TWIN LAKES BEACH, MANITOBA
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Situated on a natural isthmus, dividing Lake Francis and Lake Manitoba, Twin Lakes Beach was formed by the natural process of sand accumulating between the two bodies of water over a period of years when it was transferred from the bank of one lake to the bank of another lake by wind and water. The sand then continues to build up, eventually forming a sand dune. Plants are able to strive on this natural dune, because after a storm occurs on the lake, the water levels increase, washing dead seaweed, as well as other organic matter, onto the sand, and after many years of decomposition, the compost turns to soil, acting as a fertilizer for local plant life. As a result, grass, plants, and wildlife are now native to the area. The water, however, continuously laps the shore, due to moving air and currents, leaving a section of the dune eroded where sand remains, forming a beach.
The earliest records of civilization (of course long after Aboriginal peoples inhabited Manitoba, prior to dated history) around the Twin Lakes Beach and St. Laurent area began in the early 19th century, when the McKay family, of Metis descent, were one of the first families to settle in St. Laurent, on the shores of Lake Manitoba. The family found all the resources that they found important to them – fishing, hunting, and agriculture. The community grew, attracting new immigrants to the province who were looking for an affordable, resourceful way of life.
Many people began to purchase lakefront properties in the area at present day Twin Lakes Beach, whether it be a summer retreat or a permanent dwelling.
The desire to purchase a beachfront property has drastically increased even in the past decade, spiking the interests of many Manitoban citizens, and attracting them to the province’s beautiful beaches and lakes. Cottage living has become popular amongst people who are retiring, wanting to enjoy outdoor leisure, or people wanting to enjoy the peaceful, yet exciting aspect of the beach or the lake, escaping the everyday buzz of urban living.
The Twin Lakes Beach Association was formed to discuss current issues and problems in and around the beach as well as provide representation of the cottagers in the Rural Municipalities of Woodlands and St. Laurent to discuss local issues well as representation at the provincial level to discuss issues such as the lake level.