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The Juan de FucaRural Publication Society

Mission StatementA group of Juan de Fuca residents has formed a non-profit society to launch a news and advertising publication for the Juan de Fuca Electoral Area.

We will provide a forum for our rural communities to share news, exchange ideas and develop a sense of community. At the same time the publication will give businesses within and outside the electoral area an opportunity to promote their products and services and reach potential customers. We also hope to make current information about the region and its services available to the many tourists who visit the area each year. Our goal is to protect, preserve and enhance rural life.

The publication will rely on community members to share their interests and points of view through arti-cles, correspondence and photographs. We welcome articles and letters reflecting the very diverse inter-ests of our member communities and expressing all points of view. The editorial committee reserves the right to edit for brevity, accuracy, clarity and taste. Though every reasonable precaution will be made to verify the accuracy of material submitted, the editorial committee assumes no responsibility for the content of published articles. The responsibility is that of the writers. References and descriptions of products or services are provided “as is” without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied.

If you wish to submit an article for an upcoming issue of the Rural Observer, please email it to:

ruralobserver@myway.comOr mail to: Juan de Fuca Rural Publication Society 6790 East Sooke Road, Sooke BC V0S 1N0

Please support this important project. We invite you to volunteer and/or become a member of the society, which is open to all residents of the Juan de Fuca Electoral Area interested in an effective publication to serve our area. Copy and fill out the application form here, and return it with $10 per person to the address above.

We’re online! www.ruralobserver.com

Life in Our Forests 3

Readers’ Forum 5

Citizens’ Assembly on Electoral Reform 6

Port Renfrew Community News 7

East Sooke Community News 8

Willis Point Community News 10

Shirley Community News 12

Chanterelle Heaven 13

From Our CRD Director 14

Cooking With Claudia 15

Gerrymandering 16

Kids’ Page 17

EDC Entrepreneurial Challenge 17

Offshore Oil & Gas 18

Advertisers’ Directory 19

Juan de Fuca Rural Publication Society2005 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FORM

Name ___________________________________________

Address _________________________________________

________________________________________________

Phone ____________ E-mail ________________________

Are you able to help? _______________________________

Return to: JdF Rural Publication Society, 6790 E. Sooke Road, Sooke BC V0S 1N0

2

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April 2005

Volunteers Needed!Are you able to help the Rural Observer with distribution,one day every two months? Would you like to be a reporter

or offer other help? For more information, please call 646-2528

The native shrubs of this zone include Indian Plum, the first shrub to blossom in spring, Red-flowering Currant, Salmonberry, Oceanspray, Red Huckleberry, Thimbleberry, Saskatoon Berry, Salal, Western Swordfern and Snowberry. Within this Douglas-fir zone, wildflowers abound. Some of the ones to be seen during the spring and into summer include White Easter Lily, Calypso or Pink Slipper Orchid, Western Springbeauty, Western Trillium (see photograph), Broadleaved Starflower, Fragrant Bedstraw, Hooker’s Fairy-bell, Baldhip Rose, Orange Honeysuckle, Pacific Blackberry, Spotted Coral-root, Tiger Lily, Vanilla-leaf, Western Fescue, Wild Lily-of-the-Valley, Yerba Buena, Indian Pipe, Mock Orange, Foamflower and Twinflower.

In the driest parts of this zone, the only two broad-leaved tree species found in Canada, the Arbutus and Garry Oak, occur. These two unique trees are believed to be part of one of the most endangered ecosystems in Canada, and the meadows associated with these open woodlands are filled with plants found nowhere else on the coast.

It is here in this Garry Oak Forest where, beginning in late February to early March, the fields are alive with wildflowers. Blue Camas, Sea-blush, Yellow Monkey-flower, Blue-eyed Mary, Spring-gold, Satin Flower, Saxifrage, Shooting Star, Miner’s Lettuce, West-ern Buttercup, White Easter Lily, Chocolate Lily, Cleavers, Common Vetch, Balsamroot, Geranium, Clover, Chickweed, Larkspur, Meadow Death-camas, Honeysuckle, Sanicle, Peavine, Alumroot, Meconella, Trefoil, Stonecrop, Fool’s Onion, Harvest Brodiaea, Hooker’s Onion, Woolly Eriophyllum and Yarrow are some of the flora that carpet the Garry Oak Meadows with colour between February and June. This display of wildflowers is an awfully amazing sight to behold.

In the wetter parts of this zone where Black Cottonwood, Pacific Crab Apple, Western Red Cedar and Red Alder are more commonly found, the under story consists mainly of Common Snowberry, Hardhack, Nine-bark, Nootka Rose, Redosier Dogwood, Scouring-rush, Giant Horsetail, Red Elderberry, Salmonberry, Stink Currant and Yellow Skunk Cabbage. Some of the beautiful wildflowers that you will find growing here include Musk Monkey-flower, Coltsfoot, Pacific Bleeding-heart, Stinging Nettle and Tall Fringecup. In much wetter environments, flora such as St. John’s Wort, Bugle-weed, Canada Mint, Creeping Buttercup, Kneeling Angelica, Water Hemlock, Parsley and Parsnip, Winter-cress and Yellow Monkey-flower can be seen, while in water habitats Cat-tail, Bulrush, Duckweed, Bladderwort, Floating Brownleaf, Pondweed, and Yellow Pond-lily are beautiful to see.

on our coverTrillium photo takenby nature photographerJim Jenkinsof East Sooke.

3 April 2005

the journey into spring by Shirley Connor

The temperate rainforests of Vancouver Island can be divided into two main zones and within each zone the flora, or plant life, has a distinctive combination. Certain species of trees typically grow together and with them, particular shrubs and flowers.

The rainforests of Vancouver Island reflect mild, moist winters, quite dry summers and differences in soil types and overall topography. They receive most of their rain from November to March and during this time, the coastal coniferous trees can grow half of their annual growth. The little rainfall in the summer months is due mainly to a ridge of high pressure which commonly develops off the west coast and also, from the rainshadow effect of the Vancouver Island Mountains and the Olympic Mountains in Washington State. The huge conifers are able to dominate these forest ecosystems as they can photosynthesize and grow through the mild winters. The ability to grow throughout the year, however, is what makes the temperate rainforests of B.C. one of the most biologically productive environments on earth.

The two biologically productive zones on Vancouver Island are the Coastal Douglas-fir and the Coastal Western Hemlock. The east side of southern Vancouver Island, the Coastal Douglas-fir Zone includes Victoria, Saanich Peninsula, Colwood, Metchosin, and East Sooke. It is characterized with the majority of rainfall in the winter season - less than a metre annually - and drier summers. Douglas-firs dominate these forests, but other tree species noted include Grand Fir, Western Red Cedar, Red Alder, Western

Hemlock, Big Leaf Maple, Western Flow-ering Dogwood, Black Cottonwood, Pacific Crab Apple, Bitter Cherry, Yellow Cedar, Shore Pine, Western White Pine and West-ern Yew, depending on the overall moisture content in the soil.

