In the letter written by Hans Penner (Coast Reporter, June 12), Hans accurately points out that we are all blessed to be living in such a beautiful place.
Many people enjoy hiking, walking, mountain biking, ATVing, four- wheel driving, para-sailing, hunting, mushroom picking and more. During my 13 years on the Coast, six of which have been collecting data for the Super Map using an ATV, I have yet to have a "disruptive encounter" with hikers, or for that matter, anyone. If you treat everyone with respect, everyone gets along. Every outdoor enthusiast has an equal right to enjoy the back country.
An avenue has been presented to all trail users to designate specific trail use through the Sunshine Coast Trail Society. There are currently over 6,300 hectares of "hiking only" areas on the Coast. For folks who wish to be one with nature, these non-motorized areas are an ideal choice.
I often hear about environmental damage from dirt bikes and ATVs. I have yet to actually see this damage, and no one seems willing to document it if it exists.
In my opinion, the logging and licensed/unlicensed firewood operators are causing more damage than most would like to recognize. I've seen it, documented it and reported it. If there is significant damage, please report the violations to the Conservation Officer by calling 1-877-952-7277 (RAPP).
With regards to bylaws and policies, we can all achieve the same result by working together and not being elitists. Just look at the Tetrahedron Park, it contains watersheds and wetlands and has been hiking-only for years. Triangle Lake, Cliff Gilker Park, Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park and more, are designated hiking only - trail designation works. Get involved. We can all be stewards of the back country.
Jason Silverthorne
Roberts Creek
