Make sure you see all the updates! You're at the end when you see this FOCA banner again. | |
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FOCA's CEO Lesley Lavender has a message for members, and some calls-to-action for you for the coming months!
Please read Lesley's message (download PDF, 2 pages) and share the information with your fellow members.
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FOCA is Hiring
FOCA is seeking a full-time Manager of Office Operations to join our team. This is a hybrid position, involving frequent work in the FOCA office in downtown Peterborough, Ontario.
Apply by July 8, 2024 in the manner indicated in the Job Posting (download PDF, 2 pages).
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Welcome, Summer Students!
FOCA supports the growth and development of students eager to join the environmental waterfront community. Please join us in welcoming two passionate and dedicated students: Portia Buchanan and Adam Thistlethwaite who are assisting us in the FOCA office this summer.
Learn more about our summer students and the rest of the FOCA staff and volunteer Board of Directors, on our webpage: https://foca.on.ca/about/team/
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Headed to the cottage?
Take 5G Home Internet with you.
Say hello to easy connectivity at the cottage this season with Rogers 5G Home Internet, powered by Canada's largest and most reliable 5G network. Just Plug & Play to connect and get online in minutes. See rogers.com/5GHI-support for more details.
Visit rogers.com/5GHI to try it risk-free for 30 days.
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FOCA Advocates for Responsive Government | |
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Capital Gains Tax Vote Passes
On June 11, 2024 in the House of Commons, the “Ways and Means” motion relating to the implementation of the capital gains tax change passed by a vote of 208-118. Although we disagree with the outcome, we know our message was heard by some MPs.
On behalf of our members, FOCA has fought against this increased tax through phone calls to elected officials, letters to government, and supporting our members to take action using our customizable template to write hundreds of letters to MPs, each sharing personal stories about how this tax left their families negatively affected.
FOCA remains dedicated to the momentum of advocacy for cottage country, and to keeping our members and our supporters active and actioned. Visit our webpage for links to more information about the tax: https://foca.on.ca/property-taxation-assessment/, and learn more about making your own cottage succession plan: https://foca.on.ca/cottage-succession/
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Support FOCA's Advocacy Efforts | |
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Help FOCA continue to support thriving and sustainable waterfronts across Ontario for future generations, through our government advocacy and education.
Become a Friend of FOCA or make a one-time or recurring donation today.
Your support matters!
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Changes to the Conservation Authorities Act, Including New Fines
Under the guise of enabling 1.5 million homes to be built over the next 10 years, the Province has continued to make sweeping changes to the regulations governing land use planning in Ontario. On April 1, 2024, changes to the Conservation Authorities Act took effect that favour development, and have removed the right of public appeal at the Ontario Land Tribunal in planning decisions, including Official Plans and Zoning Bylaws. The changes do include stiffer penalties for permit violations: individual landowners are liable for a fine of up to $50,000. Read about the changes and recent fines, on our webpage: https://foca.on.ca/land-use-planning
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Short Term Rentals (STR)
The Municipality of Dysart et al has adopted a municipal accommodation tax (MAT) and STR bylaws expected to come into effect on October 1, 2024. The 2% MAT in Dysart will be the lowest to date in the County of Haliburton (two other lower tier municipalities set a 4% rate, and one is awaiting a final bylaw). Also, the Town of Gravenhurst has launched a new searchable map showing STR licenced properties and their permit numbers, “to ensure safe and efficient practices”. Read these updates and earlier news, on FOCA’s webpage: https://foca.on.ca/rental/
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Floating Accommodations
Effective May 1, 2024, Parks Canada has imposed Mooring Restrictions on floating accommodations on the Trent-Severn Waterway, following a public consultation period on the issue earlier this year. Get background on this topic, including what to do if you see a floating shipping container on an Ontario waterway, from our webpage: https://foca.on.ca/floating-accommodations/ (image: Gloucester Pool Cottagers Association)
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Alcohol at Association Events
We know associations love to gather people together as a community of neighbours! Hosting events is a cornerstone for many associations, but ensuring a safe and enjoyable atmosphere requires careful planning, especially when alcohol is involved. If your association event will include alcohol, take a moment to read (download PDF, 1 page) about your responsibilities and important risk management considerations. If your Association has insurance through the FOCA Association liability insurance program, most smaller gatherings with alcohol can be accommodated in the policy, but please give the Cade office a call with any questions: 1-844-223-3178 (or 416-234-9980 in the GTA). Cheers!