LIFE IN OUR FORESTS

Camas Photo by Jim Jenkins

“It is here in this Garry Oak Forest where, beginning in late February to early March,

the elds are alive with wildowers. “

Continued on page 4

4 April 2005

The Coastal Western Hemlock Zone encompasses the moister west side of Vancouver Island. Winters are mild, summers moderate with overall high rainfall. The coastal forests are formed by the winter monsoons as from November to March, many wind storms in the Pacific move in from the west. The forest of Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Sitka Spruce, Pacific Yew, Douglas-fir, Bigleaf Maple and Red Alder at lower elevations, gives way at higher elevations to Mountain Hemlock, Yellow Cedar and Subalpine Fir. The dominant tree of this forest is the Western Hemlock as it is well adapted to this cool, wet, forest type. The diverse shrub growth in this zone includes Salmonberry, Salal, Red Huckleberry, Evergreen Huckleberry, Dull Oregon-grape, Devil’s-club, Nightshade, Vine Maple, Alaska Blueberry, Skunk Cabbage and an abundance of ferns. Many of the wildflowers of the Douglas-fir forest zone can also be found within this zone along with species such as Wild Ginger, Yellow Wood Violet, Coast Black Gooseberry and Large-leaved Avens.

Many non-native plants, such as the exotics introduced after European settlement, have replaced native plants, changed the soil nutrients and dramatically altered the original make-up of our ecosystems. Overgrazing by domestic and feral livestock has caused non-native plant species to become more dominant in some areas while other changes such as overall develop-ment and fire suppression have allowed for the increased rarity of many native species. It is important for us all to be aware that many of these factors have dramatically changed the ecosystems around us. Therefore, it should lead to great thought for what we do now and in the future. As Henry David Thoreau once wrote, “In Wilderness is the preservation of the

World.”

For anyone interested in identifying some of the amaz-ing flora around us at this time of the year, there are a number of great Field Guides to consult. One of my particular favourites is “Plants of Coastal British Columbia including Washington, Oregon & Alaska” by Jim Pojar and Andy MacKinnon. This is a very easy to use field guide breaking down the flora into families and using coloured photographs, which helps for easier identification. Hope you have a great spring viewing some of these wonderful sights!

Camas Day @ Beacon Hill Parkon Saturday, April 23, 2005 (9 a.m. - 2 p.m.) is sponsored by the Victoria Natural History Society and Friends of Beacon Hill Park and is in its 14th year. Come out and join in the fun filled day. Guided walks begin at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m.

2005 Membership Renewals

It’s time to renew your membership in theJuan de Fuca Rural Publication Society.

Our fee structure is as follows - you may renew at the basic level of $10, or become a “Friend” of the Rural Observer for $25, a “Supporter” for $50, or a “Lifetime Member” for only $100. We recommend the lifetime membership - you won’t need to remember to renew each year!The Rural Observer needs your support to keep it strong, viable and independent. Please send renewals to the Juan de Fuca Rural Publication Society,

6790 East Sooke Road, Sooke V0S 1N0.

EasterLily Photos by Noella LeDrew of East Sooke

Continued from page 3

The JdF EDC was created by a Capital Regional District bylaw and has the following objectives: 1. To develop a complete business resource listing for the electoral area 2. To prepare a development strategy 3. To coordinate economic development activities, including developing an active marketing program to encourage both new and existing investors 4. To liaise with other levels of government, the private sector and the media in matters related to economic development. The JdF EDC funds projects that further these objectives. It makes grants to support initiatives that will improve the economy and create jobs. Projects are expected to be self-sustaining following an initial grant so that ongoing activity is not normally supported.

For more information including copies of our grant policy and application for funding visitwww.crd.bc.ca/jdf/meetings.htm

or call 250-642-1620.

The Commission meets on the fourth Thursday of every month from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at a central location. Members of the public are always welcome.

5 April 2005

Readers’ FORUMEditor,The Rural Observer,

The following motion was passed, almost unanimously (two opposed), at the Otter Point and Shirley Residents and Ratepay-ers Association (OPSRRA) AGM held Wednesday, 23 February 2005:

“In view of Shirley’s 82% and Otter Point’s 80% “NO” vote to amalgamation, moved that OPSRRA write letters to our Regional Director and the Minister of Community, Aboriginal and Women’s Services asking that the rural areas of the Juan de Fuca Electoral Area be funded to carry out a study of our governance options.”

Another motion, which also passed handily (two opposed), requested that OPSRRA write to ask Sooke’s Mayor and Council, and the Minister of Community, Aboriginal and Women’s Services to refrain from slicing off any more pieces of Juan de Fuca Electoral Area real estate (as was done with the Silver Spray annexation) until we have had an opportunity to complete the requested study of our governance options.

I encourage rural organizations with similar goals and values to those of OPSRRA and individuals to also write appropriate letters requesting a governance study and a halt to Sooke Council’s poaching of our tax base and land mass. Any governance

Have Your Say... Email Your Letters to: ruralobserver@myway.com

study must be carried out by a contractor and a committee in a completely objective fashion with no hidden agenda.

Perhaps an enhanced form of our present governance is the answer. I believe that the “powers that be,” either through benevo-lent neglect or malevolent intent, have shown no interest in improving our less than ideal form of governance, probably hoping to force us into marriage with Sooke.

I used to be a supporter of incorporation for some or all of our rural areas on their own. However, as I look at the costs and waste associated with having a mayor, council, bureaucracy, city hall, etc., etc., I lose some of my enthusiasm for incorporation unless our tax base would handily support such an option. Maybe forestry revenues and other factors would make this feasible?

At any rate, now that our three rural areas have spoken with a loud, clear, unified voice, let’s force our politicians to do our will for a refreshing change. It’s election time and just maybe they will listen to us! Don’t forget to lobby and get commitments of support for a governance study from those aspiring to replace our MLA, Brian Kerr, in May.

Byron Tweedy, Otter Point

EDCJuan de Fuca Economic Development Commission

We welcome articles and letters reflecting diverse interests and expressing all points of view.

6 April 2005

B.C. Citizens’ Assembly onElectoral Reform by Barbara Kohne

The Citizens’ Assembly was formed as an independent, non-partisan group of 160 British Columbia voters who were ran-domly selected from the voter’s lists of the 79 BC electoral districts. 80 women and 80 men were chosen by lot. Much to my surprise, my name was pulled out of the hat as the female member for Malahat/Juan de Fuca.

The 160 delegates were asked, if willing, to commit a year of their time to investigate the merits of other voting systems and how votes cast in elections translate into seats. At the end of 2004 the delegates were to recommend to the voters of BC whether to change or retain the current voting system in a May 17, 2005 referendum.

