The Town of Ladysmith is calling on the province to address safety concerns on the Banon Creek Forest Service Road after two recent human-caused fires in the area.
Unauthorized camping and dumping have been ongoing concerns. The town said it wants help improving safety and protecting the Stocking Lake and Holland Lake watersheds, which are accessed using the road.
“We are asking that the Province take action to address the ongoing risks and ensure individuals are relocated in a humane manner away from our watershed,” says Mayor Deena Beeston. “Every day of inaction increases the risk to Ladysmith’s watershed, drinking water infrastructure and the safety of those in the area. We must protect these resources that are needed by everyone in the area.”
The town wrote to the province on June 26 requesting action, including support to strengthen access controls and enforcement against unauthorized access, trespassing and encampments. No response has been received, the town said in a news release Wednesday.
It sent another letter on Aug. 21 requesting immediate emergency action, including the relocation of people occupying or accessing areas within the watershed.
“The situation along the Banon Creek Forest Service Road remains extremely concerning. The Town is deeply alarmed that continued inaction could result in a catastrophic wildfire, significant damage to critical drinking water infrastructure, or serious injury or loss of life,” the town said in the news release.
The town said at least six gate locks have been cut within 24 hours of installation. The gate is no longer locked because of concerns the vandalism could create a fire risk.
“The Town has taken every reasonable step within its authority to protect our watershed. However, repeated vandalism and damage to the gate and locking system have resulted in significant costs to taxpayers. Continuously repairing and replacing these systems is not sustainable, which is among one of the many reasons why we’re calling on the Province to immediately address the situation,” said Nicholas Pescod, the town’s communications and engagement specialist.
