The Burns Bog Conservation Society launched its petition today asking the Federal Government to enforce the Species at Risk Act legislation on boglands owned by MK Delta Lands Group and the Beedie Group (Pineland Peat).
“The Federal Government set the precedent by stopping land development in La Prairie, Quebec. The Western chorus frog (Pseudacris triseriata) was at risk. This little frog is so small it can fit on your index finger,” stated Eliza Olson, President of the Society. The Federal Government issued the order June 17, 2016. It effectively cut the planned development by 171 units.
“There is more than one endangered species living on MK Delta Land Group’s land and Pineland Peat. And it’s time they were protected,” commented Olson.
Some of the wildlife at risk on these lands include; the Red-listed dim skipper butterfly, the Red-listed Pacific water shrew and the black-crowned night heron. Some of the Blue-listed species include: the barn owl, the green heron and the black swift. This list doesn’t include the rare plants found in these areas.
Insect populations are plummeting drastically. This has a severe impact on wildlife and people. Insects are needed for pollination and feeding the birds.
“We talk about the ‘birds and the bees’ being threatened when peatlands like Burns Bog are destroyed. We forget their role in the health of our fish, especially our salmon. Cool iron-laden water from the bog is key to their long-term survival. The salmon mill around at the mouth of the Fraser until the water is cool enough for them to head up-river to spawn.
Scientists in Europe have found that regenerated peatlands return to 90% of their former efficiency in storing carbon. Saving our disappearing peatlands is key if Canada is to meet its Climate Action goals.
“Thank goodness we have great volunteers to stuff and seal the appeal letters. I don’t have the money to hire a mailing house,” stated Olson. “Our volunteers help print the letters, put all the pieces together, stuff them into the envelope and then seal them with our amazing letter sealing machine.” Call the Society’s office if you can help financially or by stuffing envelopes.
“Any Canadian citizen can sign the petition,” added Olson. If you are looking to spend a few hours volunteering, call the Burns Bog Conservation Society’s office, 604-572-0373.
Find the petition here.