Over the course of the first six weekend sessions, every two weeks during the learning phase, we were given lectures by political science professors on various electoral systems used around the world. This also involved much reading and intense study trying to get our heads around many of the complexities.

In May and June fifty public hearing were organized throughout the province to give the public an opportunity to have their say. The submissions were studied by the members to be sure about the wishes of the people of B.C.

From the public hearings and among the delegates, it seems clear that there is a cynical view of politics. Fewer people are voting because they feel that their vote doesn’t matter. Many who do vote believe that many politicians will put their party first, break promises and won’t speak on behalf of their constituents. Voters are also concerned that their vote may be wasted

“Political parties remain the centre of the process, but they will have to give up some of the excesses of party discipline and the adversarial style that has alienated many voters.”

September and October brought us to the deliberation phase. There was much discussion on all that we had learned and the time came for our recommendation. From what we had debated, and what the public in the rural areas “beyond Hope” and in the urban areas had told us, we identified three needs that we felt had to be met. Effective local representation, fair election results and greater voter choice.

BC-STV was the system that most closely met these criteria.

Single Transferable Vote = STV is simple for the voter to use. On the ballot voters rank candidates in order of preference i.e. 1, 2, 3, etc. from the most favoured to the least favoured. Each voter casts one single vote that may be transferred according to the voter’s choice when there are seats yet unfilled and elected can-didates have surplus votes, or there are un-elected candidates with unused votes.

If on the first count a voter’s 1st choice candidate on the ballot receives more votes than are needed to be elected, and there are seats not yet filled, that candidate’s surplus votes are reas-signed on the second count to the 2nd choice candidate on the ballots (and so on going to a voter’s 3rd choice on the 3rd count etc.)

When there are no more candidates with surplus ballots, and there are still seats not yet filled, the votes for the candidate who received the least number of ballots are reassigned on the third count as to the voters 3rd choice (and so on going to voter’s 4th choice on the 4th count etc.)

Surplus or unused votes are transferred rather than wasted until all available seats are filled. Every vote elects a candidate. If not the first choice candidate then the vote may instead contribute to electing the second choice on the ballot and so on. In the end all votes count.

Political parties remain the centre of the process, but they will have to give up some of the excesses of party discipline and the adversarial style that has alienated many voters.

I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to participate in the Citizens’ Assembly. We began with our own list of shared values that included respect, open-mindedness, integrity and inclusivity. These were maintained throughout, with great dignity. This may well have been due to the gender-balanced make-up of the assembly. A first!

Now, it is up to you, the voters of BC. Make your choice in the Referendum on May 17th.

More background information is available on the internet:www.citizensassembly.bc.ca/publicwww.bc-stv.ca www.fairvotingbc.comwww.strategicthoughts.com/record2005/voteno

7 April 2005

Port Renfrew COMMUNITY NEWS Activities at thePort Renfrew Rec Centre by Gillian Griese

The Port Renfrew Rec Centre has been developing more and more projects and activities recently. There is a wide array of things going on aimed at all age groups.

Ongoing programs include a licensed Bingo night, a new quilting bee, billiard tournaments and, starting in March, a movie night and book club.

During the month of March we focused on promoting reading as a fun pastime, with story time every Sunday, featuring a popular children’s novel. Story time is free, and we are encouraging parents to stay with their children to listen as well.

Last month we had a clothing drive and exchange. We would like to thank everyone who donated items. Originally we planned to donate anything left over to a second hand store, but now we will keep most of it on hand in case anyone ever needs a warm sweater or a pair of jeans, etc.

St. Patrick’s Day featured a treasure hunt at the Rec Centre, where kids could search for golden chocolate coins on the premises.

Check in with us for something new and fun each month!

Port Renfrew News

It is news to the new residents of Port Renfrew that political inertia about tsunami preparations and actually doing something other than talk is more massive than the mountains surrounding the Pacific Ocean inlet around which we live. Tragically the tsunami waves from the Cascadia Sub-duction Earthquake will destroy 3 of the present trust-ees’ homes first. They also happen to be the most senior Local Services Trustees, the logical chain of command for the tsunami warning system. The fire hall and post office are located inside the triangle of their 3 houses, so those services get wiped out at the same time. When all else fails, common sense and civil defense shall take their place. Therefore the Port Renfrew Com-munity Association has adopted the idea of doing the necessary legwork to organize tsunami escape routes and safe areas, as well as locate suitable helispots which can be useful for emergency evacuations after a major event. Then organize the education and practice sessions, with the cooperation of the Pacheedaht Band and residents of Elliotsville. This is similar to the call to install lifeboats on all pas-senger ships following the sinking of the Titanic. The movie was spectacular to view from inside a popcorn smelling theatre, but not something anyone would volun-tarily choose to pay money to participate within. Once the plan is completed it shall be handed over to the Juan de Fuca Emergency Program for them to install into their program. Can you believe that it takes from their January meeting until February 26, 2005 for them NOT to contact the Pacheedaht Band about their need of tsunami and other emergency preparations, even though it is an item on the “TO DO” list!

How about the Port Renfrew Local Services Committee NOT having any meetings in January and February? Maybe March or April will be convenient to their priori-ties, but soon summer holidays will be upon them and the meetings can be held in September? Longer daylight hours and more sunshine make the ditch daisies grow. I take no comfort in the inertia we encounter, but do feel sorry for the people living on the eastern facing shores of the Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island who may get 5 minutes notice when the Fraser River delta collapse generates a very large local tsunami in the order of a magnitude of more than the one Port Renfrew is likely to endure. Now that’s what I call an uphill battle. Ted MehlerLocal Service Trustee and much more

8 April 2005

East Sooke COMMUNITY NEWS What’s Happeningin East Sooke If you have an event that you would like published in an upcoming issue please contact Linda at 642-7949 or e-mail shane.linda@shaw.ca subject:community announcements. East Sooke Fire Improvement District MeetingsMeetings are open to the public and are held on the first Monday of the month. [If the first Monday falls on a statutory holiday the meeting will be the following Monday.] No meeting July and August. Next Meeting April 14, 7:30 pm at the fire hall. Fitness ClassesEast Sooke Community HallClasses are offered several days of the week and at a variety of times. Participation is by donation. Contact Holly-Anne at 642-0681 for times and dates. Karatedo ShindokaiEast Sooke Community HallContact Drew Mackinnon at 642-0113 for information. East Sooke Go Ju Ryu Karate ClubEast Sooke Community HallTuesdays, 6:30 p.m.For more information call Sensei Armin Seilopp at 642-3926. Yoga with InaA gentle practice for real bodiesWeekly classes. Call Ina Shah at 642-0270 for more information New to East Sooke or having a baby? Your wel-come wagon representative would be pleased to give you a wonderful basket of gifts. Call Sonia Lambert 642-2120

Report of

East Sooke Fire TrusteesMeeting March 7, 2005 by John Corsiglia

Meeting called to order by V. Wehman, withTrustees J. Scott, D. West and L. Bohmer attendingas well as Chief Rick Moffatt.

