BIRPOA Fall Newsletter by President Rob Jackett
The Birch Islander birchisland@gmail.com; www.birchisland.info Annual Canoe Race October, 2023 Happy Thanksgiving The annual canoe race was held on Labour Day weekend. Special thanks to Johanne and Brett Pollock for continuing to host this fantastic event. There were approximately 30 participants and over 20 boats participated. Everyone was well fed thanks to Brett Pollack … Continue reading BIRPOA Fall Newsletter by President Rob Jackett
BIRPOA Summer Newsletter
email: birchisland@gmail.com website:birchisland.info Greetings Everyone. Please find attached BIRPOA’s Summer 2023 Newsletter. With the exception of the ongoing air quality alerts it has been a good summer so far. A burn ban remains in effect and this may cause the cancellation of fireworks on Canada Day. Please respect the Burn Ban. We do not want our island … Continue reading BIRPOA Summer Newsletter
It is the summer solstice, so a new image!
June 21 is the first day of Summer. Our last image was from December, of a maple leaf using solar energy to melt lake ice. Today’s ‘header’ is rather different. With all the recent talk about AI (artificial intelligence) I thought it might be fun to try something new. I took a picture of Sand … Continue reading It is the summer solstice, so a new image!
Memberships: We all want to keep Birch Island an enjoyable and safe place for our families to escape to! The Association has a long history of representing the cottagers with the township and of creating and maintaining island features (such as trails and signage and boat battery chargers), and we need both your input and $$ to do all this effectively. Please leave cash in the BIRPOA ‘drop box’ at the Sand Lake Marine office OR send an E-Transfer to birchisland@gmail.com.
Burn Ban: Just a reminder that if you want to have an outdoor fire, other than a cooking fire or small evening campfire, you need to purchase a permit (available for $10 at Gordanier’s Freshmart in Elgin, ON). Campfires and cooking fires must be no larger than 0.6m x 0.6m x 0.6m (2’x2’x2′), and can only be used between the hours of 8 pm and 11pm. When it is particularly dry, the Township often has a burn ban. Please check for this before you buy your permit/light your fires. https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=522532037763803&id=111971482153196 Follow the regulations and burn during the coolest, dampest time of day and not when it’s windy.
Waste and Recycling: For 2018, the township has changed the Sunday service depot from Glover Road to Battams Rd Boat Launch (at the end of Battams Rd) on Sand Lake. The Township has rather complicated rules about sorting and packaging their waste and recyclables. Please read the Township rules carefully. Tags can be purchased for $2.50 at several locations, including Gordanier’s grocery store in Elgin. Only Garbage bags must be tagged. Larger items must be taken to the dump (also known as the Portland Transfer Station). For 2026 waste pick up will occur at Sand Lake Marine on Sundays between 4:00-6:00 p.m. May 17, 2026 to September 6, 2026. All garbage and recycling should be placed in clear bags and only the garbage needs township tags.
All of these Rideau Lakes Township links and more, can be found under the Contact/Links section of this site.
Discover with us one of the most beautiful islands on the Rideau Canal system. Take a stroll in woods and meadows, wander in only a few minutes from dockside to the depths of island, let island foliage plants enchant you and feel the warmth of long Summer days by the dock and cottage living with all your senses.
Plunge in the fresh waters surrounding the island and take off for a trip far away from the fuss of the city. As many people say, time will run slower here. And after the water play, deepen your impressions in our astounding wild life on a cross island trail adventure. Admire extraordinary giant pine trees, rare geological formations, and deep forest wonders, let yourself be fascinated.
Several pairs of Loons call Birch Island home, and it is common to hear them calling each other through out the day and evenings
You can always find turtlesbathing in the warm summer months around the island
This year, make a resolution to engage with nature on the island trails. Follow a scenic path on a calm summer day and take in the beauty of the rugged surroundings.
Stroll to the far end of the island and discover our own Birch Island Library where you will find reading for all tastes, and puzzles for the young at heart. Don’t miss out on Jelly Roll rock – a rare geological find.