Pristine Lakes

Limberlost has more pristine lakes in relation to the size of its land mass than any other area in the region.

This is partly the result of its elevation and the fact that many of the valleys have been closed off over time by rock falls, beaver dams or glacial gravel deposits. For example, the waters of Lake Solitaire and Little Twin are held back by gravel deposits, whereas High Lake, Big Twin, Turtle and Lee Lake depend on beaver dams and sunken logs to maintain their water levels.

The Buck Lake waters are held back by a natural rock wall and a weir made of crushed limestone. The weir was built many years ago to regulate the water levels after repeated beaver dam collapses. Crushed lime-stone was chosen to help neutralize the downstream lakes.

The distinctive feature of the lakes on the reserve is their pristine nature. This is due to their catchment areas being located on the reserve and many of the lakes being partly spring fed. By occupying the highest lands in the area, the reserve receives above average snow and rainfall which ensures the lakes are regularly replenished with fresh water.

The reserve is unique in having three distinct drainage systems so close to each other. The centre of the reserve drains to the north from Solitaire, through Clear and Turtle lakes into Rebecca Lake, while the eastern and western sections drain in the opposite direction down the McReynold Valley on the one side and a chain of lakes on the other.

Given Limberlost’s high elevation and unique watershed, it is impossible for contaminated water to flow from neighbouring properties into the reserve’s rivers and lakes.