The Ministry of Natural Resources is aware of the current situation with the Birch Lake Dam water passing through. Through numerous emails and telephone conversations between the ministry, several members of the public and Birch Lake Residents Association, water flowing through from the dam continues to have a significant impact on the homeowners, cottagers, and access to the lake. In conversation with the homeowners and the Residents Association the current water levels are unacceptable. Losing more water going into the winter months will add to the current state of distress the owners and membership are feeling. Currently, boats are sitting in the bottom of the lake causing unnecessary damage, forced to be removed early, docks are left dry and cottagers are having to leave early due to the water levels. This is an inconvenience that many are facing and dealing with in their own way. Boat travel on the lake is now exposing people to various risks such as hitting shoals that were previously submerged far enough below water to not be a cause for concern. The access launch is hazardous due to its design but when combining the low water levels, it is now a serious concern. There are other elements that will evolve into real issues for the residents on the lake such as, having their water lines freezing leaving them with no water source for their homes. During the winter months, although the likelihood is minimal, there is a chance of creating air pockets that could pose a danger or a life-threatening scenario to snowmobilers should they break through. The current change in water levels make it difficult for residents to properly plan out the necessary requirements to ensure that their assets (ie: Water lines and docks) are protected and not at risk of damage. We request, MNR action to address the current situation and to provide a temporary solution to help retain the current lake level and minimize any impacts to the residents. As previously requested through two (2) emails, can you cinder the dam? We would also like to further understand the maintenance programs implemented to help eliminate or reduce such impacts to the lake in the future.