Will the national park debate ever end?

One wonders if it has taken this long (more than eight years) to get this far without a decision, perhaps it was not meant to be.

Park advocates suffered a recent blow with the announcement that the province (Ministry of Environment) is not supporting the concept at this time. That’s because of the large number of people opposed to the initiative. Yet there are still many who support

The topic has actually driven a big wooden stake between these two groups in the South Okanagan/Similkameen.

Both sides have valid points of concern. Opponents argue that existing access to this wilderness area (as a park) will be curtailed. So will certain recreational activities, such as hunting and ATV operations.

They argue that traditional cattle grazing will be threatened, as well as ranching operations.

If or when a national park is established, you can be sure that access will be controlled. At some point Parks Canada might charge admission or set up a pay parking schedule, which would not be popular.

But proponents say the park will provide lasting protection for sensitive ecosystems and wildlife that are constantly being threatened by vineyard and urban encroachment. They argue that once the damage is done, the area will reach a point of no return. And they are right.

Once a sensitive habitat is overtaken or destroyed by urban development, it’s gone. You can’t make it up by saying you’ll dedicate a park bench somewhere.

It’s time to make a decision on the national park; either scrap the idea or make it happen. Or better yet, hold a referendum and go with the results.

A national park would provide a lasting legacy for our children and grandchildren. To know that a piece of natural beauty will be protected, and the fact our wildlife won’t have to pack their bags is a comforting thought.

Park opponents say the Land Resource Management Plan already provides this protection. But that’s debatable since it doesn’t have much lasting authority, not like a national park.

It has been reported that Parks Canada is negotiating with ranchers for the sale of their properties within park boundaries. We have been told that Parks Canada will not force ranchers to sell, but the fact is if they don’t sell, there won’t be a park in this area, plain and simple. You can’t expect ranchers to give up their livelihood and grazing rights if they don’t want to. Unless they are given an offer they can’t refuse.

We’ll see, but we don’t want to wait another eight years.