Yet another unfortunate event on our shorelines in the off-season.

• Note:  In light of recent events this week this article has been re-edited and replaces the previous one to combine all information we have available in one article.

This week major work was done that altered the shoreline on Clubhouse beach.  For reasons yet to be determined a significant restructuring of the bank occurred by a private property owner.  It seems that both private and public land are involved.  Thus far council reports it was unauthorized and it is being investigated.  Here are some startling pictures of the shoreline bank:

 

 

While this event is unique, there seems to have been a warning bell or foreshadowing of the possibilities of such events occurring last month at a council meeting.  The video was recorded on October 2^nd.  

Curtis Beaudoin (RMVB Building Inspector) spoke to council on the issues of permits, surveys, by-law enforcement and contractor vehicles to name a few.  It was a very interesting discussion and it is seems he is up against a lot of situations that he shouldn’t have to be.  It is clear things need to change to assist him to help him do his job better and more efficiently.  A lot of this is not his fault and his hands appear to be tied in many ways with red tape.

One of the most poignant parts of his presentation were his comments on our shorelines: “In the last five years one of the biggest issues we have is shoreline development.  More correctly, illegal shoreline development.  The big issue we have is, do we ignore it?  Do we let it keep growing and growing?  Until it becomes a very ugly place to walk along the shoreline. Or, do we start going after people?”

This is the alarm bell.  Are owners in Victoria Beach doing what they do because they expect it will likely be ignored?   That it can be gotten away with?  That no authority will come after them?

Curtis further mentions, “There are 107 violations right now and our local authority has the power to go out right now and write the violations. “

The response from council was silence.

Instead of all agreeing to doing the right thing and choose to go after the violators, Curtis then talks about the work involved to file a violation.   You can hear he doesn’t want to drown in all the necessary paperwork to do it.

The solution offered?  Change by-laws to allow people to create structures to allow access to the front of their property.  So that everything is safe and looks uniform.  (Never mind that a bunch of staircases and decks on the banks is not what most of us want to be seeing as we stroll the beach.)

These are public beaches, for the public.  The last thing we need are rows of new private stairs and decks showing up on the banks!  And not just for aesthetic reasons but because they help intensify erosion.

Paperwork should not be the problem.  A revised by-law is not a solution.

Forcefully protecting the beaches is.

Thankfully Councilor Axworthy addressed the obvious erosion issue:  That you can’t have these on the banks and remove or disturb the vital vegetation without exacerbating the problems.

At one-point, council talks about how people slide down the banks anyway to get down, so why not allow structures for them to use?

Here is an idea:  Police it like it is supposed to be and make people stop using the banks as their passageway to the beach.  Better yet,  start fining them and remove all illegal structures!

Curtis even discusses one property in particular that has completely built on Manitoba property.  Everyone is playing wait and see.  Passing the buck.  Federal, provincial and local.

To make matters worse, you will see at one point in the meeting that council doesn’t even often know what is or isn’t on public property.  There are no surveys!

At one point in the discussion it is suggested that it is either this new by-law change or that we don’t allow structures on the shoreline.

The resounding consensus should be: Don’t allow structures on the shoreline!

After watcing the video there seems to be more worry about the hassle of enforcement over actually protecting the beaches.

And that, is very worrisome.

Perhaps it is why events like that on Clubhouse this week happen?  Lack of enforcement? No fear of getting caught or fined?

You can see the entire exchange via the link below.   The discussion starts at the 59:30 mark of the council meeting.  It is a fifteen-minute discussion. 

You decide.

Here is the link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHbnLjXL_FQ&fbclid=IwAR3OOxL2qGXjVjtd8eCvsRHI3KnaCAVfOVmwRHfbHSMuraNzX5LmJy2VNtU

If you don’t like what you see and hear?  Tell them. These are your beaches and they have been elected to look after them in a way the majority wants.

RM of Victoria Beach Municipal Office

705 -1661 Portage Avenue

Winnipeg, Manitoba R3J 3T7

Phone: (204) 774-4263

Toll Free: 1-800-513-3839 (MB only)

Reeve Penny McMorris	pmcmorris@victoriabeach.ca
Councillor Graham Randle	grandle@victoriabeach.ca
Councillor Irwin Kumka	ikumka@victoriabeach.ca
Councillor Mike Bartmanovich	mbartmanovich@victoriabeach.ca
Councillor Steve Axworthy	saxworthy@victoriabeach.ca

Email: vicbeach@mymts.net

And please, let your fellow VB’ers know what is going on.  A lot can happen over the winter months that can turn into awful summer suprises.  We must be diligent to protect our beaches, year round.

UPDATE! Ian Chadsey and Mike Bartmanovich against revetments

We are pleased to also confirm that Ian Chadsey has indicated to a number of constituents that he is against revetments in front of sand beaches.  As well, Mike Bartmanovich has stated on his Facebook page that he too is against revetments on sand beaches.

We feel these are worthy candidates to consider in this fast approaching election on July 27th.

Brian Hodgson and Graham Randle the “Pick of the Pack” for RMVB Election 2018

We are now merely days away from electing new officials for the RMVB council and a Reeve this Friday July 27th.  It is an important one since there will be an entirely new council elected.  However, the Reeve will either be the incumbent or someone who has been part of council decisions for the last eight years.

This means significant change in both policy and behavior is coming our way.

Many will agree this election campaign has been a disappointingly nasty one by a few of the candidates.  It hasn’t gone unnoticed by many of us who do not feel this peaceful vacation spot is the place for Trumpian tactics. Targeting children’s events to campaign at — like the Masquerade this weekend — to hand out hateful propaganda were low points, for sure. It would be naïve to think that those stooping this low will change their ways and return to being respectful, communicative and supportive to everyone in our community once elected.  Sadly, it has become very much a you-against-me mentality.  A look south of the border is an obvious example of what comes from that.

