The Bayfield BreezeIssue 865 Week 06 Vol 17
February 4, 2026
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GROWTH AFTER INCORPORATION HAMPERED BY RAILROAD AND HARBOR
BY DAVE GILLIANS
As the community prepares to celebrate Bayfield’s 150th anniversary since it became an incorporated village, separate from Stanley Township, the reasons behind the move resonate today.
Bayfield appeared to be prospering in 1876 when it was first incorporated as a village. The population had grown to over 700 people and the village’s leaders believed that it would continue to grow and thrive despite the fact that Canada was in a severe depression brought on by high U.S. tariffs.
In 1876, there were six general stores, one tin shop, two harness shops, three tailors, two boot and shoe makers, two cabinet makers, three blacksmith shops, one grist and flour mill, a planing and shingle mill, two cooperages, one cider mill and a brewery. In addition to the businesses, there were four churches, one school with three teachers, a telegraph office and daily mail from Seaforth which was delivered by stagecoach.
The Bayfield Orange Lodge #24 was the predominant social group and they had their own Orange Hall. W.W. Connor, one of the village’s earliest pioneers and its first Reeve, was County Grand Master and in 1877 in Clinton, he headed a procession of Orangemen that was about two miles long with five bands of music.
Since it had no Town Hall, the village used Barker’s Hall which was above the stores at the corner of Catherine and Main Streets for its events. Today, the building is home to The Spotted Cow and Main Street Optometric.
Since its earliest days, Stanley Township had been administered by a series of very earnest politicians who had little experience and few or no financial resources to work with. In addition to the lack of money, the farmers generally had a different set of priorities than the residents of Bayfield. They were most concerned with clearing their land, planting their crops and getting their produce to market in the most efficient manner available to them.
Early Bayfield Harbour (Photo courtesy the Bayfield Historical Society)
In 1876, the rural residents of Stanley Township were fed up with paying taxes to subsidize a harbor that kept silting in and would never be practical for larger ships. They were furious about the amounts they were paying in taxes and the small or no benefit they were receiving. They needed roads, culverts and bridges and once the new London, Huron and Bruce railway, which bypassed Bayfield and stopped at Brucefield, started in 1876, they could ship all of their farm goods by rail rather than the cumbersome barging of goods out to ships anchored offshore.
Bayfield’s leaders had dreamed that their harbor would become a major terminus for a railway and perhaps even the starting point for a canal to Lake Erie. Their hopes were dashed when, in 1870, an investment group at a London Board of Trade meeting declared that “Bayfield was a nice village and had some nice people, but it was incapable of being made a harbor of any consequence, especially in view of government improvements at the Port of Goderich”. To make matters worse, Goderich had been designated as the harbor of refuge for Lake Huron and Bayfield was once again by-passed.
The Federal government rebuilt the pier to protect the harbor mouth in 1876 but it was plagued with problems. The piers were built on the wrong angle and when a westerly gale blew, the storm surge made it rougher in the small basin than out on the lake! The piers also created a barrier that caused sandbars to form in the harbor mouth and made it necessary to incur more dredging expenses. The heavy maintenance costs caused by ice damage and the costs of dredging was causing a great deal of unrest.
The incorporation of the village was uncontested. The rural residents of Stanley Township were happy to see the end of Bayfield’s financial drain and the residents of Bayfield were pleased that with independence, they could now plan for the future.
Unfortunately, the dreams of a prosperous, growing community didn’t work out. Only a few years after incorporation Bayfield was relegated to being a small fishing harbor that supported about twelve fishermen.
Families drifted away from Bayfield until the population shrank to a low of about 325 in the 1920s. The village did not reach 700 again until the late 1990s.
OPTIMISTS ORGANIZING FUN DAY FOR FAMILIES
Youngsters who attended the Family Day Lunch in 2025 had lots of fun playing some balloon games! In 2026, the Optimist Club of Bayfield members are looking forward to hosting another fun-filled get-together at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena for Family Day, Feb. 16. (Photo by Dianne Brandon)
The Optimist Club of Bayfield members are looking forward to hosting a fun-filled get-together at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena for Family Day, Feb. 16.
In addition to a Family Day Lunch there will also be games, activities and free skating. The event is free but donations would be both welcomed and appreciated.
The gathering will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Community Centre with a lunch consisting of hotdogs, super-gooey macaroni and cheese, and popcorn. Please note that gluten free options will not be available. Youth focused activities will be offered including some LEGO free play thanks to the Bayfield Lego Club! From 1-3 p.m. free family skating will be held in the Bayfield Arena sponsored by The Village Bookshop. People should note that they do not need to attend the lunch to take in the free skating.
The day is made possible due to sponsorship by the Bayfield Community Centre and Parkside Sandwiches and Variety.
The Optimist Club is also seeking new members and volunteers.
The Optimists are dedicated to providing programming and events to youth in the community.
Some of the events they host include the Rubber Duck Race, Easter Egg Hunt and Breakfast with Santa. They also sponsor other youth oriented organizations and groups like the Bayfield Lego Club, Bayfield Guiding and Seeds Rooted in Youth.
Anyone interested in getting more involved in their community and supporting youth activities is asked to contact Optimist President Jeff Kish at 416 435-8700 or email jeff.kish.home@gmail.com.
“We’re welcoming anyone who might want to become a member, provide input, or occasionally volunteer to help out at events,” said Kish.
FAMILY DAY HIKE PLANNED FOR VARNA NATURE TRAILS
Members of the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) would like to invite people to join them on Family Day afternoon for a hike on the Varna Nature Trails.
Suitable for all ages, the Varna Trails are a 1 km loop through the woods, accessible for strollers; and a 2.5 km wooded trail to the Bayfield River overlook. The hike will commence at 1 p.m.
