Editor:

The recent felling of an established Douglas fir on Silverstone Lane in Sechelt at this time of year with what has been a viable eagles’ nest has left me stunned.

Nesting season has started and it is questionable whether the adult pair have had enough time to rebuild adequately.

Ray Parfitt with the District of Sechelt was quick to refer us to the province when in to complain about this, but a permit was given as an arbourist apparently deemed the tree high risk due to severe root damage. I therefore go back to the District of Sechelt to assume accountability in allowing development of the land with a house built two years ago too close to this stately tree. This tree was not protected at all through development of the land.

None of the avid eagle followers who visited this nest with me expressed concern about tree degradation, no thinning, change in foliage colour as the arbourist described. I question how imminently necessary the nest removal and tree topping at this nesting time of year was. Waiting until early next fall would have been much more humane.

Nothing can make up for the nest going down so close to nesting time. A mitigation plan has been mandated and I know I do not stand alone in waiting to see what is implemented.

Sandra Timmins, Gibsons