Twice this summer city staff have repaired some of the damage caused by well-testing and the inadequate preparation for such action. Eroded gullies have been filled but as of August 17th, barriers remain, straw bales still litter the creek and seeding will need to take place to prevent repeat erosion and invasion of noxious weeds.
Is this the best that we can do?
From:
The
Elizabeth Lake property was generously donated to The Land Conservancy of BC.
It contains valuable wetland and shoreline habitat and connects protected areas
on either side.
This
property is part of the City of Cranbrook regional trail system which circles (we question this)Elizabeth Lake. These trails allow access for residents and visitors to the
Elizabeth Lake Bird Sanctuary, a 249-ha marshland protected
by the Ministry of Environment and the City of Cranbrook. The Elizabeth
Lake wetlands provide nesting opportunities for many species of birds, and a
resting spot for migratory birds and waterfowl as they pass through the Elk
Valley corridor. Elizabeth Lake provides prime habitat for muskrats, fish,
frogs, turtles, and invertebrates. Deer, moose, fox, and coyotes also make this
property home.
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| newly filled gully, powder dry and being driven on by vehicles entering through by unauthorised access |
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| almost dried-up creek bed littered with straw bales |
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| barrier remaining after well-testing |
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| sediment bar caused by well testing |
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| the now dried-up Jim Smith Creek, a contrast from 2014 |
UPDATE, August 18th
New information received August 18th indicates the City is awaiting permission from the ministry to clean up the site.
FURTHER UPDATE August 20th
It now appears as though sediment is being cleaned from the creek bottom.
August 21st
We are pleased to report, the bales and fallen barriers have been removed and the sediment bar has also been removed by the City.
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