Friday, April 30, 2010

Low level of Dog Lake no concern for OPG

A trip to Dog Lake will help prove how dry the weather has been. Ontario Power Generation monitors the lake level there. Spokesperson Ted Gruetzner says it's about half a metre lower than average and just less than a metre lower then it was last year. He says however, there's no concern it will cause any power problems for OPG generators on the Dog River.

Free waste week coming up

If there was any time to get rid of that junk in your house and yard its from May 2-9. The city is allowing you to use the Mapleward Road waste facility for free for those 7 days . Spokesperson Jason Sherband says it's become very popular. He says the facility averages about 900 vehicles a day. Sherband recommends going early in the morning to avoid the long lines. Meantime police will be monitoring vehicles going to the landfill to make sure all loads are properly covered

Outdoor fires now permitted in the northwest

The outdoor fire ban in Northwestern Ontario is over. Reagan Breeze of the Ministry of Natural Resources says that the Restricted Fire Zone has been lifted. He says the rain that we've received has helped to reduce the fire hazard in the entire district.  It means that camp fires for cooking and warmth are now allowed.

Huge changes proposed to forest licencing

The McGuinty government is proposing sweeping changes to the way wood cutting licences are awarded. Effectively the big forestry giants would have their current licences scrapped and they'd have to start over. Northern Development Minister Michael Gravelle admits the moves are bold putting all firms, large and small, on an equal footing. The biggest difference would be the creation of Local Forest Management Corporations that would control the system in each region. Public hearings on the proposed changes start in Thunder Bay May the 18th.

Father and son arrested after donut shop brawl

One man has been sent to Winnipeg for treatment after a fight with a father son duo. Police say the 21 year old victim received a serious wound to his arm during a fight at a south side donut shop last night. A 41 year man and his 18 year old son are facing several charges and police say alcohol may have been involved.

Businesses take part in Spring Up to Clean Up

Businesses across Thunder Bay were out picking up garbage and litter around their buildings. It's all part of the 14th annual Spring Up to Clean Up program. Councillor Andrew Foulds says picking up litter goes a long way in making the city more attractive to visitors. Eco Superior's Karen Copeland says everyone is encouraged to help clean up the community throughout the month of May.

Pot bust lands one man in jail

A special package has landed a Thunder Bay man in jail. The 23 year old was arrested after police intercepted a package containing 3 pounds of marijuana and a pound of hash. The Combined Forces Organized Crime Unit made the arrest after the package was delivered.