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Stop trying to protect area for a select few

I am writing in response to the letters written in the Herald by Tony Powel and Robert Handfield regarding the National Park Proposal

To the Editor;

I am writing in response to the letters written in the Herald by Tony Powel and Robert Handfield regarding the National Park Proposal and logging at Apex Mountain.

It always slays me that these are either/or scenarios for these people. National Park proponents make it sound as if the land will disappear or worse someone will start building condos on it if it is not made into a park immediately. What are you trying to protect the area from?  The myriad of people who enjoy it now, including tourists?  The fact is no person has been able to acquire crown land in B.C. since the “Homestead Act” was repealed in the 1960’s.  Yes there are some exceptions, a small gravel reserve could be issued or heaven forbid a mine may start up.  But even mines draw tourists.  Have a look at the Mascot Mine in Hedley or check out how many people tour Highland Valley Copper at Logan Lake.  As far as logging clear cuts retarding tourist growth - are you kidding?  The only access to wilderness areas for most people is by logging roads.  Not many people are going to be skiing or hiking at Apex if they have to start walking from Penticton.  Even the main road to Apex was built and paid for by logging at one time.

Here is another fact.  Clear cuts grow back.  B.C. has the best reforestation program in the world bar none. I might also add that forestry is still the biggest economic driver in the Okanagan.

Having travelled extensively in North America I can tell you that B.C. is the most diversified, beautiful, and bountiful area on this continent.  The real value is that we can have our cake and eat it too.

Mr. Handfield, so instead of promoting a National Park for a restricted elitist few, how about getting behind all industry in B.C. because it is industry, including tourism that pays the bills.  We can responsibly log and mine in British Columbia forever and the tourists will still come in droves.  Where the heck do you think they are going to go - Saskatchewan?

Gordon J. Plews, Keremeos