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Osoyoos-based research organization’s boat secures a home

The Osoyoos Lake Water Quality Society found moorage for its pontoon boat
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John Gates, (second from left ) helps train new volunteers Roy Wilmin (Toque) and Diane Craig. Meanwhile, OLWQS President Birgit Arnstein (Pale Blue Jacket) chats with Brian Faltinson (red jacket), Iain Fraser and Dan Bichel. (Image: Neil Bousquet)

After months of searching for a place to moor a pontoon boat, the Osoyoos Lake Water Quality Society has found a secure spot.

The 19-foot research watercraft will be moored at the Town of Osoyoos marina located at Desert Sunrise Marina.

Since 1994, the Osoyoos Lake Water Quality Society (OLWQS) and its volunteers have undertaken the testing of lake waters for the BC Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. From May through October, the organization uses the boat to test every two weeks for water turbidity (clarity), dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH and specific conductivity.

The boat has previously been stored at the town’s Walnut Beach Resort, but the water quality group was told in February that this could no longer continue.

With the new spot to moor in place, training could take place for new and returning volunteers on gathering important scientific data, which took place last week.

The training at the Desert Sunrise Marina was conducted by John Gates who recently received the Volunteer of the Year award from the BC Lake Stewardship Society.

Testing, using the boat, is expected to begin soon, weather permitting.

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