To (Observer editor) Tracy Hughes:
Thank you for not walking your dog along the nature sanctuary. Such a sanctuary is defined as a place of refuge for wildlife. SABNES manages the area on behalf of the BC Nature Trust and the Ministry of Environment. Their policy is no dogs because dogs disturb wildlife, whether on a leash or not. When SABNES was incorporated in 1988 our Constitution stated that the purposes of the Society are: 1) To assist the Wildlife Branch of the Ministry of Environment and Parks with development and operation of their management plan for the Salmon Arm foreshore as a nature conservatory and viewing area: 2) To develop, operate and promote a system of walkways, viewing areas and interpretive facilities for scientific, educational, environmental protection and public viewing purposes; 3) To promote environmental awareness and assist in projects meeting that goal in the area of Salmon Arm.
I visited many similar areas in the southern United States this last winter and most, if not all, prohibited dogs. New signs will be erected shortly along the foreshore, which will direct dog owners to dog- friendly parks.
The Shuswap Trail Alliance has worked very hard to provide many kilometres of trails where dogs are welcome; this small section is excluded. Unfortunately, we can do nothing about cats or the trains.
As regards fireworks, yes, Canoe Beach is a good suggestion. Like Sicamous ad Sorrento, it does not have a wildlife sanctuary along its foreshore. When the last fireworks display was operated from a huge barge in the Salmon Arm Bay there were approximately 20 to 30 pairs of the flashy yellow headed blackbirds nesting in the marsh area.
Next day not one bird was seen and they did not return that year. Only now are we seeing this species return in similar numbers in the bay.
The Board of SABNES appreciates the help of its many volunteers and supporters in protecting this wonderful natural resource.
Mike Saul, director,Salmon Arm Bay NatureEnhancement Society
