If you’ve ever spent a summer evening on a Georgian Bay dock, you know the magic of the “blue hour.” The water turns to glass, the loons begin their call, and—if you’re lucky—the silhouettes of tiny, acrobatic flyers begin to dance against the twilight.
The Hero in Your Eaves
While we’re tucking into our cottages, the Little Brown Myotis and the Northern Long-eared Bat are clocking in for their shift. A single bat can eat up to 1,200 mosquito-sized insects in an hour. They are the most effective, eco-friendly pest control on the planet, protecting our gardens, our skin, and our local ecosystem.
But right now, they are facing a silent crisis. A devastating fungal disease called White-nose Syndrome (WNS) has decimated North American bat populations. In some areas, over 90% of colonies have vanished.
A Cinematic Journey: “The Invisible Mammal”
To celebrate International Bat Appreciation Day (April 17), the GBA is offering a unique opportunity to see these creatures through a new lens. We’ve secured 250 virtual screening passes for the award-winning documentary, The Invisible Mammal.
This isn’t your average nature documentary. It’s a high-stakes adventure that follows a team of brilliant women scientists—the “New Faces of Conservation”—as they race to save North American species from extinction. You’ll get an up-close look at:
“Project Fat Bat”: A pioneering scientific mission to help bats survive the winter.
The Secret Language of Bats: How they navigate our complex world using sound.
The Human Connection: Why the health of our bats is a direct reflection of our own health and environment.
How to Join the Screening
We want to replace fear with reverence. We want to turn “intruders” into “neighbors.”
When: April 17 – May 17
Where: Your living room!
The Window: We have 250 codes available. Once you redeem your code and hit play, you have 48 hours to finish the film.
Reserve your screening code here.
Three Things You Can Do Today:
Watch the Film: Knowledge is the first step toward conservation. Snag your code before they are gone!
Spread the Word: Tell your neighbors why that “toonie-sized” bat in their boathouse is actually a lucky charm.
Be a Kind Host: If a bat ends up in your cottage, don’t reach for the tennis racquet. Simply dim the lights, open a window or door, and let them find their way back to their nightly mission.
Join us this month and help ensure the “Invisible Mammals” of Georgian Bay have a visible future.
Lake Michigan-Huron is now at the same level it was at this time last year. From a month ago, the water levels on Lakes Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair, Erie & Ontario are up 0, 8, 8, 8 & 16 inches, respectively. Lakes Superior & Ontario levels are up 3 & 9 inches, respectively, from last year, while Lakes Michigan-Huron levels are now the same as last year. Lakes St. Clair & Erie are lower by 3 & 9 inches, respectively, than they were at this time last year. Lakes Superior, Michigan-Huron & Erie are 4, 6 & 4 inches below their long-term April averages. Lakes St. Clair & Ontario are 1 & 5 inches above their long-term April averages. All the lakes remain well below their April record highs. In a month, Lakes Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair, Erie & Ontario levels are expected to rise by 4, 4, 0, 5 & 7 inches, respectively. Lake Superior’s outflow through the St. Marys River is project to be below average in April. Lake Michigan-Huron’s outflow through the St. Clair River, Lake St. Clair’s outflow through the Detroit River, Lake Erie’s outflow through the Niagara River, and Lake Ontario’s outflow through the St. Lawrence River are projected to be slightly above average in April. This report below shows the most recent month of precipitation and outflows published by Level News: With regard to the forecast graph below, and the more recently updated first graph in this report, the USACE is predicting that the most likely outcome is that the Lake Michigan-Huron level will rise from March through July. Monthly mean water levels for the previous year and the current year to date are shown as a solid line on the hydrographs. A projection for the next six months is given as a dashed line. This projection is based on the present condition of the lake basin and anticipated future weather. The shaded area shows a range of possible levels over the next six months dependent upon weather variations. Current and projected levels (solid and dashed lines) can be compared with the 1918-2021 average levels (dotted line) and extreme levels (shown as bars with their year of occurrence). The legend below further identifies the information on the hydrographs.
If you are passionate about waterways and have some time, expertise, and energy to give, ‘Please Get on Board!’
We are looking for Board Members and Committee Members to join one of our many committees, including Fundraising, Outreach (community education) and Advocacy (driving our programs). The bottom line is: if you are interested in protecting our lakes, we have a role for you!
OUR MISSION:
To be a leading voice in promoting safe, quiet waterways and respectful boating practices through education, advocacy and legislative change.
Those interested in protecting our lakes, please email Safe Quiet Lakes Chair, Diana Piquette confidentially (chair@safequiet.ca).
Questions are welcome! All Applicants will be acknowledged.
