Tuesday, May 27, 2008

MEGI FYI #3


It won't be too long now till we can jump back into the Healing Waters of Little Manitou Lake. Beautiful sunset, eh?

Have you ever heard Little Manitou Lake referred to as “like the Dead Sea”?

The similarity lies in the fact that they are both closed basin systems, which means “what goes in the lake, stays in the lake” (except through evaporation). As well, they both contain a wide spectrum of minerals in suspension. But that’s where the comparison stops.

The Dead Sea is, as the name implies, dead. The ecosystem is unable to sustain either fish or plant life.

In contrast, Little Manitou Lake is host to a thriving species of “Brine Shrimp” that are harvested in a sustainable manner on a fairly regular, yearly basis. Due to varying conditions related to spring runoff, rainfall or lack thereof, the shrimp population can vary.

In addition, there are several mineral products that continue to be produced by various techniques. This practice has carried on pretty much uninterrupted in some cases for several generations.

Little Manitou Lake AKA Manitou Beach is well-known far and wide as a place of wonderful healing powers. The famous ‘Healing Waters’ have been visited by people from all over the world who come to enjoy the restorative properties of the naturally buoyant waters.

These are just a few of the reasons why this group is committed to the maintenance and protection of this unique ecosystem.

Please note: You can purchase ‘biodegradable soaps and shampoos’ to use at the showers on the beach at both Pioneer Health Products at Manitou Beach and Watrous Pharmacy.

Thanks to these community-minded businesses for making these environmentally-friendly products available to the public. Please take advantage of this option.

The group invites anybody with a ‘pet peeve’ regarding environmental, or any other concerns about the ecological health of Little Manitou Lake to post a comment on this blog.

We will do our best to address any questions raised, or point you in the right direction if possible.

Member Notice: Manitou Environmental Group Inc. will be holding an Annual General Meeting Upstairs at the Diner at Manitou Beach, SK. on Sunday, June 22nd at 1:00. All members are encouraged to attend. You can renew your membership at the door. New members are always welcome so bring a friend! Coffee served.