Editor:
Re: “Burnco project is a catch-22,” West Howe Sounder, Nov. 17.
I would like to clarify that the impacts to Gambier Island from the proposed gravel mine at McNab Creek go far beyond possible intermittent noise from barge loading and that I never intended a comparison between the McNab Creek subdivision and the communities on Gambier. Both areas will be significantly affected by the Burnco gravel extraction project if it goes ahead.
This proposed project is slated to remove more than a million and a half tonnes of gravel per year from the McNab estuary area – an operation that is proposed to run up to 10 hours a day, 260 days a year (reductions from original plan). Anyone who has been around the northwestern part of Gambier Island will attest to the unbelievable remoteness and quiet solitude of the region. Therefore, any additional noise will be impactful and there will be nothing “ambient” about the processing and barge loading sounds expected from this project.
Additionally, sound travels very efficiently across the water and several Gambier community members have attested to hearing people laughing in boats and kayaks moored around McNab. Whereas the community on Gambier is not as close to the proposed project as the mainland subdivision, there is no question that a gravel mine will affect them and change how cottagers, camp goers, and boaters are able to enjoy the area, whether it be from noise, light, increased barge and marine traffic, or possible depressed real estate values.
The proposed Burnco gravel mine project will certainly have a negative impact on the communities on Gambier Island.
Kate-Louise Stamford, Trustee, Gambier Island Local Trust Committee, West Bay, Gambier Island
