There are very public debates over the Chapman Creek and Gray Creek watersheds on the Sunshine Coast and the potential Gospel Rock development in Gibsons. Many residents in Sechelt have also voiced concern over expansion at Target Marine.

A University of British Columbia (UBC) study is seeking input on these and other important environmental issues such as potential oil spills, flooding and sea level rise as part of an international study called C-Change based out of the University of Ottawa.

Researchers from UBC have interviewed community leaders on the Coast as well as politicians and staff in the Town of Gibsons, District of Sechelt and the Sunshine Coast Regional District.

The research team is now asking for help from Coast residents by inviting them to complete an on-line survey (found at www.envirochange.ca) and is offering 10 prizes of $100 as a reward. Community participation is essential to the success of this study, and opinions are being sought on both public environmental debates and possible risks to the community.

The results of this study will be made public and will be offered to the governments on the Coast to help reduce vulnerabilities to environmental risks and provide a snapshot of public opinion on environmental issues and hazards.

— Submitted