Conflict of Values

Map showing area  being logged - airport lower right

close-up of southern area to be logged - airport on right

Those present understood the philosophy of grassland reclamation but when it is in your own backyard and it is an area so valued by many it is hard to accept. 

A meeting of local residents and some frequent users of the airport/clearview lands(known as Rouse Pasture to the industry) met with Canfor employees on Wednesday May 16^th in the location so valued, to discuss Canfor’s plans for the area and how the rest of the plans will be implemented.  Many who use the area regularly have been shocked at the destruction of existing trails, large Ponderosa Pines and by large equipment pushing in roads and logging staging areas. 

According to Ken Streloff, Planning Supervisor for Canfor some notification to residents was given and some input received.  However many present, felt they had been misinformed about procedure and the area in question and the extent of the logging.  Those users from Kimberley and Cranbrook felt they had no knowledge of the plans.  One of the most upsetting actions to date has been the taking of very large Ponderosa Pines in the area.  Mr Streloff explained that 15 to 30 larger trees per hectare will be left standing but all smaller trees will be taken for chips.  It is not understood why some large trees have been removed. One of the rationales given for logging was that this area has been logged in the past.  It was also pointed out that it is economically viable to cut this area.  It is also an area suitable for the Grassland Restoration Project.

Randy Harris was present to speak about the Grasslands Restoration Project, which is attempting to restore an area of the trench, which was historically grassland back into grassland.  Several Canfor employees spoke at length about the fire hazard of small brush trees.  Those in attendance made the point that grass fires can be just as hazardous as they travel so fast. It was felt by several, that interfering with nature will only make matters worse.  Trees help to retain water in both the ground and atmosphere, act as wind-breaks and cool the area.

The question of follow up and how Canfor proposes to restore the grassland once cutting has finished was another hot topic.  Mr Streloff explained that seeding although not necessarily with native grasses, will take place.  The issue of invasive weeds was raised as this area is now opened up and exceedingly vulnerable to invasives of many kinds including larger vehicular traffic, which spreads invasive weeds.  Mr Streloff tried to assure those present that this area would become priority for weed control.

After a long discussion the group took a walking tour of part of the area.  While those present appreciated Canfor taking the time to meet with those who love, appreciate, respect and use this area, they will be very sad to see an area of abundant wild flowers, trees and animals, some would say unnecessarily be torn up.  It is hoped with the interest shown today some of the most diverse areas of flora might be given a wider berth and that the work undertaken be accomplished with the utmost respect.