TAKE 5
take5.ca
Letters Concerns over Cedar Swap closure We are writing to voice our protest of the arbitrary closure of the Cedar Sunday Swap Meet. The deciding meeting of the Board of Directors was not made known to the participants of the swap meet or the community in general. The Cedar Community Hall has been used for several months as a Covid-19 Vaccination Centre this year. The Cedar Sunday Swap Meet has been run for so many years and there have been no major difficulties to our knowledge. The swap meet has not changed in years. It has not overgrown its capacity. The attendance of the swap meet has not exceeded the capacity of the hall, so safety should not be an issue. The swap meet is an important community event for many residents of the area. People come from far afield to attend the Cedar Sunday Swap Meet, for example, Port Alberni and Victoria. It is a huge cultural event that allows people from all walks of life to mix and mingle. In a time when we need to be addressing reusing and recycling items, the swap meet serves an important function. The swap meet is not a huge commercial venture, rather it is an opportunity for many individuals on low or medium income to have a family outing replete with delicious and economical food. As far as we know, there have been no accidents because of the swap meet.
5
6
What are these new events that the Board is pursuing and what about the loss of regular and dependable income to the Cedar Hall upkeep if the Cedar Sunday Swap Meet is cancelled? It seems that the swap meet is being cancelled because it is too popular. We sincerely hope that the Board will reconsider its decision and allow the swap meet to continue as it has for many years without any major problems. — Larry Dudeck and Dorina Medland
Big thank you to Keith Wilson RDN Director Area A A very big thank-you, Keith, for your article that you wrote in the recent TAKE 5 regarding the excessive speeding and reckless driving in our precious Cedar district, mentioning a few of the wonderful wilderness parks that are located in our backyards, the farmers’ market that has grown a huge following from all over Vancouver Island, and the recent expansion of the new bike path being finished from the Island Highway thru Cedar via the old Cedar Highway and finishing up at the Cedar Ball fields (Wheat Sheaf Pub), which is just
take5.ca
another wonderful project that is bringing more family fun to our special rural Cedar. It’s so nice to see the Cedar Ball Fields back being enjoyed once again, a wonderful outing on any given night to enjoy watching our locals enjoying life once again. I have lived in Cedar for almost 40 years and have seen so much growth in our little community, and like most seniors, I am very concerned regarding the growth and the problems created by it. I would also like to thank Bryce Pirozzini, the Area Manager of Roads, Vancouver Island District, Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, who has been very supportive with my many questions I have asked regarding our many cross walks and excessive speeding problems. Thanks to both of you for all your support. — Mark Fiddick To reiterate what Keith said — thank you! We definitely do our best to address the challenges that are within our control. — Bryce Pirozzini
SEPTEMBER 2021
On Residential Schools I like to comment on the letter by Herb Dumont of Métis Nation BC. He believes that criminal charges should be brought to the federal government about the death of the aboriginal children in the residential schools. He does not realize that this process can only be initiated by the families that lost their children. He ignores to mention that at that time many of the children suffered from tuberculosis when they were admitted in the school system. And probably died from this disease. Federal inspectors regularly visited the schools and wrote reports. These reports are confidential and can only be seen by the families who lost their children. Because the reports recording the deaths are a minority and are not separated from those about other subjects, a lawyer looking for specific documents has to put all the reports on a computer and arrange them according to place, date and subject matter. Work typically done by a student of aboriginal history (see Laurie Meijer Drees). The costs, time and money involved in
TAKE 5
a search are born by the families whose children died from tuberculosis, or by the Band councils. Because it is uncertain that a judge will blame the government for the death of the sick children, the issue of the “mismanagement” in the residential schools will remain with us. — Nick Meijer Drees
Tell Me More The picture of Dwight Smith: Dwight and his family came to Ladysmith in 1947 from Manitoba. Dwight attended school at North Oyster school, and then Ladysmith High School, going to Grade 9. The family then moved to Sooke. Dwight quit school there and got himself a job; he was fifteen at the time. He then got a job at Copper Canyon, then the spare board on the Waterfront when he was 17. He was laid off and went back logging up at Nitinat. He was just going to break in falling when he was called to go back to the waterfront longshoring. He worked there as a longshoreman for 14 years, then as a foreman on the waterfront for 33 years — a total of 47 years. The picture that was submitted was taken in Danny Hunter’s boat by Danny Hunter; Dwight, Smokey Mitchell and Dan were fishing up at China Creek. The most logging Dwight does is cutting fire wood. Submitted by his number one fan for the last 60+ years.
Our Recycling System is Failing Both letters to the editor (Citizen, Aug 5 and Aug 12, 2021) show significant frustration, both from the consumer and the municipality, about recycling and getting the blame for not doing it right. Further, we hear continuous complaints, from municipalities all over BC, that contamination in the recycling is too high and does not meet the requirements. All the materials not accepted for recycling are still disposed of in landfills, causing long-term risk to the environment. How long have we been paying for recycling? Should we not be able to get it right if it is a functioning system? Blaming the consumer/end-user for not following the recycling guidelines puts the responsibility at the tail end of the product chain, but the fish starts to stink at the head. It is obvious that the system is failing. The municipalities and the end-
take5.ca
users are left alone to solve the issue and get blamed for not doing it right. This is wrong, considering that nothing exists except confusing guidelines for waste sorting, which are solely based on making a profit from the recycling. We seriously must think about improvements. Thinking about circular economy and climate change issues, we must have proper legislation and/or guidance. We all know time is running out. In the past, we had a serious problem with workers safety. WCB developed and implemented stringent regulations and guidelines. Responsibilities were defined, and there are stringent organizational requirements to address safety measures. Based on my experience from Canada and abroad, the WCB safety program is a huge success. Why are we not doing the same for our environment? We all know about the three “Rs” (Reducing, Reusing, Recycling), but only recycling, the lowest priority of the three Rs, gets attention. Recycling has become an excuse to generate more waste. Waste Management starts with production! To be most effective we have to put the responsibilities where they belong. We need producers to be responsible for their products, which includes financial responsibility. There must be an adequate environmental fee on the products and/or packaging to cover the costs for recycling and/or disposal. A key component of the waste management system infrastructure must be the handling of plastic waste. As plastic contamination in the environment is a similar problem as carbon, we should think about a plastic tax/fee for products and packaging to fund the building and operation of the infrastructure for safe plastic recycling/ disposal. To implement a functioning circular economy, we need stringent legislation which clearly provides: • regulations for producer, business and personal responsibilities • a clear hierarchy for the three Rs; • definition of recycling, which allows for most effective and efficient recycling (the thermal use of a waste material must be considered as recycling if no material recovery is possible and if the material meets the conditions for an alternative fuel in industrial plants);
7
• tools/guidelines to provide transparency, which allows for a cooperative circular economy; • easily identifiable product labeling for recycling; • training and awareness programs; and • definition of the roles of the authorities and industry in the circular economy. To address the challenges of climate change, resource management and contamination of water, land and air, I hope the government either on the provincial and federal level will do their homework. It is not acceptable that we move the environmental and financial burden to the next generations. We are responsible for our actions. — Helmut Blanken Letters to the editor on community topics and concerns are always welcome. Letters may be edited for length. Opinions represented here are not necessarily those of TAKE 5 or its agents.
