Part of a rumour that some of our readers have been hearing is true.
Otters are, indeed, pooping on the docks at the Salmon Arm Wharf. However, the second part of the rumour – that the city has approved trapping said otters, appears to have no basis in fact.
Writes Elaine Cawson Bushman: “It has been going around on the grapevine that Salmon Arm has approved trapping and destroying the otters that live down by the wharf. The reason I understand that they are doing this is to ensure that the otters are gone before the houseboats are docked at the wharf as they poop on the houseboats.”
Robert Niewenhuizen, the city’s director of engineering and public works, said he has heard otter rumours as well, but the city has no plans to trap or destroy them.
“No action is being taken on the otters,” he said Tuesday.
At Twin Anchors Houseboats, Don Tonks said houseboat staff deal with feces from otters and birds regularly.
“We are well aware of the situation and we are in the almost daily position of washing off the docks.”
He said he has not discussed the situation with the owner of Twin Anchors, but he expects to do so shortly.