Thinking of Running in the 2026 Municipal Election? Join us for a Free Candidate Information Session tonight, Thursday, April 9th at 7:00 PM. This virtual session is hosted by the West Parry Sound Municipalities with information being presented by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs. See the attachment below for more information on the event as well as instructions on how to register. Candidate Information Session and Registration Information
Lake Michigan-Huron is now 3 inches below the level it was at this time last year. From a month ago, the water levels on Lakes Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair, Erie & Ontario are up 1, 6, 7, 12 & 14 inches, respectively. Lakes Superior & Ontario levels are up 3 & 7 inches, respectively, from last year, while Lakes Michigan-Huron, St. Clair & Erie are lower by 3, 6 & 4 inches, respectively, than they were at this time last year. Lakes Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair, Erie & Ontario are 4, 9, 4, 2 & 0 inches below their long-term April averages. All the lakes remain well below their April record highs. In a month, Lakes Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair, Erie & Ontario levels are expected to rise by 4, 4, 5, 4 & 8 inches, respectively. Lake Superior’s outflow through the St. Marys River is project to be below average in April. Lake Michigan-Huron’s outflow through the St. Clair River, Lake St. Clair’s outflow through the Detroit River, Lake Erie’s outflow through the Niagara River, and Lake Ontario’s outflow through the St. Lawrence River are projected to be slightly above average in April. This report below shows the most recent month of precipitation and outflows published by Level News: With regard to the forecast graph below, and the more recently updated first graph in this report, the USACE is predicting that the most likely outcome is that the Lake Michigan-Huron level will rise from March through July. Monthly mean water levels for the previous year and the current year to date are shown as a solid line on the hydrographs. A projection for the next six months is given as a dashed line. This projection is based on the present condition of the lake basin and anticipated future weather. The shaded area shows a range of possible levels over the next six months dependent upon weather variations. Current and projected levels (solid and dashed lines) can be compared with the 1918-2021 average levels (dotted line) and extreme levels (shown as bars with their year of occurrence). The legend below further identifies the information on the hydrographs.
Canada is taking a definitive step toward environmental resilience. On March 31, 2026, the federal government unveiled “A Force of Nature: Canada’s Strategy to Protect Nature,” a $3.8 billion roadmap designed to safeguard the nation’s natural heritage while building a more sustainable, nature-positive economy.
With the world’s longest coastline and 20% of the Earth’s freshwater, Canada is uniquely positioned to lead. This strategy isn’t just about preservation—it is about integrating the health of our environment into the very fabric of how we build and grow the country.
Protecting 30% by 2030: Our Blue and Green Ambitions
Canada is accelerating its commitment to protect 30% of our lands and waters by 2030. This ambitious “30×30” goal includes funding for 14 new marine protected areas, 10 new national parks, and 15 national urban parks. However, the strategy moves beyond traditional parks by focusing on three transformative pillars:
1. Securing Canada’s Water Future
Water is being elevated to a pillar of national stability. Through the development of Canada’s first National Water Security Strategy, the new Canada Water Agency will partner with Indigenous, provincial, and territorial governments to protect freshwater ecosystems.
2. Building Canada Well: Nature-First Development
With “A Force of Nature” the government is mandating a “nature-positive” lens for new infrastructure and development.
Mitigation Hierarchy: The strategy mandates a framework that prioritizes avoiding and minimizing environmental impacts before any development begins.
Smart Data & AI: By implementing advanced mapping and AI tools to identify Key Biodiversity Areas, the government aims to speed up permitting while ensuring smarter, science-based decision-making.
Working Landscapes: The strategy recognizes OECMs (Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures)—”working landscapes” that achieve conservation results while allowing for sustainable human use.
3. Support for Species at Risk & Biodiversity
The strategy addresses a sobering reality: a 188% increase in federally listed species at risk since 2003. To combat this, $283 million is being dedicated to species recovery. This funding will flow into habitat restoration and protection in biodiversity “hotspots” to protect iconic and endangered species in their natural habitats.
Indigenous Leadership at the Forefront
The strategy explicitly states there is “no path to 30×30 without Indigenous leadership.” The federal government is expanding Indigenous Guardians Programs. This ensures that those who have stewarded these lands and waters since time immemorial remain central to their ongoing protection.
Valuing Natural Capital
For the first time, Canada will treat nature as a measurable economic asset. In Spring 2026, a new Expert Taskforce on Natural Capital Accounting and Nature Financing will launch to bridge the gap between the private sector and conservation, encouraging businesses to invest directly in the ecosystems they rely on.
Quick Look: Canada’s Natural Wealth
Feature
Global Share
Freshwater
20% of the world’s total
Lakes
37% of the world’s lakes
Wetlands
25% of the world’s wetlands
Boreal Forest
24% of the world’s boreal forest
Biodiversity
Home to approx. 80,000 species
“The beauty of Canada’s nature… is central to our history, our identity, and our way of life. With the power of modern technology and the wisdom of Indigenous traditions, our new nature strategy will protect what matters most.” — The Rt. Hon. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada
“A Force of Nature” is more than a policy shift; it is a promise that Canada’s economic growth will no longer come at the expense of its ecological health. By valuing our natural capital today, we are securing a resilient, nature-positive legacy for Canada’s tomorrow. Read more about the plan here.
