Residents continue work to turn down the noise on Sylvan Lake

A program developed to increase education and awareness of noise pollution on Sylvan Lake is continuing.
 
The Sylvan Lake Quiet Enjoyment Initiative (QEI) is a subcommittee of the Sylvan Lake Stewardship Society and has been spreading the word about excessively loud boats and snow machines and music since early 2016.
 
“It’s similar to many problems in our society — 10 or 15 per cent of the users are causing problems for the other 85 per cent, but most of the boats on the lake are not a problem,” says Spokesperson Kent Lyle.
 
Lyle, the former mayor of Norglenwold, explains federal regulations require proper mufflering within five miles of shore anywhere in Canada, which he points out means the entirety of Sylvan Lake.
 
“It would seem to me quite a few of the people who are offenders, aren’t aware there is a federal law,” he says. “There’s a certain group that just don’t care and part of it is ‘look at me, look at me.’”
 
Lyle says a modified brochure is being handed out this year with a greater focus on visitors who are using the lake, as opposed to local residents.
 
Those involved with the QEI are also working on creating a greater presence on social media, at community groups and ratepayers’ meetings, as well as promoting appropriate signage at boat launch sites.
 
The program is being funded in 2017 by the Summer Village of Jarvis Bay.
 
“The QEI is well positioned to take the lead and run with this challenge to achieve a positive outcome for all lake users, visitors, tourists and nearby residents,” Lyle continues.
 
According to the 2016 Remax Recreational Property Report, 94 per cent of Canadians rate a quiet atmosphere as one of the most important aspects of spending time at a cottage or cabin.