Dangerous wood debris worse than usual in Cowichan River
Sarah Simpson’s excellent report on river hazards begs further comment. Certainly there’s a need to remind the public about appropriate dress, suitable equipment, safe practices, and general hazard awareness. Well done, Sarah!
But the over-abundance of dangerous wood features on the river (sweepers, strainers, log jams, etc.) is the worst we’ve seen in many years. And the problem doesn’t just affect tubers for two short months. Whitewater boaters, and anglers in drift boats or inflatables, use every stretch of the river, every month of the year.
Currently nothing is being done about the increasing dangers of wood hazards. Unfortunately, removing woody debris is frowned upon (and probably illegal) as it may disturb fish habitat. Yet no one is proposing to remove all of the wood, or even most of the wood — only the dangerous bits. To date, there is no protocol for cooperative inter-ministry action to ensure safe recreational navigability. The need is long overdue.
But who cares?
Are local governments supporting the mitigation of river hazards? How ‘bout North Cowichan? Duncan? Lake Cowichan? The CVRD? None of the above?
They do a great job maintaining their own terrestrial paths and trails, keeping them safe for recreational bikers and hikers, with minimal impact on wildlife. Yet the notion of applying the same standards to an aquatic trail apparently dumbfounds them.
True, rivers flow across political boundaries, and perhaps municipal governments are unwilling to work together with neighbouring sandboxes to manage such a shared responsibility. Meanwhile, recreational river users’ lives are threatened.
But who cares?
Thanks to the efforts of local NGOs, many excellent programs are underway to improve the quality of local rivers. Examples include salmon fry rescue, riparian restoration, invasive species removal, water sampling, measurement and analysis. All great stuff!
And programs to ensure human recreational safety? Diddly-squat!
But who cares?
Maybe we should mention that outdoor recreation is proven to bolster not only physical, but also mental, emotional, social and spiritual health. Wasn’t it Doctor Bonnie that urged us all to get outdoors, as soon as pandemic lockdowns were relaxed?
Environmental impact? Tubing, angling, canoeing, paddle boarding and kayaking are all powered by gravity and armstrong engines. There are no emissions, except for occasional heavy breathing.
Note, too, that “recreational value” is one of three criteria justifying the Cowichan’s designation as a Canadian Heritage River.
When it comes to local river management (or lack thereof), maybe we all need to shout a little louder.
But who cares?
Rick Bryan
North Cowichan