Hikes will be guided by certified hike leaders, but all children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pets on leash welcome. Those who participate are asked to meet at the north end of the parking lot at the Stanley Community Centre,
For more information, please contact Ralph Blasting at 519 525-3205 or rjblastingjr@gmail.com.
The Varna Nature Trails are located at 38594 Mill Road in Varna.
The BRVTA is also pleased to announce its full 2026 hiking season with events planned from now until December.
Themed hikes will include: “Secrets of the Woods”, the Admiral Bayfield hike and a meditative hike. The BRVTA will also support the Earth Day Village Clean-up, the Terry Fox Run and the Candlelight Walk held in support of Huron Hospice.
A full schedule of hikes can be found on the events page on their website: bayfieldtrails.com. All hikes are free and open to the public without pre-registration, unless noted otherwise. The schedule is subject to change, so always check for updates in the Bayfield Breeze or through the BRVTA newsletter or website, or contact hike coordinator Ralph Blasting using the contact information provided above.
Do you enjoy hiking local trails? The BRVTA members would like to encourage others to take “the next step” by becoming a certified hike leader. BRVTA organizes guided hikes throughout the year, relying on a group of leaders who have completed the Hike Ontario Certified Hike Leader training course.
The course can be completed online in two, live sessions of 2.5 hours each. Once certified, leaders guide three or four hikes throughout the year, always working in pairs.
If interested, please contact hike coordinator Ralph Blasting again using the contact information provided above.
NEWBORN KITTEN SURVIVES DUE TO VOLUNTEER EFFORTS
Cassian (Submitted photo)
Volunteers with Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines do their best everyday to try and ensure healthy and happy lives for those who come into their care whether they be senior cats or, in the case of our featured kitten of the week, recently born.
Cassian is the Adopt a BFF kitten of the week and according to volunteers he is a true survivor!
“He was found alone – an orphan – with his umbilical cord still attached. We ‘guesstimated’ him to be only a day or two old,” said Deb Penhale, representing BFF. “At the time we didn’t have a nursing Mama that could take a baby that small so we called up our volunteer who happens to be a Super-Neonatal-Cat-Foster-Mom.”
Penhale explained that Cassian was brought to her immediately and although he did struggle, as he had to learn how to suckle properly and experienced some gastro issues, his foster Mom pulled off a miracle and managed to get him through it all.
“His foster says he is curious, playful, and a true ginger, meaning he has no fear of anything, gets into everything and wants to be with everyone,” said Penhale. “Cassian is super entertaining, and everyone who meets him falls in love with him. He’s now old enough to find his forever home and ready to charm his way into someone’s heart.”
Please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com to learn more about adopting Cassian and others. Can’t adopt or foster at this time? Consider donating for medical care and food to the email address listed above via E-transfer or mail financial donations to P.O. Box 33, Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0.
In addition to accepting monetary donations, BFF has an Amazon wish list. This list contains items they need for the day-to-day care of their cats and kittens as well as some truly “wish” items. Items are marked as to their priority, number needed, and many explain what their use will be. There is a wide variety of prices and BFF appreciates whatever you can supply. Items need not be purchased through Amazon, the list is merely a guideline.
To view the items on the list please visit: BFF Wish List.
Want to see and learn more about the felines at the shelter? This can be done easily by visiting their website! Included on this website is lots of helpful information on how people can help feral kittens. The site, www.bayfieldsforgottenfelines.ca, features a searchable index of all the cats and kittens available for adoption. This includes pictures and descriptions of their personalities. Plus there is a new option for making donations by credit card. The website also includes online forms that automate the adoption and volunteer application processes as well as testimonials from previous adopters who found their purrfect matches at BFF.
GROUP DEDICATED TO IMPROVING SAFETY ALONG VILLAGE HIGHWAY FORMED
A group of concerned Bayfield-area residents has come together to form a Community Safety Focus Group (CSFG) dedicated to advocating for improved traffic and pedestrian safety along the 3 km stretch of Highway 21 through the Village of Bayfield, from the Constable David Mounsey Bridge to Crystal Spring Road.
The formation of this group follows growing concerns among residents about the number and severity of vehicle accidents along this corridor, particularly at the intersection of Highway 21, Mill County Road 3, and Cameron Street, where several serious collisions and close calls have occurred over the past year.
Interest in addressing road safety was initially identified through feedback from residents responding to a Bayfield Ratepayers Association (BRA) seasonal newsletter, which invited community members to share concerns and express interest in getting involved. In response, interested residents came together to establish this CSFG, which is supported by the BRA.
The group is currently focused on several priority areas, including:
- Advocation for a consistent 50 km/h speed limit throughout the full 3 km village stretch of Highway 21
- Requesting the installation of solar-powered radar speed indicator signs
- Encouraging interim safety measures to reduce risk at the Highway 21/Mill County Road 3/Cameron Street intersection while longer-term solutions are being reviewed and implemented by the Ministry of Transportation (MTO)
The CSFG meets virtually on a monthly basis. The group is being facilitated by Pat Heffernan, secretary, and Anette Christensen Kalm, committee chair, who are coordinating communication and organization on behalf of participating residents.
Community members who would like more information, wish to share observations, or are interested in contributing to the group’s work are encouraged to reach out by email to achristensenkalm@gmail.com.
Further updates will be shared in upcoming editions of the “Bayfield Breeze”.
VOTE FOR BFF
Readers can help Osprey win the title of “America’s Favorite Pet” by casting a free vote via Facebook. (Submitted photo)
Volunteers with Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines’ (BFF) have helped countless cats and kittens find their forever homes over the last several years – but it takes more than good intentions to make a difference – it takes money! That is why they have entered one of their shelter cats into a contest for a chance to win a tidy sum that could indeed make a difference and all they need from people is a daily free vote.