Two issues have gained a great deal of focus and debate this election.

First, the Fire Chief, who was removed from his position by the council.  The RMVB council stand by their just cause decision and people who support the Fire Chief say it was wrong and uncalled for.  It is unfortunate that all we have as an electorate to understand this matter is innuendo and hearsay from one side and an inability to get the council to release the details for firing, due to confidentiality issues, on the other side.  It leaves us all in the dark. But the facts are that this is where it sits, and it seems unlikely the whole truth will be revealed any time soon.  So, it is truly impossible to make a concrete decision by any of us really.  Sad but true.  Taking either side, with what we have, seems a mugs game.

Secondly, there is the issue of our water plant and the water delay on the May long weekend.  It appears that there has been years of neglect both onsite and off-site by both the varied operators of the plant and the council, to maintain the plant at a level of conformity to which we all should expect.  Fault seems to lie on both sides.  The good news is that it appears a very solid new person has been hired with the expertise to fix it and the willingness to maintain it. It looks like this situation has been resolved and now it is up to the new council to ensure that he and the new team is given the appropriate tools and support going forward.  It is time to raise the bar.  This multi-million-dollar facility needs to be treated as such.

But one item has sadly been put to the sidelines in all this.

Our beaches.

And how crazy is that?  It is one of the primary reasons many of us come here!

It has been very hard to get candidates to be succinct and to-the-point in answering the simple question of “do you support the construction of revetments in front of public sand beaches?”

Only Brian Hodgson and Graham Randle have made it clear that they do not supoport revetments being built on public sand beaches and that the moratorium must stay in place.

As for the others?  Who knows?  It does make one wonder, why the ambiguity?

The science is beyond clear that revetments will destroy the sand beaches in front of them.  You can find endless facts backing this up on this site.

We do know that Penny McMorris was not very forceful in backing the side against the revetment on Arthur/Patricia when it was taking place.  Nothing we have seen in action or word since seems to have changed her position.

So, it begs the question.  What happens when this matter is brought up again in front of council, as surely it will?

Will the beaches lose again?  Which is next to be tossed aside as if inconsequential and unimportant to our lives at VB?  Connaught?  King Edward?  Alexandra?  Clubhouse?

Don’t be fooled.  These beaches will be attacked again by those putting their property first.  They are patiently lying in wait for the right kind of council to open up the possibilities. They are quietly very active in this election trying to get those willing to turn a blind eye, to be elected.  And remember: Once the beaches are gone, they are gone.  There is no going back.  The sickening sight of Patricia and Arthur is all you will ever need as evidence.  With the water at such low levels this year all of the beaches have returned to their past glory.  All the while Patrica and Arthur with its revetment are covered in rocks, weeds/foliage and hard clay.

Therefore, it is crucial to have at least two voices of reason on our council to protect our beaches in the RMVB going forward.

Please, think of our sand beaches, that we are so lucky to have, when you vote.

We believe Brian Hodgson and Graham Randle are those voices.   They deserve your support and your vote.

So, do our beaches.

If you agree, please share this post with your friends and social media.  The elections is days away.

And please most of all, VOTE!   You can do it at the Clubhouse in VB or in the Winnipeg at the Portage Ave office on Friday the 27th.

The sad state of affairs on the once beautiful Arthur/Patricia Beach.  Which beach will be next?

For centuries this was nothing but beautiful white sand.  Then came the revetment.

Imagine how Clubhouse, Alexandra, King Edward and Connaught may look if we are not diligent in keeping them revetment free.

 

 

Elect Graham Randle for RMVB Council

It has become clear from all available resources that Graham Randle is the man who should be elected next Councillor for the RMVB.  Not only does he stand for many of the principles that the majority of the people of this municipality believe in — in particular shoreline management that does NOT include revetments — but for many other important RMVB issues as well.

Graham has also clearly proven to be the most easily approachable and most readily available candidate to talk to thus far in this very short campaign. He has held numerous meet and greets, he has appeared at various important VB functions and is quick to respond to both emails and phone calls with prompt and unambiguous responses.  He is holding another meet and greet this weekend  on Saturday the 17th at the Victoria Beach Store from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m

We are very lucky to have a quality candidate like this running for office.  Please vote for Graham Randle in our upcoming by-election.  If you cannot vote in person please be sure to request your mail in ballot as soon as possible from the RMVB.  This is a very important election and we need every vote to insure an informed and consistent voice is on council, to go with the other three, who will protect the beaches at Victoria Beach and all the surrounding beaches well into the long future.

We must NEVER allow what has happened to Arthur and Patricia to happen ever again. Voting for Graham Randle is a great start.

By Election in RMVB: Know who you vote for!

There are reportedly three choices running for the open RMVB councillor position.  It is becoming clearer that not all three have the same views on preserving the beaches —  above all else.  We strongly suggest you ask hard questions for those running for office.

The Facebook S.O.S page says there will be a Meet and Greet for Graham Randle tomorrow (Saturday, September 10th) from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. At Saffies Store. Come out and learn more about his ideas on issues facing our unique community.  We think you will like what you will hear. Go see for yourself.

 

Time to face some hard truths

Seeing the continuing horrible conditions of Arthur/Patricia beaches this year, the time has come for the residents of VB to face some harsh truths and realities.  The “foolhardy” protection of property seems to be resulting in some pretty clear consequences.