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FOCA Champions Safe & Affordable Rural Living | |
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What is FireSmart?
FireSmart is a national program that leads the development of resources and programs to help Canadians increase their resilience to wildland fire. Whether you’re at the beginning of your FireSmart journey or already well on your way, FireSmartCanada.ca has all the resources you need!
Start your education journey with FireSmart 101 to gain knowledge on the basics of FireSmart. For those looking to take the next step to become a local FireSmart promoter, consider the online level 1 FireSmart Ambassador Training. These programs will provide you with the tools and insights you need to start spreading the FireSmart message and to help make your home and cottage more resilient to impacts from wildland fires.
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Wildfire Air Quality Health index
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has announced they will now issue air quality health advisories during wildfire events, in response to public feedback during last year's wildfire events. The system will notify an Advisory when the Air Quality Health Index is “above 10” for 3 or more hours during wildfire smoke events - considered a "very high-risk" level. Read the news from ECCC here.
(image: Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources - Mitch Miller / THE CANADIAN PRESS, via CTV News)
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Cell Service in Eastern Ontario
On June 3, 2024, the Eastern Ontario Regional Network (EORN), the Governments of Canada and of Ontario, and Rogers Communications announced 5G mobile services are now available in 21 communities across Eastern Ontario, with 42 new cell towers and 4 upgrades to existing towers completed. Read the Rogers media release here.
(image: EORN)
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End of Boat Flare Disposal Program
In other boating news from our last meeting as part of the Ontario Recreational Boating Advisory Committee (ON-RBAC), FOCA learned that Transport Canada (TC) will no longer fund the Safety Education and Flare Disposal Program that CanBoat (formerly called the Canadian Power and Sail Squadron) has administered for some years. CanBoat reported recently that the funding had been used to cover the costs of flare shipping and disposal, insurance, and other program expenses; without it, the program has ended. Read CanBoat's announcement on the issue. (image: SmartBoater.ca equipment webpage)
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Boat Safety Equipment Checklists
Paddle boat, power boat or PWC: do you know if you need a flare on your vessel? What about a compass, rope, or a sound-signalling device? SmartBoater - a project of the Canadian Safe Boating Council and others - posts handy visual checklists of legally required boat safety equipment, by boat type. Check out the online listings.
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Pleasure Craft Licence Expiry Search
Also while FOCA was at ON-RBAC, we learned that TC has an online portal to check the expiry date of your Pleasure Craft Licence. Any pleasure craft in Canada that has one or more engines whose total power is at least 10 horsepower (7.5 kW) or more, must have a Pleasure Craft Licence (which is like a licence plate for your car) - a unique number displayed on both sides of the bow of the boat, that is valid for 10 years. You can be fined $250 if your pleasure craft does not have a valid licence or is not registered. Visit TC’s webpage (source of the image), for a link to the expiry search tool; you’ll need your boat licence number to conduct the search.
Important note: This is different than the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) which is a proof of competency that is valid for life, once acquired through an accredited boating safety course and test.
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Extreme Weather Preparedness
Following extreme storms that tracked across Ontario and Quebec in mid-June – with reports of downed tree limbs, power outages, and golf ball-sized hail – FOCA reminds everyone to review emergency preparedness tips and links on FOCA’s webpage: https://foca.on.ca/emergency-preparedness/. In the calm light of day, make a family emergency plan now so you are prepared for what may be a rocky summer for weather, according to the Weather Network (source of the image).
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VOSKER Cellular Security
Please join FOCA in thanking and welcoming our newest Silver Sponsor!
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VOSKER Cellular Security is the ultimate outdoor surveillance solution for even the most remote locations. Secure your property or business the easy way, without the need for power or Wi-Fi. Thanks to solar power and cellular connectivity, our 100% autonomous technology offers year-long performance, anywhere you need it.
SPECIAL OFFER: From June 25 to July 7, 2024, save $100 on the V300 Ultimate camera model. Plus, use special promo code FOCA24 to get an extra $50 off on any order placed on or before July 7, 2024. Redeem at vosker.com
Usage/Limit: No limit on purchases at the sale price; but $50 special discount can only be redeemed once per user.