The voting competition invites people to donate money to “purchase” votes. This is not necessary, BFF is most appreciative of the free votes. The money being raised by the contest is earmarked for the non-profit PAWS. Anyone who would like to learn more about the beneficiary and also take a look at previous winners of the contest is invited to visit: Fundraiser for PAWS and past winners.
Anyone with a Facebook account can help by voting for a BFF kitten named Osprey who has been nominated to be “America’s Favorite Pet”. The exciting news is Osprey made it past the first and second and third rounds of the Group Phase and is three steps closer to winning $10,000 USD for the shelter and to also be on the cover of “Modern Cat Magazine”, but she’s got to make it through the fourth round of voting and into the Top 5. This fourth round of voting ends at 7 p.m. PST tomorrow (Feb. 5). Voters are allowed one free vote per day. Please visit Osprey – America’s Favorite Pet to learn more and to cast a free vote for BFF!
MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID
An opportunity to take a globally recognized training that empowers everyday people to recognize when someone may be experiencing mental health challenges and equip them with practical skills to provide initial support is coming to Bayfield this Spring!
A Mental Health First Aid course will be held in the village at the TSJ Hall on Wednesday, Apr. 29 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
This full-day, in-person courses will equip participants with:
- Knowledge and confidence to recognize and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges and crises
- Information on local, regional and national resources
- Enhanced knowledge and awareness of mental health and substance use issues and illnesses
- Strategies and tools to improve and maintain personal mental wellness
Those who take the course will build confidence to respond calmly and offer meaningful help during tough moments – all without need to be a mental health expert.
The cost of the training is $182.02 including fees and HST. To register visit: Mental Health First Aid Training.
Anyone would like to learn more about this valuable training opportunity to help build more supportive, healthy communities is asked to contact Grace Bonnett via email at mhfatraininggateway@gmail.com.
The TSJ Hall is located at 10 Keith Cres. in Bayfield.
GLEE SISTERS
Research has shown that those who sing in a choir feel healthier and happier than those who sing solo as they benefit from the social contact and being part of a community.
Women who love to sing are invited to attend the next rehearsal of the Glee Sisters, on Friday, Feb. 6 at St. Andrew’s United Church in Bayfield.
Rehearsals run from 2-3:30 p.m. and are held at this time and location weekly until their Spring ’26 Charity Concert which will take place on Sunday, Apr. 26. This Spring’s concert will raise funds for Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines.
Those who attend the rehearsals are asked to please enter the church through the front west door facing Highway 21.
This non-auditioned choir has been performing throughout the community and in surrounding areas since 2006. The choir is directed by Lisa Stewart and accompanied by David Faulkner.
Anyone planning to attend is asked to RSVP so that music can be prepared for them. Please RSVP by e-mail to lgstewart@cabletv.on.ca or phone toll free 877 210-0586.
MEN’S BREAKFAST
The next Men’s Breakfast is scheduled for this Saturday, Feb. 7. All men in the community are invited for a fabulous meal and camaraderie served up at the TSJ Hall.
Coffee will be served at 9 a.m. with breakfast following at about 9:30 a.m. This is a pay what you are able event. To ensure enough food is available anyone planning to attend is asked to please email John Pounder at bvi@tcc.on.ca by Feb. 5 at noon.
The TSJ Hall is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield (formerly Trinity St James Parish Hall).
TOWN HALL TREASURER NEEDED
The Treasurer at the Bayfield Town Hall is retiring and an individual is now being sought to to replace her on their Board of Directors.
They are actively seeking a person, who has some bookkeeping experience and some knowledge of Quick Books, to join the Board.
Their responsibilities would include: reporting financial status, balance sheet, statement of income and expense reports, at monthly Board meetings; paying invoices; making bank deposits; HST and CRA submissions; and related Treasurer/bookkeeping duties.
In addition, Board member duties include attendance at monthly Board meetings; bringing ideas and participation in an annual Town Hall planning session for the following year; volunteering time to help at Town Hall concerts and events; and participating in the annual Town Hall spring yard clean up.
As a member, they will play a vital role in keeping the Town Hall vibrant and active. The benefits to being a member of the board include: making a meaningful impact in the community; connecting with like-minded individuals who share the same passion; gaining valuable experience in event planning and non-profit management; and having fun while giving back!
The Bayfield Town Hall was built in 1882 and was situated in Clan Gregor Square, then moved to its present location in 1920. The Town Hall was the seat of Village government from that date until 1927 and again from 1965 to 1984 at which point, the aging building was closed and in disrepair.
In 1989, a committee was formed to restore and re-energize the Town Hall. The committee was known as the “Friends of the Town Hall” and after years of fundraising, private donations and grants, monies were raised to restore and maintain the historic building.
Today, the Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society, a registered charity with a volunteer Board of Directors, is responsible for its maintenance and upkeep with a mandate to provide cultural events and activities for the village. All of this is possible through the many fundraising events run by the Board as well as generous donations from Bayfield residents.
The following is an overview of what these fundraising efforts pay for: repairs and upgrades to the building; heat, hydro and operation of the building; maintenance and cleaning including a part-time staff custodian; renting the hall for weddings and community use including a part-time staff rental coordinator; and hosting events and performances at the Town Hall
Anyone who is interested in joining the Town Hall team is asked to please contact Diane Snell, chair of the Board of Directors, diane@dianesnell.ca.
FRIENDS OF BAYFIELD LIBRARY
Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) is seeking volunteers to serve on their Board. This may be the perfect position for someone who not only loves the library but enjoys volunteering and working with an enthusiastic team to support their community library!
FOBL supports the Bayfield library by fundraising for library events, activities and priorities.
FOBL Board members are asked to attend monthly meetings at the library; create, organize and help with fundraising events like paint nights as well as the annual book sales and the “Red Cart”. Board Members also act as ambassadors for the library in the community and serve on the FOBL Executive.
