The irresponsible discarding of waste in the forests around Ladysmith represents a multiple threat to the environment.
Waste can cause soil and water pollution, releasing toxic substances that damage local vegetation. This pollution can have long-term effects on ecosystem health.
It can also be a threat to wildlife. Animals and birds can unintentionally ingest waste, causing internal damage and even death. Plastic, glass, metals, rotting food, etc. can all pose a danger.
It also has a negative aesthetic impact. The discarding of waste creates a very ugly image for visitors to nature. A polluted forest can discourage people from experiencing these areas.
On Saturday, April 26 the Ladysmith Sportsmen’s Club will be holding their annual “Earth Day Cleanup” event according to chair Dave Judson. This year will mark the 11th time cub members have enlisted the support of the public to help rid the area of discarded garbage.
“To date we have removed over 153 tons of garbage from local forests,” said Judson.
The club is asking volunteers to arrive at the club’s Bush Creek fish hatchery by 9 a.m.
“We give all the volunteers a safety talk, coffee, garbage bags and gloves,” Judson said.
Volunteers are asked to dress appropriately for the weather of the day.
Depending on the number of volunteers, Judson said they'll try to hit Peerless Road, Timberlands and McKay Lake areas.
“We are welcoming absolutely anyone, the more the merrier," he said. "The larger the turnout, the more ground we can cover. How much we get done — and there is a huge amount that has to be cleaned up — is determined by the number of volunteers that show up. Families can make this a great outing, having quality family time and doing great stuff for the forests and wildlife.”
Volunteers can spend as much time as they want helping out but they are encouraged to help the clean up until at least lunch.
Judson said that the local support from business and community organizations has been great, again this year.
“So far, the Ladysmith Eagles have come forward to help, as well as X-Tend Rentals, Hudson Proctor Excavating, Brian Johnson Contracting and Emily Chalk Bin Service. We appreciate their assistance,” he said.
Anyone wishing to get more information can contact Dave Judson at 250-713-7737 or email at judsonboys@shaw.ca
