MACA Cottagers' Code

Physical Characteristics

Every effort will be made to preserve and protect the physical beauty of the forest, the shorelines and the waters of Long, Miskwabi, Negaunee and Wenona Lakes.

The urbanization of the shoreline environment is discouraged. Extensive tree removal, lawn-planting and other changes which alter the wilderness character of our shorelines, should be avoided.

The waters of Long, Miskwabi, Negaunee and Wenona will be preserved in their clean, clear state. Property owners will ensure that their septic systems are functioning correctly and are properly maintained. The use of fertilizers that may enter the lakes with runoff will be avoided. Soaps and shampoos of any kind will never be used in the lakes, as they contribute to phosphate enrichment and algae growth.

The diversity of the wildlife with which we share the lake environment will be respected, and where necessary, every effort will be made to preserve their habitat.

Our lakes have been tested and are currently free of “invading species”. Every effort will be made to keep it that way, especially by complying with guidelines for cleansing of boats that have been in other water bodies prior to launching them in our lakes.

To preserve the fishery for future generations we encourage a “catch and release” policy, and “lead free” fishing.

To limit the risk of forest fires, all burning will be done with great care, and in full compliance with burning rules, precautions and restrictions as dictated by the Ministry of Natural Resources over time. Cottagers are required to determine the current burning regulations and restrictions before lighting open fires for any purpose.

Aesthetics and Tranquility

Preserving a quiet, unspoiled environment on Long, Miskwabi, Negaunee and Wenona shall be given the highest priority.

All property owners have the fundamental right to the quiet enjoyment of their surroundings. Loud parties, the playing of music that can be heard beyond the confines of one’s own cottage, and other forms of intrusive noise likely to disturb others, are specifically discouraged. Preserving a quiet environment requires special consideration during the evening and at night, when sounds are amplified across the water.

Personal watercrafts generate a particularly intrusive form of noise, which can interfere with the quiet enjoyment to which every property owner is entitled. They should be operated in full compliance with related regulations, and as far away from the shoreline – and with as few repeat trips along the same route – as possible.

Boating safety generally is a prime concern to all lake users. Boaters are asked to observe the current regulations, particularly those restricting speed close to shore. Boats towing skiers and other water-toys should be operated as far away from the shoreline – and with as few repeat trips along the same route – as possible. High-speed, high-powered and excessively noisy boats are not welcome.

Dirt bikes, ATV’s and snowmobiles can also generate intrusive noise. Owners should ensure these vehicles are equipped with proper mufflers to reduce noise to a minimum, and that they are responsibly operated, supervised and maintained. These vehicles should only be operated off-road, in full accordance with the terms of their licenses.

Dogs can also contribute to noise pollution through nuisance-barking and howling, and should not be left outdoors unattended for extended periods. Dogs should not be permitted to leave their owner’s property unsupervised, and should be either leashed or otherwise confined as necessary to prevent wandering.

To protect the lakes from lighting pollution, property owners will keep illumination to a minimum, avoid placing spotlights where they may shine over the lake or be highly visible from other properties, and turn lights off whenever possible.

Observing this Cottagers’ Code will help preserve and protect the beauty and tranquility of Long, Miskwabi, Negaunee and Wenona Lakes, so that they may remain places of striking natural beauty where the mind is nourished and the spirit calmed.

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