Take Action on Columbia Wetland Boating Regulations
Urge government to act now and keep high-powered vessels, jet skis and jet boats out of this sanctuary
In a world where wetlands disappear daily, the Columbia Wetlands are an increasingly rare and priceless international treasure. Located at the headwaters of the transboundary Columbia River system, the Columbia Wetlands cover 180km of natural wetlands on the western slopes of the Canadian Rockies in southeastern British Columbia. The wetlands are almost all that is left intact of the Pacific flyway, the age old route traversed by countless migrating birds. Here, after many thousands of miles of flight, they seek rest, replenishment and survival.
Unrestricted motorized vessels are threatening this internationally significant ecosystem because the federal government has failed to act on regulation. Motorized recreation is increasing, creating both immediate and far-reaching impacts on migrating and resident birds, as well as other wildlife and habitat. Jet skis and powerboats cause erosion, habitat destruction, and nest abandonment, leaving young birds and animals vulnerable to predators.
Take action by urging federal Ministers of Environment and Transport to quickly move forward with a boating restriction in order to protect the wildlife values of the Columbia Wetlands. Tell them another season of jet skis, jet boats and powerboats damaging nests and wildlife is not acceptable!
Send your fax, email or hand-written letter to:
Jim Abbott, MP Kootenay
125 D Slater Rd. Cranbrook, BC ViC 4M4
FAX: 250-417-2253
abbott2@cyberlink.bc.ca
The Hon. John Baird, Minister of Environment
10 Wellington Street, 25th fl. Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0H3
FAX: (613) 996-9880
Baird.J@parl.gc.ca
Hon. Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities
Place de Ville, Tower C, 29th fl. 3030 Sparks Street Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0N5
FAX: (613) 992-6802
Cannon.L@parl.gc.ca
John Johnstone, Boating Safety Officer
Office of Boating Safety
Transport Canada
#620 - 800 Burrard Street Vancouver, B.C. V6Z 2J8
Fax (604) 666-1911
E-mail: JOHNSJO@tc.gc.ca
