FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 21, 2009
ABBOTSFORD – BC Liberal Candidate for Abbotsford - Mission, Randy Hawes met with local government representatives, the Fraser Valley Conservancy and the Central Valley Naturalists this week to tour woodlot 45 which is along the Centennial Trail on Sumas Mountain and learn about the old growth forest that has existed in the area for centuries. The area, which is on crown land, is currently being considered for logging through a woodlot licence.
“The area in woodlot 45 is a gem for Abbotsford and the whole Fraser Valley,” said Hawes. “If elected I will work with governments, advocacy groups, and the current licence holder to see if we can find a way to protect these lands and ensure that the forest industry still has economic opportunities in the Fraser Valley.”
Hawes was a member of the Fraser Valley Regional District when parkland status was created over parts of Sumas Mountain.
Hawes believes there are opportunities for a corridor connecting the disjointed parklands which would greatly protect the biodiversity of this pristine area as well as enhance the recreational, cultural and educational opportunities. According to Hawes, both the woodlot licence holder and trail users have worked cooperatively to manage the area, however he believes a long-term solution is required to preserve the area.
“I am very happy that we have Randy’s support to help protect this important area,” said John Vissers, with the Fraser Valley Conservancy. “I think it is in all our interests that this land is conserved for public and academic use for generations to come. Some of the trees in this area are estimated to be over 400 years old.”
Hawes, a two-term Member of the Legislative Assembly, is currently seeking election in the newly created Abbotsford - Mission electoral district which spans from Mission to Sumas Mountain and along Old Yale Road to Highway 11. Together with his Fraser Valley BC Liberal colleagues, he is looking to ensure important Fraser Valley matters are forefront in government decision-making.
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