Skills or experience in fundraising, event planning, finance/treasury or communications/social media are welcomed but not necessary.
Individuals who are interested or would like more information are asked to please send their name and phone number to contact@fobl.ca and they will be contacted by a Board member.
CHESS CLUB
Check mate! The first meeting of the Bayfield Chess Club will be held on Monday Feb. 9 at the TSJ Hall in the village.
The club is open to all ages and experience levels and will offer people an opportunity to improve their game or simply learn the basics to play. The evening will begin at 7:30 p.m.
Anyone who would like to join in the first session is asked to please contact Gayle Beuermann at 519 525-6498 or email gaylbeue@tcc.on.ca.
The TSJ Hall is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.
CHANGING THE WORLD ONE NATIVE PLANT AT A TIME
EDITOR’S NOTE: Throughout 2025, Renee Sandelowsky and Helen Varekamp, volunteers with the Canadian Coalition for Invasive Plant Regulation, shared their knowledge on invasive plant species that can be found in many area gardens. In 2026, they are looking to “dig a little deeper”.
Many of these monthly articles have been inspired by questions and feedback they received from readers, and as they continue on their journey of learning and sharing about native, non-native, and invasive plants, they are both most appreciative of the community support.
BY RENEE SANDELOSKY AND HELEN VAREKAMP
Are you aware of one or more invasive species, such as English Ivy, Periwinkle, Buckthorn or Phragmites, that have taken over your property? Do you feel overwhelmed by the sheer size of it and need help? You are not alone! Help is available through two programs being offered in Huron County – the Huron Clean Water Project and the Ontario Phragmites Action Program.
The Huron Clean Water Project celebrates 20 years of providing property owners with financial and technical assistance with numerous water protection projects. They have recently added Invasive Species Management – control of invasive species that negatively affect important ecosystems and water quality. They will pay 50 per cent of the costs with a maximum grant of $3,000 for eligible projects. Service delivery is provided by both Ausable Bayfield and Maitland Valley Conservation Authorities.
For more information, visit Huron Clean Water Project or contact Ben VanDieten at Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) at bvandieten@mvca.on.ca or Nathan Schoelier at Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) at nschoelier@abca.ca.
The Ontario Phragmites Action program has funding available to eradicate Ontario’s most invasive plant: Phragmites Australis. It is an aggressive perennial. A towering grass that can grow taller than humans, while taking over wetlands and out-competing native plants. It spreads rapidly through seeds and root fragments, which can be transported by wind, water, vehicles, machinery and human activity. Once established, Phragmites form dense stands, reducing biodiversity.
Addressing this invasive species proactively helps avoid substantial costs, including reduced agricultural yields, obstructed access to waterways, increased flooding, higher roadside maintenance expenses and lost tourism revenue.
Since 2019, the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund has funded more than 130 projects that help protect natural spaces from the impacts of Phragmites. To learn more, visit Ontario Phragmites Action.
The program is locally administered by ABCA. Support for private landowners in Huron County is available by contacting ABCA at 1-888-2610 or by emailing Brooklyn Rau at brau@abca.ca.
NEARBY COMMUNITIES RECEIVE SAFETY AND WATER INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS
The Municipality of Central Huron received $19,626.05 through the Fire Protection Grant to purchase 10 sets of Innotex Energy bunker gear. On Jan. 29, MPP Lisa Thompson presented the cheque to Central Huron Mayor Jim Ginn while others looked on. (Submitted photo)
The Ontario government is protecting local communities by investing in firefighter safety, community well-being, and critical municipal water infrastructure in Huron County through the province’s Fire Protection Grant, the Community Safety and Policing Grant, and the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program (MHIP) – Health and Safety Water Stream.
“These investments reflect our government’s commitment to Protect Ontario by keeping communities safe, protecting the health of our firefighters, and ensuring municipalities have the modern water and wastewater infrastructure they need to grow,” said MPP for Huron-Bruce, Lisa Thompson. “From protective gear and decontamination equipment to major water and wastewater upgrades, this funding will make a real difference for families in Huron County.”
The Municipality of Central Huron received $423,477 through the MHIP – Health and Safety Water Stream to support the Dundas Water System Expansion and Upgrade, improving system reliability and capacity for the community. The presentation was held on Jan. 29 with MPP Lisa Thompson presenting the cheque to Central Huron Mayor Jim Ginn while others looked on. (Submitted photo)
The Municipality of Central Huron will receive $19,626.05 through the Fire Protection Grant to purchase 10 sets of Innotex Energy bunker gear. This modern protective equipment will help safeguard firefighters from long-term health risks associated with exposure to carcinogens during fire suppression and emergency response activities.
The Municipality of South Huron will receive $32,000 through the Fire Protection Grant for the purchase and installation of an equipment decontamination washer, enhancing firefighter safety by reducing exposure to harmful contaminants.
The Township of North Huron will receive $36,223.56 through the Fire Protection Grant to purchase 44 sets of dual-certified turnout gear, providing firefighters with modern, compliant protective equipment.
The Township of North Huron will receive $88,977 through the Community Safety and Policing Grant to support the Huron Initiative for Safe and Supported Communities, which focuses on crime prevention, community safety, and collaborative local solutions.
The Municipality of Central Huron will receive $423,477 through the MHIP – Health and Safety Water Stream to support the Dundas Water System Expansion and Upgrade, improving system reliability and capacity for the community.
The Municipality of South Huron will receive $4,240,052 through the MHIP – Health and Safety Water Stream to support Exeter Sewage Lagoon upgrades and associated projects, ensuring safe and reliable wastewater infrastructure to meet current and future needs.
The Township of North Huron will receive $3,522,250 through the MHIP – Health and Safety Water Stream for the rehabilitation of the Blyth Treatment Plant effluent filter and UV system, strengthening water treatment operations and public health protections.
