Site Overview #
Description: #
Turner’s Island is the largest island on Lake Clear, renowned for its natural beauty and geological significance. The dive site is situated off the northern tip of the island, where a prominent shoal extends into the lake. This location offers a unique and captivating underwater landscape that appeals to divers of all skill levels, particularly those with an interest in geology and mineralogy.
Dive Site Features #
Skree Slope:
- Depth: The skree slope begins at a shallow depth of 3 feet and plunges steeply down to 40 feet.
- Composition: The slope is composed of large, angular rocks that occasionally overhang, creating fascinating underwater formations. These rocks are of particular interest due to their geological composition, containing large crystals of feldspar, hornblende, and apatite.
Flat Silty Bottom:
- Depth: Beyond the skree slope, the bottom levels out and is covered with a thick layer of silt, gradually deepening to 50 feet.
- Conditions: The silt can reduce visibility if disturbed, so careful buoyancy control is advised.
Historical Significance:
- Turner’s Island Mine: The island was the site of a small open-pit mine in the early 1900s, which produced world-class specimens of apatite and zircon crystals. The mine’s proximity to the water has resulted in areas along the skree slope being littered with mine tailings—small crystals and calcite host rock—that were thrown or blasted into the lake.
- Mineral Collection: Divers have the opportunity to search for their own apatite specimens among the mine tailings scattered along the slope, making this dive both an exciting exploration and a chance to bring home a piece of geological history.
Access #
Entry Point:
- The dive site is accessed from the water, with the best approach being by boat to the north tip of Turner’s Island. The shoal and skree slope are easily located from this point, offering a straightforward entry into the water.
Visibility #
Conditions:
- Visibility in Lake Clear can vary, but it is generally good, ranging from 15 to 30 feet depending on recent weather conditions and the level of silt disturbance.
Additional Tips #
Equipment:
- Dive Light: A dive light is recommended for exploring the overhangs and inspecting mineral formations, especially on cloudy days or when diving deeper along the slope.
- Gloves: Wearing gloves is advised when handling rocks or searching for mineral specimens to protect your hands from sharp edges.
Safety:
- Buoyancy Control: Given the silty bottom, maintaining good buoyancy control is crucial to avoid stirring up sediment and reducing visibility.
- Dive with a Buddy: Always dive with a buddy, especially when exploring the skree slope, where large rocks and overhangs can pose challenges.
Video of the Dive #
Dive Documentation:
- A video documenting the dive at Turner’s Island, showcasing the skree slope, mineral formations, and underwater landscape, can be found online or through local diving resources. This visual guide provides a valuable preview of what to expect during the dive.
Historical Context #
Turner’s Island Mine:
- The mine on Turner’s Island played a significant role in the early 1900s, extracting high-quality specimens of apatite and zircon. These minerals were highly prized and are still featured in natural science museum displays worldwide. The mine’s legacy continues to attract divers and mineral enthusiasts to the island, where remnants of its operations can still be discovered underwater.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Google Maps Location: Turner’s Island, Lake Clear
- Ontario Geological Society: Ontario Geological Society for more information on the geological history of the area.
- Local Dive Shops: Contact dive shops in the Ottawa Valley region for detailed maps, equipment rentals, and guided dives.
- Video Documentation: Search for videos or dive logs that document experiences at Turner’s Island, providing insights and visuals of the dive site.
CONCLUSION #
Turner’s Island in Lake Clear offers a dive experience that blends natural beauty, geological exploration, and historical significance. The skree slope, with its unique mineral formations and the opportunity to find apatite specimens, provides an engaging and educational dive. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast or simply looking for an interesting underwater adventure, this site is sure to leave a lasting impression.
TAGS #
- Shore Dive
- Ontario Diving
- Recreational Dive
- Freshwater Dive
- Geological Dive
- Lake Clear
