Dear Editor,
Last weekend I was reminded of just how delicate our estuaries and marsh ecosystems are here in Steveston and how important it is for the community to feel connected to them and take care of them.
Being an avid kayaker I have developed a strong connection to the marshlands and waterways around Richmond, Ladner and the West Coast. I care deeply about these ecosystems, and I am concerned and feel a need as a community member to speak out and request your assistance.
On Sunday evening as we picnicked with many other families at Garry Point, we were disturbed by two Sea-doos racing up and down the shoreline and doing donuts in front of the beaches.
The Sea-Doos raced in and out of Steveston Channel and the marsh off Garry Point where there are estuaries with bird nesting areas as well as other marine life.
This is not the first time I have seen Sea-Doos in the marsh areas. I am an avid kayaker and have experienced their speed and noise in the Steveston and Ladner marshes many times, and have seen their tracks left in the marsh mud at low tide. It is sad that the operators of these vehicles seem to have no respect for the ecosystem or the nesting areas and no awareness of the impact that their Sea-Doos have on the ecosystem as well as the public who seek the peacefulness and tranquility of this beautiful area.
There is plenty of open ocean for the sea-doos to race and enjoy themselves. I think you would all agree that the estuaries and marshes are not the place for them. I would like to request that the council implement a by-law that prohibits Sea-Doos and other recreational motorized boats from entering these vulnerable ecosystems.
Noele Bird,
Steveston resident
