Our Waterfronts
Overview
The Association owns the Commonland shoreline on Little Bald Lake, Big Bald Lake and Sandy Lake and owns the submerged land in front of the shoreline. This strip of land serves to control the use and protect the appearance of the waterfronts.
The Bald lakes connect directly with Pigeon Lake which in turn connects to Buckhorn and Chemong lakes, forming a 116 square kilometer lock-free water body, the largest in the Kawarthas. It is possible to boat directly to Buckhorn, Bridgenorth, Bobcaygeon and Omemee.
Sandy Lake is connected to the same body of water by narrow, shallow Sandy Creek – a scenic excursion for those with canoes or kayaks. Further afield the Trent system provides more extensive possibilities for boating and cruising and connection to other communities in the area by water.
Members may apply to the Board for allocation of a dock space for placement of a private platform and dock, or the rental of a finger dock slip or canoe / kayak space. Boat launching ramps have been provided on Little Bald Lake and Sandy Lake. For occasional or visitor use a common dock is available on Little Bald Lake and common finger docks slips are available on Sandy Lake and Little Bald Lake.
Stewardship
Stewardship is the recognition of our collective responsibility to retain the quality of our Commonland forests, trails and waterfronts; and to manage these natural resources in a way that conserves their environmental, recreational and economic value.
Stewardship is also a journey – the commitment that comes with being good stewards takes time and effort. There is a role for everyone in stewardship:
- the Boad of Directors are elected to provide leadership in the development of policies that support stewardship of the Commonland;
- volunteer teams help with the implementation of the policies and the ongoing maintenance of the Commonland; and
- all Members provided input and feedback and ensure their use of the Commonland aligns with the Association’s stewardship goals and policies.
A Waterfronts Stewardship Team comprised of volunteers helps with the ongoing maintenance of the waterfronts and the implementation of the Association’s waterfronts stewardship policies and projects.
Stewardship activities include overseeing the placement and removal of the common docks and portable toilets each spring and fall, ensuring correct placement of platforms and docks on private dock spaces allocated by the Board and monitoring adherence to the Waterfront Management Policy.
Do you have an interest and time or skills to help? Contact the Director – Waterfronts.