Here is a link to a very good article that is very informative about what is causing the loss of our beaches on Lake Winnipeg, including a reaction to shoreline protection:

http://www.cecmanitoba.ca/resource/hearings/33/CEC-011%20Isostatic%20Rebound%20Report%20by%20Harvey%20Thorleifson%2030%20January%202015.pdf

Here is an important excerpt:

“Shoreline protection engineering is an extremely controversial topic, and it is not within our mandate to make recommendations or to conduct research into design. I can, however, offer a few thoughts.

Engineers tend to recommend engineering, whereas geologists tend to recommend that you back off and respect the forces of nature. There is no doubt, however, that a Professional Engineer can design a means to temporarily protect a high value installation that was, through error or necessity, built too close to a retreating shore.  

Geologists, on the other hand, are quick to point out the inadequacies of shoreline engineering.

While erosion may be halted at the water line, it is essential to recognize that erosion continues underwater to a depth of several metres. Consequently, the shore armour is exposed to progressively greater wave power.

Furthermore, sand must be mobile for shoreline systems to be in a state of dynamic equilibrium. According to a standard geomorphology textbook by Bloom, ʺExtensive reclamation and beach stabilization projects actually endanger barriers, because unless sand is free to move with changing wave conditions, erosion results.ʺ In SEPM Special Publication No. 48, Pilkey and Thieler state, ʺThe myriad sea walls, breakwaters, groins, and jetties that line developed shorelines divert offshore, slow down, trap, and otherwise reduce the regional beach sediment supply by longshore currents, and thereby increase erosion rates.ʺ This view is summed up on the cover of one edition of the book ʺThe Beaches are Movingʺ, by Kaufman and Pilkey, as follows, ʺthese facts provide a new ability to make informed, intelligent decisions for the coast.

This is the first book to explain why the shore must move, and how utterly foolhardy we are to armor our coast against the unbeatable force of nature.ʺ 

New Pictures of the Absolute Devastation of Patricia and Arthur Beach

After years of warnings and actions by many to halt or remove the revetment on Patricia and Arthur Beach, we are very sad to report “we told you so”.

As another season passes, the beach is further beginning to look exactly like what we were told it would.  The quiet truth of science once again trumps the loud volume of the nay-sayers.  Severe scouring of the rocks has revealed rocks and stones and the further continuing removal of all and any sand from this once pristine beach, shows it is doomed.  The amount of people that looked at it this weekend with both shock and awe, was telling.   The wordless sadness at what we are losing was profound.  People simply did not have the words.

Make no mistake.  A truly great gift of a beach has been taken from many of us.  Let the pictures do the talking:

 

If these pictures bother you, don’t simply mourn and walk on.  Do something.  Voicing your concern to council is a very good first step.  They all campaigned on making things better on the beaches at VB.   This is an epic fail.

Here are their emails:

Reeve Brian Hodgson	vbreeve@mymts.net
Councillor Linda McMillan	lmcmillanvb@gmail.com
Councillor Kathy McKibbin	kathyvb@mymts.net
Councillor Penny McMorris	vb.mcmorris@gmail.com
Councillor Gordon Ross	gordross@hotmail.com

Looking Ahead: Another year passes and Patricia beach now appears lost

Another year has passed and the revetment built on Arthur beach still remains standing.  The immediate and lasting result of what these structures can cause, can now be clearly seen with your own eyes. More importantly, it is shocking how little time it has taken for the devastation to happen.

Patricia Beach is now a wasteland of rock and clay.  Much of the sand is gone and what was once a heavily used beach by the community now sees only a few brave souls scattering it, as there is no comfortable place to sit nor safe ways to even enter the water.

How sad.  And, how predictable.

If you have not taken a look at Patricia and Arthur since you regularly visit the still stunning Clubhouse, Alexandra/King Edward or Connaught beaches, you really need to go and take a look.  Is this devastation in your beach’s future too?  This is exactly what the science said would happen.

The RMVB now has a new council.  It is time to send an email to each of them and ask:

What are their thoughts are on the state of Patricia?  What is the status on the removal of the revetment on Arthur?  Why is the Baird plan not doing anything to help sustain that beach if possible? Why are they not diligently enforcing the bylaws by still allowing (or turning a blind eye) to the clearing of bush on municipal property on the banks?  Why are they not enforcing the bylaws when those above continue to access the beach via the banks?  Are they planning to change the ongoing lack of enforcement and will they step up and do their jobs responsibly, transparently and efficiently as they campaigned?

We must let the powers that be know we are still here!  We still want these beaches returned to their previous state!  That we are not going away!

Please send your concerns to the new councilors:

Reeve Brian Hodgson	vbreeve@mymts.net
Councillor Linda McMillan	lmcmillanvb@gmail.com
Councillor Kathy McKibbin	kathyvb@mymts.net
Councillor Penny McMorris	vb.mcmorris@gmail.com
Councillor Gordon Ross	gordross@hotmail.com

 

 

Baird Final Draft Plan

The final draft plan for our shorelines has been released by Baird and can be found on the VB website:  http://rmofvictoriabeach.ca/

IMPORTANT DATES: August 21and 22nd

The final Draft Shoreline Management Plan will be presented by Pete Zuzek and Jenn Ogrodnick of Baird & Associates on Wednesday, August 21st at 7 p.m. at the Victoria Beach Clubhouse on Pier Road/Clubhouse Beach. All comments received from the July 23/24th presentation and Open House will have been incorporated into this final draft.

On Thursday, August 22nd there will be an Open House at the Victoria Beach Clubhouse to allow further discussion and input into the Draft Shoreline Management Plan from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Both Pete and Jenn will be available to hear your feedback and provide more detailed answers to your questions.

