“Unacceptable” impacts to Rosemond Lake, adjacent to Mara Lake…

Shuswap Environmental Action Society

Media Release
April 15, 2010

Off-road vehicles damaging sensitive wetlands

The Shuswap Environmental Action Society (SEAS) recently received a report from local resident and SEAS member Bob Whitly with photos that describe and show serious damage to sensitive wetlands adjacent to Rosemond Lake.

Bob explained how on April 4, 2010, he and his wife went for a nature hike around the lake in the afternoon, ‘We encountered 4 motor bikes and 5 ATVs in the riparian zone of the lake.’ Bob’s photos, which are attached to this release, clearly show these irresponsible off-road riders tearing up the sensitive shoreline area of this lake. As well, there are signs posted that plainly state that no motorized vehicles are allowed.

Rosemond Lake is an ‘appendix’ to Mara Lake and provides important fish, reptile and bird habitat. The endangered painted turtles breed and winter in this area. The riders illegally access this area via a logging road from the Larch Hills.

Bob reported the incidence to the government’s RAPP phone line and a conservation officer phoned ten days later to explain that he is the only staff person for a large area and is only able to make infrequent visits. However, he does plan to visit the Rosemond Lake area soon. Bob also attempted to contact Crime Stoppers (as posted on the sign), but was cut-off after a 20 minute hold.

‘It is unacceptable that damage like this is occurring and government agencies are unable to adequately respond to these problems,’ said Jim Cooperman, SEAS president. ‘Government staffing and budget cut-backs are partly responsible for the lack of public oversight in the backcountry,’ he added.

The government is planning to license and develop regulations for off-road vehicles in 2011, but in the meantime damage to sensitive areas like Rosemond Lake is increasing. B.C. is the only jurisdiction left in North America without adequate off-road vehicle regulations.

For more information, contact:

Bob Whitley, 838-0626
Jim Cooperman, SEAS president, 679-3693