TAKE 5
take5.ca
Cable Bay Trail Update BY KERITH WADDINGTON One of Western Canada's largest private real estate companies is currently in negotiations to purchase the land around Cable Bay Trail. Wesgroup Properties is a Vancouver-based real estate company that ‘specializes in the development of sustainable, mixed-use spaces’. They are negotiating with current landowners Oceanview Golf Resort and Spa Ltd. about the 420 acres in question, 97 acres of which is under the auspicies of the RDN while the rest is with the City. A representative of Wesgroup recently attended an educational walk at Cable Bay hosted by the group that’s hoping to save it, then met later that same day with the City. Needless to say, the ‘Save Cable Bay Trail Area’ group – currently boasting a petition against development of the area that has close to 17,000 signatures on it – is alarmed at this latest development. “We are very worried as Wesgroup is a massive real estate development company”, says Cedar resident Jackie Waysluk, who founded the group more than a year ago in response to the sudden logging by Oceanview of mature trees on the west side of the Trail. “My hope is that Wesgroup realizes this is not a feasible area for development. With the petition gaining signatures daily I would also hope they see this public outcry is not worth their time”. Wesgroup was approached for feedback but is “unable to comment at this time”. Oceanview has not been able to develop the lands – currently designated resort/residential in Nanaimo’s Official Community Plan (OCP) – due to an inability to secure water and road access to the site. Cable Bay Trail itself – and a small 15 metre buffer on either side – is part of the regional parks system and so is protected. So too is Joan Point Park by Dodd Narrows, which is currently accessible only through private lands owned by Oceanview or along the waterfront which is owned by Mosaic. Mosaic has an agreement with the City allowing pedestrian access to the Park. Area residents interested in helping shape the future of development in Nanaimo are invited to take part in “ReImagine Nanaimo”, an online survey which is part of the City’s coordinated strategic plan review. Waysluk adds another point. “Nanaimo is the first city in Canada to adopt a Doughnut Economics Framework which integrates environmental and social wellbeing with business and city planning goals,” she says. “They have also declared a Climate Emergency. I fail to see how permitting the development of Cable Bay and cutting down the forest supports either of those initiatives. The City needs to walk the talk”. Concerned citizens can follow the Save Cable Bay Trails group on Facebook, andsign petition at change.org. Opposite page: Nanaimo City Councillors Tyler Brown and Ben Geselbracht swimming at Joan Point Park. Photo: Jackie Wasyluk
9
10
take5.ca
SEPTEMBER 2021
TAKE 5
take5.ca
11
12
take5.ca
SEPTEMBER 2021
Show & Shine record numbers Ladsymith’s 17th annual Show and Shine returned for its best year yet. The car show was canceled last year due to Covid-19 but this year it roared back with record attendance, Organizers were anticipating close to 300 entries for this year but were blown away by the final count of over 330! The show normally averages 240 vehicles. “What was a big surprise was that we had over 6,000 spectators! Those kind of numbers had never entered our minds,” said committee member Duck Paterson. The Ambassadors Choice trophy was presented to Barry White, from New Westminster, for his ’65 Corvette. The Participants Choice trophy was given to Gordon Sturgeon, from Cobble Hill, for his ’52 Chev Special and the Bhagwan Mayer Memorial Trophy went to Raymond Beveridge, from Sooke, for his ’26 Model T Coupe. The People’s Choice awards were Bob Collier, from Ladysmith, with a ’56 Monarch and Bob Anderson, from Duncan with a ’70 Challenger and first place was presented to Ian Scarisbrick for his ’54 Chevy pickup. Local singer/song writer, Sarah Leo, entertained the spectators with her unique and attractive sound and was followed by the Doctors of Rock & Roll.
Record attendance marked at the 2021 Ladysmith Show & Shine. Photo: Marina Sacht
The event had two major sponsors, being LCU Insurance and XTend Rentals. As well as the major sponsors the show is supported by many local businesses who donate various gifts and prizes. Show ’n’ Shine 2021 was dedicated in the memory of long-time member, and community supporter, Bhagwan Mayer who passed away last year.
Curbside Recycling Audits The Town of Ladysmith completed two informal curbside audits this summer and found in both cases that soft plastics contributed to the majority of contamination in the recycling stream. Contaminated recycling refers to items such as plastic bags or wrappings, improperly rinsed containers, and multi-layered packaging, such as chip bags or granola bar wrappers, that are being disposed of in curbside collection. The overall efficiency of the recycling system is significantly disrupted when these
items are present. Even a truckload that includes 15 to 20 per cent contamination can result in all of the materials being transported to the landfill, rather than being recycled. The Town completed the recycling audits to gain a better understanding of which items are causing contamination locally as we work toward ongoing strategies for improving our overall sustainability. During the recycling audits, 70 houses along five collection routes were visited. Contamination was significantly higher in the first round of audits when 557 contaminants were recovered. For the most recent set of audits, 250 contaminants were found in curbside recycling. Overall, soft plastics were the biggest source of contamination, followed by improperly rinsed containers. Soft plastics are accepted at
TAKE 5
take5.ca
the Peerless Road Recycling Centre free of charge. These include grocery and dry cleaning bags, produce bulk food and frozen vegetable bags, outer wraps and bags for hygiene products, and overwrap for furniture and electronics. Additionally, the Junction Bottle Depot on Oyster Bay Drive accepts chip bags, snack bar wrappers, or crinkly cellophane wrap. Please remember you can ensure your container recycling ends up in the right place by rinsing it first to remove food waste. Organics left on containers can spread to other items in your bin or the collection truck increasing the overall rate of contamination. The audits took place during the weeks of June 30 to July 7 and July 29 to August 5 and were completed by the Town’s Sustainability Ambassadors. For more information on garbage, recycling and organics collection in the Town of Ladysmith, visit www.ladysmith.ca/ourservices/garbage-recycling. For the latest news and updates, visit the Town’s website at www.ladysmith.ca, as well as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also receive up-to-date information in your email inbox by subscribing to the Town’s newsletter.