Your feedback is important on this critical issue facing our shorelines.

 

PLEASE PASS THIS ON ASAP TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW!

Why are there so many rocks on the beaches this year?

There has been much discussion about why there are so many rocks on Arthur/Patricia this year.  As well as King Edward and Alexandra.

Where have they all come from everyone is wondering?

Well, after a discussion with Peter Zuzek with Baird we got an interesting answer.

The state of the beaches is likely  the result of both a low activity weather year as well as the revetment on Arthur and sandbags on King Edward and Alexandra.

It was offered that the rocks are actually not “coming” from anywhere but rather, they are being “revealed”.

They have always been there.

But now that the existing revetment and sandbags are there — and the sand replenishment has thus decreased — these rocks are slowly being revealed.

They used to be covered by sand.

The stones we are seeing are not typically moved by waves nor are they stray pieces from the revetment,

It is the scouring we are now seeing.

As Peter stated:  “While the events like the storm in 2010 are terrible for the land owners, they are events that are the sand makers,  They put the sand on the beach.”

He did point out there is a fair amount of vegetation now growing again, to help stabilize the banks and it shows there has not been any recent big event to draw sand from the bank to the shores again.  That is part of the reason there may be less sand as well.

“There is a “pulse” to the beaches…some years lots of sand, some not as much.  Dependant on the waves and weather activity.”

But he also pointed out one can’t deny that this is also likely the result of less sand being accessed and less material being accessed from the banks — because of the man made erosion efforts.

It gets clearer and clearer what we should not be doing at VB and that other means such as sand replenishment and groins should become the new focus.

August 6th Deadline for Shoreline Comments!

While it is very frustrating that council has not posted the Baird report on their website as promised, the deadline for our comments from the meeting held on July 24th still stands at August 6th..

 

If you attended the July 24th Baird presentation be sure to download the form and get it back to council and Baird as soon as possible.

 

Here is the link for the form:  http://rmofvictoriabeach.ca/announcements/shoreline-management-plan-comment-sheet-2

 

If you were not there and have not fully understood its content please contact your council and let them know you want the deadline extended until the report is put online or paper accessible and people have the chance to study it.

 

Here are council emails to let them know you want this arbitrary deadline EXTENDED until the report is available for all:

 

rmvbtfarrell@gmail.com

rmvbkboyd@live.ca

kathyvb@mymts.net

vb.mcmorris@gmail.com

vbbrucem@hotmail.com

 

 

Latest Baird Report on Our Shorelines

While we still patiently await the latest Baird report to be formally released and posted by our council, a few strong conclusions were offered at the public presentation by Baird on July 24th.   Critical factual information helping you make a sound decision on the future direction of Victoria Beach.

Through the extensive scientific studies Baird has done over the last year they were able to conclude where the sand for our amazing beaches comes from.

It does not come from Elk Island or from a source further in the water via currents like many thought.

The truth is that the sand comes from the specific banks themselves.  The beaches are replenished by the banks  directly before them.

It is through the natural process of erosion that we have had these amazing beaches for centuries.

Therefore, as Peter Zuzek states in pretty black and white terms “if you are successful in stopping the sand erosion you cut off your sand supply.”

In other words, the beaches will be lost if the erosion is halted.

As well, it was stated time and time again at the meeting that revetments will remove the beaches over time.  We can already visually see the scouring effect of the Arthur revetment and the large sandbags on the beaches before them.

We now know where we stand.

If revetments are allowed in front of Clubhouse, Arthur, Patricia, Alexandra, King Edward or Connaught we are signing the death warrant for the beaches.

We need to look at other solutions — such as groins and sand replenishment — which were offered as viable possible solutions at the meeting.

So, in the interim,  we must let our council, the province and Baird know that under no circumstances what so ever , should public, provincial or federal land ever be used to assist in stopping erosion via means like revetments.   We cannot be willing participants in the loss of these incredible beaches for all of the generations to come.

Baird and the council have an online form for you to fill out with your thoughts and would like them returned by August 6th.

Here is the link:  http://rmofvictoriabeach.ca/announcements/shoreline-management-plan-comment-sheet-2

PLEASE MAKE SURE YOUR VOICE IS HEARD.

Pictures tell a thousand sad words

Recent pictures of Victoria Beaches wonderful beaches are beginning to tell a very stark tale as we are now heading into the second season of the revetment being on Arthur and the rocks and black plastic sandbags being on King Edward/Alexandria.

Patricia and Arthur are now covered in rocks and the anticipated scouring seems to have started. The beautiful strip of sand on Patricia has clearly changed in less than two years.

The huge change/evolution of the beach landscape on Patricia appears dramatically affected by the monstrous revetment on Arthur.  This being merely a “coincidence” is highly unlikely.

As well, there is no denying the amount of rocks and scouring happening in front of the black sandbags on the north side of the King Edward Beach. (where the massive revetment also now exists north of it).

 

The changes here too are hard to ignore.

So perhaps it is time to ask:

What is going on with the court case re the Arthur revetment?

Were the black sandbags not supposed to be a two year trial?  How do we feel about the results?  What are we going to do about it?

Time to get back to your councillors and let them know you haven’t forgotten.   That you don’t like what you are seeing on the beaches a mere two years out.

The results in less than two years is startling.

The longer we wait, the more we are going to lose.

There are better ways!

Excellent article in todays free press on shorelines with a quote we all know to be true:

Other areas around the lake have employed shoreline-protection projects using tons of jagged boulders, steel plates or metal cages filled with rock.

