View the full letter to The Honourable Katrine Conroy, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, regarding the management of Brunswick Point natural areas.
The Brunswick Point portion of the Roberts Bank Wildlife Management Area is a critically important wildlife and natural feature within Delta. The dike system in the area is used by farmers and is popular with residents and visitors for recreational uses. Delta and the Province have a long history of promoting habitat protection and resource management at Brunswick Point while also allowing public use.
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, people are increasingly seeking outdoor recreation opportunities and we have seen a significant increase in public use of the Brunswick Point dike and surrounding area for fitness, wildlife viewing, photography and hunting. Delta Council recently received correspondence from residents regarding users venturing off the dike into the foreshore marsh within the Wildlife Management Area, and not respecting wildlife in the area. City of Delta is concerned about physical impacts to the sensitive marsh area and negative effects on wildlife.
We are seeking your assistance in addressing these concerns. The Wildlife Act provides authority for regional orders prohibiting the harassment of wildlife within Wildlife Management Areas, providing clear guidance regarding appropriate activities, and allowing for active enforcement as necessary. Delta is committed to continuing to work together with Ministry staff to implement effective measures to protect wildlife and important habitat at Brunswick Point, including by improving signage and providing ongoing education to users of the municipal dike and adjacent provincial Wildlife Management Area.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Yours truly,
George V. Harvie
Mayor