The announcements for these three municipalities in Huron County is part of the province’s MHIP – Health and Safety Water Stream which has increased by $700 million to help 127 municipalities and First Nations upgrade and expand aging water infrastructure.
BLUEWATER OFFICIAL PLAN PUBLIC MEETING SET FOR EARLY MARCH
The Municipality of Bluewater has initiated a review of its Official Plan. After ongoing community consultation and revisions to Official Plan policies and mapping, Municipality of Bluewater Council has scheduled a Public Meeting to gather public input before they consider adopting the draft amendment.
The Bluewater Community is invited to participate in this Public Meeting on Monday, March 2, at 5:30 p.m. at the Bluewater Council Chambers, 38594 Mill Road, Varna. The purpose of this meeting is to consider the Official Plan amendment under Sections 17 & 26 of the Planning Act.
A number of policy and mapping changes are proposed in the Official Plan Amendment as a result of the review. Key proposed changes include:
- Aligning development direction with projected growth;
- Implementing policy changes in accordance with updated provincial planning legislation;
- Implementing policy changes in accordance with the Huron County Official Plan;
- Updating mapping for urban settlement, agricultural, and natural environment areas;
- Including a Land Acknowledgement statement in the document; and
- Providing direction for energy projects proposed on agricultural lands.
If approved, these changes will be incorporated into the document. A copy of the second draft document will be made available at the following site prior to the public meeting: Official Plan Review. A copy of the proposed amendment is also available for review at the Municipal office in Zurich Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (with the exception of statutory holidays).
Any person may attend the public meeting and/or make written or verbal representation, either in support of or in opposition to the proposed Official Plan amendment. Comments, objections, or concerns may be submitted by email to op@municipalityofbluewater.ca or they may be submitted by mail to Municipality of Bluewater, 14 Mill Ave., Zurich ON, N0M 2T0 Attention: Lindsay Whalen, Planning coordinator. People may also call the Planner at 519 524-8394 Ext. 3 or the Planning Coordinator at 519 236-4351 Ext. 235. Individuals may also speak during the public meeting. They are encouraged to submit their comments before the meeting for consideration. Staff encourage written comments to be submitted by Feb. 25.
Please note that comments and opinions submitted on these matters, including the originator’s name and address, become part of the public record and may be viewed by the general public and published in a Planning Report, council agenda, or council minutes.
Verbal representation may be made via electronic participation, however, in-person attendance is encouraged. For those persons who wish to request to participate electronically at the meeting, please contact the Planner and Planning Coordinator using the contact information listed above no later than 3 p.m. on the date of the public meeting. All public meetings will be livestreamed where possible to the Municipality of Bluewater’s YouTube channel.
Anyone who wishes to be notified of the decision of the County of Huron on the proposed Official Plan Amendment must make a written request to the Municipality of Bluewater, Attention: Lindsay Whalen, Planning coordinator.
The Office for the Municipality of Bluewater is located at 14 Mill Avenue, in Zurich.
NEED FOR TREE PLANTING TRACED BACK OVER DECADES
It’s time to think about Spring tree planting! Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority has opened their Spring tree orders and there is an online ordering option. These orders can be made until Feb. 28. (Submitted photo)
Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) invites watershed landowners to purchase trees through the Spring tree order program.
To make it easier to purchase trees this year, there is a new online tree order option. (Or, for those who prefer, there is a hard-copy printed tree order form or a PDF file download). The Spring tree order form can be found by visiting Tree Orders. The new online purchasing portal link can be found at: ABCA Shop. Trees are available on a first-come basis and stock availability is limited. Spring tree orders accompanied by payment, and online orders, can be made until Feb. 28.
Ian Jean is ABCA Forestry Specialist. He said there is a long legacy of tree planting in local watersheds. One might assume tree planting hasn’t changed much over the years but, he said, a deeper look reveals shifting trends and approaches as knowledge, priorities and the landscape have evolved over time.
Large-scale tree planting began locally during the 1950s and 1960s. Tree cover was lower than today and there was great public concern for topsoil erosion by wind and water. The provincial government at that time operated tree nurseries and related infrastructure, in addition to providing funds to purchase land for reforestation.
“Tree seedlings grown at the government nurseries were provided at very low cost, a few cents per tree, to landowners willing to reforest large blocks of land,” Jean said.
During that period, properties in areas like Hay Swamp were purchased by ABCA. They were planted with trees by the provincial Department of Lands and Forests.
“Primarily these were conifers, mainly White Pine, planted at six feet apart or about 1,200 trees per acre,” he said.
During the 1970s and 1980s, changes to farming saw the proportion of land in pasture decrease, row cropping increase and crop fields grow larger. A shift to windbreak planting occurred to protect the larger fields from wind erosion.
“The ABCA tree program started around that time to fill the need for windbreak planting,” said Jean. This complemented the provincial program, targeted to larger reforestation projects.
The provincial tree nurseries and related government tree planting ended during the 1990s. Conservation authority tree planting programs continued by wholesale purchasing seedlings from private nursery growers to offer to watershed residents.
“Despite the increase in tree costs, people continued to plant trees,” said Jean. One advantage private growers offer is a greater range of species and types of planting stock. “The importance of biodiversity is widely recognized, and people today are more likely to plant a variety of trees than just one type.”
Today, ABCA offers a wide range of trees through its Spring tree planting program. The Forestry Specialist encourages interested landowners to visit abca.ca for the Spring tree order form or to give him a call at 519 235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610 to discuss planting projects.
“We can help with project design and help you to apply for funding for eligible projects,” he said. Funding programs are available in many areas for windbreaks or naturalization dependent on the type of project, location and specific program details.
Anyone who has property on which they can plant trees, should consider purchasing a tree through the tree order program. Those who don’t have room on their property for trees can still help to improve forest conditions by donating to tree planting through the Footprints to Forests program.