Messers Boehmer and Wehman spoke about the ongoing prob-lem of attract firefighting volunteers with Mr. Boehmer favouring driving fire trucks around E.S. and sounding sirens. Mr. Wehman talked about going door-to door, inviting residents to a “touchy-feely” interactive demo of the equipment. There was no discussion seeking to ascertain why residents might be reluctant to get involved at this time.

Mr. Wehman announced that a large stack of “legalese” papers had been received regarding the Sooke boundary extension that now includes the Silverspray property. Chief Moffatt asked for and received a copy of this material, which presumably defines new obligations of E.S. Volunteer Fire to protect this new part of Sooke, which although “contiguous to Sooke by water” as Mayor Evans put it, remains physically in East Sooke approximately one half hour distant from Sooke’s fire services by road. There was a question from the floor regarding whether it is possible for E.S. firefighters to increase death and disability insurance from $100,000, and Mr. Wehman said it was perfectly okay for individual firefighters to arrange for more insurance-on their own. Boehmer and Wehman noted an upcoming meeting with an award winning architect to design renovations to the E.S. fire Hall.

There was discussion about hooking up the old emergency warning siren because with the present very dry weather condi-tions there is an increased possibility of a catastrophic local “interface fire.” Also, Mr. Moffatt pointed out that there is also concern about the possibility of a tsunami and the warning siren could be of service for that purpose as well. In this connection it was mentioned that Port Alberni has a sophisticated siren system to provide the community with a warning in case of a tsunami. Mr. Boehmer noted that the community warning siren isn’t hooked up because it is wired for three phase power. No mention was made of the fact that three phase power does exist in East Sooke and also that there are converters that allow three phase equipment on a two phase power source. Discus-sion of a community warning system ended after Mr. Wehman said that he favoured using a community siren to warn against interface fires but not tsunamis. Mr. Wehnman dismissed the importance of tsunamis by noting that they would only flood up to 20 meters high. This comment appears to have effectively ended the discussion.

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9 April 2005

At the bottom of a long, winding hill on Gillespie Road near Roche Cove in East Sooke is a large old log sign reading “Grouse Nest.” Very few properties in the area have provided as much rumour, mystery, and intrigue as the Grouse Nest and its owners.

The original “Grouse Nest” was a lovely summer and weekend country home for the George Gillespie family. George was a well-known figure on the Victoria financial scene in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries and he and his wife, Florence, often entertained family and friends there. One of their sons, Alexander, was the first owner of the Glenairley farmhouse, which was built in 1911 on the southern shore of Sooke Basin.

In the 1930s, “Grouse Nest” was sold to the Knight family, and in 1939 Roderick Knight purchased the property from his father. With his wife, Isobel, he prepared to continue running the country home as a resort as had his father before him. Unfortunately, World War II intervened, and Roderick went off to war for the next five years leaving Isobel to run things. Under her care and upon Roderick’s return the “Grouse Nest” became very popular and well known for its excellent dining room, tennis courts, and swimming pool. Then in June of 1950 tragedy struck and “Grouse Nest” was destroyed by fire. The loss was only partly covered by insurance so, with the help of friends and family, Roderick set about to rebuild, felling trees, pouring concrete, cutting lumber and sorting thousands of bricks. The new resort, bigger and better than ever, reopened in the spring of 1953. It was run by the Knights until Roderick retired in 1963.

Following Roderick’s retirement the property was sold to a cor-poration, Grouse Nest Resorts Ltd., whose president was Victo-ria lawyer Louis Lindholm. It was reported that Swiss investors planned extensive renovations to the resort with the goal of attracting a wealthy international clientele. Their plans included more land purchases in East Sooke, the establishment of a golf course at Silver Spray Ranch, a hunting preserve, a charter fishing service, and a landing strip for seaplanes from Seattle. A German architect, Antoni Burkhart, was brought over from Frankfurt to redesign the lodge and restaurant and German craftsmen were hired to do much of the work. A Dutchman, Ray Goppel, and his wife were hired from St. Moritz, Switzerland to manage and run the establishment.

However, in spite of all the money spent and the European talent hired, things were not going well financially. In 1964 an application to the Province for a 130 acre foreshore lease was rejected as being “unrealistic” in size and scope. Efforts to attract enough wealthy guests from around the world proved unsuccessful. By 1968 it was decided that the main lodge would close to the public and would revert to private residential use. Then Mr. Haasam Kamil and his wife Leonora arrived from Zurich, Switzerland to take up residence. Mr. Kamil was the director of the Swiss holding company for Grouse Nest Resorts Ltd.

For the next ten years, the Kamils and the company encoun-tered many more financial and legal problems. In the fall of 1970, they found it necessary to sell off some of their land holdings in East Sooke. Thus the CRD was able to purchase 1704 acres for $520,000. That property is now East Sooke Park. Efforts to develop a subdivision next to the park were fraught with problems involving road rights-of-way, lot sizes, water availability and septic fields.

In the summer of 1976 it was learned that a feasibility study was underway to determine whether or not the resort could re-open and be a financial success. However, in 1979, after defaulting on loans and mortgages, most of which were held by Laurel Properties of Vancouver, Grouse Nest Resorts Ltd. found itself the recipient of foreclosure proceedings. In spite of efforts to halt the foreclosure with appeals to the courts, the Kamils were forced to remove themselves and their possessions from the property.

During that same year Laurel Properties began talks with CRD planners regarding development of the 560 acre waterfront property. The property was listed for sale, but plans to develop luxury housing and a marina were being made to show the property in a more appealing light to potential buyers. However, those plans were unsuccessful and in June of 1985, after split-ting the acreage into five parcels, Laurel Properties put the parcels up for auction with a reserve bid of $750,000 on the parcel containing the lodge. In what has proven to be a far-sighted decision, CRD Parks, with the help of Saanich and the province, acquired the largest parcel of 116.4 hectares border-ing Matheson Lake Park, Roche Cove and Sooke Basin. Today it is called Roche Cove Park. The 39.6 hectare parcel contain-ing “Grouse Nest” was purchased by the Tchividjian family for $750,000 just following the auction of the other parcels. The family is reported to have Swiss connections and to be related by marriage to evangelist Billy Graham.

What does the future hold for the Grouse Nest property? Log-ging and land clearing activity seems to point to more develop-ment along Gillespie Road. Now perhaps the next chapter is about to unfold in the very interesting saga of East Sooke’s “Grouse Nest.”