Find Vosker on social media: @voskertech
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FOCA's Gold Level Sponsors | |
sponsors support our work, please support them | |
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recap FOCA webinar: Cottage Succession - Tax Strategies
June 5, 2024 - FOCA and estate lawyer Peter Lillico welcomed over 300 registrants for a “deep dive” into cottage succession tax planning and implications of the new capital gains tax. Missed the webinar but want to review the material? Purchase access to a digital recording of Tax Strategies or other sessions, or register for the next session, below!
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next FOCA webinar: Seize the Time or Take Your Time - Succession Timing Options
Wednesday, October 9, 2024 from 7-8:30pm by Zoom webinar - Register to join FOCA and estate lawyer Peter Lillico for a “deeper dive” into issues of timing for your family's cottage succession plan. This talk provides an overview of updated taxation issues associated with transferring the cottage to the next generation, and funding solutions depending when the transfer will happen: now, later, gradually, or upon death of the cottage owner(s). The talk concludes with a deeper dive into the use of trusts as an asset protection plan.
MEMBERS register for free here; remember to tell us your FOCA affiliation when you register! Not a member, but still want to attend this cottage succession seminar?
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Pay the $30 non-member fee per registrant, then register using the link above.
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Or become a Friend of FOCA (our paid annual supporter category) to receive free access to all FOCA Cottage Succession events over the coming year, plus additional supporter benefits.
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FOCA Promotes Healthy Lands, Lakes & Rivers | |
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Grass Carp Sighting
On May 20, 2024, a dead Grass Carp was found in Rondeau Bay, Lake Erie by a member of the public who shared this picture on social media, seen by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) staff who are keeping a close eye on the area. (image provided by DFO)
Preventing invasive Grass Carp from spreading into the Great Lakes is the best way to prevent harm to Ontario's native fishes, wildlife, and ecosystems. If you are on the water on Lake Erie, please keep your eyes peeled for further sightings and report them online at https://www.eddmaps.org or call the Invading Species Hotline: 1-800-563-7711. For ID tips, visit our webpage: https://foca.on.ca/carps/
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Funding for Invasive Species Prevention
On June 20, 2024, Minister Graydon Smith announced $16 million in funding over the next 3 years to help protect the economy, environment, and biodiversity from the threat of invasive species through research, monitoring, and management efforts. Get a link to the Ministry of Natural Resources & Forestry media release from our webpage: https://foca.on.ca/invasive-species/
(image: at the announcement, courtesy T. Rees)
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Phragmites DNA Screening Program
Also, FOCA's partners at the Invasive Species Centre (ISC) have announced the 2024 Phragmites DNA Screening Program is back, to help site managers determine if the plant they have is native or invasive Phragmites, or a hybrid. Applications are particularly encouraged from areas in central and northern Ontario where native Phragmites is more frequently observed, and from newer site managers in other regions. Get information from ISC here.
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Managing Spongy Moth
If you've experienced infestations of spongy moth over the past few years, now is the time to wrap your trees with burlap bands, and begin removing by hand any caterpillars or larvae you find on the bark surface. Get resources, including information from the Province of Ontario about the life cycle of the moths, on our webpage: https://foca.on.ca/spongy-moth/
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IJC: Towards a Great Lakes Early Warning System
The International Joint Commission (IJC) is charged by the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement with identifying emerging issues facing the Great Lakes. Having developed an organizational framework for a Great Lakes Early Warning System from 2017 to 2020, the IJC held a webinar earlier this month to release "Phase 2" of the process: a draft decision framework to assess threats. Now "Phase 3" begins: testing the process on issues such as aqueous nitrogen, and waterborne antimicrobial resistance. Access the webinar recording, slides (source of the image), and summary reports from the IJC's webpage.
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Lake Partner Program: Photo Request!
The 2024 water sampling season is well underway, and we thank the hundreds of volunteers who make the Lake Partner Program (LPP) possible through your work.
LPP volunteers: please remember to take pictures of your sampling, showing the equipment and the process - and your wonderful lake! (Note: everyone in your photo should be wearing a PFD.) Send photos to: communications@foca.on.ca.
