It is well-known that one of the roles a politician plays is to lobby – in the case of local governments, it would be to lobby our provincial and federal levels of government. One thing I’ve learned is that personal relationships and direct contact are more effective than written requests. It is also clear that the voice of non-political, community interests coalescing around a single issue and infused with deep, emotional attachments, is even more effective.
This was the case with respect to the recent campaign to prevent this pristine area from open-pit gravel mining. The #SaveSumas campaign brought the trail-riding & trail-running communities together in a massive media campaign, capped with a personal visit by a key Ministry of Energy, Mines, and Petroleum Resources decision-maker. The City of Abbotsford, Sumas First Nations, the Fraser Valley Regional Government, and Metro Vancouver had all made their opposition known, but it is safe to say that without the voice of the trail-riding and running communities, the voices of local governments may well have fallen on deaf ears.
The proposal to establish a quarry was denied and the proponent relinquished his mineral rights on Sumas Mountain. Furthermore, the Ministry is initiating a process to ensure that this area of Sumas Mountain is permanently protected from future mining claims.
The future of this mountain looks bright for all parties with an interest – First Nations, the City of Abbotsford, the Fraser Valley Regional Government, and especially, the trail riding and running communities. The combined dedicated park lands on the mountain exceed the area of Stanley Park by three times. Together, all stakeholders now need to develop this area as a recreational destination for hikers, runners, and riders, from throughout the Valley and beyond. It truly is a jewel to be protected and shared.
No comments:
Post a Comment