But those techniques are not only costly, they change the nature of the shoreline forever, as well as its accessibility.”
To read the full article go to:

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/natures-rebar-210681371.html

Shoreline Update Report From Baird

Here is the link to the RMVB post on the latest Shoreline Update from Baird:

Click to access RMVB-BairdUpdate-2013-03-20-withFigures_opt.pdf

Victoria Beach Cottage Owners Association ELECTIONS Sept 2, 2012

The Victoria Beach Cottage Owners Association (VBCOA) will be holding annual VBCOA elections for the positions of President, Vise President, Secretary, and Treasurer during their annual meeting, Sept 2nd, 2pm at the Seniors Scene on Ateah Road.

Interested parties can submit their names to RonPratt@mymts.net   All VB Cottage owners can submit.

VBCOA Meeting September 2nd at 2pm

The annual VICTORIA BEACH COTTAGE OWNERS ASSOCIATION (VBCOA) meeting will be held on Sunday Sept 2nd at 2pm at the Seniors Scene on Ateah Road.

Please be sure to attend as this rejuvinated cottagers owners organization — geared towards maintaining, protecting and insuring that we keep Victoria Beach as we have known it for all these many years — has its annual meeting.  A great forum to discuss concerns, praises and ideas for the present and future of our wonderful Victoria Beach community.

They will also be holding annual VBCOA elections for the positions of President, Vise President, Secretary, Treasurer. Interested parties can submit their names to RonPratt@mymts.net   All VB Cottage owners can submit.

Everyone is welcome!

REMINDER: Council Meeting August 21st, VB Sports Centre 7pm

A reminder to please attend the Council Meeting on Tuesday August 21st at 7pm at the Sports Centre.

Likely to be discussed is the perceived lack of enforcement on the important new by-law 1539, the proposed new VB Development Plan, the state of the court case regarding the revetment on Patricia/Arthur, thoughts on how we don’t want the rest of VB to become like Pelican Point, that the school tax issue must be addressed more aggressively and much more.

For more info click on the topic you want:  Pelican Point    Halted Shoreline Work     By-law 1539    Baird Shoreline Report    RMVB Development Plan

Council meetings have a lot more weight and importance to them now a days and if you want your voice heard or want to get the latest information it is vital to attend this summer council meeting.

Please mark it on your calendar and tell your VB neighbours.  See you there!

PELICAN POINT: A Sad View of the Future?

Do you remember decades back (or even just a few years back) of the wonderful untouched natural sand and marshes on Pelican Point? How there were amazing strips of beach and sand bars all around the point? A truly beautiful and unspoiled spot.

Have you taken a walk or a bike ride there lately?

If not you may be very surprised at what it looks like now.

Where is all the sand? Where has all the beach area gone to? Where are the sandbars? Where does the public go to sit or swim!? What has happened to all the wildlife and flora that used to be abundant there?

Here are some pictures of what we have negligently and carelessly allowed (as a community) Pelican Point to turn into.  A result by not taking a firm stance, by letting those in power give permission and not letting them know we do not want this to be happening to our precious shorelines. That these type of structures must be stopped from spreading elsewhere on our public beaches.

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It is absolutely depressing to visit Pelican Point now. It is no longer a place for all of the public to enjoy and experience. Instead it has become a place for a privileged few to enjoy a quiet waterfront view.

And, good luck in seeing any Pelicans. Not a one on our numerous visits.

Make no mistake; if we do not definitively demand a stop to revetment building from happening along our shorelines — IMMEDIATELY AND FOR ALWAYS — you can expect Clubhouse, Patricia/Arthur, Alex/King and Connaught to eventually be the same experience for the general public in but a short decade.

No beaches. Nothing for the public to access. A place for a select few to enjoy a view while the rest of us jump off the pier to cool off.

It really is important to take the time to see Pelican Point today. To see a defining example of the future of our precious shorelines if we do not act decisively to halt any more of this type of building on Victoria Beach shores. (This beautiful area was once very much like the beautiful beaches we enjoy in the restricted area today.)

It is time to stand up. To be heard. Let your council know your thoughts. Don’t let others do all the talking for you. Don’t assume the vocal few can stop this for you. Power is in numbers!

Be at the Council Meeting on August 21^st at the Sports Club. If you can’t be there, send them an email with your concerns.

Here is a list of their email addresses: https://preservingvictoriabeach.wordpress.com/2011/02/19/victoria-beach-council-members/

Time is running out. We need to save these beaches. NOW!

Pelican Point is a deafening, defining and “right in your face” example of why.

Go take a look at the future of Victoria Beach. Let your eyes be your proof.  Go see Pelican Point at your earliest convenience.

The future vision of Victoria Beach shorelines has never been more clear.

And it is, in a word, alarming.

PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU PASS THIS WEBSITE ON TO ALL FELLOW VB LOVERS SO THEY KNOW WHAT IS HAPPENING AND CAN STAY PROPERLY INFORMED.

IS ANYONE LEARNING ANYTHING? Part One

Have you seen or are you even aware of the now halted work on Connaught point in front of 411 Sunset from this spring? Here are some pictures:

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It is very sad and frustrating to see that the learning curve towards how we need to treat our precious public sand shorelines and how we react to their human imposed destruction or misuse — particularly after the human lead assault on Arthur/Patricia last summer — seems to be progressing at a snails pace.

It seems that a summer with a lower water level, along with the glorious weather, has lulled our community back into a sense of complacency. (Playing right into the hands of those who have different designs on how to use, preserve and respect the public beaches and shorelines at Victoria Beach and the surrounding area. And, who are actively campaigning for it behind the scenes.)

A very dangerous thing indeed.

A very disturbing development over the spring is the now halted construction found on Connaught/King Edward point, from this spring.