Bobs and Lolo play Ladysmith The LaFF Board of Directors is excited to have Bobs and Lolo come to our community. They are an award-winning, Juno-nominated musical duo who are dedicated to connecting kids to nature with music, movement and make believe. What better way to bring families together than to listen to music and dance! The show takes place on Sunday, Sept. 19 at 11 am at the Transfer Beach Amphitheatre. Ladysmith Family and Friends (LaFF) is a family resource program for children 0 to 6 years old and their parent/caregiver. LaFF has had much to celebrate in its 26 years of serving our community — the families they have come to know, the staff and volunteers, who provide much time and energy to make LaFF a success, and the generosity of individuals and organizations who have made LaFF’s services possible. Donations are what help LaFF continue to support the over 500 families from Ladysmith and surrounding areas and are greatly appreciated. E-transfers can be sent to Ilovetolaff@shaw.ca; for more information, visit www.familyandfriends.ca/.
LaFF celebrating its 26th year. Photo submitted.
13
14
take5.ca
Town encourages residents to be “Water Smart, Fire Aware” The Town of Ladysmith is encouraging local residents to be “water smart, and fire aware” as we continue to experience severe drought conditions, which pose a serious risk to our natural environment. Due to this extended period of hot dry weather and increased fire danger in our area, Stage 3 Water Restrictions continue to be in effect for the Town of Ladysmith, Diamond Improvement District and Stz’uminus First Nation. A fire ban also remains in effect for our area, including restrictions on all campfires, fireworks, tiki and similar kinds of torches, chimineas and the use of other items that pose the potential of causing a serious fire incident.
SEPTEMBER 2021
“Ladysmith Fire/Rescue continues to receive complaints about campfires and the use of burning pits, which are strictly prohibited right now by the BC Wildfire Service,” says Fire Chief Chris Geiger. “The hot and dry conditions mean potential ignition sources are everywhere and respecting this ban is helping to keep our community safe.” The current fire danger level for Ladysmith and the surrounding area is classified as “Extreme,” meaning new fires will start easily, spread rapidly and challenge fire suppression efforts. Visit the BC Wildfire Service website for the latest information, including the BC Wildfire Dashboard, Wildfire Prevention, Wildfires of Note and resources for EmergencyInfo BC.
TAKE 5
Make every drop count The Province of BC elevated Eastern Vancouver Island to Drought Level 5. This measure is based on streamflow and stream temperatures compared to what is considered normal for this time of year. Drought Level 5 indicates that adverse impacts to ecosystems and communities are likely and encourages the highest degree of water conservation. In direct response to the serious threat posed by soaring temperatures and limited precipitation, the Cowichan Valley Regional District has activated a Regional Emergency Operations Centre for drought planning and monitoring purposes. Locally, Stage 3 Water Restrictions are helping to decrease consumption demand and allow us to conserve water for when we need it the most. However, we need the whole community on board to do this effectively. Due to limited precipitation at this time of year and less water flowing through the watershed, lake levels decline with every turn of the tap — that’s why we all need to make every drop count. You can do your part to conserve water in the following ways, by: • not watering/sprinkling your lawn; •not washing your vehicle, boat, RV, trailer or house; • avoid washing driveways and sidewalk; and • not filling your pool All of these actions are requirements under Stage 3 Water Restrictions and are enforceable by fine if property owners are found to be non-compliant. Instead, take pride in your ability to aggressively conserve water and keep our lake levels as high as possible. In response to and in support of this, the nine Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) water service areas are implementing Stage 4 Watering Restrictions immediately and until further notice. Under Stage 4 Watering Restrictions, lawn watering is banned, as are other outdoor water uses including power washing, car washing, and hot tub, pool or fountain filling. These comprehensive outdoor watering restrictions are required to ensure essential water needs for household use, fire protection and environmental flows can be sustained given the persisting hydrological drought conditions on Eastern Vancouver Island.
take5.ca
15
16
Hand watering or drip irrigation is only permitted for vegetable or fruit gardens for a maximum of two hours per day between 7–10 a.m. or 7–10 p.m. RDN Bylaw and Water Operations staff will be patrolling and enforcing compliance with these restrictions through the issuance of fi nes. While private domestic wells in the RDN are not technically subject to water restrictions, all residents are asked to refrain from lawn watering and to limit outdoor water use at this time, as water is a shared resource. The heightened watering restrictions are not indicative of a water supply shortage within our communities, rather they reflect a proactive approach to conserve essential water in the face of ongoing drought conditions. The restrictions are on the interconnected nature of our water systems with our neighbours and ecosystems and the uncertainty around the duration and potential impacts of the current drought.
Daycare children learn about construction If you’re going to study construction for a month, you might as well see it up front, children from Inquiring Little Minds Daycare learned August 4 when Kinetic Construction Ltd. temporarily closed its site for the Ladysmith Resources Centre Association (LRCA) affordable housing development. Kinetic site supervisor Cliff LeBeau said it was an honour to have the children learn about safety and the machinery and roles each construction worker plays. “It was excellent and I was impressed so many of our young visitors were so
take5.ca
well educated already,” he said. Daycare supervisor Nicole Salonen said a crew of 15 youngsters were enjoying construction-themed studies during the month, and “it is amazing Kinetic took the time to show the construction site and explain the processes and machinery for the project,” which will feature 36 affordable housing units scheduled to open in the fall of 2022. Since activity began on the Buller Street site, the nearby daycare children and neighbours have been coming by to watch the activity and bring water and treats for the construction workers. The special relationship resulted in the tour. “The children were fascinated with all the machinery and activity on the construction site and with Cliff,” said Vicky Stickwood-Hislop, LRCA board president. The building at 314 Buller Street will provide much needed affordable housing for seniors, small families and people with developmental disabilities. The project will also provide space for local organizations to deliver services in a community hall and commercial-grade community kitchen.
