The super-buoyant waters of Little Manitou Lake hold swimmers in perfect suspension so that they experience the amazing sensation of weightlessness. Not only is this very beneficial for easing away aches and pains from muscles and joints, the minerals held in suspension also have been said to benefit those who suffer from arthritis and various skin problems. Many people actually harvest the minerals and oils to use them as the medicinal ingredients in a variety of salves, soaps, bath salts and mud-packs.
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2 comments:
Good work to our environmentalists who have the well-being of our wonderful lake at heart!! I am glad to see water testing from more than one source. One thing that concerns me as much as coliform bacteria is the introduction of phosphates. When you buy fertilizer the three numbers represent potassium (commonly from potash), nitrogen(often as ammonia), and phosphorous (found in detergents as well). These three elements will disrupt the natural balance of the plant nutrients in the water. This process is called eutrophication. In a fresh water lake this will create algal blooms and the plants will grow and choke out the water system. When the algae dies it decomposes using up the oxygen and killing the fish. In a salt water environment, which already exhibits an algal culture, this will throw off the balance by creating more nutrients and the algae takes off out of control. Highly toxic Blue-green algae are great opportunists for these extra nutrients.(Then no one would be swimming in the lake) I am concerned that phosphorous is being introduced by this effluent and would suggest testing be done at a couple of locations. Perhaps traveling across the land will eliminate phosphorous before it reaches the lake. Cattails are extremely good at this. The problem with phosphates in a lake like Little Manitou is that it is a one way trip. Once any of these fertilizers are introduced into a closed ecosystem there is no way out so it becomes a constant problem. Especially in a fragile salt environment. I would suggest further reading of materials by David Schindler from the University of Alberta. He is an expert on water quality in the western provinces with an international reputation. Many articles are available with a google search.
Another source of information is to search efforts Saskwater and other groups have been taking to remove cattle and other contaminators from Riparian Environments.
Here's to a healthy lake!!
Robb Larochelle
Thanks for expressing your concerns, Robb. The more input this group has from members and the GP, the better. As you know, we have a list of issues that concern us and fall within our mandate to deal with. The BoD will soon be aware of your comments and we will do our best to act accordingly. FYI, we are planning an ongoing series of tests as you suggest. Thanks for bringing the phosphorous levels to our attention. I will suggest that we add this element to our next lake water test at the next board meeting. All the best, M.
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