Dear Editor:

In response to the request of Angel's Animal Rescue Society to have 100 acres of Petit Creek Road for their compound:

First of all, let me state that I believe there is a need for said compound; however, the location is in a very critical deer winter range as well as their birthing area. This particular area is also one of the busiest cougar crossings I have ever encountered in over 30 years of trapping. I have interests in other trapping areas where there would not be such a huge environmental impact—I would not object a compound being located in one of these areas.

[If] this land is to be taken from the public trust, it should be located closer to town, as the rescue centre is apparently to be managed by volunteers. Petit Creek Road is more than 30 kilometres from Merritt. There are several areas within 10 kilometres of Merritt that would be more suitable. These areas are also on my trap line, but I would have no objection to a compound being built on them. From an environmental standpoint as well as easier access for the public and veterinary services, it would make more sense to have the compound located in an area other than Petit Creek Road.

I have talked to many people who feel the location is too far out of town for the average person to be involved. It is very understandable why the location was chosen; from a human standpoint, it is a beautiful piece of property that any other person would have to pay a million dollars to call home. The requirements for such a compound could be met in a hundred different locations other than Petit Creek Road. It would be a travesty of the public trust to allow a few people to disrupt an area that is one of the last in the region that serves the wildlife in two critical times: winter and birthing. Dogs would hassle the deer.

I would ask that if an assessment by a biologist is required on the site that I or someone else, preferably with as much knowledge of the area and the wildlife that inhabits that area, be present to point out the areas of importance.

In closing, I ask the powers that be to remember that abandoned and abused animals are a man-made problem, and by infringing on this critical piece of habitat, you surely will create another problem.

I will make sure I am available to show the areas that are in danger of being lost to the wildlife as well as other locations that would be more suitable for the compound.

Yours in conservation,

Kim Robinson
Merritt, B.C.