BC Fairs launches contest Fairgoers can have some extra fun at BC fairs this summer through a new photo contest that celebrates the province’s agricultural sector and Buy BC. “A fun-filled family day at one of the province’s fairs and exhibitions is a perfect opportunity to support local farms and the food they produce,” says Lana Popham, minister of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries. “The Buy BC photo contest will help capture and share the amazing local
SEPTEMBER 2021
products that visitors can find at BC fairs this season, celebrating all the local goodies grown and made by the province’s farmers, producers and processors.” BC Fairs and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries’ Buy BC program are encouraging visitors attending fairs and exhibitions to enter the photo contest, which runs from August 2 to September 26, 2021. Participants can enter by downloading the new BC Fairs app and following the steps to upload a picture. Selfies are encouraged, as well as pictures of any made-in-BC food or beverage product, or a BC fair or farm. Entries can also be submitted at bcfairs.ca. A grand prize winner will be drawn from the weekly winners at the end of September.
Seasonal service changes for the RDN Transit System BC Transit and the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) are announcing a seasonal service change in the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System effective September 5, 2021. This seasonal service change will reinstate service levels on several routes to coincide with the start of the school year, increase connectivity between routes and amend the Route 25 ferry shuttle to align with BC Ferries’ Departure Bay–Horseshoe Bay schedule. BC Transit also reminds customers that free transit for Children 12 and under launches on September 1, 2021. For more information on the seasonal service change, please visit bctransit.com/ nanaimo or rdn.bc.ca/regional-transit. Check on your bus ride in real time at ride at (RDNnextride.ca).
TAKE 5
take5.ca
Council meeting highlights Ladysmith Council met for a virtual Regular Meeting of Council on August 3, 2021, with the development permit for 336 Belaire Street among the agenda highlights. Council issued a development permit to allow for construction of a four-story commercial and residential building at 336 Belaire Street, subject to a security bond for landscaping. Council also authorized an encroachment agreement between the Town and the property owner to allow a plaza to extend into the Rigby Place right-of-way. In January 2020, 336 Belaire Street (the subject property) was rezoned from C-1 (Local Commercial) to the CD-6 Zone (Comprehensive Development 6–Belaire Mixed Use Zone). A density bonus provision of the CD-6 zone requires the property owner at 336 Belaire Street to do the following: • construct parking and drainage improvements on the other side of Rigby Place along the edge of Wickham Park; • provide a gathering space at Wickham Park; • provide underground parking for the residential units; and • construct the building to meet the BC Energy Step Code (Level 1). Council approved granting Westmark Construction Ltd. an exemption to the Town’s Noise Suppression Bylaw to permit construction at 107 Rollie Rose Drive until 8 p.m., Monday to Thursday, beginning August 9, 2021 until September 30, 2021. The next Regular Meeting of Council is scheduled for September 7, 2021.
17
18
It’s decision time and with just five weeks to go to Election Day on Sept. 20,2021, there is no time to delay. Getting informed, reading the platforms, and reaching out to the candidates and their parties and asking questions is how we get informed. To help you along that road, TAKE 5 has asked the Nanaimo-Ladysmith riding candidates the following question. See their responses. If you could only accomplish one thing during your term for this community what would that be and why?
take5.ca
Lisa Marie Baron — NDP Candidate NanaimoLadysmith My priorities stem from my day to day as a member of this community, as a mother, a daughter and as someone who works on the ground with people. I am seeing people in our community being
SEPTEMBER 2021
negatively impacted by a number of crises. We are in a climate crisis. I am seeing too many of our community’s most vulnerable being the first impacted in this climate emergency. We are in a housing crisis; housing is a human right, not a privilege. We are in an opioid crisis that does not discriminate. My number one priority is fighting for everyday people
TAKE 5
take5.ca
19
Nanaimo-Ladysmith Candidates
Candidates for Nanimo-Ladysmith riding Clockwise: Michelle Corfield — Liberal Party of Canada, Paul Manly — Green Party Lisa Marie Baron — NDP Candidate Tamara Kronis — Conservative Party of Canada Photos submitted.
in our community and the planet we live on. The Federal NDP has a proven track record of fighting for people AND fighting for our planet. I am ready to fight with Jagmeet and the NDP, to provide Nanaimo–Ladysmith with the strong voice they deserve to get the work done.
Michelle Corfield — Liberal Party of Canada candidate Nanaimo-Ladysmith Nanaimo–Ladysmith residents need a hardworking member of parliament that can effectively lobby for policy and legislative changes and ensure that money is invested into our communities. If there
is one thing I could do, it would be to support the creation of well-paying jobs for the people of Nanaimo–Ladysmith. A strong example is the Port of Nanaimo Duke Point expansion. What we have also learned through this pandemic is that Nanaimo–Ladysmith requires significant investment into health services, such as a hospital that can serve this community. Investments like these, create well-paying jobs. When Nanaimo–Ladysmith resi-
20
take5.ca
dents have good jobs they can afford a home, they can afford to raise their children and they can remain living here in Nanaimo–Ladysmith.
Tamara Kronis — Conservative Party of Canada Nanaimo-Ladysmith No matter where I go and who I speak with, I hear the worry in people’s voices. We are in tough times, and there is no doubt we need the right government with the right plan to lead us to a healthy, sustainable economic recovery. We need to make sure we have an affordable cost of living, strong and sustainable jobs for all, mental health supports for workers and families, and we do it in a responsible way to help the environment. It’s a huge job. With Canada’s Recovery Plan, we are the party of economic recovery who understands people are stressed about the lack of affordability and inflation. We need to be strong together and we need to put what matters most at the forefront — getting back on our feet so that everyone can be assured a strong future.
