best strategies in light of these changes.
Thanks again to Mohamed Rizwan Bachani, President & CEO of Unique Accounting Services for writing this guest post for us!
I was just reviewing some great, simple rules to follow to enjoy and use money well. These are rules shared by Brian Buffini. I follow these rules to the best of my ability.
I have found that Brian Buffini is a great coach. What makes a great coach? In my view, it is someone who has been there and is now sharing ideas and methods to be able to replicate the success that they have had.
Brian is someone who started out poor and broke and quickly realized that broke is a state of your bank account and can be temporary. Poor is a state of mind and one needs to change that with education.
So here are some ideas to secure your financial future:
Understand yourself and understand that you are not alone. Over 80% of people avoid thinking and talking about money. They are afraid of managing money and afraid to look at where they stand because they don’t have a plan and are afraid of losing their money. Trust me – it ends up being much scarier not to look.
People worship money. They spend a lot on lottery tickets – and the odds are so much better betting on yourself.
Change how you feel about yourself. Your status is who you are, not what you have. So that takes some internal work. But trust me, it feels great to nurture yourself in the right way. Fill the hole with good thinking, not money. Feel good about yourself.
Secrecy – embarrassment and shame. You have made mistakes. Your biggest mistake is thinking that you are alone. People in the Financial Services industry say that you would be surprised at how many people avoid looking at their financial situation and taking the reins. You are definitely not alone! And not embracing your finances creates conflict with your partner, if you have one.
Confusion. How much advice is out there? And how many sources are credible. You have to think of what the net worth of the person who is providing advice happens to be. Are they just making money from writing the book, or do they have a healthy and thriving net worth?
Follow a high performance mindset – Knowledge is power and ignorance is bankruptcy.
Money is a tool to be respected. It is just a tool, but you need to know how to take care of it, and how to use it.
You need to have a grounded identity. Money cannot buy character.
Clarity and alignment – what do you want money to do for you and is it aligned with your values? How are you spending your time and what do you believe. Take the time to figure this out, so you don’t end up in the wrong destination.
You need a path to follow. Run on the right track.
STRATEGIES FOR STABILITY
Defensive and Offensive
Defensive:
Working home budget to pay down debt, will, automatic savings and one month reserve.
Offensive:
Invest in yourself, build equity in your home, establish your retirement fund.
The former stability strategy stays in place for the rest of your life, no matter how wealthy you become. It is your platform for stability and security.
STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS
Defensive and Offensive
Defensive:
Go from reducing your consumer debt, to having no consumer debt, automatic savings, and three to six months reserve. Fully fund your retirement fund.
Learn to live on 70% of what you make, save 10%, give 10%, invest 10%.
Offensive:
Get to 50% equity in your home at least.
Increase your revenue. Figure out how to make more money. Promotion at work, a side gig, real estate investments, (67% of millionaires made their money investing in real estate), stocks and bonds.
STRATEGIES FOR SIGNIFICANCE (Giving back)
Defensive and Offensive
Defensive:
All real estate holdings paid off. Your real estate is safe from repossession if it is paid for.
Establish a trust.
Have passive income to support you until you are 100 years old.
Offensive:
Give money and time to charities and causes that you are passionate about. Time first, money second.
If you own a business, set it up so that it is true legacy.
I think Brian Buffini has some great, tried and true ideas. What do you think?
A good accountant can help you set this up. Please let us know if you need a referral to an accountant.
Hey there, Muskoka friends and family! Big things are happening around Lake Rosseau… again! The Minett Muskoka development discussions range from a concept drawing of a giant concert venue discovered online, to the planned redevelopment at Clevelands House. While growth can be exciting, it’s also got many of us wondering: at what cost? How can we grow while also preserving what makes Muskoka, Muskoka? Let’s talk about what can be done, and why your voice in this is more important than ever.
The Heart of Muskoka: What’s Changing in Minett?