ALZHEIMER AWARENESS MONTH MOVIES HAPPENING AT HURON COUNTY MUSEUM
Alzheimer Society Huron Perth’s free Awareness Month Movie event will return to the Huron County Museum in Goderich on Jan. 29 and Feb. 5.
Organizers chose these films to open heartfelt conversations about dementia and offer glimpses into the lives of families, caregivers, and friends as they navigate its challenges. While the stories aren’t perfect, they inspire people to reflect: How would we respond in similar moments? What can we learn from the successes, missteps, and joy they find along the way?
“Headful of Honey” (2019) returns this year after last year’s weather cancellation. Starring Nick Nolte as Amadeus, a widower facing the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, the film follows his move to London, England to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and spirited granddaughter, Tilda. When Amadeus longs to revisit his past, Tilda takes him on an unexpected journey to Italy – an adventure that transforms their lives and strengthens family bonds.
Headful of Honey will be shown on Jan. 29 at 2 p.m. and Feb. 5 at 7 p.m
“The Leisure Seeker” (2018) stars Helen Mirren (Ella) and Donald Sutherland (John). The story has the characters’ reckon with their lives as they face severe health issues. They set out on a cross-county road tour, determined to escape their worried family for one last adventure in their old RV, “The Leisure Seeker”. Along the way, Ella and John explore their shared life history and confront the complexities of aging. Bittersweet humor, heartbreaking realities, and a surprise ending accompany their journey.
The Leisure Seeker will be featured on Jan. 29 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 5 at 2 p.m.
Although free admission is offered, donations will be gratefully accepted at the door.
The Huron County Museum is located at 110 North Street in Goderich.
LIVERY FILM FEST
“No Other Choice” is the next presentation by the Livery Film Fest and is set to play at the Park Theatre in Goderich, for one night only, on Thursday, Feb. 12.
No Other Choice is the latest film from acclaimed director Park Chan-wook (The Handmaiden, Decision to Leave). It won the first-ever International People’s Choice Award at TIFF, received three nominations at the Golden Globes and is shortlisted for Best International Feature Film at the Academy Awards.
This satirical dark comedy plunges into the carefully ordered world of Yoo Man-su – his perfect home, devoted wife, and accomplished children – until everything unravels when he loses his job. After years of loyal service, Man-su is cast aside as his paper company is taken over by an American owner and downsizing begins. Thrown back into a ruthless job market and facing an increasingly bleak future, Man-su comes to a chilling conclusion: the only way to beat the competition is to eliminate it.
What begins with a playful, almost absurd tone – sharply enhanced by Lee Byung-hun’s layered performance as the anti-hero – gradually darkens as Man-su’s desperation, intelligence, and wounded pride take hold. The film steadily descends into far more disturbing territory.
No Other Choice resonates powerfully with our current moment, reflecting anxieties about the fragility of the human workforce in the age of A.I. It may well be Park Chan-wook’s angriest film to date: a searing commentary on the human cost of corporate greed and a future shaped by unchecked technology and ecological devastation.
Film enthusiasts are encouraged to experience this acclaimed film on the big screen. The box office opens at 6:30 p.m., with showtime at 7 p.m.
The Park Theatre is located at 30 Courthouse Square in Goderich.
HPPH
Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is looking for a dog involved in an incident in Goderich on Sunday, Feb. 1, between about 1-1:15 p.m. The incident took place on the Menesetung Trail.
The dog involved in the incident is described as a large breed and grey in color with medium length hair. Two individuals – one described as a male wearing a black coat, the other a female wearing a light grey coat – were walking the dog on a leash at the time of the incident.
The health unit is investigating this incident to check if the rabies vaccination status of the dog is up to date.
HPPH reminds people to always obtain the contact information of the owner(s) of the animal that is involved in an incident.
Anyone who has information about this dog should contact HPPHat 1-888-221-2133 Ext. 3670. After hours or over the weekend, call the main number and follow the prompts to reach the answering service.
GOOD NEIGHBOURS OF BLUEWATER
Good Neighbours of Bluewater (GNOB) was back in full swing as the New Year began, with all the regular weekly programs resumed.
The “Muffin Time” geared to the mechanically inclined was well attended with lots of dialogue. Grace Gough from Jessica’s House Hospice also drew a good crowd and shared lots of resources.
On Feb. 19, those who attend will meet one of their new neighbors at Muffin Time, Executive Director Chris Allan of the Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre.
On Family Day, Feb. 16, GNOB is proud to sponsor public skating at the Zurich Arena once again. Hot chocolate and treats will be available for purchase with proceeds going to GNOB’s community programs.
Back by popular demand is a Pop-up Mending Café on Saturday, Feb. 21. People are encouraged to bring their mending to GNOB between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to have their experienced sewers assist them. All mending is done by donation – no zippers please!
On Saturday, Feb. 28, from 2-4 p.m. folks won’t want to miss the “Kitchen Party with Celtic Music” by Devon Martene and Becky Van Harn of “Feed The Ducks”. Admission will be $15 in advance so call soon to reserve tickets.
The Bayfield Artist Guild will be adorning the walls with new artwork at GNOB this week and people are encouraged to drop by and check out their updated display.
Lots of other exciting things are in the works at GNOB so be sure to follow them on Facebook at “Good Neighbours of Bluewater“ or visit their website at www.gnob.org,, better yet, stop in for a visit at 28 Goshen Street North in Zurich.
WAKE-UP WEDNESDAYS
United Way Perth‑Huron (UWPH) invites people to attend “Wake-Up Wednesdays” at the Goderich Legion’s Café 109 on Feb. 11 and Feb. 18. These sessions will give more insight into the importance of the “Coldest Night of the Year” (CNOY), deepen understanding of homelessness, inspire community action and highlight local support.
The one hour sessions will begin at 9 a.m.
