Community forms Texada land watchdog group

By Peggy Abrahams
About 80 Salt Spring residents met Thursday night at Fulford Hall to
discuss plans to monitor, assess and control the environmental impact of
logging and development on the newly acquired Texada lands.
An eight-person panel updated community members on a variety of issues
that have been considered to date, including eco-forestry, legal issues,
archaeological impact, sensitive eco-system, and tenants' concerns. Task
forces have been formed to conduct fact-finding research on these
issues, and report back to an executive strategic planning committee.
As one panel member explained, "This is not just a forestry issue. This
is not just a development issue. These things overlap."

In addition to emphasizing environmental concerns, speakers discussed
the importance of protecting a number of archaeological sites on the
Texada lands. According to Briany Penn, member of the South West
Partnership, "The law says you cannot disturb archaeological sites. An
archaeological assessment is required for any area of large development
where impact on a heritage site is anticipated."

Preliminary draft guidelines for community oversight of the lands were
outlined. Among issues addressed in the guidelines: ensuring maximum
protection of eco-sensitive areas and scenic value; that tenants not be
displaced; that archaeological assessments are conducted; and maximum
community employment be ensured.

News of the sale of 4,600 acres of land on Saltspring to Vancouver
developers Derek Trethewey and Rob McDonald took many islanders by
surprise early this month. In response to community concerns, the new
owners deferred plans for immediate logging of a site near of Lees Hill.
Instead they indicated they would begin logging on Mount Tuam.
Meeting chair Susan Berlin said the group will hold regular Town Hall
meetings to pool community resources and ratify strategic plans. Harry
Warner has set up a website for interested community members to keep
apprised: www.saltspring.com/Annraoi/