Editor:
The latest threat to the low elevation forests of Mount Elphinstone has now been delivered to us through the offices of our own community forest, despite the fact that there have been efforts to conserve this remarkable environment for the past three decades.
The same old rules apply - the only legitimate destiny for a tree on Crown land is the log dump unless it is part of an endangered species habitat, shows cultural modification, etc. And so begins the niggling debates which engender frustration and hostility.
What about the mushroom pickers, mountain bikers, hikers, forest lovers with diverse interests, who all use these low elevation forests in increasing numbers? Where else has there been such a large volunteer effort to build trails? Why don't we count? Why is a culturally modified tree given more weight than hundreds of hours of volunteer trail building?
Mount Elphinstone has world-class mountain biking terrain. Consider that a return of only $5,000 per year from race events will yield more direct revenue over 100 years than cutting down $100,000 worth of trees today (at five per cent compounded annually). Perhaps we could operate a shuttle system to trail heads and Dakota Bowl. The possibilities are exciting, would enhance our community and could provide jobs and revenue.
There will be few thanks in signing an order to cut the old forest and forever removing an outstanding natural attraction from our community. Area wise, it is a small request. Some of the clear cuts in this province are larger than our entire area of concern.
By the way, leaving the old growth trees is nice (we will take the offer), but isn't that a little like leaving granny at home while blowing down the subdivision around her?
With respect for all who serve our community.
Dougald MacDonald,
Gibsons