Minett is no stranger to change, but recent development rumours are turning more heads than usual. First up, there’s talk about a ‘HotelLIVE!’ concert venue that’s aiming to be a big deal – think bigger than Toronto’s Budweiser Stage! Yep, that means potentially 20,000 concert-goers right here in the heart of Muskoka Lakes, based on the concept drawings the company posted online. Add to that the makeovers at Clevelands House and the new Legacy Cottages, and it’s clear the vibe in Minett is about to change.
To be clear, the 20,000 capacity concert venue is not something that has been approved by the Township of Muskoka Lakes yet. All that has been approved so far is are some summer outdoor concerts. I think the would-be developer may have gotten a little ahead of themselves posting the concept drawings online for the public to see before even seeking approval from the Township. But, at least they were nice enough to give us extra detail… like marking the ponds along Five Bridges Path “ponds to be filled.” Umm, environmental assessment please!
Big Plans, Big Concerns:
Let’s break down some of the concerns that have been echoed by the Muskoka Lakes community in the comments of our recent posts:
Traffic Jamming on Peninsula Road: Imagine 20,000 people trying to leave a concert at the same time. Peninsula Road doesn’t exactly measure up to Highway 401, and traffic coming over the bridge at Port Sandfield is already a fun little challenge during peak season, isn’t it?
Noise, Noise, Noise: Ever wonder how far the sound from a massive concert goes? According to a good ol’ Google, sound from a concert can be heard up to a few miles away… and when 20,000 fans are rocking out, that’s not just background noise for a quiet evening by the lake. Speaking of a quiet evening by the lake – water doesn’t absorb sound as effectively as land does, and areas with less ambient sound (like a quiet lake at night) make it easier to hear sound from further away.
Night Moves: Picture it—thousands leaving a concert, potentially a bit tipsy, navigating our roads and lakes in the dark. A little anxiety inducing, no? Especially on top of the extra anxiety we’ve all felt after an increase in boating accidents over the last few summers. What if there’s a fire somewhere during this traffic mayhem? Or what if there’s an emergency at the concert venue itself? Emergency services aren’t exactly nearby. Not to mention the strain already facing our hospital…
Environmental Worries: Remember when Wallace Bay had its own drama, like that unfortunate sewage spill from JW Marriott The Rosseau? It’s been sorted, but it’s a reminder that our environment needs TLC, not more stress. Between Legacy Cottages, Clevelands House, and the JW Marriott The Rosseau, By the way – the Official Plan Amendment that designated Minett a ‘Resort Village’ does include rules about being connected to municipal services.
And on the same environmental angle – according to the neighbours, who used to walk Five Bridges Path regularly, the field that was just cleared was teeming with wildlife. Milkweed for butterflies, regular deer sightings, breeding frogs, a turtle in the pond (that I’m told the Marriott had even named!). Check out the before pictures below, some submitted by the community (thank you!) and some from social media. You can check out current pictures here.
Overdevelopment Concerns: Minett’s charm is in its quaintness. Yes, it’s been designated as a resort area… but if we let developers go too far, it will lose what made it desirable to begin with. Luckily, the Official Plan Amendment regarding Minett aims to ensure new development respects the area’s natural beauty and environmental sensitivity. Let’s make sure they stick to that.
Property values: This project actually coming to fruition could certainly harm property values in the area. But there’s no cause for panic. First of all, Clevelands House redevelopments aren’t even slated to start yet (The Ontario Land Tribunal hearing doesn’t start until May). Second, if this concert venue concept is even approved (BIG if), between approvals, permits, and construction, it would be years off. So no need to look at selling yet! Now’s the time to get involved and make your voice heard, but it’s far too soon to be anxious from a real estate standpoint.
What Can You Do to Help?
Here’s the thing: it basically just comes down to speaking up! Community engagement has a huge role in shaping development outcomes in Muskoka – just look at Clevelands House, and the work done by the MLA and the community to change the number of allowed units from 4000 to 1700. Love the idea of more attractions in Minett or worried about losing the quiet beauty of our lakes? Either way, it’s time to get involved.