SEPTEMBER 2021
Paul Manly — Green Party Nanaimo-Ladysmith This year hundreds of people in BC died from extreme heat and thousands have been displaced by wildfires. Our families, homes and communities are under threat. I was elected to fight for climate action and I take that work very seriously. Based on my record as an MP, David Suzuki endorsed me as a climate champion. If I could achieve one thing it would be to eliminate the real obstacle to the bold, courageous climate action we need: partisanship. When political parties endlessly fight for the upper hand, or make backroom deals to block real action, we all lose. The UK eliminated this obstacle. Their parliament passed a law that locks in climate action for all future governments. It works. The UK leads the G-7 on climate action. We deserve that kind of long-term thinking from our MPs because our safety and security matters. Party colours and partisan bickering don’t. While Election Day is Monday, September 20, advance voting takes place Sept. 10-13. You can also vote by mail. The address of your polling place is on the voter information card. Bring your voter card with you, along with ID, to make the voting process easier. If you need to update your information you can do so online or bring your ID and they can register you at the polls. As we ride through our fourth pandemic wave, please remember to wear a mask and follow the safety measures Elections Canada has put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
TAKE 5
Sea Life success BY SHIRLEY BLACKSTAFF The LMS Community Marina hosted the 4th Sea Life Celebration, on Sunday, August 15. The afternoon celebration introduced young people and their families to the wonders of the sea life of Ladysmith Harbour. We had a lovely day for the Celebration as the weather was just right. With all the smiles it was obviously a meaningful experience for many families: children, teens and adults. There were hands-on touch tank and aquaria experiences with divers, marine biologists and students, Stz’uminus First Nation language and sea life games, numerous art projects, crab identification, science displays and live music. The event began with the Salish Young Wolves chanting, dancing and drumming. The music and songs of the Abby Grace Grife group delighted us throughout the event. This awesome family experience brought over 350 people out
Photo: Bob Burgess
take5.ca
after many months of Covid-19 restrictions. The educational, interactive, fun activities took place at the big tent in front of the Welcome Centre, at the Maritime Museum, Sea Life Centre and nearby docks. The “Maritimer” with its crew shared knowledge of our local sea life and harbour history as it toured folks around the Harbour with no charge during the Celebration! We had many special guests who enriched the event by creating understanding of one another, encouraging joyful interactions, and promoting respect and appreciation of all people and our natu-
21
ral environment. Thanks to the LMS staff, LMS directors, special guests and wonderful volunteers who supported the festival before, during and after the event. For those that attended we hope this Sea Life Celebration was a happy experience for you personally as we focused on our amazing sea life, the blessings it gives to us and how appreciating one-another through remembering the children and respecting the sea life can bring us together as people. Visit the lmsmarina.ca for more info, photos and videos.
22
Forests and Fire JEN YAKAMOVICH When I decided to move across the country from Nova Scotia to Vancouver Island two years ago, I had a typical picture of a watery west coast in my mind: temperate rainforests lush with life, met by a warm breeze gliding over the Pacific Ocean. Throw in a surfboard and a sailboat or two, and we have a perfect summertime scene. That is to say, the “waves” I imagined to be feeling were not exactly those making current news headlines. Heat waves were not on my mind, nor was the reality of a 50-day (and counting as we go to press) drought. As temperatures hit new records, the
take5.ca
SEPTEMBER 2021
Mount Hayes fire. Photo: Bob Burgess
effects of climate change are quite literally all around us. The pallid yellows of dried fields become the prevailing landscape, photographers look to the eerily beautiful haze of smoke-covered sunsets and summer becomes synonymous with wildfire season. The good news here is that I’m not actually here to write about climate infernos! I actually want to draw some brief attention to the history of fires and the ecological and cultural purpose fires can serve. Wildfires are an example of a natural disturbance, and in fact, forests need disturbances in order to survive and grow. Many human and plant commu-
Douglas fir showing burn marks. Photo submitted.
nities have relied on fire in the Pacific Northwest. The Indigenous practice of allowing smaller, controlled, low-inten-
TAKE 5
take5.ca
sity fires has been used as a form of shaping and caring for the land for millennia. Small fires clear up crowds of trees, pests and undergrowth, making room for canopy gaps, new growth and new life. Fire ensures natural regeneration, as it activates previously dormant seeds in the forest floor to germinate. Wildwood friend and knowledge-keeper, Beau Wagner, a Coast Salish boat carver, recently taught Wildwood naturalists that the original Coast Salish practice of constructing dugout canoes involves hollowing out standing cedars with the use of steam from controlled fires. The fire then re-seals the wound on the carved tree allowing it to stay alive. Of course, with a drier, more drought-ridden season, climate change has exacerbated the risk and intensity of wildfires. Interestingly, most active wildfires in BC are currently occurring in even-aged second-growth forested regions: those which tend to be drier, less diverse and more compact. At Wildwood Ecoforest, the multi-generational trees are a leading example of fire resilience. Big trees like our old growth Douglas-firs help to reduce the effects of extreme climate events like fires, with their thick, fire-resistant bark, as well as their ability to bring up water through their robust root systems, re-humidifying the forest ecosystem. The climate has changed as a result of human impact just as our own cultural relationships with fire have changed over time. Perhaps there is a way we can rethink our relationship with natural disturbance while simultaneously finding ways to steward the land to avoid the risk of wildfire. Stay safe, stay hydrated and next time you see a big tree, remember that it’s connected to a hidden but very important network of water!
23
24
take5.ca
SEPTEMBER 2021
TAKE 5
take5.ca
25
26
RDN Area A Cedar As I write this, summer is in full flight. As you all know, we have had a very hot and dry spell, which has meant extra diligence — watering carefully to keep the garden alive and standing guard against the potential for fi res around our homes. While I am not about to wade into the climate-change discussion, it is pretty apparent that our climate and weather are not the same as only a few years ago. At the RDN Board table, the issue of water management has become a frequent topic. Whether we’re considering property development, agricultural pursuits or even park development uses, the effect of any changes on existing water tables, water courses and water systems enters the conversation. We seem to be getting closer to the larger discussion: What do we do when there is no more water for new homes, new businesses and new people arriving on the Island? I never thought I would be in conversations over water scarcity in my lifetime. We are fortunate that we live in Canada, a part of the globe with an abundance of water. Other parts of the world are not as lucky, so I wonder what they are doing to address their water challenges. We hear very little about national water policies in countries who don’t have abundant supplies, but I think it’s only a
take5.ca
matter of time. Society is bumping up against an inescapable wall — we have over-used, abused and wasted our water resources to a point where shortages will become a reality soon. It is not hard to imagine trains of tankers on rail and road, carrying water instead of crude oil or gasoline. The challenge for our region will be how we’re going to prepare for a time of permanent water shortage. Should we be planning water storage solutions? Is there a discussion needed to ensure the forests are not cleared on our mountains so that water retention is maintained in the soils? Do we need to develop equitable formulas for different user groups so everyone gets at least a base amount of water? While some of these questions are still a ways off, it is nearing time to begin the discussion. It will be too late when new residents come to the Island, build a new home and then run out of water a year or two later. And it will be more dire when what is left of our agricultural industry has no water for chickens, milk cows or growing produce. What ideas do you have to manage our water resources? What can local government do to help mitigate this challenge? Let me know your ideas. Finally, why do we have all these mosquitoes when it is so hot and dry?