The sessions began on Feb. 4th. The first was entitled, “Why We Walk”. It examined the purpose behind CNOY and how funds raised support local programs addressing hurt, hunger and homelessness. Those who attended learned how CNOY dollars strengthen frontline services and why community involvement is critical to reaching this year’s fundraising goal.
In the second talk, “Awareness to Action”, set for Feb. 11, UWPH will help people learn about the complexity of homelessness, evidence-based outcomes and the importance of housing as the first solution. The public will be encouraged to advocate for housing‑focused policies and to help identify a suitable location for a local Connection Centre.
“United Way’s Hidden Gems”, will be the highlight of the final session on Feb. 18. It will spotlight two community supports that play a vital role for residents in crisis or on low incomes: 211 and free tax clinics. The session explains how 211 connects people with local services and how tax clinics help ensure vulnerable residents access the benefits they’re entitled to.
“When people understand the real stories behind homelessness, they want to take meaningful action,” said Michelle Millar, UWPH manager Community Development Mid-Huron. “These sessions help shine a light on pressing challenges, resources and solutions, leading us to an even stronger, more unified community that’s working toward lasting change.”
WE LEND A HAND
“We Lend a Hand: The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes” has been shown locally in Brucefield, Goderich, Bayfield and Clinton. And now it is Exeter’s turn to experience this riveting film!
This 50 minute documentary tells the extraordinary story of the 40,000 young women who volunteered on Canadian farms during WWII doing their part for the war effort.
Tickets for the documentary are available now for $20 each including service fees and HST. Visit We Lend A Hand for tickets. The film will be showcased on Wednesday, Feb. 11 at the South Huron Recreation Centre. There will be two shows at 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.
Following the screening there will be a question and answer with the filmmakers and a chance to acquire film autographed copies of “Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes’. The book that inspired the film, was authored by Shirleyan English and Bonnie Sitter.
Two years in the making the film is selling out in theatres across the province and has also been scooping up awards!
This event is generously sponsored by West Coast Active Living.
The South Huron Recreation Centre is located at 94 Victoria Street Easter in Exeter, ON.
UPPER HERITAGE HALL
The Upper Heritage Hall is part of a designated heritage building and has a shared entrance/lobby with the Huron County Library. (Submitted photo)
The Municipality of Bluewater is seeking Expressions of Interest for a long-term, multi-year lease of the Upper Heritage Hall in Hensall.
Examples of potential uses for the property include, but are not limited to: office or professional services; studio or creative workspace; community services; program delivery; arts and culture; rehearsal and/or theatre space.
The Upper Heritage Hall is part of a designated heritage building and has a shared entrance/lobby with the Huron County Library. This second-storey space is approximately 2,700 square feet and is accessible via stairs and a lift. Although there are no upper level washrooms there is an accessible washroom on the main floor. Public parking is adjacent. Walkthroughs are available by appointment.
To request the full Request for Expression of Interest (REOI) document and submission instructions, please email facilities@municipalityofbluewater.ca using the subject line: REOI – Upper Heritage Hall (Hensall). The closing for REOI has been set for Friday, Feb. 27 at noon.
The Upper Heritage Hall is located at 108 King Street in Hensall.
The Municipality of Bluewater is seeking Expressions of Interest for a long-term, multi-year lease of the Upper Heritage Hall in Hensall. (Submitted photo)
CONSERVATIONIST OF THE YEAR
Each year, Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) recognizes outstanding achievements in conservation and stewardship with a conservation award. This year, in 2026, the award will be presented in the ABCA’s 80th anniversary year.
The local conservation authority has presented the Conservationist of the Year Award for more than four decades. Award winners have included rural landowners and residents, agricultural producers and farms, service clubs, community organizations, companies, nature groups, and municipalities.
ABCA invites the public to nominate a person, business, farm, community group, or organization in 2026 for the conservation award. They may submit a nomination form until Feb. 15. To submit a nomination, visit the abca.ca website. The nomination form can be found at: Conservation Award.
Ray Chartrand, chair of the ABCA Board of Directors, said the Conservationist of the Year Award is one of the ways the conservation authority can thank local stewards for protecting and enhancing local watershed resources.
“We are thankful for the land and water stewardship by watershed landowners, residents and community groups,” he said. “Our conservation authority began in 1946 and, in our 80th anniversary year, we are pleased to present this award of recognition once again. We encourage the public to nominate worthy nominees for this award.”
Individuals, organizations or companies who either reside in or have completed conservation work in the ABCA area are eligible to win the Conservationist of the Year award. Current ABCA staff members and directors are excluded. The Conservation Award acknowledges one individual or group per year who demonstrates positive, sustainable conservation principles. The nominee must have undertaken conservation efforts over a number of years showing long-term benefits for nature and society. Examples of conservation work include: improving local water quality; conservation farming; reforestation; conservation education; providing wildlife and fish habitat; and promoting awareness and action for soil, water, and habitat for all living things.
ABCA presents the winner with a hand-crafted gift and makes a donation towards a tree and plaque at a Commemorative Woods site maintained by Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation.
BAYFIELD ACTIVITIES
Looking for what is happening now in the village? Look no further than the Bayfield Activities Calendar . People are invited to refer to this website to learn what activities, from Pickleball to Mahjong, are happening and when.
Remember This
The Huron County Museum is home to thousands of artifacts that illustrate the history of both the rural and urban populations of the area. Space dictates what wonderful curiosities the public regularly gets to see when they visit the museum located at 110 North Street in Goderich. But where there is wifi, there is an opportunity to time-travel with over 6,700 pieces of the museum’s collection now available to view online at huroncountymuseum.pastperfectonline.com.
“Remember This” highlights items from the collection of the Huron County Museum and Historic Gaol. Items that have shaped the fabric of the county and the people who have lived here since before the county became the county in 1835 up until more recent times.
