Laurie emphasized the importance of only small groups being allowed to visit these sensitive ecologic reserves. On the  southern boundary of the reserve, and wrapping around the west side lies the cliffs leading down to Trout Creek itself. We could hear it but not see it from our high viewpoint at the top of the cliff in the reserve.. This natural boundary provides excellent security for the reserve on two sides.  Next Laurie was up to checking the fence line on the steep North side. This fence is important for delineating the boundary to  humans and to keep any stray cattle out. He had reported some areas where it was down and the local Parks office had been diligent in sending out Park employee Sarah  Bunga, Park Warden to repair it. In the afternoon it was back to Penticton to meet  up with Kathryn McCourt for a trip out to Mahoney Lake Ecological Reserve. I had noticed from other photographers images I had posted previously on the website, that October -November seemed to be good months in which to witness the bloom of purple sulphur bacteria in this meromictic (non-mixing) lake which is the best example in North America. We were certainly not disappointed. Kathryn mentioned that in September the colour had not developed yet, and she sent pictures to show the contrast. The extremely dry year had led to a record low water level. This reserve is very accessible to the public, perhaps too much so as it  was