So I read that Dalton and his boys canoe in Temagami - petitions etc are useful but I always like to go to the top and remind them that they too are responsible even if it isn't their "portfolio" on issues - don't know if it makes a difference but if enough get to the top maybe just maybe......
Here's a copy of my email to Dalton and cc to minister Gravelle - feel free to use or modify with your own thoughts. This getting a lot of air time here in the Sudbury area, lets keep it front and centre
Dear Premier McGuinty:
I am shocked and disappointed that the McGuinty government would even consider reneging on the province’s promise to preserve and protect Temagami.
I am strongly opposed to the proposal to remove the forest reserve status from parts of the Wolf Lake Forest Reserve. I support Wolf Lake being a park-in-waiting, with existing mining claims and leases being automatically designated as parks as soon as they lapse.
Wolf Lake is home to the largest old-growth red pine forest in the world. With trees over 260 years old, Wolf Lake supports a diverse ecosystem that has thrived for centuries. It provides important habitat for wildlife and has now become a haven for hikers and canoeists.
Removing the forest reserve status from part of the Wolf Lake region to encourage mining investment is a dangerous step that threatens this irreplaceable ecological gem. Such a change would prioritize mining over the protection of natural heritage and special landscapes.
It is irresponsible for the government to backtrack on its commitment to protect Canada’s largest old-growth red pine forest from industrial activity. Breaking up this landscape into a patchwork of land-use designations threatens to degrade its ecological and recreational value. Wolf Lake is part of an endangered ecosystem that is estimated to persist on only 1.2% of its former extent. What remains of this region should be permanently protected.
I am reminded of a quote by Lyndon B. Johnson when he signed the Wilderness Act into law in 1964 against much opposition:
"If future generations are to remember us with gratitude rather than contempt, we must leave them more than the miracles of technology. We must leave them a glimpse of the world as it was in the beginning, not just after we got through with it." Premier, I hope your government and the Ministry of Natural Resources will do the right thing. I strongly urge you to maintain the forest reserve status for Wolf Lake, you have the means to leave the future generations a
"glimpse" of an ecosystem that has almost been extirpated.
dmcguinty.mpp.co@liberal.ola.orgmgravelle.mpp.co@liberal.ola.orgCheers
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"There are no shortcuts to anyplace worth going"-unknown