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From: Gil
Date: 11/15/00
Time: 4:22:40 PM
Remote Name: 216.209.111.66
Hi Tim,
A letter is following which includes the complete Energy, Mines and Resources map name, map number and coordinates for the proposed beacon as well as a scan of the specific area.
For those interested: Map name: Grindstone Lake Map # : 32 L/15 3rd edition Loc. Name: Hog's Back Island Reference: 569866
The beacon would aid 72 cottages in the immediate vicinity, as well as a tourist outfit (Eastview cabins). The above location is within 500 meters of favorite pickerel fishing areas and within 200 meters of the on-land beginning of a major snowmobile trail leading to points northeast from Kipawa.
Last year, for example, 3 snowmobilers lost the well-marked lake trail in a squall and ended up on the wrong side of Bronson Island and ended up in a 50 ft. crack of open water. (They survived.) A strobe beacon would have prevented this near tragedy. There are many other incidents of winter and summer mishaps and near-mishaps.
Tim's proposal is for a directional strobe aimed towards Kipawa with a 90 degree range of vision from the lake. This precludes any cottagers or fishermen in the area from seeing the beacon UNLESS they are approaching from Kipawa or within 45 degrees east or west of the beacon.
Further, I suggest that the top and bottom of the beacon be shielded to prevent upward and downward light pollution.
I believe (and Tim agrees) that the beacon should be about 3 to 4 meters above the lake surface. This would provide guidance while avoiding unneccessary intrusion to the area.
Please keep in mind that this is a very heavily travelled route in all seasons and is in the immediate vicinity of several retired people who have and intend to make their permanent residences there (I, for one).
Gil Lanthier