Information contained in this article comes from: “The Sooke Story - The History and the Heartbeat 1999”, and “101 Histori-cal Buildings of the Sooke Region - Sooke Region Museum”. Newspaper sources were “The Victoria Daily Colonist” from the years 1953 to 1976; “The Victoria Daily Times” from 1964 to 1979; and “The Times-Colonist’s” May and June issues of 1985.

Rumour, Mystery and Intrigue Surround GROUSE NESTby Marcia Strybos

10 April 2005

Willis Point COMMUNITY NEWS Saanich Inlet & the Southern Strait of Georgia As A National Marine Conservation Area

by Patricia Sloan

Recently, Parks Canada hosted a number of information forums on the concept of a National Marine Con-servation Area [NMCA]. Some Willis Point residents expressed their concerns regarding possible curtailing of their current uses of Saanich Inlet - fishing, boating, etc. It is important to realize that this feasibility study process is not driven from the top down. Parks Canada is taking great care to ensure that all of the users and stakeholders are part of this decision; that it is indeed collaborative. Each comment received by Parks Canada is of importance - please take the time to voice yours. Because the planning process is in its formative stage, zones of conservation, acceptable activities, etc. cannot yet be designated. For those who have not seen the Parks Canada newsletter and brochure, here are a few brief excerpts: NMCAs are marine areas managed for sustainable use and containing smaller zones of high protection. They include the sea bed, the water column above it, and they may also take in wetlands, estuaries, islands, and other coastal lands. Marine ecosystems are fundamentally different from terrestrial environments. And human use in coastal regions, both on land and in the waters, has always been high. This means the effects of human activity - from degradation of coastal habitats, to land and water pollution, to over-exploitation of resources - can also be high and often far-reaching.

Because many human uses continue within their bound-aries, NMCAs do not try to protect marine ecosystems in a state essentially unaltered by human activity - the primary goal for national parks. NMCAs focus instead on ecologically sustainable use, which means harmoniz-ing conservation practices with human activities. This approach means working closely with others who use the coastal land and the water, and striving to reach common goals - most importantly, a healthy, sustainable ecosystem.

Human uses such as fishing and shipping, for example, are allowed in NMCAs, but they would be limited or even eliminated from zones protecting sensitive features such as nesting areas, spawning beds, whale calving areas and cultural sites. And they would be carefully managed to protect the greater ecosystem. Other activi-ties, namely ocean dumping, undersea mining, and oil and gas exploration and development, are not permitted in a national marine conservation area.

For more information, or to express your opinion get in touch with the Project Manager, Bill Henwood, 300 - 300 West Georgia St., Vancouver V6B 6B4; Telephone 604-666-0285; Fax 604-666-0446; website www.parkscanada.gc.ca/straitofgeorgiamca

Tod Inlet Nature House by Patricia Sloan

A wonderful addition to the Gowlland-Tod Park will be opening [if all goes according to our plans] in late May or early June. This interpreta-tive centre consists of a float house [previously the Marine Ecology Station in Cowichan Bay], a dinghy dock, and a viewing platform, and will be accessible from shore and by small boats. Three non-profit organizations have combined their efforts and expertise to the project: SeaChange Marine Conservation Society, Saanich Inlet Protection Soci-ety and the Marine Ecology Station. The Nature House will be staffed by informed volunteers and will provide historical information about the area, displays and information on local marine life, and updates on the many conservation projects underway. Come and visit us! By land, use the Tod Inlet Trail on Wallace Drive, just south from Benvenuto. And if you are interested in participating as a volunteer, please email: seachange@shaw.ca.

Around the Waters of Willis PointContributed by members of the Saanich Inlet Protection Society

In October a grey whale visited the Inlet for a few days. In the stillness of the night the whale’s breathing could be heard. Also, about six dolphins have been frequenting the waters toward the Mill Bay side.

Divers report sighting more gill sharks and ling cod this year than in the recent past. About 25% of ling cod egg masses are nestled in the very fragile glass sponge reefs. The glass sponge reef at Senanus Island WAS, until last week, the second largest in the world. It was irreparably damaged by cannon balls from rockfish fishing. Please remember that the waters around Senanus Island are closed to fishing of this species.

Some approximate eagle dates are as follows:• End of January to mid-February - period• February and early March - working on nests• End of March - lay eggs• Early May - eggs hatch [35 days after eggs laid]• Mid-July - first flight [about 75 days after hatching]• End of August - family groups migrate from the nest area, go fishing, hunting and do eaglet training• November - adults return and the cycle begins again

a reminder...At this time of the year as we gear up to get back into our yards and gardens again, remember not to clear out too much debris and plant matter as you make way for new ones. This is because most of our native insects, butterflies included, spend various stages of their life on or in the native plants. Most are plant specific; that is they will lay eggs and survive only if certain plants are available to do so. Over Time, they have evolved many impressive protective adaptations that allow them to survive only in these certain environments. Because of this, we must remember to not be too rigorous in our elimination of plants - especially the native ones growing so commonly around us. The reduction of these plants and the insects they promote in our gardens can make more of a negative impact than a positive one. Our native insects are significant plant pollinators and very good indicators of the ecological quality in our environment.

gw

11 April 2005

12 April 2005

Shirley COMMUNITY NEWS Shirley Community AssociationElections by Terri Alcock

At the March 9th Annual General Meeting of the Shirley Community Associa-tion, the following people were elected to the executive: President, Chuck Minten; Vice-President, Mike Wood; Secretary, Colleen Minten; Treasurer Karen VanVeen; Directors, Margaret Wood, Nicole Gardner and James Powell.

Congratulations to the new executive, and many thanks to the outgoing executive for their work over the past year.

Calendar of Eventsfor ShirleyUnless otherwise indicated, events held at theShirley Community Hall.

Shirley Volunteer Fire Protection SocietyApril 10, 2:00 p.m.

Town Hall Meeting with Regional Director, Erik LundApril 12, 7:00 p.m. CRD Zoning MeetingApril 18, 6:00 p.m.Contact: Maureen - 646-2820

Shirley Community Association May 11, 7:30 pmContact: Chuck - 646-2077

Musical EveningMay 14, 7:30 p.m.A very special night in Shirley Hall for all music lovers.Bring along a snack to share.Contact: Colleen - 646-2077

Provincial Election and ReferendumMay 17, 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

SEAS MeetingJune 5, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.Contact: Maureen Nelson - 646-2820 Shirley DayA Celebration of LifeAugust 21, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Shirley Volunteer Fire DepartmentPractices on Thursdays from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.Contact: Carl - 646-2107

Shirley Quilters and Crafters2nd & 4th Thursdays 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Shirley Community Association, President Chuck Minten 646-2077Shirley Volunteer Fire Protection Society, President Dominique Bernardet 646-2528Shirley Fire Department, Fire Chief Carl Nelson 646-2107

Society Awards Dr. Keith Martin, MP Certificate of Distinguished Service

At a public town hall meeting in Sooke, hosted by Dr. Keith Martin, Member of Parliament for the Esquimalt - Juan de Fuca Federal Riding, the Sheringham Point Lighthouse Preservation Society presented Dr. Martin with a Certificate of Distinguished Service for his work in assisting the Society in its mission to preserve the light station at Sheringham Point.

