In October 2025, the KRAA took advantage of atypically clear water and the water level dropping closer to the historical average, and hired Steve Bray, his barge and rented a mini-excavator to remove a number of buoy anchors which had become obstacles in the river. Chris Silverthorne, Carl Speiss, and Cary Kokkinen provided their volunteer time as well.
These anchors were originally placed as part of a scheme to create a more permanent solution for the buoys, which can easily drift. Unfortunately, without the services of Paul Ruston and Edwin Aalto's barge or tug, they became difficult or impossible to service - particularly in the recent record-high water levels.
Please remember that the Key River is an important spawning ground for the fish that many of us enjoy catching (and sometimes eating); avoid disturbing the river bottom at all times, but especially during peak spawning in spring.
KRAA Buoy Management Report for MembershipDownload
The Ministry of Transportation has commissioned an addendum to the 2008 Environmental Assessment study regarding the plan to upgrade Highway 69 to a full 4 lane controlled access highway. The Addendum will address design updates to Highway 69, including an interchange modification, adjustments for wildlife crossings, and key changes in legislation and design standards since the 2008 Environmental Assessment.
You can read the details here:
OGN_Hwy69PDEA_NOSC_28Nov2025Download
Fire Ban Lifted effective 2023-07-11 16:00
The Restricted Fire Zone previously in place for the entire Fire Region of Ontario has been lifted, effective Tuesday, July 11, at 16:00 hrs. Killarney and French River Provincial Park have also lifted their fire bans.
The fire danger rating is presently Moderate for our area.The usual set of rules such as time-of-day restrictions remain in effect:- https://www.ontario.ca/page/outdoor-fire-rules-and-permits- https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/frenchriver/alerts- http://municipalityofkillarney.ca/
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry would like to thank Ontarians and visitors for doing their part to help prevent forest fires and keep communities safe. Please continue to use extreme caution and follow Ontario’s Outdoor Fires Regulations when having an outdoor fire.
Lifting the RFZ does not mean we can let our guard down when it comes to preventing human-caused fires. We all need to remain vigilant and keep safety top of mind when having outdoor fires. The overall fire danger can change rapidly based on the daily weather resulting in low to moderate fire danger one day, followed by high to extreme hazard the next simply based on the surface forest fuels drying out quickly, leading to fires starting easily and higher rates of fire spread under the right burning conditions.
Stay alert and be informed of the fire hazard near you on the public forest fire information map at Ontario.ca/forestfire. You can also follow us on Twitter: @ONforestfires for up-to-date information on the fire situation.
Important Announcement: Restricted Fire Zone Declared in Ontario
In addition to the fire ban imposed by the Municipality of Killarney on May 29: Due to the extreme forest fire hazard, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has declared a Restricted Fire Zone for the entire fire region of Ontario. This means that open air burning, including campfires, is not permitted. Portable gas or propane stoves may be used for cooking and warmth BUT must be handled with extreme caution. All burning permits are suspended. Visit Ontario.ca/forestfire for updates.
Ontario has already experienced a staggering 276 forest fires this year, well above the 10-year average of 203 for the entire season!
Climate change plays a significant role in this concerning trend. As our planet warms, we witness more frequent and intense heatwaves and droughts, creating the perfect conditions for wildfires to ignite and spread rapidly. The implications go beyond forest fires and extend to other outdoor activities we cherish. Here's how climate change affects some of our favourite pursuits:
🔥 Forest Fires: Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns dry out vegetation, turning forests into tinderboxes. This poses a significant threat to wildlife habitats and nearby communities. Let's prioritize fire safety, follow the Restricted Fire Zone guidelines, and support initiatives aimed at preventing and managing forest fires.
🎣 Fishing: Climate change impacts aquatic ecosystems, altering water temperatures and disrupting the delicate balance of marine life. Fish populations may decline, affecting the availability and diversity of species for fishing enthusiasts. It's crucial to practice sustainable fishing methods and support conservation efforts to protect our favourite pastime.
🌊 Boating: Climate change influences our lakes and water bodies in various ways. Rising water temperatures can lead to harmful algal blooms, affecting water quality and harming aquatic organisms. Additionally, changing weather patterns may result in more severe storms, posing risks to boaters. Let's prioritize water conservation, responsible boating practices, and be aware of weather conditions for safe and enjoyable experiences.
🦌 Hunting: Climate change affects wildlife populations and their habitats, influencing the availability and behaviour of game species. Shifts in migration patterns and disruptions in food availability can impact hunting opportunities. As responsible hunters, let's adapt to changing conditions, support habitat conservation, and practice sustainable hunting methods.
🛷 Snowmobiling: Warmer temperatures and shifting precipitation patterns can lead to unpredictable snow conditions and reduced snowfall in certain regions. These changes can affect the availability and quality of snowmobiling trails, making it harder to enjoy this exhilarating activity. Less snow coverage and thinner ice on frozen lakes can pose safety risks as well.
It's crucial that we acknowledge the link between climate change and the increasing frequency of forest fires. By raising awareness, taking action to reduce our carbon footprint, and supporting initiatives promoting environmental sustainability, we can work together to protect our beloved outdoor activities and preserve the beauty of Ontario's natural heritage for generations to come.