We are very thankful that, in 2021, we saw the return of many neighbours and friends who fall were unable to enjoy time at basswood in 2020 due to covid-related restrictions. Summer seemed to fly by and were now enjoying a beautiful, colourful and somewhat cooler autumn. As the seasons change, the lake association board looks ahead to 2022, and the goals we need to achieve in fulfilling our commitment of informing and educating members.

As many of you know, there are always topics of interest and changes in government programs that can affect cottage owners, and we endeavour to keep you updated as news becomes available. We strive to increase our number of members each year, so that we can reach a wider audience.

In 2019 the federal government announced the initiation of a process to create a "Canada Water Agency' intended to provide a formal management structure of coordinated oversight on freshwater issues across the country.

The government's 2021 budget proposed to provide $17.4 million to establish the agency - expected to be started up in 2022. Currently, freshwater management in Canada is a responsibility shared between federal, provincial, territorial, municipal and indigenous governments.

This new agency will be expected to coordinate the efforts of all levels of government to eliminate gaps in management and avoid duplication. These efforts would include responsibility for managing the authorizing of water use and distribution, inland fisheries and habitat, drinking water quality and wastewater systems.