GROUP OF EIGHT COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS

SECHELT B.C.

 

February 18 , 2002

 

Sunshine Coast Regional District

5477 Wharf Rd

Box 800, Sechelt, B.C.

VON 3A0

 

Dear Directors;

 

Re:   Lifting of logging moratorium in the community watersheds

 

            We the undersigned, as directors representing our community associations within the boundaries of Sechelt, are gravely concerned with the latest developments about to occur in the Chapman Creek Watershed. While leaving the debate about logging, mining and road building to more qualified bodies and individuals, we feel that the present situation with regard to jurisdiction is intolerable.

 The good health of a community relies on its having a continuous supply of clean, potable water.  The importance of this was tragically displayed in the Walkerton debacle, and in various other communities around the country. We are not a third world country struggling to develop water systems. We have excellent water flowing through our back yards, but seem unwilling to recognize, and therefore protect, its value.

            We are all aware of the instability of the Chapman Creek Watershed. Any untoward activities in the area can have dramatic effects on downstream water quality. Here lies the conundrum. The Ministry of Forests seems to be the ultimate arbiter of what happens within this area but is not required to ensure a reliable source of water to the residents of the area. This crucial matter falls under your mandate, yet you have no control over industrial activities occurring within the area. This situation cannot continue!

We, as taxpayers and users, cannot be expected to pay for expensive equipment required to maintain potable water and then suffer the consequences when it fails, due to upstream activities. The SCRD should not be held responsible when it is not participating in the decision making process that determines the type and level of activity within the communities’ watersheds.    

            We would like to throw our support behind action that you feel is needed to correct this untenable situation. We would encourage attempts to garner public support for a process that protects and ensures the future of our water supply on the lower Sunshine Coast.

 

                        Sincerely, 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cc:       Mayor and Council - District of Sechelt

            The Honourable Joyce Murray - Ministry of Land, Air and Water Protection

            Sunshine Coast Forest District Manager Greg Hemphill - Ministry of Forests