INNISFAIL – Inconvenienced anglers at Dodd’s Lake may soon have port-o-potties to use instead of running home or into the bushes.
Mayor Jim Romane called for the installation of portable washrooms at the lake during the roundtable discussion at council’s regular meeting on July 26.
“There are a lot of people and I wonder where they are going when there are 20 or 30 of them fishing,” said Romane, whose comment triggered a chorus of giggling from other council members and those in the public gallery.
The number of visitors at or near the boat launch and dock in the southwest section of the lake has increased dramatically over the past few years since the revelation that Persian carp, an invasive fish species, has found its way into the lake and reproducing at an alarming rate.
As well, Dodd’s Lake was stocked on May 22 with 330 rainbow trout by the Innisfail Lions Club. Since then, it’s not unusual to see dozens of anglers at the lake but there are no public washrooms. Anglers either have to go home or to the closest public washroom facility or find a nearby secluded spot.
“Where do all those people go to the bathroom? There is a need there for a port-o-potty or some sort of washroom facility,” said Romane. “Now that we are trying to encourage the use of the area, let’s give them some service.”
Meghan Jenkins, the town’s director of community services, said on July 27 administration would be discussing the mayor’s public comments to determine what remedial action can be taken.
Jenkins was the town’s lead senior manager on the recently completed and released Dodd’s Lake Area Community Plan, an extensive study relying on public input for the lake’s future amenities.
The plan calls for significant upgrades and new amenities for the southwest section of the lake, including public washrooms close to the upgraded dock and boat launch area.
The new addition is intended for Phase 1 of the lake’s modernization project, which could begin construction next year.
In the meantime, anglers at the lake must wait for a decision by the town on whether portable washrooms can be a temporary solution.
Innisfail grandfather Edward Simons was at the lake on July 28 fishing with his wife Krista and grandchildren Darrius and Laira Maidment. He said it’s a good idea for the town to put in port-o-potties.
“I think that is a pretty good idea, especially if it is going to be crowded. There is a lot of people down here. Washrooms would be a good idea for sure,” said Simons, noting there has been a dozen people or more fishing at the lake the two or three times he has been to Dodd’s Lake this summer.
“You pretty well have to drive home, don’t you? It’s an inconvenience, that’s right.”