“On behalf of the 150 members of the Society, and the thousands of supporters from the Greater Victoria area, we want you to know just how much we appreciate your work to help us preserve the light station, surrounding property and historic access”, said Michael Galizio President of the Society.

“Without your leadership, advice and guidance we would not be nearly as far along as we are,” continued Galizio. “Dr. Martin has always responded quickly and professionally to our requests for assistance and counsel. He and staff members, Stephanie Croft and Alison Makkinga, really know their craft and greatly value the volunteer work of the Society.”

Dr. Martin, in a letter to the Society expressed strong support for its mis-sion, goals and priorities, writing, “I believe that we can create an historic site of lasting beauty and importance…The preservation of this site is of inestimable value to the citizens of Shirley and indeed, BC.”

Board member Dominique Bernardet commented, “We have endeavoured to reach out, work with all segments of the community, government and the Coast Guard to make certain this site is preserved. It is fortunate that people like our Regional Director, Erik Lund, and Dr. Keith Martin are helping us meet our goals.”

13 April 2005

Join Shirley’s Volunteer Fire Department,and you too, can make a fashion statement.

Chanterelle Heaven Having picked up the information that we are living in “chante-relle heaven” at the last meeting of the Victoria Mycological Society (VMS), Jan and I have yet to find our first chanterelle - not from lack of trying, however! When we got into this addictive activity last fall, we had no idea that people become obsessed with it and protect their “spots” like there’s no tomor-row! We are the new kids on the block at VMS, and we can see that it’s going to take a good amount of time to get up to speed and learn (which appears to be necessary) all the Latin names of the fungi which exist right around this island. This is so because there are, in some cases, several different common names for the same mushroom, which makes it very confusing. But there’s only one Latin name for each...so dif-ficult to pronounce? You betcha...but more fun too...and gives you a fair amount of satisfaction to say, for example: “Yes, I found a Sparrasis Crispa last week, and it was absolutely to die for!” Sparrasis Crispa, by the way, is your everyday Cauliflower Mushroom, which is fairly common around these parts.

A fair number of the group is already into the “growing at home” of several types of mushrooms; the most popular of which seems to be the oyster mushroom. They obtain the spawn, which is put into a plastic bag with straw somewhere at the right temperature. We are not ready for this scientific activity yet. Much better exercise crawling around on your hands and knees through the salal!

The VMS appears to be growing by leaps and bounds, and they are a bunch of friendly folks who seem to laugh a great deal about their forays into the wild. Last meeting one of their members gave a fascinating talk about medicinal mushrooms and it is simply amazing how fungus has been and is still used in many different medicinal preparations for various ailments, especially by the Chinese.

So, come fall we will be out looking for chanterelle heaven and in the meantime, the morels and hedgehogs are supposed to be around in the spring. We happen to have 6 good books on west coast mushrooms, so if anyone is really interested, we would be glad to share any information that we have accumulated or the books may be perused here.

Good foraging to you all from the ‘shroom gatherers at Dutch Re-Treat; Marcie & Jan van de Linde of Shirley.

There will not be an amalgamation with Sooke any time soon. As you know, the “no” vote was overwhelming; not only did some 78% of us say no, but also voter turnout was far in excess of what is normal for municipal issues.

The majority of us are rural folks; country people; and we like it that way. We don’t want to be city slickers. We are happy with the peace and quiet. Who needs streetlights, sidewalks and such? And another message came through loud and clear. We don’t want higher taxes.

This is not to say that we don’t want Sooke to prosper. We like to shop in Sooke, have friends and family who live there, and we go there for entertainment and other activities. We will continue to work with the municipality in areas of common interest. We like Sooke’s residents and wish them well, but we have different governance aspirations.

During the referendum dialogue, there were some misleading statements made, but obviously people didn’t believe them or the vote would have been different. One of the statements made reference to the rural tax. I want to set the record straight. The rural tax is paid to the Province, and in return we get services such as policing (39%) and road maintenance (61%). No part of the rural tax goes into a black hole in the CRD never to be seen again. No taxes are paid to the CRD, by either Sooke or the Electoral Area, for the CRD’s general purposes. All taxes paid to the CRD go toward specific services that we as local governments purchase. This applies to both Sooke and the Electoral Area.

Like all votes and referendums, there were several positive outcomes. The referendum gave us a chance to examine ourselves and debate many important issues. Even though the run up to the vote was stressful, I think we should be grateful to the Ministry of Municipal, Aboriginal and Women’s Services and Minister Murray Coell for funding the exercise.

During the next month or so, I will be holding town hall meetings to discuss the budget for 2005 and the outlook for future budgets. The meetings will also afford an opportunity for folks to examine what comes next and what our governance options are.

For dates in your community, please check the JDF Electoral Area website, crd.bc.ca/jdf, or call the office at 642-1620.

With less than a year left before the next municipal elections it would be helpful for communities to bring forward their wish lists for things they would like the Regional Director to accomplish or begin. For example, there are a couple of park acquisitions in the works, and some housekeeping corrections to various bylaws, which will be done before November.

Also, there is the issue of completing the OCPs and getting them to the Minister. Clearly the vote to remain rural was an endorsement of the work the OCP committees have done to date. I believe the public is generally satisfied with the status quo. There is, of course, always room for improvement, and with the help of the public we will continue to seek out problems and give the communities we serve the best possible government.

Notice of Community MeetingsCommunity meetings will be held by Director Lund

as follows:

Willis Point Fire HallMonday, April 11, 2005

7:00 p.m.

Shirley Community HallTuesday, April 12, 2005

7:00 p.m.

Topics to be discussed include, but are not limited to:• State of the Electoral Area• Governance - What now?

For further information please contact:Director Erik Lund

Tel: 642-1612Fax: 642-5274 or

E-mail: directorjdf@crd.bc.ca.

Visit the Juan de Fuca E.A. website:www.crd.bc.ca/jdf

14 April 2005

From Juan de Fuca

CRD Director Erik Lund

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Sooke Harbour and Basin Water Quality Advisory Commission announces a vacancy, and is calling for East Sooke residents to serve as a volunteer commissioner. Interested persons should review Sooke District Bylaw No. 90 and submit a letter of application/resume to:

Regional District Director Erick Lund at directorJDF@crd.bc.ca or phone the CRD office 642-1612

15 April 2005

COOKING WITH CLAUDIAAsparagus has always been a vegetable that I associate with spring perhaps because of its vibrant emerald green colour. It’s a very versatile vegetable that can be served with anything or simply by itself. My recipe this month is:

Asparagus with Green OliveDressingServes 8

1⁄4 cup stoned and roughly chopped green olives1 tsp Dijon mustard1/8 cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley1⁄4 cup lemon-infused olive oil or plain olive oilJuice of 1⁄2 lemonSalt and freshly ground black pepper6 bunches thick asparagus

Prepare the dressing ahead of time by mixing the olives, mus-tard, parsley, oil and lemon juice together. Season to taste and set aside. Peel the asparagus ends and blanch in simmering water until tender. Drain well, then arrange on a serving platter and spoon the dressing across the tips.