SEPTEMBER 2021
CVRD Area H North Oyster/ Diamond The summer is winding down, and kids headed back to school soon. Once again, the next weeks and months are uncertain as COVID variants are a concern. The Town Hall scheduled for 7 p.m. on Thursday, September 16, at the North Oyster Community Centre is planned to go ahead, as long as it meets public health requirements. I hope to see you there. If it has to be cancelled, I will reschedule to a virtual forum and announce the date and time in the October edition of the Take 5. The agenda for the Town Hall will be a director’s update, OCP update, and ideas for Gas Tax Funds. Please send me any items you might want discussed. The CVRD are contracting out the replacement of the Fern Gully Bridge in Yellow Point Park. This will likely happen by the end of September. A culvert will replace the bridge and is engineered for hiker and equestrian use. Notices will be posted at the park when work is underway. Thank you to the Parks Advisory Commission for their input to this project. There is not much else to comment on this month. For the most part CVRD meetings took a pause during the month of August. I look forward to reporting the outcome of the first face to face
TAKE 5
Town Hall meeting in the October issue of the TAKE 5. Ben.maartman@cvrd.bc.ca 250-510-5930
CVRD Area G Saltair/Thetis Island Successful Saltair Water System Filtration Grant! Did you hear me yelling yippee or see me jumping for joy after I learned the Saltair Water System Water Treatment Expansion Project grant application was successful? I wanted to run up and down the streets knocking on everyone’s door to spread the amazing news that Saltair taxpayers will pay less and receive more. I received the following announcement: “The Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program — Green Infrastructure — Environmental Quality Sub-stream grant application for the Saltair Water Treatment Expansion Project (Electoral Area G) in the amount $6M has been successful! Two new treatment units will be installed to improve water quality at the exist-
take5.ca
ing treatment plant site, along with a micro-hydro turbine to generate green power and reduce the plant’s overall energy consumption.” The $6 million will be made up of $4.4 million (73.33 per cent) from the federal and provincial governments with $1.6 million (26.67 per cent) funded by the Saltair Water System parcel taxpayers. Under the recent community loan authorization for the filtration system, the loan for the $1.6 million portion is already authorized and $2.1 million less than we might have had to pay. As a community, it is full steam ahead to bring our water system into compliance and to meet the Island Health installation deadlines. This grant application has been quite the roller coaster. Two earlier grant applications were unsuccessful. Last summer, the Island Health Water Contravention Order deadlines meant we would not be able to continue with the application. I worked with the CVRD Board. We sent a letter to Island Health, which resulted in meetings between Island Health staff, CVRD staff, the CVRD chair and myself. The meetings
27
were fruitful. Island Health changed its deadlines. Our grant application remained in the system. I thank everyone who helped bring this about, particularly the Saltair Water Advisory Committee (SWAC), which provided a needed perspective and helpful advice. I also specifically thank the local, provincial and federal bureaucrats and politicians who patiently listened to my pleas for support and who ultimately caused our application to succeed. Regional Recreation — Facility Use Analysis 2021/2022 Nine regional recreation facilities are involved: the Frank Jameson Community Centre, Fuller Lake Arena, Cowichan Community Centre, Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, Cowichan Aquatic Centre, Cowichan Lake Recreation, Kerry Park Recreation Centre, Shawnigan Lake Community Centre and Cowichan Sportsplex. Data collection will take place from November 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022. This visitation data will be collected from three sources: program registrations for recreation centres, drop in user surveys and user group membership lists.
28
take5.ca
SEPTEMBER 2021
A facility use analysis will provide per cent-usage breakdowns for each Electoral Area, Municipality, and First Nations. This 2021/2022 analysis and the 2017 usage analysis will provide average usage statistics, which will then be used to determine the costs of operations and maintenance for each facility that will be allocated to each of the 13 CVRD jurisdictions. The Regional Recreation Initiative will move forward with a referendum that will be held during the local government election in October 2022. Traffic on Chemainus Rd. in Saltair MOTI (Ministry of Transportation and Infastructure) setup traffic counters this year to capture vehicle counts and speeds along Chemainus Road. The three counters were located close to the intersections of Dogwood, South Oyster School and Green Hill. The counters captured the vehicle counts and speeds for one weekend, beginning Thursday afternoon through to Sunday night. The collected data indicated the 85 percentile speed came out at 65 kilometre per hour, confirming for MOTI that the 60 km/h speed limit on Chemainus Road is appropriate. Over the three-day period, the vehicle count north bound was just over 6,000 and just below 6,000 south bound. If we all work at observing the 60km/h speed limit on Chemainus Road, we will help control the speed of others on the road. Children are heading back to school, walking and standing on our roadsides, waiting for their school bus or being dropped off or picked up. I encourage everyone to follow the speed limits in Saltair and throughout the CVRD. HOCP/MOCP To correct an error in my Aug 2021 Take 5 Directors’ Notes, please note the CVRD will start advertising the MOCP (Modernized Official Community Plan) in the fall of 2021 and community engagement will commence in early 2022. There will be an upcoming public hearing with regards to the HOCP Bylaw. The dates and method of hosting this public hearing will be announced this fall. If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at lynne. smith@cvrd.bc.ca or 250-701-1407. Additional articles and information may be found at SaltairNews.ca.