Proposed Hydro One Transmission Line (Sudbury to Barrie) Hydro One is in the early planning stages of a major new transmission line that could pass through parts of the Parry Sound–Muskoka region — and they are now seeking public input. This is a large-scale infrastructure project: a proposed 500-kilovolt transmission line running from the Hanmer Transformer Station (Sudbury) to the Essa Transformer Station (near Barrie). While routes have not yet been finalized, there is a strong likelihood the line could traverse areas within Parry Sound and Muskoka, making early community input especially important. Why this matters Projects like this can have long-term impacts on: Natural landscapes and shoreline areas Local communities and property owners Future development and infrastructure planning Hydro One has indicated that public feedback at this stage will help shape route options, design, and construction approaches — in other words, this is the moment to speak up, not after decisions are made. Attend an Open House Hydro One is hosting a series of in-person sessions to gather input. All sessions run from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Barrie – April 13 East Bayfield Community Centre, 80 Livingstone St. E. Parry Sound – April 14 Royal Canadian Legion Branch 117, 30 Mary St. Sudbury (Hanmer) – April 15 Centennial Arena, 4333 Centennial Dr. Bracebridge – April 16 Bracebridge Sportsplex, 110 Clearbrook Trail Virtual Option April 21 | 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Learn More & Participate To learn more about the project and register for the virtual session, visit Hydro One’s project website. Our Take If you care about the future of Georgian Bay and the surrounding region, this is worth your attention. Early engagement is where communities have the most influence — on route selection, environmental considerations, and overall project design. Once options are narrowed, that influence becomes much more limited.
From the hidden depths of our waters to the quiet flyers of the night sky—and the dedicated people working to protect them both—GBA is proud to present a diverse lineup of virtual events this spring. We invite you to explore the science of our fisheries, learn about the frontline of bat conservation, and join us in honouring the local heroes who keep our coastal communities thriving. Join us for one, or all, of the events below:
Beneath the Surface: An Expert’s Guide to Our Fish Populations
April 28 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM ET
Join us for an exclusive 90-minute webinar with Arunas Liskauskas — renowned biologist featured in the documentary All Too Clear — for an in-depth look at the fish populations of Georgian Bay. From walleye and trout to pike, salmon, and channel catfish, Arunas will walk us through the latest data on each species and explore what’s driving population changes across the Bay.
What to Expect:
Detailed insights on the Bay’s most iconic fish
Stunning photos, charts, and maps
Live Q&A – bring your questions!
Register for the webinar here.
Special Screening: The Invisible Mammal
Available April 17 – May 17
Bats are the “invisible” heroes of Georgian Bay’s ecosystem—pollinating plants, dispersing seeds, and providing billions of dollars in natural pest control. Yet, they are facing a catastrophic threat from White-nose Syndrome, a deadly fungal disease that has decimated populations across North America.
To mark International Bat Appreciation Day (April 17), GBA is sharing virtual screenings of the award-winning documentary, The Invisible Mammal.
About the Film
Directed by Kristin Tièche, this cinematic feature follows a dedicated all-woman team of biologists as they race to save North American bats from extinction. The film highlights “Project Fat Bat”—a pioneering solution to help rebuild healthy populations—while navigating the unexpected challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a powerful story of perseverance, the beauty of these misunderstood creatures, and the deep connection between wildlife conservation and human health.
Reserve your screening code here.
Celebrate Our 2025 Champions of the Bay
May 28 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM ET
Join us for GBA’s Virtual Honors Ceremony
It’s time to pull back the curtain and celebrate the incredible people who work tirelessly to keep our Bay healthy and beautiful. On May 28, GBA warmly invites you to join us for a special virtual ceremony to honor our 2025 Champions of the Bay.
This evening is a tribute to the individuals and groups who go above and beyond for our Bay. We will be recognizing all our association Champions and their nominators, sharing the stories of their exciting contributions and the impact they have made on our communities.
What to Expect:
Recognition of our community Champions
Learn about successful conservation, stewardship, and community-building projects from around the Bay
Connect with the community and meet the nominators and the stewards who keep our Bay beautiful, healthy and safe
Please join us to say thank you and get inspired by the incredible work happening in your neighboring communities.
Register for the webinar here.
Please be advised of the adjusted hours for our waste sites over the Easter long weekend: Friday April 3rd: • Carling Waste Site: CLOSED • Killbear Waste Site: CLOSED Saturday April 4th: • Carling Waste Site: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM • Killbear Waste Site: CLOSED Sunday April 5th: • Carling Waste Site: CLOSED • Killbear Waste Site: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Monday April 6th: • Carling Waste Site: CLOSED • Killbear Waste Site: CLOSED Wishing you a safe and enjoyable Easter weekend. Sincerely, The Township of Carling Easter Weekend Waste Site Hours