The Friends of Temagami group is ramping up efforts to save Wolf Lake, north of North Bay.
A short documentary will be released called Save Wolf Lake on March 11 at 7:30 p.m. on FaceBook, YouTube, and Twitter.
"In this short documentary, journey with adventurers, scientists, historians, and environmental activists seeking to protect Wolf Lake, the largest known red pine old-growth forest in North America," reads a news release.
A panel discussion of the past, present, and future issues at Wolf Lake will follow the film.
Chris Mayne of North Bay recently won a photo contest about Wolf Lake.
"It's a nearby canoeing destination, part of the south of Temagami," he told Village Media. "It's only an hour's drive from North Bay and it's very scenic with old pine and big quartzite cliffs. It's a beautiful place to canoe through for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. The clear waters of Wolf Lake stand as a gateway to some of the most outstanding canoeing routes and scenery in Northern Ontario.
"As part of the Chiniguchi waterway, Wolf Lake is treasured for its popular backcountry canoe routes and recreational opportunities. People come from around the world to experience the beauty of the towering red pines, quartzite cliffs, and sparkling blue water in this critically endangered ecosystem," says a news release.
"Increased mining exploration pressures is a concern for the many people that love Wolf Lake and value this unique and fragile ecosystem."
At one time, red pine old-growth forests spanned across eastern North America. Today, only 1.2 per cent of that old-growth forest remains.
Wolf Lake old-growth red pine forest stands as a rich but fragile ecological gem. In 1999 the government of Ontario committed to protect Wolf Lake. However, mining claims and leases prevented its inclusion into the Chiniguchi Waterway Provincial Park and mining exploration activity continues in this fragile ecosystem.
To view the film, go to Friends of Temagami’s You Tube channel, Facebook page, or on Twitter. March 11. There will be an opportunity to ask questions in the comments sections of these platforms.
“We are very excited about this event. It has been nine years in the making!” says PJ Justason, President of Friends of Temagami.
Save Wolf Lake was directed by Franziska Brand and Sarah Paul of Red Tent Media. The trailer can be viewed here.