Learn more about the program here: https://foca.on.ca/lake-partner-program/
(image: Noah S. @ Lake St. John; posted to the Association's Facebook page)
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Salt Impacts
Despite last winter being milder than usual (thus requiring less salt use for de-icing roads), over the decades salt use on Ontario roads has been increasing. The Sustainable Technologies Evaluation Program (STEP, dedicated to low impact development) has created a wiki about salt that includes information on negative impacts on the environment, human health, and built infrastructure. Access the wiki (source of the image showing chloride concentrations between 1971 and 2020 at Atherley Narrows between Lake Couchiching and Lake Simcoe) and get related resources from our webpage:
https://foca.on.ca/salt-impacts/
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Great Lakes Concerns: Drugs, Microplastics & Forever Chemicals
As described in the early June edition of The Narwhal, new emerging contaminants in the Great Lakes are of concern to scientists, who are calling on Canada and the federal government to coordinate a plan to protect our water and our health. Read the article.
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Canada's Nature Strategy & Biodiversity
On June 13, 2024, the federal Minister of Environment and Climate Change released Canada’s 2030 Nature Strategy: Halting and Reversing Biodiversity Loss in Canada. The report notes that “our economies are embedded in nature, not external to it” and that healthy, biodiverse ecosystems are vital to our lives and livelihoods in Canada. The strategy is built around the target framework adopted at the December 2022 UN convention on biological diversity, including topics FOCA speaks about regularly including: ecosystem restoration, preventing invasive species, sustainable use of wild spaces, and mainstreaming of biodiversity values, among many others. Access the lengthy report from our webpage: https://foca.on.ca/biodiversity/
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Species at Risk: Protecting Biodiversity
This week the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks posted to the Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO) inviting public comments on draft government response statements for 4 species at risk under the Endangered Species Act, to continue to help preserve Ontario’s biodiversity. The species are: Hudsonian Godwit (pictured at the side; image credit: Mike Burrell via Ontario.ca); 2 distinct species of Lake Whitefish (Opeongo Lake); and Suckley’s Cuckoo Bumble Bee. Read the release and related materials, and submit comments by August 8, 2024, via the ERO posting.
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Rivers & Carbon Sequestration
Over 150 scientists in 40 countries including Canada have been studying the role that rivers and streams play in the global cycling of carbon. Global warming and pollution are speeding up decomposition rates in rivers, changing them from carbon sinks to carbon sources, and sending more CO2 into the atmosphere. Human activity accelerates these impacts, e.g., by adding nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen in chemical runoff from lawn fertilizers. Access CBC News coverage of the study (source of the map image) from the “Latest News” section of our webpage: https://foca.on.ca/climate-impacts/
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FOCA's Silver Level Sponsors | |
sponsors support our work, please support them | |
Partner Updates & Regional Notices | |
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Water Level Warnings
On June 19, 2024, the Lake of the Woods Control Board Secretariat issued a notice (source of the image, posted by FOCA's member group, LOWDSA) of high water flows following severe thunderstorms, with rainfall totals reaching up to 100mm within 24 hours in some locations.
Meanwhile, on June 21, 2024, Parks Canada issued a public safety notice advising the public to exercise caution and expect higher-than-normal water levels and flows on the Otonabee and Trent Rivers in the Kawarthas, until further notice.
And on June 25, 2024, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry released a water safety - watershed conditions statement for Bracebridge, Minden, Parry Sound District in effect to July 5th, indicating increased runoff to local waterways and forest access roads due to recent significant rainfall.
FOCA reminds everyone to be cautious in high-water conditions. Get important information, including links to water level notices, graphs and maps for various regions, from FOCA's webpage: https://foca.on.ca/water-levels/
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upcoming partner event: Wake Research Webinar
Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at 12:00pm – FOCA’s partners at Safe Quiet Lakes (SQL; source of the image) invite everyone to register for a free webinar with Dr. Chris Houser of the University of Waterloo, who has been conducting research on the impact of boat wakes over the past two years. Register for the webinar here.
