Prior to the development of the Trent-Severn Waterway the water level on Lake Simcoe was low enough to enable residents to cross in wagons or walk in ankle-deep water to the mainland at Virginia beach, reference from "Lake Simcoe Water levels," Lake Simcoe Region Conversation Authority. August 2013.   This has also been documented in numerous history books about the area. I agree an environmental assessment needs to be conducted and shared prior to changing the lake however I have to wonder what assessments or considerations were given to the people of Georgina island prior to the lake being artificially raised.  Proper access to the mainland is needed not the current band aid solution for an aged ferry which doesn't run 24 hours a day.