After a conversation with a neighbour about aioli, that wonder-ful garlicky-mayonnaise ‘sauce’ that can be used with any kind of meat or vegetable, I include this recipe:

Roasted Garlic Aioli.Makes approximately 1 cup

Preheat oven to 200C/400F. Loosely wrap 5 cloves of garlic in a piece of aluminum foil. Place in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until soft and golden. Squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skins into a food processor. Add 2 egg yolks, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar and 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Process to chop the garlic. With the motor running add 220 ml extra virgin olive oil in a thin steady stream until amalgamated and thick. Season and add more lemon juice if needed.

As a suggestion for an ideal Easter meal, both the asparagus with green olive dressing and aioli go well with spring lamb. Enjoy something different.

Claudia Berry

East SookeCommunity

Wharf Volunteers

Needed

Residents of the East Sooke portion of the Juan de Fuca Electoral Area who are interested in exploring the possibility of creating a public wharf in the East Sooke commu-nity are needed to form a committee to further investigate this prospect.

Please signify your inter-est by contacting Direc-tor Lund at the address shown below.

E.A. Planning Services2205 Otter Point RoadSooke, BC V0S 1N0 Telephone: 642-1612 Visit the CRD website at www.crd.bc.ca

Wanted: people to sell advertisingon commission for the Rural Observer.

For more information, call 646-2528.

16 April 2005

when spring arrives, it’s time for GERRYMANDERING

by Emma Mae Robbins

The newspaper article said the politician had been accused of gerrymandering. I didn’t know the meaning of “gerry-

mandering”, but I loved the sound of it. I rolled the word around in my mouth, savouring the images that came to mind. I think I may have gone gerrymandering when I was five years old - in the spring when all the ditches were filled with water. Armed with a stick and a pail and sporting a new pair of rubber boots, I became a happy little gerrymanderer. Along the muddy laneway, I splashed through little rivulets of water that ran between the puddles, and for most of the morning I built dams and dug trenches. In my pail I collected big rocks and placed them strategically in the middle of the flow; then with my stick I excavated a new course and sent

the water charging in a different direction. By now, in my five-year-old mind, trickles had become raging rivers and puddles had turned into lakes. I worked with beaver-like tenacity, engineering the neighbourhood runoff, unconscious of the fact that my boots and pants were entirely soaked and the mittens I had been forced to wear were buried in mud.

When I tired of all this, I wandered up and down the road behind our house, searching the ditches for frogs’ eggs. Tadpole tapioca. Once I had found a lumpy, jello-like mass, my gerrymandering took on an air of sensuality. Picking up the amber-coloured blob, I held it, jiggling and shimmering, while I tried to count the hundreds of tiny black dots centered inside the jellied spheres. I slipped my fingers into its cold, bumpy essence. It made a kind of kissing sound as it schlopped in the cradle of my hands, and sometimes it ran over the edges and went “Splap” on the gravel road. It was an awesome thing, this mysterious gob of goop containing the beginnings of new life. Finally, my wet boots sucking at my heels, I trudged home, carry-ing a pail of froggie goo. My mother took one look at me and asked in exasperation, “WHAT have you been doing?” If only I had known the word then. It would have been so appropriate. “Gerrymandering, Mom. I was only gerrymandering.” A search of the dictionary provided me with the definition of the word I had found so fascinating. It has nothing to do with water or mud, frogs or jelly. It does, however, imply some tinkering, changing things around and messing about. However, there is no mention of sticks, pails or new rubber boots.

“Once I had found a lumpy, jello-likemass, my gerrymandering took on

an air of sensuality.”

April 200517

Kids‛ PageSpring is here, and I am so happy to be thinking about gar-dening and spending more time outdoors with the children. Spring is a natural time to explore the science of botany so I am giving you two great growing ideas. Also, as sidewalk chalk can be hard to find this early in the season, here is an easy recipe for sidewalk paint. Super Sidewalk Paint This paint is great for painting big things like rainbows or roads.

Materials:For each colour you will need:1/4 cup cornstarch1/4 cup cold water6-8 drops of food colouring Mix cornstarch and water together in a small plastic container. Add food colouring and stir. Repeat this process to create differ-ent colours of Super Sidewalk Paint. Apply paint with a large paintbrush. Paint washes away easily with water.

The Juan de Fuca Electoral Area EDC is sponsoring its first annual Entrepreneurial Challenge for JDF high school students, offering two prizes of $1000 each, one for the best business plan for an ongoing business venture, the other for a summer business venture.

EDC Chair John Stewardson explained, “Members of the EDC, at a recent meeting, were discussing the problem of young people who grow up in the JDF and then have to leave to find work. We wanted to find a way to encourage students to think beyond the usual job search to the possibility of taking a good idea and creating their own business.”

Stewardson went on to say, “High school students are being targeted because they are about to enter the workforce, either to finance further studies or to begin their work life. We wanted to

Watching Roots and Shoots Materials:Large glass jarbean seedspaper napkinswater

Grass Head Guy Materials: Nylon stocking6 Tbs. potting soil2 Tbs. grass seedPlastic yogurt containergoogle eyes or buttonsglue or pinswaterproof markers water Cut a 4 inch long piece of nylon stocking including the toe. Spoon the grass seed into the toe. Pour potting soil into the stocking until you have a ball of soil that is about 2 inches in diameter. Tie a knot in the stocking so that it will hold its ball shape. Do not cut the tail off the stocking. Glue a set of google eyes on your Grass head Guy or pin on buttons for eyes. Draw on the nose and mouth using the waterproof markers. Pour 1 to 2 inches of water into the yogurt container. Place your Grass Head Guy on top of the yogurt container making sure that the tail hangs down into the water. Decorate the yogurt container to look like the body. Check the water level daily and in a few days Grass Head Guy will have hair!

Preschool Plusby Linda MellishECE at Alphabet Soup Child Care Centre in East Sooke

Thoroughly clean the jar and remove any labels. Soak the beans for thirty minutes. Rinse the jar with cold water. Empty it out but do not dry it. Fold the napkin in half, curl it into a circle and slip it inside the jar. Press the napkin against the side of the jar with a spoon. Peel back part of the napkin and push the bean in between the jar and the napkin. Repeat with two or three other bean seeds. Spoon water on the napkin until it is quite wet. Put the jar in a bright, warm place and water often to keep the napkin wet. Within a week you should be able to see roots and shoots!

provide more opportunities for them. The other reason we are doing this is to get fresh ideas from a younger audience on the business needs and opportunities in the JDF.”