A simple visual inspection seems to show how the section of the bank has been carved/removed, trees have been mechanically cut and there has been an insertion of holes and two concrete pads. (The work was ordered halted only once all of this destruction had already been initiated.)

The big question is how did this construction ever get this far before either council or the police realized it and it was halted? As well, how could this type of endeavour have even been contemplated by the people responsible after the reaction last year by the public to unauthorized work on a public beach?

Most importantly, what exactly is council and the RMVB doing about having it immediately removed and restored to its original state?

Have we not learned anything over the last year?

It seems the time has come for the RMVB to show some teeth and enforce its by-laws more effectively when unauthorized work or actions are done. Should this area not be returned swiftly to pre conditions if all necessary permits and paperwork were not completed or authorized or all necessary procedures were not followed to the letter of the law?

After talking with council, it is understood that according to by-law 1411 in order for the work to have been allowed to begin on King Edward/Connaught, a Shoreline Protection Permit would have been needed. Which includes the following:

1. Contractor or engineer drawings. (method, spacial extent, crest, elevation, tone detail, stone size etc)

2. Application sent to SETC. (Shoreline Erosion Technical Committee) (who evaluates the proposal and makes recommendations and changes)

3. The SETC sends its comments to the RMVB and proponents, the councillors evaluate the comments and rule based on the Shoreline Protection Plan.

4. Construction begins.

Council can confirm that all of these necessary materials and guidelines were not yet submitted nor followed prior to the work being started.

The big question is why then has the area not been restored to its original state? What is being done and what deadlines are being imposed for resolution? Why the wait?

Presumably, this cannot be allowed to drag along unresolved like the situation on Arthur that now seems destined to be buried in the slow court system for who knows how long.

Perhaps more questions that Council needs to be asked on August 21^st?

Please read a second post for Part Two of:  IS ANYONE LEARNING ANYTHING?

IS ANYONE LEARNING ANYTHING? Part Two

Unfortunately, the troubles along the shoreline does not stop with one example.

If you are to take a leisurely walk down the beaches on any given day you will incredibly still see various watercraft sitting or stored along the banks. You will see various private landowners stairs or structures or chairs placed atop the banks to help them easily access or view the beach. (instead of using the public stairs built just for that purpose) Or just as disrespectful: particular lakefront cottagers continuing to climb down the rocks and cliffs to access the beach directly in view of signs saying keep off the banks! Seemingly in blatant defiance of the new by-law 1539 and our renewed community desire to better protect the rate of erosion on cliffs/banks.

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One has to wonder: Is anyone doing anything to stop this? Is anyone meaningfully enforcing the by-laws in any way other than that of a “blurb” in The Herald on the Council news page? Perhaps a great question to have posed for the council meeting on August 21st? How many fines or warnings have been recorded and given out so far this summer? As these pictures show, there certainly seem to be a lot of offenders. (It also seems appropriate to note — and to question — how is it that the greatest number of offenders we found on our photo shoot seem to be on Connaught in direct daily view of one of our elected VB councillors??!)

(For By-law 1539 click here.)

There is no denying that our Council deserves credit for their evolution over the last year. They seem to have made great progress in their realization and understanding that the shorelines of our beautiful area are in trouble from human actions and that there must be immediate, proactive and concerted efforts to protect the public beaches at all costs. (The Baird report on our shorelines was outstanding and a defining presentation as to what and what not to do.)  https://preservingvictoriabeach.wordpress.com/2012/07/24/a-critical-report-on-the-rmvb-shoreline-concludes-revetments-doomed-to-fail-and-doomed-to-destroy-the-beaches/

What seems to be missing at this moment of time is a serious follow through with swift, determined and decisive actions when cottagers do not follow the rules. Particularly disconcerting is having it happen ongoing in direct view of our own lakefront councillor.

So, it is time to ask: Has anyone learned anything over the last year?

Knowing the right thing to do is one thing. Doing it and enforcing it is another. It is time for all of our council, the Province and the RMVB authorities to stand taller and protect the public shorelines like never before.

It appears the time has come to let them know if you are happy with the enforcement and follow through so far.

Time is clearly of the essence if we are to continue the progress and momentum created last year to protect and preserve the public sand beaches on Lake Winnipeg.

We must not lose the ground we gained last year to protecting these one of a kind beaches and shorelines we are blessed and privileged to enjoy.

Be active. Be vocal. Make the effort.

Be heard!  Tell your council what you think.

The battle has not yet been won.

A CRITICAL REPORT ON THE RMVB SHORELINE CONCLUDES: Revetments: Doomed to Fail and Doomed to Destroy the Beaches

Last night on July 23rd, Peter Zuzek of Baird Engineering gave a very strong, intelligent, sensitive, scientific and lay term comprehensible presentation regarding Shoreline Protection at a meeting at the Sports Centre for the RMVB community at large.

(Baird has been hired by the RMVB as in independent and unbiased source to analyze the possible causes for our erosion issues and to propose possible solutions for them. They have been actively working since October studying our particular shoreline dynamics, content and complexities.)

One of the first things Mr. Zuzek said to start the evening was that “We (Baird) are here to try and remove the emotion and focus on the science.”

After listening and contemplating his factual and science based reports, combined with the discussions following, two things became emphatically clear by evening end.

In his companies independent and unbiased opinion:

1. Revetments in front of sand beaches will ultimately destroy the beaches in front of them.

2. Revetments on the banks in the RMVB will eventually, over time, fail.  They will not be able to maintain their capacity to protect the shore over the longer term.

