Letter to the Editor

Hello. I would like to express an opinion about the closure of B.C. recreational sites and trails during this public health emergency.

During these uncertain and unprecedented times, I and the majority of B.C. residents understand how important it is to listen and heed the expert advice of our health minister, professionals, and disease experts. Because COVID-19 is a new virus, it is also understood that we really have an incredible amount to learn regarding how we have to get this disease under control.

I am proud to be a British Columbian, living in the beautiful Columbia Valley for 25 years. People here are being responsible and respectful of their fellow Canadians by staying home, practicing social distancing and proper hand hygiene (i.e. hand sanitizers at the doors of all the shops, anti-viral wipes for grocery carts, etc.).

My concern is, why are we completely shutting down the rec sites and trails at a time we need them the most? These places are crucial for one’s physical AND mental health even at the best of times! I understand there are social contact points at the sites that have camping facilities such as vault toilets, picnic tables and fire grills.

However, considering how responsible we have all been, it makes no sense not to allow these wide open outdoor spaces to be utilized in order for us to keep our sanity during these insane times.

Thank you.

Diane Redekop,

Windermere

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