The winners will receive not only a cheque for $1000, but also the expertise of EDC members who will assist them in refining their business plan and turning it into reality.

Judges for the Entrepreneurial Challenge include Rebecca Grant, a professor in the faculty of business at UVic, Dylan Touhey, a young entrepreneur and four EDC members.

Not everyone can be a winner, but even those who don’t win may come up with good ideas that they can try on their own, or improve for next year’s contest.

The deadline for submitting applications is May 6, 2005, with the winners being notified during the week of May 23rd. See the advertisement on page 16 in this issue of the Rural Observer for more information, or visit the website at

www.crd.bc.ca/jdf/edc/contest

Economic Development CommissionChallenges Students

April 200518

Offshore Oil and Gas: the government’s vision,coastal communities’nightmare by Oonagh O’Connor

Minister Neufeld, BC’s Minister of Energy andMines, is trying to sell Ottawa a deal he has not beenable to sell British Columbians. Despite overwhelmingopposition, Neufeld is strongly urging the federal governmentto ignore its recent public review and lift the offshore oil andgas moratorium protecting BC’s coast.

Last year the federal government committed to determining the views of British Columbians on whether the offshore oil and gas moratorium should be lifted. They conducted a series of public hearings and First Nations interviews. The public review involved the participation of 3,700 individuals, many of whom work and live on the coast of BC.

In November 2004, the government released results indicating that 75% of the participants in the public review said they wanted the moratorium on offshore oil and gas to be maintained. The First Nations review involved 70 nations in BC, and found 100% support for maintaining the moratorium.

However, the provincial government continues to pressure the federal government to lift the moratorium. Minister Neufeld has been asking the Government of Canada to ignore the results of the federal public review, and to allow exploration for offshore oil and gas on Canada’s Pacific coast.

The first stage of exploration involves seismic testing - a highly invasive activity that is of international scientific concern. Seismic testing is a technique used to locate offshore oil reserves and requires shooting high-pressure sound waves into the ocean. Explosive sound waves are directed at the seabed and bounce back at varying speeds and intensities. This gives industry infor-mation regarding the rock formation and the most likely location of oil. However the extreme pressure of these sound waves also damages marine life. Impacts include destruction of eggs and larvae, death of fish with swim bladders such as rockfish and the deafening of some species of fish such as snapper. In addi-tion, studies have found that seismic testing disrupts traditional migratory paths of marine mammals and causes some species of marine mammals and fish to leave an area. In some cases, fish catches have been reduced by at least 50%. Abundant popula-tions of migratory and resident fish and marine mammals make this a particular concern for the coast of BC.

A typical array of air guns consists of between 15 - 35 air guns that shoot off high intensity explosive sound waves every 10 seconds, 24 hours a day for weeks or months at a time.

According to Dr. Chris Clarke, Director of the Bioacoustics Research Program at Cornell University, seismic testing is the modern form of exploratory dynamite, and “the air guns represent the most severe acoustic insult to the marine environment that [he] can imagine short of naval warfare.”

While the impacts of offshore oil and gas begin with seismic testing, they do not end there. Other concerns associated with

an offshore oil and gasindustry include theimpacts of oil spills - largeand small, the chronic dailypollution from drilling muds andproduced waters and the continuedburning and production of fossil fuels. Continuing to explore for and develop new basins of fossil fuels when we have already discovered more fossil fuels than the planet can afford to burn is a huge step in the wrong direction.

Over nine million hectares of coastal waters in British Columbia have been leased to the oil and gas industry. The majority of the leases were issued by the federal government and are located in Queen Charlotte Sound, Hecate Strait, and off the west coast of Vancouver Island. Leases issued by the provincial government are located in inshore areas like the mouth of the Fraser River, the Strait of Georgia off Nanaimo and Comox on the east coast of Vancouver Island, and in the near shore areas of Port Hardy on northern Vancouver Island. These leases were given to the oil companies without prior assessments on the impacts of an offshore oil and gas industry on vital established industries such as commercial and sports fishing, and tourism, which provide a significant portion of jobs in coastal communities. The leases were distributed without consulting First Nations and before any environmental assessments were completed.

For more than three decades, the people of British Columbia have defended this coast and its rich marine life against the risks associated with offshore oil and gas development. The renewed push by the present provincial government and industry groups has sparked the formation of the Oil Free Coast Alliance, a coali-tion of 103 group members and thousands of individuals who are calling on the federal and provincial government to maintain the moratorium on offshore oil and gas in British Columbia.

If you wish to add your voice to these concern citizens please go to oilfreecoast.org or contact Oonagh@livingoceans.org

For more information please visit our website: http://www.livingoceans.org/oilgas/index.shtml

April 200519

Advertisers’ DIRECTORYBudget Septic p.2 478-1178

Clover Care Massage p.8 642-2268

Concerned Citizens on Amalgamation p. 20

CRD - EA Planning Services p.15 642-1612

CRD - Water Commission p.14 642-1612

Dr. Fei Yang - Traditional Chinese Medicine p.4 382-9108

Economic Development Commission p.5 & p.16 642-1620

Handyman Rob p.8 642-7885

Sheringham Point Lighthouse Preservation Society p.11 646-2528

Shirley Volunteer Fire Department p.13 646-2107

Shirley Volunteer Fire Protection Society p.12 646-2528

Sooke Harbour House p. 15 642-3421

Sooke Works Employment Centre p.7 642-3685

We can mail the Observer to you for $25 per year if it is posted to a Canadian address and $30 per year if you wish it

to be posted to the United States. Please send your information and cheque to :

Head of Subscriptions Department, 6466 East Sooke Rd. East Sooke, B.C., V0S 1N0. Cheques need to be made out

to Juan de Fuca Rural Publication Society.

Please help the Rural Observer by supporting our advertisers. When you use their services, tell them you found them in the Rural Observer!

Reaching Out to Visitors

The summer issue of the Rural Observer [June] will focus on tourism, and businesses that provide ser-vices for the many vacationers visiting the area each summer. Additional copies of the RO will be distributed through-out the area to provide information for visitors on local attractions and services. If you operate a bed and breakfast, tour company or other tourist-related busi-ness, we welcome your participation. Please check below for our ad rates.

For more information, or to arrange for an ad, please contact

Noella at 642-3534.

April 200520

A RESOUNDING “NO” ON AMALGAMATION78 % VOTED AGAINST

WE SENT A STRONG CLEAR MESSAGE THAT WE WANT TO STAY RURAL

The “NO” COMMITTEE of Otter Point , East Sooke & Shirley

A BIG THANK YOUTO ALL OUR GOOD NEIGHBOURS

WE DID IT !