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Private Surface Water Systems
Do you draw from your lake or river for drinking water? If so, you need to watch this new video from the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, about important considerations for private surface water systems: https://youtu.be/LjlyAqj-8Wg?si=SvlGHtOmnPv8grCD (source of the image)
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Trailer Bylaw Enforcement in Sables-Spanish Rivers
As reported by CBC in May, camping trailer bylaws that passed last year in the Municipality of Sables-Spanish Rivers (along the north shore of Lake Huron, west of Espanola) are now being enforced this summer by bylaw officers, as part of an effort to address illegal trailer parks and drive business to existing commercial campgrounds. Read the news from CBC (source of the image)
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Water Soldier: Bay of Quinte
The Bay of Quinte Remedial Action Plan staff reminds residents and visitors to be on the lookout for invasive water soldier, an aquatic plant that continues to move into the Bay of Quinte since it was discovered in 2021. Learn how to identify the plant, and how to report it if you think you've spotted it, from Quinte News coverage in early May 2024. (image: Kaleigh Mooney, from the forthcoming FOCA guide to aquatic plants in Ontario)
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North Hastings Community Fish Hatchery
Saturday, July 13, 2024 - community members are invited to purchase tickets and participate in the 18th annual summer fish fry & pig roast dinner at the Bancroft Curling Club, including a live and silent auction in support of the North Hastings Community Fish Hatchery. Get details here: https://fishhatchery.ca/events/
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Funding: South Frontenac
The Township of South Frontenac is offering grants to support the contributions of community organizations and volunteer groups who make South Frontenac a great place to live. Applications are being accepted for the 2024 Community Grant Program until July 31 and the Lake Ecosystem Grant Program until August 9. Get details from the Township by clicking here.
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FOCA on the Road - Event Recaps:
FOCA at the Gull Lake AGM
May 19, 2024 – FOCA spoke to a full house at the Annual General Meeting of the Gull Lake Cottagers Association in Minden Hills, providing details about member benefits available to the association and to all their member families, as well as an overview of FOCA's ongoing work on behalf of waterfront Ontario.
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Kawarthas Alliance
May 25, 2024 – FOCA participated in the annual Spring Seminar of the Kawartha Lake Stewards Association (KLSA), where FOCA’s Assistant Lake Stewardship Coordinator Gavin Vance answered questions about water quality sampling and the Lake Partner Program. Visit KLSA’s new website for recordings from the event: https://klsa.ca/2024-spring-meeting-recordings-and-presentations-available/
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DID YOU KNOW:
Even if FOCA is unable to attend your local event, we can supply you with a short written overview, slides, and/or a 10-minute recorded video presentation about our work and your member benefits. Contact us for these resources!
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FOCA Serves Lake & Road Associations | |
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Last Reminder: ONCA Updates for Incorporated Associations
If your association is incorporated in Ontario, recall that you need to review - and may need to update - your Articles and bylaws to be compliant with the Ontario Not-for-profit Corporations Act (ONCA) by October 18, 2024. This may require a vote by members at your AGM this summer, if those documents need to be updated. Get details from the FOCA webpage: https://foca.on.ca/association-bmps/
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Login for FOCA Member Benefits
Please note that all our Member Associations and our annual supporters - the "Friends of FOCA" - have been onboarded to FOCA's MemberPress system for web logins. As a result, the old generic "focamember" login has been discontinued.
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Association Member Families: Your association renewal contact has a link (specific to your association) that you can use to set up your own unique Username and Password as a Sub-Account of your association, in order to access all the member benefits and members-only materials on the FOCA website. Please ask your association representative to reach out to FOCA if they need assistance locating the association's link.
FOCA members are encouraged to login on the Benefits webpage to access the discount codes for all member benefits and offers from our sponsors and partners - like the new Rogers Preferred Pricing plan, AEDs from Action First Aid, Canadian Canoe Museum & Cottage Life Magazine subscription discounts, and the CottageFirst group insurance program for your cottage, boat, car, and more.
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sponsors support our work - please support them | |
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Get Hooked on Fishing
The Province of Ontario is expanding its “Learn to Fish” program, with new locations and mobile sessions at provincial parks, conservation areas and events. This program is free and teaches new anglers of all ages, providing everything needed including a fishing rod, reel and bait, and lifejacket for the session. Sign up online here.
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Free Fishing on Canada Day!
The Province is also encouraging fishing enthusiasts and first-timers alike to enjoy free fishing in Ontario from June 29 to July 7, 2024. No fishing licence is required during this period, but you must follow conservation licence catch limits, and carry government ID with your name and date of birth. Find a local event by visiting: http://www.ontariofamilyfishing.com/
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The FOCA office will be closed on Monday, July 1st for the holiday.
Happy Canada Day to you and your family!
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