TAKE 5
take5.ca
29
30
The Climate Crisis: What Must We Do? BY GUY DAUNCEY The heat dome. The billion local dead marine organisms. The drought. The intense forest wildfires, also happening in California, Oregon, Turkey, Greece, Sicily, Sardinia, France, Algeria and Siberia. The fear. The smoke. The dark red apocalyptic skies. The evacuations. Entire towns like Lytton being burnt to the ground. The sudden destructive floods. This year’s drought in the Prairies looking to be the worst in Canadian history, with July temperatures three to four degrees warmer than normal and precipitation among the lowest on record.
take5.ca
Yes, this is what the climate crisis looks like, and this is just the beginning. The seven hottest years in recorded history have all happened since 2014. No amount of climate denial can change that. It’s not caused by population growth: it’s caused by our use of fossil fuels, our destruction of forests, our harmful methods of industrial farming, and by eating meat. Every alarm bell needs to be ringing. So, what must we do? We need to act with the same urgency that our parents and grandparents did during World War II. Here in British Columbia our electricity may be renewable, but we contribute to the crisis whenever we burn oil in a car or truck. We need to find ways to drive much less, and if you can afford it, to switch to an electric vehicle, making use of the $8,000 incentives. A new EV has a range of 400 kilometres, saves $1,000 a year in running costs, requires minimal maintenance, and once you’ve driven one, you’ll never look back. Politically, we need to urge our elected politicians to make it much easier to get around on foot, by bike, by electric scooter and by bus and to stop assuming that the solution to every transportation problem is an expensive new road. It is far cheaper to support a regular hourly bus service from Nanaimo to Victoria than to widen the Malahat or carve out a new route. We also contribute to the crisis whenever we heat with natural gas. The solution is to replace it with a heat pump, which will also provide welcome cooling during a heat wave (you can find incentives at www.betterhomesbc.ca), and reduce the energy leaks that make a home expensive to heat. If you live in an apartment or condo, you’ll need to urge your strata council or landlord to do the
SEPTEMBER 2021
Members of YES doing their bit to help teh forests. Photo: Jain Alcock-White
necessary upgrades. Politically, we need to urge the government to ban the use of natural gas in new buildings. All natural gas in BC is produced through fracking, and the methane emissions make its climate pollution as bad as coal. The same applies to Liquefied Natural Gas, making it the worst possible kind of development. We need to urge the government to stop being so blind, stop subsidizing fossil fuels and start getting serious about the climate emergency. We also contribute to the crisis whenever we fly, whenever we buy excessive
TAKE 5
take5.ca
stuff, whenever we bank with one of the big five banks that still invest in fossil fuels and whenever we eat beef or pork — the global livestock industry produces more climate pollution than all the world’s transportation. So, switching to a credit union, consuming less stuff and eating less meat are all part of the solution. And growing much more local food to be ready when California’s food supply dries up. Destructive logging is another cause of the crisis, so we need to do everything we can to protect our forests, which store carbon, cool the climate and nourish nature. Locally, we need to form Climate Action Groups, as people have done in Chemainus, Duncan and Nanaimo. The West Coast Climate Action Network will help us to work together. In the federal election, we need to vote for the candidate who brings the strongest sense of climate urgency and the best policies to address it — which do not include buying oil pipelines, subsidizing fossil fuels, supporting LNG or cutting down oldgrowth forests. This is a global crisis — whatever we do in BC will have no effect unless people also act in America, Europe, China, India, Indonesia and Russia. Instead of fearing an awful, dystopian future, we need to imagine a new ecological civilization in which we live in harmony with Nature, the way Indigenous peoples have always lived, and we need to work to make it happen. Guy Dauncey is president of the Yellow Point Ecological Society, co-chair of the West Coast Climate Action Network, and co-founder of Community Climate Circles (www.communityclimateconnectors.ca).
31
32
Case of the Organic Carrot Being a private detective is all about positioning. I can’t overstate the importance of having your feet on the desk, your chair leaned back, hands cradled behind head, and your gun tucked safely away in the top drawer where you can get to it quickly if you don’t fall off the chair first. My office door, as usual, was open. How else could I appreciate the midmorning washroom visit by long-legged Jennifer, the secretary down the hall? I was adjusting the angle of my chair by about one degree - it’s that attention to detail that makes or breaks you in my business - when a young nerdish-looking guy burst into my office with that unmistakable look on his face. Either he needed a private detective, or a public washroom. “Are you Jack Proctor?” “If not, the resemblance is uncanny. What can I do for you?” “I need help. They’re trying to kill me.” “Excellent,” I said. “Exactly my line of work. Why don’t you close the door,
take5.ca
take a seat, and tell me who they are?” “They call themselves Eco Warriors.” “And what did you do to attract their attention?” “I had a carrot tasting.” “I just have to ask you this next question.” (Oh, to have a carrot to chew on.) “What’s up, Doc?” “I know it sounds crazy, but I was curious. We matched cheap bulk carrots against the small expensive ones with the green tops, and then compared them to carrots from a local organic garden.” You had to wonder what else he did for excitement. “And the organic carrot cleaned up, right?” “No. They came dead last. The bulk California carrots were the overwhelming first on everyone’s scorecard. They were sweeter, and far better tasting.” “So, where’s the harm in that? Just don’t rub the 100-mile diet crowd’s nose in it.” “I put it on my blog.” “You did what? Where everyone can see it? How many hits are you getting?” “Ah… well…. It started out around 500; now it’s about 1000.” “One thousand!” “That’s an hour.” I didn’t like where this was going. “Have these Eco Warriors contacted you?” “They phone in the middle of the night. They leave burning Costco boxes on my front steps and then they tried to run me over with a Toyota Prius.” “A dark green Prius?” “Yes. How did you know?” I opened my desk drawer, took out my
SEPTEMBER 2021
long-barreled .357 and placed it on the desk. “The guys in the Prius, you notice what they were wearing?” “Yeah. White t-shirts with a green patch, some letters below.” “ZLF,” I said. “Stands for the Zucchini Liberation Front, the rabid East Vancouver chapter. “ “You’ve heard of them?” “Oh yeah. Been up against them twice. Saved one client, lost the other. They’re an elite cadre of ultra-radicals out to save the environment by depopulating the planet. They’re brought up on the strictest of vegan diets. No T-bone steak, no pork chops, no hot dogs, no tasty bulk carrots. A diet that makes a man mean, real mean.” “Ah… when you said depopulate the planet…?” “Exactly. First thing we have to do is make sure your affairs are in order.” “They’d kill me over a carrot tasting?” “They see things a little differently. To them, the environment is a religion and your carrot tasting threatens that religion. There’s only one difference between them and a religious fanatic: one spends Sunday making bombs in the church basement; the other spends $3 a pound at the farm market on underperforming carrots.” “What… what should I do?” “Don’t buy any extended warranties for one thing.” “There must be some way out of this.” “Well, there might be. I just got this new bulletproof camouflage suit. Here, try it on. We’re about the same size.”
