Photo - Protecting local lakes

Carol Mailloux, Valley East Ratepayers Association (VERA) Gardening Corner chair, planted several native plants in her backyard which sits along Joe Lake in Hanmer.

The City of Greater Sudbury Lake Water Advisory Committee gave VERA a grant of $1,000 in 2008 and 2009 to purchase 1,000 native trees and shrubs.

VERA contributed another $500. Over the last two years, more than 40 households located on Joe, Dixon, Frenchman and Hanmer Lakes, planted tamarack, white and red pine trees and high bush cranberry shrubs along their shorelines.

The root systems of these plants help prevent soil erosion and run-off. The purpose is to preserve the quality of the lakes and ensure safe drinking water.

Around 100 families have cottages or homes situated on these four lakes. VERA began more than 20 years ago. Its mandate is to improve the quality of life for people in the area by finding ways to maintain roads, environment, fire safety and social events.

The Association’s committees include environmental, municipal services, communication and public relations, fire prevention and safety, gardening corner and membership.

Yearly membership fees are $20 per household. For more information, phone Ken Valin, VERA president, at 705-969-2692.

- Posted by Vivian Scinto