Stay Informed: Knowledge is power. Keep up with local news, attend town hall meetings, and read up on what we know about the concept so far. Any new information we find will be shared here and on our Instagram account @cottageinmuskoka. Should the need for a petition arise, we will make sure to inform you. The MLA (Muskoka Lakes Association) does a fantastic job at keeping the community informed. If you aren’t a member yet, it’s worth looking into.
Speak Up: Got something to say? Social media, community forums, and public meetings are great places to share your thoughts. We started covering this topic because of the neighbours in the area causing a stir. A massive “thank you” to them!
Engage with Decision-Makers: Send your feedback to the folks making the calls. Writing to the Township of Muskoka Lakes would be a great start. For example, the trailers on the field property behind the Marriott are not on the site plan – I’m told that could potentially subject the owner to a fine, so I’ll be emailing the Township to confirm. Note – this is not a by-law infraction, so please don’t use the form below for this.
Report Concerns: Notice someone breaking a by-law? The Township of Muskoka Lakes has a webform for reporting by-law infractions, which can be used to make an official complaint.
Wrapping Up
The direction we take in Muskoka Lakes depends on all of us. Whether you’re excited about the prospect of more to do in Minett, or protective of the peace, staying engaged is key. After all, Muskoka has a lot worth protecting… and its future is in our hands. Let’s make sure it’s a future we all can love.
Got thoughts on the Muskoka Lakes development? Comment here, join the conversation on our recent instagram posts (you’ll have to be signed in), or email me at len@cottageinmuskoka.ca.
Despite matching the lowest activity in over 20 years, the massive, media-predicted price reductions never came to pass in 2023 for the Muskoka recreational market. On the surface, the sales data suggest that prices increased by roughly 10% from 2022 to 2023. However, activity at the highest end of the market skewed these numbers and illustrate why “average price” is often more instructive to where the sales are occurring, in this case, in the high-end of the market, rather than providing a general statement on the entirety of a market.
We saw, an additional seven properties, with an average price of $12,000,000 sell in 2023. These sales alone increased the average price by over $200,000 and further reminds us of the limitations of benchmarking a fragmented and relatively small market such as Muskoka waterfront. Normalizing for these extremes, the numbers indicate that prices fell by high single digits – well off the 30% figure cited in the headlines. The fire sale that many buyers were waiting for never occurred and sellers looking to ride the pandemic market wave were met with growing inventory and tentative buyers. The market entered firmly into a more balanced “give-and-take” between sellers and buyers.
Inventory
Inventory grew to levels not seen since 2019 and tripled that of the historical lows from the last half of 2020 to the first quarter of 2022. With more choices for buyers, the multiple bidding phenomenon cooled substantially in 2023, curtailing the main inflationary element we saw during the pandemic. While the pandemic saw the a surge in investment cottage buyers, we did see the return of the more traditional cottage buyer this past year. They acted quickly and decisively when they came across the unique combination of features and price they sought. Unlike in 2008 and the early 1990s, buyers are still very much engaged and able.
Through the last half of 2020 to the spring of 2022, monthly sales matched the number of monthly active listings resulting in an overheated market and unprecedented price increases. 2023 saw the return to a more normal correlation between sales and inventory.
Annual Unit Sales – Over List vs Under List Price
Although sales matched a 20 year low, 14% of sales, in 2023, resulted in a sale price over the list price. We can infer that the majority of these sales were either in a multiple bid scenario or that a multiple bid was anticipated by a determined buyer.
Post Pandemic Pricing Table – Muskoka Recreational
The pandemic market brought an end to the sub $500,000 price point. Entry level cottages are now in the $700,000 plus range. On a percentage basis the entry level saw the largest year over year increases during the pandemic.
If you have any questions or want more specific data about your Township, please email me at cath@cottageinmuskoka.ca!