(Note: This information is coming from a company that builds revetments all over the world. They fully agree that these structures do serve their purpose when they are built and maintained properly in the proper environment for them to function and succeed. There is a proper place for them to be built and to effectively work. However, it is their opinion, the shorelines of the RMVB is not one of those places if our goal is to protect the beaches we currently have. “We can build them, but you don‘t want them in front of your public beach.”)

Mr. Zuzek made a critical point very clear (through a very effective slide presentation)that stabilizing the bank –through rip rap or revetments — does not, nor will not completely stop all the erosion taking place. Nor will it help the beach in front of it.

Erosion, by the way, that is a completely normal and natural occurrence.

He showed that the problem with a rip rap or revetment is that it denies the replenishment of the sand to the beach that occurs through natural erosion from the cliffs and banks. (This is how the greatest amount of sand comes to our beach in conjunction with a smaller amount from the currents.)

What many people are not aware of is that through the soil samples of the area they have been collecting it has become clear that approximately 100 to 150 meters out from the beach shoreline the sand stops and the bottom of the lake is then clay. Thus the actual “sand area” under water that the beach can draw from is relatively small. There is not nearly as plentiful and abundant an amount of sand in the lake bottom as many have assumed.

More importantly, once you get to the clay area, erosion actually takes place there too.

It was then pointed out to the surprise of many that very much the same erosion process happens at this point — where sand meets clay underwater — as it does on the banks where we can see it happening!

This underwater erosion is called downcutting.  (Again, all a natural occurrence.)

It turns out revetments are actually doomed to cause two disasters.

First, a revetment problematically stops the natural process of erosion of the banks from which beach sand replenishment actually comes. Leading to an eventual scouring and removal of the beach before them.

Secondly, all the while, the revetment then actually increases the irreversible downcutting under the water.

This unseen and now increased erosion continues underwater until the revetment itself, over time, becomes unstable and is also destroyed. Literally falling back into the water as the sand is completely lost under the water and the delicate clay underground erodes as well.

Eventually, without exception, the clay base becomes unstable, causing the failure of the entire revetment or rip rap structure.

In Mr. Zuzeks own words.

“In the RMVB it is A FACT that a revetment will eventually fail and fall into the lake.”

“It is A FACT, that revetments will accelerate the downcutting.”

Thus, in no uncertain terms: If revetments go up, the beach sand will disappear.

Over time, so will the revetments.

A loss on all counts.

Mr. Zuzek commented during the evening “I can reaffirm that revetments will destroy the beaches. I can guarantee that will happen.”

So in the end it becomes very clear that the RMVB community and its Council needs to make clear, decisive and bold choices from now on regarding anything being built on our shorelines. Particularly when it comes to rock rip rap and revetments.

It is our civic and moral duty to protect these beaches not only for the present but for all the generations to come.

We need to ask ourselves before anything is ever allowed to be built on the shorelines again, like that which has occurred on Arthur: What are the consequences of a structure built on our shorelines? How will it impact it? (We can no longer pretend Victoria Beach is somehow “special” and unlike anywhere else on earth. The Baird study makes it abundantly clear what type of irreparable damage revetments can and likely will cause. )

We must ask: Does a proposed structure maintain and conserve our public spaces for generations to come? (As per our RMVB Development Plan which clearly stipulates is a main priority, aim and goal of the community at large).

Most importantly we must ask: Does the structure — intentionally or not –go against those goals?

The RMVB has a lot of things to consider in the days, months and years ahead and one thing has become clearer and clearer, time and time again, over the past year: that science says revetments are not the solution for trying to protect property in front of public sand beaches.

It is that plain and that simple. Confirmed yet again, this time by an independent source hired to particularly look at our own situation in the RMVB.

It seems reasonable after the Baird presentation that it is finally time for the council of RMVB to unanimously accept the science. To heed to the will of the large majority that seems to accept that science.

As Mr. Zuzek stated: “The time has come that the RMVB takes active and permanent intervention as this is the only way to protect front row homes and local beaches.”

The Council must accept its duty to protect the unique character and beauty of our public area beaches and place it as the number one priority from this day forward.

That from this day forward, future time, resources and efforts would be better spent on investigating other ideas and solutions — and hopefully implementing them — to deal with erosion issues facing property owners.

But that revetments, in front of public sand beaches and public spaces, should be ultimately denied from this day forward.

REMINDER regarding revetments and shoreline activity!!!

There seems to be a belief around the RMVB that the “crisis period” for revetments being built has passed with the lower water levels this year. 

This is simply not true. 

Water front property owners are still actively and quietly trying to get the right to protect their property with revetments (and the like) regardless of the impact on the environment and the beaches in front of them.  Their desire to erect these structures has not abated.

Do not think the present lull means the threat has passed.

Please be sure to attend the Shoreline Meeting this Monday, July 23rd as well as the council meeting Aug 21st. 

A quick walk around the beaches shows wooden stairs back on the banks, water craft stored along the beach, a cement structure constructed on the waterfront….and so on.

There is still plenty going on that needs to be pointed out to council.  They need to be questioned and addressed.

Are these legal activities?  And if not, what is being done about it?

What is the status on the court case regarding the revetement placed on Arthur/Patricia last summer?

A lot was accomplished last year to protect the beaches of VB and the united vigilance our community showed must continue.

 

 

 

Reminder: Mark Your Calendars! July 23rd and August 21st

FACT: We all want to have a stress free and fun filled summer.  We have earned it!

FACT: Last nights Council meeting showed, it is important to give a few of those hours (over the next six weeks) to attend two meetings critical to the future development and preservation plans within the RMVB.