Throughout 2026, Bayfield is celebrating 150 years since incorporation. This is the perfect excuse to occasionally feature artifacts that represent village history. This week, we highlight a piece in the Museum collection linked to a former Main Street business.
ELECTRIC BREAD SLICER
This is an electric single loaf slicer in pale green from the former King’s Bakery in Bayfield. Its vertical metal blades were used to slice bread. On the side of the slicer, written in black marker is “Property of King’s Bakery”.
King’s Bakery was located at 24 Main Street North in Bayfield until 2012 (approximately). Today, the space is home to The Village Bookshop.
BAYFIELD ARTIST GUILD
SEQUICENTENNIAL INSPIRES “WE LOVE WHERE WE LIVE” THEME
PHOTOS COURTESY BAYFIELD ARTIST GUILD
The Bayfield Artist Guild (BAG) is a group of artists who live, work and play along the shores of Lake Huron in the beautiful village of Bayfield.
They are dedicated to nurturing and inspiring members…creating an inclusive space for all visual arts and all skill levels in a welcoming environment.
For the most part, members of BAG draw, sketch, sculpt according to their individual interests, but this year as part of the Bayfield 150 celebration, members have decided to focus their creativity to capture the essence of Bayfield using the theme, “Bayfield 150: We Love Where We Live”. Their first group event employed Urban Sketching.
An Urban Sketch is a drawing created on location, indoors or out, capturing what the sketcher sees from direct observation. Urban sketchers use any kind of media to tell the story of their surroundings, the places they live, and where they travel.
Capturing the essence is not just about drawing buildings; it’s about capturing the feel, the people, and the details of a place.
Led by Kathy Wilson, members were encouraged to just go for it – using water-soluble pens on paper. No erasers, no rulers and no straight lines! This stage was very difficult for artists who strive for perfection in architectural renderings.
Using detailed photographs of The Bayberry Shoppe, members sketched a rough outline, making lines that were amusingly eccentric and/or irrational in their design. Next came color. Members were encouraged to embrace the whimsical using unlikely colors such as bright greens, purples and pinks. Depth, shadows, textures and details were added with dark markers to complete the sketch. Note the details on the downspouts under the eves.
The Bayberry Shoppe is a designated heritage building in Bayfield. Built in 1854, the original building was a 1.5 story frame structure of wood clapboard in a vernacular design with central door, windows on both sides and a full-length verandah. The significant features listed in the designation are the scuppers located under the eves. These decorative rain troughs are made of stamped tin. Their purpose was to collect rainwater on a flat roof and send it down the drainpipes. It is not known who added them to the building or when.
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A photograph of The Bayberry Shoppe from Spring 2025 served as inspiration for an Urban Sketching challenge put forth for the members of the Bayfield Artist Guild recently.
Email your photo in Jpeg format to hello@bayfield-breeze.com with the subject line Subscriber Photo of the Week. or…Upload your photo to Flickr.
I am looking for the Bayfield that is a delight to the eye – please share photos with a touch of whimsy, beauty, humor or a sense of fun. If you are to include people in your photos be sure to have their permission to publish their picture on-line and also send in their names and where they are from. And don’t forget to tell me who took the photo for proper credit to be issue
SUBMISSIONS
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Melody Falconer-Pounder
Jennifer Fleury (Photo by Samantha Lawson)
Regular readers will have noticed that the Bayfield Breeze has been posting about a contest coordinated by an American magazine that Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines has entered one of their shelter cats into hoping to win money for the shelter.
This week, it was brought to my attention that another magazine is running a similar contest and a local resident has entered and is in need of community votes as well! So, for those already casting daily free votes for Osprey for “America’s Favorite Pet” through Facebook, I invite you to also take a moment and cast a free vote for Bayfield entrepreneur, Jennifer Fleury, owner of Bluewater Fitness, who has entered a contest to become Ms Health and Fitness, to appear on the cover of “Muscle & Fitness Hers” magazine, and to win $20,000 USD.
According to Jennifer’s husband, Mike Croteau, the contest is an annual activity in the Health and Fitness industry to promote and encourage a healthy lifestyle for women of all sizes, ages and abilities. It also serves as a major fundraiser to the “Be Positive Foundation” in the field of childhood cancer research. While a daily online vote is free, it is also possible to “purchase” votes through donation, however, this is not necessary.
The contest, which commenced on Jan. 28, will run through February and into March. Voting for round one of the Group Phase will end tomorrow night (Feb. 5) at 7 p.m. PST. There are currently 58 contestants from across North America vying for Top 20 in this grouping. There will be a series of voting rounds to pare the contestants down to three finalists by the end of the month. Jenn currently sits in fourth place in her grouping and with continued voter support should make it into the Top 20, which according to her husband, would be tremendous for a small-town Ontario girl!
Mike shared that many people around Jenn encouraged her to register for the contest.
“She is very inspiring to many women in the community. Jenn had a stroke five years ago, at the age of 44, completely out of nowhere. With no family history, a clean diet and casual fitness regiment, it was a complete shock. She has since mostly recovered and devoted her life to learning and sharing about fitness, eating even cleaner, and teaching and inspiring others to live a healthy lifestyle,” he shared.
On Jenn’s contest page she explains what she would like to do with the prize money if she were fortunate enough to win: “I want to introduce a healthy lifestyle to kids and teens, therefore, I would give back to the community by starting strength and conditioning summer programs for youth. I would also treat myself to a mini vacation to take a break from my busy schedule of running a fitness facility and personal training business.”
Her husband would also like to invite people in the community to vote for Jenn.
“This prize couldn’t possibly be awarded to a harder working and more deserving woman than Jenn. She is a true inspiration,” he concluded.
A sentiment, no doubt, shared by many in the Bayfield community and beyond. To cast a daily free vote for Jenn please visit: Jennifer Fleury | Ms. Health & Fitness. – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.