Not much to this post, just something quick to share information. Here you’ll find photos of the field (Five Bridges Path) from March 21, 2024, and the Site Plan Agreement (+ Schedule B).
FYI – I’ve backdated this post to the date the photos were taken.
If you’re interested in contributing to the Muskoka ecosystem but can’t attend a Muskoka Ash Drive (Friends of the Muskoka Watershed), spreading wood ash on your property can be a powerful way to support environmental health and sustainability. This guide will show you how to become a self-starter in replenishing the land and supporting local initiatives from the comfort of your own home.
Key Steps for Safe and Effective Wood Ash Spreading
Ensure Ash is Cold and Dry: Before you start, make sure the wood ash has completely cooled for several days. This precaution is essential to prevent any fire hazards.
Personal Safety Gear is a Must: Protect yourself by wearing gloves, long pants, and a mask. This safety gear will help you avoid any irritation or harm while spreading the ash.
Source of Ash: Use ash from clean, untreated wood only. Avoid ash from pressure-treated lumber, plastics, or any wood that has been exposed to harmful chemicals. This step ensures that you’re contributing positively to the ecosystem without introducing pollutants.
Proper Application: FOTMW has researched the optimal amount of ash for spreading: one 750 ml yogurt container per square meter of forest (or ~the area around one tree). This specific ratio helps to counteract the effects of acid rain by replenishing calcium levels in the soil.
When and Where to Spread Ash: It’s advisable to spread wood ash once to combat 50 years of calcium depletion – that’s all it takes to completely restore calcium to pre-1960s levels. Choose areas away from frequent human and pet traffic, and ensure you’re not near water bodies to prevent ash runoff.
Community Engagement: After contributing to this environmental effort, share your actions with FOTMW. Whether it’s through social media or direct communication, your participation highlights the collective effort to restore Muskoka’s natural beauty. And don’t just stop collecting ash once your property has been restored! Please consider donating to a Muskoka Ash Drive held by Friends of the Muskoka Watershed. The dates for the rest of the year are below:
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Saturday, September 21, 2024
Saturday, October 19, 2024
Saturday November 16, 2024
Muskoka Ash Drives are held from 9:30am to 1pm at 1062 Rosewarne Drive (Rosewarne Transfer Station) in Bracebridge, Ontario.
Benefits for Muskoka’s Ecosystem and Real Estate
By adopting these practices, you’re playing a critical role in fostering a healthier Muskoka ecosystem. The benefits extend beyond forest revitalization; they contribute to mitigating climate change impacts, reducing the risk of seasonal flooding, and enhancing conditions for local wildlife and aquatic life. This initiative reflects the broader community values of environmental stewardship, a principle highly regarded by prospective cottage buyers in Muskoka.
The FOTMW initiative is not just about individual contributions; it’s about mobilizing the community towards a common goal of ecological restoration. By participating, you’re investing in Muskoka’s future, making it an even more attractive location for real estate investments, especially for those who value sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Becoming a self-spreader of wood ash is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to Muskoka’s environmental health. By following these guidelines, you’re taking an active role in a community-wide effort to restore and preserve the natural beauty and ecological balance of Muskoka, enhancing its appeal as a premier destination for eco-conscious real estate investors.
Well… more big news from Minett… a potential new Lake Rosseau concert venue! A field next to the JW Marriott the Rosseau on Lake Rosseau, a space once teeming with wildlife including frogs, deer, and an array of local flora, faces a significant transformation. Recent clear-cutting activities (update – not clear cutting! The low brush has been removed, and the MLA estimates ~20 trees were removed) have stripped a potentially environmentally sensitive area (including a field and two ponds), igniting community concern.
A concert park site plan drawing of the Lake Rosseau concert venue at the JW Marriott the Rosseau on Lake Rosseau.
