City looking at extra caution on Pearl Lake

Staff at the City of Timmins and Goldcorp – Porcupine Gold Mines are cautioning residents to stay off Pearl Lake this winter.

With the recent ramp up in productivity at the Hollinger Mine, the company has increased the volume of ground water being discharged into the historic Little Pearl Tailings Pond. This water then moves through a weir and culvert to eventually discharge into Pearl Lake, subsequently increasing its volume and water movement.

Similarly to rivers and spring-fed lakes, the movement of water decreases the likelihood of forming a safe layer of ice. Residents enjoying winter activities, such as walking, skiing, snowshoeing and especially snowmobiling are encouraged to stay off Pearl Lake.

Vice President of the Timmins Snowmobile Club, Marc Lapalme confirmed that Pearl Lake is not part of the trail system, and riders are encouraged to take the trail to McIntyre Road and cross at the lights.

According to SnowTracks.com: “Drowning is one of the leading causes of snowmobile fatalities. Whenever possible, avoid riding on frozen lakes and rivers because ice conditions are never guaranteed. Ice conditions can change in a period of several hours.”

Ride safe this winter, and if you don’t know, don’t go.