JULY 23 

One Evening – Two Public Presentations on our Shoreline Studies   Time:07:00pm   |    Place:Alex Anderson Sports Club on Pine Road at Ash

AUG 21

Council Meeting – August 21, 2012Time:07:00pm   |    Place:Alex Anderson Sports Club on Pine Road & Ash

Plan to attend and please tell your friends and neighbours!

http://rmofvictoriabeach.ca/calendars/one-evening-two-public-presentations-on-our-shoreline-studies

 

IMPORTANT UPDATE: Crucial Information Exposed at the July 17th Council Meeting

On July 17th at the VB council meeting at the Sports Centre, the attending audience was introduced to the latest publically released map and information package regarding the New Development Plan for the RMVB.     The public has until July 24th to offer their comments and suggestions.  It is critical to read the LATEST information and see the map and plans.  (They were different than previous ones.)  This is a significant evolution of the RMVB and the time to respond is limited. 

Contact your council members immediately to access this information and the map.  The August 21st Council meeting will be far too late for you to get informed and have your say.   204-774-4263 /Toll-free- 1-800-513-3839

https://preservingvictoriabeach.wordpress.com/2011/02/19/victoria-beach-council-members/

It must be noted, that  the audience at the meeting was flabbergasted to see that the map offered earlier had since changed.  Designated areas such as the beaches, the banks, the boulevards and the crown roads all along the waterfront were now shown as “private land” rather than “public and protected”.

The error would have had catastrophic implications for the beaches and the shoreline at large had the audience members not spoken up and pointed out the error.

We do applaud the Council for immediately acknowledging the error and they said  that it would be fixed.    They stated it was only a drafting error.  (The council have been working hard to make sure the shorlelines are protected from now on, particularily after last years unsavory developments. )

However, what this points out is HOW IMPORTANT IT IS to be aware and be informed of what your elected council is doing with our community.  An honest (but major) “oversight” like this is a strong example of why our ears and eyes and minds as a community need to be on top of what is taking place. One cannot just assume that things are always being done properly and correctly and in favour of your beliefs or concerns.

You need to be active and present at this critical time in the evolution of the RMVB and not risk leaving it up to others to do all the work and diligence for you.

Please mark your calendars to attend the Shoreline meeting on July 23rd and the Council meeting Aug 21st.     Yes, it is summer and you want it stress free and full of fun.  But putting these few hours away are very important this summer to the future of our beloved community!

http://rmofvictoriabeach.ca/calendars/one-evening-two-public-presentations-on-our-shoreline-studies

Please pass the word re the new Development plan documents and the two meetings to your friends and neighbours. (July 23 and August 21)

IMPORTANT MEETING JULY 23rd AT 7PM AT THE SPORTS CLUB (Pine Road)

Peter Zuzek from Baird Engineering will be holding a public presentation Monday, July 23rd reviewing the Shoreline Study.

In addition Norm Brandson will be presenting the final RMVB Shoreline Advisory Report.

http://rmofvictoriabeach.ca/calendars/one-evening-two-public-presentations-on-our-shoreline-studies

We encourage you to read the following reports so you can arm yourself with the facts.  As well, it will be your chance to ask any questions you may have.  Directly from the source.

Strong decisions are being made on how to care and protect our beaches for generations to come and this is your chance to be a part of the process.

The response to the meetings last year — and the many presentations — was simply amazing.

Be informed.  Stay informed.  Protect the future.

ByLaw15431

Draft Bylaw 1543 July 4

Baird Governance Review Report

Baird Field Observations and Recommendations

VB WhatYouTold Us 1

VB WhatYouTold Us 2

VBchapter1

VBchapter 2

VBchapter3

VBchapter4

VBchapter5

VBchapter6

Free Press: Informative Article On Retreating From The Shoreline

There is an informative article in the Winnipeg Free Press today discussing how more and more that the only real way to deal with erosion is to vacate. A difficult concession and one with sad repercussion for those owning property. None the less, it is increasingly the solution of choice since shoreline erosion is virtually impossible to stop.

“Up and down the California coast, some communities are deciding it’s not worth trying to wall off the encroaching ocean. Until recently, the thought of bowing to nature was almost unheard of.”

“buffers may protect the base of cliffs, and the land and property behind them, but they often exacerbate the problem by scouring beaches, making them narrower or even causing them to disappear.”

“…after futile attempts to curb coastal erosion — a problem that is expected to grow worse with rising seas fueled by global warming — there is growing acknowledgment that the sea is relentless and any line drawn in the sand is likely to eventually wash over.”

“entire villages have been forced to move to higher ground or are thinking about it in the face of melting sea ice. Hawaii’s famous beaches are slowly shrinking and some scientists think it’s a matter of time before the state has to explore whether to move back development.”

“Several states along the Atlantic coast have adopted policies meant to keep a distance from the ocean. They include no-build zones, setbacks or rolling easements that allow development but with a caveat. As the sea advances, homeowners promise not to build seawalls and must either shift inland or let go.”

“…the scenic Great Highway is under assault from the Pacific. Erosion has inched closer to the roadway each year, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continues girding segments with broken-up rock, a costly temporary fix that has had limited success.”

“People who want to build new oceanside construction agree not to build a seawall if their homes become threatened in the future.”

Here is the link to the full article:

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/battered-by-erosion-and-facing-global-warming-some-places-are-moving-back-from-the-sea-156783195.html

 

BYLAW 1539 new rules regarding all cliffs on the shoreline

A new bylaw outlining new rules regarding the cliffs and the penalties to be imposed can be found on the following link:

http://rmofvictoriabeach.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/By-law-1539.pdf

New RMVB Website

There is a new website for the RMVB for all information regarding our community replacing the Beacon site.

http://rmofvictoriabeach.ca/home