The Proposed Marriott Rosseau Concert Venue: A Glimpse into the Future
Amidst discussions, an ambitious concert venue concept under the ‘HotelLIVE!’ brand emerges. With concept drawings showcasing a staggering capacity of 20,000, this venue is poised to surpass Toronto’s renowned Budweiser Stage in size. I must make clear that the Township of Muskoka Lakes has not approved this concert venue concept, and as far as I know nothing has been submitted to them. So, proper approvals and permits still stand between concept and reality.
Site plan context of the Lake Rosseau concert venue at the JW Marriott the Rosseau on Lake Rosseau.
Environmental and Community Impacts at the Heart of Concern
This development proposition does not stand in isolation. It is part of a broader narrative of change sweeping through Minett, touching key landmarks like the redeveloping Clevelands House and the new Legacy Cottages development on Wallace Bay on Lake Rosseau – an area with a history of environmental challenges.
This Lake Rosseau concert venue concept, alongside the revitalization of Clevelands House and the burgeoning Legacy Cottages, foreshadows increased traffic through Peninsula Road. Mitch Goldhar, leading the Clevelands House redevelopment, has said he will look at potentially mitigating construction traffic… though there is no guarantee. The anticipated influx from concertgoers and the increasing development in Minett remains a concern. For more information on the plan for Clevelands House, check out the Cleves highlight on my instagram account. You can also check out a final aerial tour of Clevelands House (including some Lake Rosseau ice out shots) on my YouTube here.
Master property layout of the Lake Rosseau concert venue at the JW Marriott the Rosseau on Lake Rosseau.
A Call to Action: Empowering the Community with Information
I will also make an Instagram highlight for the JW Marriott the Rosseau as well if things continue to develop. If I’m able to get my hands on an e-copy of the JW Marriott the Rosseau site plan, I will include that in my newsletter this weekend, which you can sign up for here.
As always, I’m just doing my best to share whatever information I come across to empower our community to be well informed. Let’s advocate for balance between development and preservation in Muskoka Lakes! Your engagement is vital as we navigate these changes together, ensuring that the future of Minett, and Muskoka as a whole, reflects both our hopes for progress and our commitment to the natural beauty that defines our community.
If you have questions or comments, please feel free to join in the conversation on my instagram post about this Lake Rosseau concert venue concept here! Or, you’re welcome to email me at len@cottageinmuskoka.ca.
In the pristine regions of Muskoka, Ontario, a groundbreaking environmental initiative is breathing new life into the forests that drape the landscape via wood ash additions! The local community, with the support of the Friends of the Muskoka Watershed (FOTMW), has embarked on a mission to counteract the effects of acid rain and calcium depletion—a legacy of industrial activity that has left its mark on the environment. This post delves into the transformative power of wood ash, an unassuming byproduct of our cozy firesides, in rejuvenating our forested backyards.
Students from Sir Sandford Fleming spreading wood ash at a Friends of the Muskoka Watershed test site in Bracebridge, ON.
The Calcium Crisis
For decades, Muskoka’s forests have faced a silent threat: the gradual loss of calcium from the soil, a crucial nutrient for tree health and growth. This decline has weakened our trees, consequently making them more susceptible to disease, pests, and extreme weather. It has also impacted the aquatic life in our lakes. Many species now struggle to maintain the calcium levels necessary for their survival.
A Local Solution to a Global Problem:
Enter wood ash—the unexpected hero in this ecological narrative. Rich in calcium and other essential nutrients, wood ash has emerged as a natural, effective remedy for replenishing the calcium-depleted soils of Muskoka.
Friends of the Muskoka Watershed has spearheaded research, in collaboration with Canadian universities, revealing the significant benefits of wood ash application. Treated forests are not just surviving, but thriving! Trees become stronger, more resilient to storms, and better carbon sinks, mitigating the impacts of climate change.
The Benefits of Using Wood Ash in Muskoka
Stronger Trees, Stronger Future:
One of the most remarkable impacts of adding wood ash to our forests is the development of stronger, more resilient trees. Trees fortified with calcium from wood ash are less prone to breakage during storms, reducing the risk of damage to property and loss of forest cover.
