The Shuswap waters rise

The spring of 2012 on the Shuswap brought the highest waters since 1972, and many reminders of the strong force that water contains. There were boil advisories in parts of the area, but not for our farm. We have always used the water from the lake for drinking. We do have a couple of small creeks that run through the farm, but even in spring run off they make a gentle passage. For many years I had complete confidence in the water quality, and would of agreed completely with Shuswap Lake Integrated Planning Process that states on their website that the waters are "generally speaking pristine...with occasional water quality issues".  This report is somewhat contradictory to the International Lake Quality Committee that reports that the "water quality is variable. The Salmon Arm is the most productive area because of considerable nutrient input from agricultural drainage via the Salmon River. Levels of nutrients are highest in Salmon Arm and lowest in Ansty and Seymour Arms".
It is due to the "variable" nature of the water quality that in 1996 we put a water treatment system in our house.
I have felt very thankful that we have the water treatment system as the waters mounted the shores this spring. I imagine that many substandard septic systems and outhouses were flooded. This may account for the total coliform counts exceeding the acceptable limits as recommended by the BC Ministry of Health at the Sicamous Public Beach (Kramer Conceptual Projects). Our homes are all safe on the Ranch as they are all well above the high water marks. The only structure that I know of that ever fell victim to high waters was the old boathouse.

Circa 1940s, the boathouse with Eddy's boat in front.

View of the farmhouse bay with the boathouse, 1940s.

I have noticed that throughout history structures are often built on top of other structures. I do believe that where we put our beach porch is the same location as the old boathouse.

Early July 2012, high water, coming close to the beach porch.

The waters are slowly receding, but the water looks murky and is filled with debris. It is a good reminder that less than 1% of the world's fresh water is accessible for humans. It is a sobering thought that we can be surrounded by water but not be able to drink it safely.

"Water water everywhere, nor any drop to drink" The Rime of the Ancient Mariner - Samuel Taylor Cooleridge.

July 2012 - high water in Sunnybrae

The section of the road in Sunnybrae just below Mobley road.  I remember in 1972 that the school bus had to drive through a few inches of water on this stretch of road. The road has been built up since 1972 and this year the water did not completely flood the road, but did creep up to the shoulders. Historically this area always flooded. The Turner family that has a farm on this section of the road had to plow through the water all spring in the 1930s and 1940s. There are pictures of a horse and carriage going through the water in the Turner wine store that is now situated on the original farm property.  Like many other small farms the Turner family abandoned "traditional" farm practices in favor of establishing a very successful winery.

It is essential to embrace change. The waters of the Shuswap remind me of this as they rise and fall, taking with them all matter of things. With each loss I teach myself that I can live well despite the sadness.

Sadness has become my companion,

I no longer beat her away.

A feeling like when my old horse leaned into me,

saying enough.

His bones clear under the skin, legs uncertain,

but wanting to go to greener pastures.

Or the day my beloved Aunt passed, and I called her out in the garden.

A gentle encouragement to leave her body, no longer working,

but her soul strong and ready.

Then she was gone, and I was left.

I think of the waters where I live, crashing into our shores, tearing away,

dirt, grass, all matter of things.

Loss of all that we love comes to us, slowly over the years,

or in a sudden heart wrenching moment.

I hold that knowledge close, even in distress,

welcome the wisdom, the strength.

Yes, I have sadness as a friend.

My Aunt's garden, April 2012, Hermance, Switzerland