As autumn gives way to winter, Big Basswood Lake takes on a different character. The activity of summer settles, theshoreline grows quieter, and many seasonal residents return home. Yet the work of the Big Basswood Lake Association continues throughout the year.

It is an honour to begin serving as Chairman of the Association. I am grateful for the confidence placed in me, and I approach the role with respect for the history of the BBLA, the work of previous Boards, and the many members and volunteers who have contributed their time and expertise over the years.

A change in leadership should not mean a change in the Association’s fundamental purpose. Your Board remains committed to protecting the quality and natural beauty of Big Basswood Lake and its watershed, representing the shared interests of members, and helping maintain the qualities that make this lake community so special.

I would like to thank Matthew Aho, our outgoing Chairman, for his leadership and service to the Association. I also want to recognize the continuing and incoming members of the Board. The knowledge, experience, and commitment of these volunteers provide important continuity as we move forward. Our work is a collective effort, and I look forward to working with the entire Board and with our members.

Listening to Our Members

One of the Board’s most important responsibilities is to understand the priorities of themembership. Earlier this year, members completed the 2026 Member Survey and provided thoughtful comments about the lake, the Association, and the issues that matter most to them.

The results confirmed that members care deeply about Big Basswood Lake’s natural beauty, peaceful character, water quality, and family-oriented recreational opportunities. Water quality emerged as the highest-ranked issue, accompanied by strong interest in shoreline and habitat protection, responsible development, invasive species prevention, lake safety, and respectful lake use.

The survey also showed growing concern about municipal spending, property taxation, road maintenance, and the need for effective representation of lake and rural communities. Members indicated that they value the Association’s role as a collective and constructive voice on these matters.

Elsewhere in this newsletter, you will find a fuller summary of the survey findings. The Board will use these results to help guide its priorities, initiatives, and communications. We will not be able to pursue every suggestion at once, but we are committed to considering the feedback carefully, identifying practical areas for action, and keeping members informed about our progress.

Municipal Engagement

By the time this newsletter reaches you, the 2026 Huron Shores municipal election will have concluded.

During the election period, the BBLA partnered with the Iron Bridge Agricultural Society to hold an All Candidates Session. Drawing on the Member Survey, the Board developed questions addressing municipal spending andtaxation, water quality, infrastructure, economic development, and fair representation for lake and rural communities.

This initiative was intended to help members and other residents better understand the candidates’ views and participatein the democratic process. With the election complete, the Board looks forward to establishing a constructive workingrelationship with the newly elected Council. Our approach will continue to be informed, respectful, and focused onissues that affect the lake, its watershed, and our members.

Building on This Year’s Work

The past year included continued work on water-quality monitoring, environmental stewardship, municipal planning matters, membership systems, and communication with members. The Board also supported community activities that brought people together and strengthened connections around the lake.

Another memorable event this summer was the return of the Goose and Gander concert to the 12-Sided Barn in Sowerby. Once again, the concert provided an opportunity for neighbours and friends tocome together and enjoy an evening of live music in one of the area’s most distinctive community venues. We areespecially grateful to Marilyn Kellum, whose dedication and organizational efforts helped make the evening such a success.

These efforts depend on volunteers from our community. Whether collecting water samples, observing loons, supporting environmental initiatives, organizing events, contributing photographs or historical information, serving on committees, or helping with Association administration, volunteers make the BBLA’s work possible.

I extend my sincerethanks to everyone who contributed during the past year. I also encourage members who have an interest or skill they would like to share to contact a member of the Board. Participation does not always require a large commitment. Even occasional assistance can make a meaningful difference.

Looking Ahead

Looking forward, continuity will be important. The Board will continue the work already underway while reviewing our activities in light of the Member Survey. Our focuswill remain on protecting the lake and watershed, strengthening communication, representing members on municipal matters, encouraging responsible lake use, and sustaining a strong and engaged lake community.

The Board is here to serve the membership, but the Association is strongest when members participate. Please continue to share your questions, concerns, and ideas with us. I also encourage you to invite neighbours and family who are not yet members to consider joining the BBLA. A broad and active membership strengthens our collective voice and provides the volunteer and financial support required to carry out the Association’s work.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, thank you for your continued support. Wherever the winter months may find you, I wish you and your families a safe and enjoyable season. I look forward to working with you and to seeing many of you back at Big Basswood Lake in the year ahead.