This strength is not just a boon for the trees themselves but for the entire ecosystem relying on them. Healthier trees can support a wider range of wildlife, from birds nesting in their branches to the myriad species that call the forest floor home. As these trees grow stronger, they become a living legacy of our commitment to environmental stewardship.
A Breath of Fresh Air – Carbon Capture in Action:
In the face of global climate change, the role of forests as carbon sinks has never been more critical. Trees act as the lungs of the planet, absorbing carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and storing carbon in their wood and soil.
By revitalizing our forests with wood ash, we’re enhancing their capacity to capture and store carbon. This helps mitigate the effects of climate change and contributes to the overall health of our planet. As Muskoka’s trees flourish, they become powerful allies in the fight against climate change!
By using wood ash to enhance soil and tree health, we’re bolstering our natural defenses against increasingly frequent and severe floods. This approach protects our homes, communities, and the natural beauty and biodiversity of Muskoka.
Restoring Balance: Calcium’s Role in Our Watershed:
The benefits of replenishing calcium levels in our forests extend beyond the soil and trees and into our watersheds. Calcium plays a vital role in water health, affecting the life cycles and structural integrity of aquatic life. For example, crayfish and Daphnia plankton rely on calcium to build strong exoskeletons. This makes them crucial indicators of water health.
By restoring calcium to our forests, we inadvertently boost calcium levels in our watershed. This natural restoration supports biodiversity and helps maintain the quality of our water bodies, therefore ensuring they remain a haven for wildlife and the focal point of Muskoka.
The Community’s Role in Spreading Ash in Muskoka:
This initiative’s success lies in its community-driven approach. Many Muskoka residents have actively participated by donating wood ash from their homes. Others have volunteered as “Citizen Scientists”, given training and kits for ash-spreading experiments, enabling wider research and engagement.
The Muskoka community’s collective effort showcases a powerful model of environmental stewardship, where local action sparks significant ecological improvement.
A Path Forward:
The project not only addresses calcium decline, but also opens a dialogue on sustainable living practices. It highlights the potential of simple, locally-sourced solutions in tackling global environmental issues. By turning waste into a resource, Muskoka is helping to set an example for communities worldwide, proving that small changes can have a profound impact on our planet’s health.
This initiative is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together for the greater good of Muskoka. Let’s continue to support and expand this project, which is currently in the midst of collecting enough ash for a first large scale ash addition.
It’s a very exciting one too! It will take place at Harp Lake, an ecologically important lake due to the many years of scientific data available via the Dorset Environmental Science Centre.
Get Involved and Spread the Word about Ash in Muskoka:
The journey to a healthier Muskoka starts with us. Feeling inspired to contribute to the health of our forests and watershed? Please consider donating to a Friends of the Muskoka Watershed Ash Drive. Upcoming dates:
April 20, 2024
September 21, 2024
October 19, 2024
November 16, 2024
All Ash Drives are from 9:30am to 1pm at Rosewarne Transfer Station in Bracebridge, Ontario.
If you can’t make it to an Ash Drive, consider spreading wood ash on your property. To learn more about how you can safely and effectively use wood ash to benefit your local environment, visit our blog post on self-spreading ash at your own properties (Coming Thursday, March 21). Your actions can make a significant difference in our collective effort to restore and protect Muskoka’s natural beauty.
Do you have questions or need guidance on getting started? I’m here to help. Please feel free to reach out to me at len@cottageinmuskoka.ca. Together, we can ensure a greener, more resilient Muskoka for generations to come.
Psst… I am so proud to be able to say that I currently serve as Vice Chair of Friends of the Muskoka Watershed, so please reach out about any of our other projects that pique your interest! Or any questions about Muskoka’s environment in general – if I don’t know the answer, I will definitely find it for you!