TAKE 5
take5.ca
The suit fit, but made him look even more dork-like. How it goes with carrot tasters. I passed over the .357. “Ever use one of these?” He shook his head no. “It’s easy. Point and shoot. In the event of return fire, you should duck. Just don’t rip the pants; they’re a little tight on you.” “Well, what now?” he asked. “We make you disappear. New identity, new town, new occupation, and most important, no more carrot tasting. Now, go home and pack quickly, just the essentials. I’ll meet you at the train station in an hour.” “We don’t have a train station.” “Good point. Let’s meet somewhere else. Now get going.” “Thank you, thank you.” He stood up and walked out. Definitely tight in the bum. And then the shooting started, maybe 3000 rounds. I ducked under my desk where a bottle of scotch was waiting for me. When the shooting stopped and the smoke cleared, I put the scotch down and looked out the window to check on my client. My worst fears were confirmed: all 3000 rounds had punctured my new camouflage suit. As for the ZLF crowd: their carrots may be lousy, but they had one hell of a stick. Wine choice. Italian, Codici, drinking beautiful. Fifteen bucks, on sale if you hurt for 13. You can follow Delbert at Slightlycorkedandmore.wordpress.com or pick up his book at Mahle House, Co-Co Cafe, TAKE 5 office or throughout the community for just $20.
33
34
take5.ca
ISLAND PRUNING. Professional tree care from large scale orchards to budding new trees. I can meet any pruning need. Shrubs, vines and ornamental. Large and small clean ups. Call Darcy Belcourt 250-323-1260.
HELP WANTED VOLUNTEERS NEEDED. Ladysmith Museum seeks volunteer assistants for operating museum, research & programming. Ladysmith Archives seeks volunteers to assist with operation and research. The Ladysmith Train Station and Industrial Heritage Projects seeksvolunteers to help renovate and assist in the renovation project. Wed and Sat work parties. museum@ ladysmithhistoricalsociety.ca or call 250-2450423. FOR SALE FISH FISH FISH. Buy direct from the guy who caught it! High quality salmon, lingcod, rockfish. All fish blast frozen at sea. Satisfaction guaranteed! Contact Jim at oceandancer.wallace@gmail.com or 250-245-5957 / 250-739-1123. COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE, Sat., Sept 21, 9am-1pm, Ladysmith Museum parking lot, Tables $10. Call 250-245-0423 or email museum@ ladysmithhistoricalsociety.ca BUSINESS EXPERIENCED HOUSESITTER Now offering senior companionship, respite care and concierge services. Peaceofmindcare. wordpress.com. Contact Kathleen at kgrcoaching@gmail.com or 250-619-0786. I CAN EDIT. Copy editing, proofreading, structural editing and more. Fiction or nonfiction, web content and eBook prep. For more information, email editican@gmail. com. HEALTH & WELLNESS TAI CHI for mental & physical health. Beginner class starts Monday morning, Sept. 13. Ongoing class every Wed. morning. For exact class times and locations and more information visit: www. taichinanaimo.org or call Sara 250-245-1466.
SEPTEMBER 2021
HOME & YARD INTO THE POND — Maintenance & Revitalization, division of Into the Garden Landscaping Services. Cleaning, maintenance, consultations. Really love your pond! Call for free estimate, 250-466-9339. KB HANDYMAN AND YARDWORKS SERVICES. Minor carpentry work, decks, fences, gutter cleaning, power washing, tree pruning, yard clean up, lawn fertilizing, mowing. Seniors discount. Contact Karl kbhandymanandyardworks@gmail.com or 250-714-2738. HEART LAKE ROOFING for all your roofing repairs 250-668-9195. QUALITY RENOVATIONS. Big or small. 25 years’ exp/journeyman, affordable. For free estimate, call Lars 250-616-1800. ALL ACRES TREE SERVICE providing all aspects of tree work. Pruning, falling, hedging, dangerous tree removal. Fully insured. Professional work at reasonable rates. Call 250-246-1265. DARRELL ESSAR RENOVATIONS. Over 30 years’ experience, certified journeyman carpenter. No job is too small, from fences, decks, tile work, hardwood flooring, painting, drywall, etc. For free estimate, call Darrell 250-714-3823.
PETS PROFESSIONAL PET CARE SERVICE “leash ’em & walk ’em” with Marlena. I have Animal First Aid, CPR and criminal record check. My service for all pet includes dog walking, home care visits, overnight in your home and much more. As my love is yours! Call 250-246-3394. SENIORS HIRED HAND for Independent Elder. Odd jobs, companionship, meal prep, etc! Valid First Aid/CPR, clean driver’s record, Level 2 FOODSAFE, gardener and handywoman. Call Marilyn at 250-606-7069. GRANNY’S ON THE GO COMPANION SERVICES covering Cedar, Ladysmith, Chemainus. Clean drivers abstract, FOODSAFE, First Aid/CPR, Gerontology Based Therapeutic Recreation Certificate Kwantlen University, Osteo Fit, Pool Assist & JAVA programs certificates. Working with active seniors that are not quite ready to stop the adventures. COVID-19 guidelines in place when out and about in public. At your service, Janet Bowman janetmb@shaw.ca or 250-924-1515. LEAVE A LEGACY. Do you have a story to share? We can capture it for future generations in a book, e-book or video format. Professional publishing services for business or individuals. editor@take5. ca or call TAKE 5 at 250-245-7015.
TAKE 5
take5.ca
35
TAKE 5
Hemer Park Pull On Saturday Sept 11, and Sept 25 Yellow Point Ecological Society is inviting the commuity to join them as they tackle the invasive ivy choking out native plants at Hemer Park. “The ivy pull is important in Hemer Park because the invasion is still small enough that we think we can have an impact with the three ivy pulls planned this year. If we get about 15 people out to each event we think we can remove the two patches,” explains Nikki Toxopeus. “The ivy smothers the native plants in the understory and weakens the trees. If we can stop the spread and remove what’s there we can protect the forest.” Another problem with ivy is that once it takes hold and interrupts the natural ecosystem, it is so much easier for other invasives to sneak in (think Colliery Dam or Jack Point Park where there are areas where there are only invasive species - Laurel-leaved daphne, yellow archangel, ragweed) - all these plants come in on people’s clothing and pets or are dumped. The ivy pull will help educate and engage park users to recognize and stop invasive species spreading from the pathways into the forest. Roads and pathways are key routes into natural areas for invasive plants. YES has a Partnership Agreement with BC Parks to do invasive plant removal and rehabilitation. So mark your calendars, strap on your boots, don the gloves, and bring snippers if you have them. If not there will be tools and refreshments supplied. For more information or to register email yellowpoint2020@gmail.com
take5.ca
37