Dear Editor:
The recent letter to the editor published in many South Okanagan newspapers asking MLA Linda Larson to apologize to her constituents is a distasteful diversion.
Very much like a tirade from Donald Trump, it evades the important issues such as whether or not the proposed National Park Reserve proposed for the South Okanagan-Similkameen is beneficial to wilderness, wildlife and local residents.
In my view a National Park Reserve will protect wilderness and wildlife, but will do it while marching to their own drummer.
Parks Canada has a history of managing parkland for different agency-based objectives which are often inconsistent with the intent of protected areas and/or local objectives.
An important negative aspect of a national park is that input from local residents will be ignored as they are in all other parks under federal control.
A national park will displace our provincial parks and other protected areas.
We currently have local input through our elected MLA’s and provincial ministers.
Why would we want to give that away?
Some special interest groups would benefit greatly from a national park and I understand why they support it.
They will be given management control of our lands. They will be allowed to hunt and have the authority to prevent most taxpayers from enjoying the same privilege.
This creation of special interest groups at the national level by Parks Canada or any other federal agency is a very bad idea.
It creates a divisive atmosphere that can only cause dissention. Dividing a population with special interests will never produce unity in any progressive society.
The two major considerations before us are;
a. Choose a national park where local input is ignored or keep our beautiful provincial parks that serve us well.
b. Allow special interests to prevent us from accessing our traditional hunting lands or allow everyone to enjoy these protected areas.
I am a hunter, but I understand that most non-hunters or tourist-oriented businesses may not see the negative aspects with the same concern.
I only ask that you consider how you will feel if someday the special interests come knocking on your door asking you to give up your rights so they may benefit.
A final word to those who support a National Park Reserve.
Pay attention to the important issues. If you disagree, please tell me why because I will listen to your rational argument as I hope you are listening to mine.
Personal attacks are irrelevant and will be ignored.
Aubrey G. White
Vice President
Osoyoos Wildlife Federation
