In the early ’90s the Salmon Arm Nature Bay Society asked for and received nearly half a million dollars of federal money to rebuild the topography of Christmas Island making it more natural-looking with ponds, waterways and small hills. This work was done to benefit both humans and wildlife. At that time it was decided, with these funds, to build trails along the waterfront including wooden walkways and platforms.
The volunteers of the nature society have spent many hours over the last 25 years constructing and maintaining these works and are now being told by a few dog owners that they have no right to restrict their dog on these trails.
I was at the council meeting of Nov. 23, and I am sure my fellow volunteers were offended by a comment that the nature society was a faceless and unqualified organization. In fact, they have been given the job by council and the Ministry of Environment of making those important decisions regarding access to the Nature Trust lands.
William R. Eaton