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EcoSociety not doing enough

The May 26 West Kootenay EcoSociety AGM, gave me a sense of the intent and direction that now rudders this environmental society. Friendly, well-intended mediocrity comes to mind.

The May 26 West Kootenay EcoSociety AGM, gave me a sense of the intent and direction that now rudders this environmental society.  Friendly, well-intended mediocrity comes to mind.

I played a small part shaping this society that has had significant impact on BC’s environmental movement and the Canadian Green Party political struggle. I am concerned about the size of the board of directors and West Kootenay EcoSociety connections with Transition Nelson that featured independent power producer corporation Selkirk Power at a weekend forum about  sustainability last summer.

There is, in my opinion, nothing remotely sustainable about this corporation’s intention to dam up Ventego, Alder and Cupola creeks.  These are pristine wilderness drainages on the edge of  Glacier National Park. The folks in the Golden area are freaking out.

When I realized the West Kootenay EcoSociety was part of a sustainability forum promoting a corporation that has the potential to destroy grizzly, caribou and fish habitat, I started paying closer attention because an influential environmental group in an area rich with fresh water, minerals, timber and vast hydro power is a likely target for industrial provocateurs and government agents. Our resources are fodder for warring economies and that is what currently makes our stock markets tick... war.

We are on the war planet.

British Petroleum and Appache Resources started exploration to frack for coal bed methane last summer on the Elk River near Fernie. Talisman Energy of Calgary just published a children’s colouring book to promote their coal bed methane fracking activities in northern BC. Nelson’s socialist MLA, MP and environmental group have said little about these planet destroying war mongering industrial activities.

The EcoSociety appears to be ignoring or shying away from these issues. Most other major environmental groups in BC and Canada/US are foaming at the mouth about coal bed methane fracking.

My hope as a long time member of this environmental society is they not lose the courage that is necessary to stand up for future generations against irresponsible governance.

Tom Prior

Nelson