A petition advocating for an alternative location for Tribune Bay Campground’s proposed expansion on Hornby Island has garnered community support, collecting hundreds of signatures. The expansion, planned for a recently acquired protected area by B.C. Parks, has sparked concerns among residents.
The petition, spearheaded by Petra Chambers, raised questions about the potential ecological impact of the development, according to an article published by the Comox Valley Record. Chambers explained that the project lacks due consideration for the area’s ecological sensitivity.
“They are not proceeding carefully, and they are not proceeding respectfully given that this is an ecologically sensitive area, according to the Island Trust, the official community plan, and the Agricultural Land Reserve. Anyone from here also knows that area is a wetland and not a good camping location,” Chambers said in the report.
To gather more information, Chambers sought a Freedom of Information Act request in February, seeking environmental assessments conducted by B.C. Parks regarding the proposed development. As per the report, she has not received a response.
In the British Columbia Parks’ assessments, the report identified several potential issues with the proposed campsite area. These include shallow root systems in trees that could pose risks to workers and campers during windstorms, water supply challenges, and concerns related to the wetland.
Henk Van Klinken, another Hornby Island resident collaborating with Chambers, echoed her concerns. “There is a long-standing pattern where people have prioritized human needs and sacrificed nature. The B.C. Parks proposal still perpetuates that,” Van Klinken said.
In addition to ecological impact, the concerns questioned the legality of developing a government-protected area while overlooking environmental risks.
Despite community criticisms, Daniel Arbour, Area A director for the Comox Valley Regional District, favors the expansion. He views it as a positive investment for Hornby Island, potentially reducing the density of campsites and enhancing visitor experiences. Additionally, Arbour praised B.C. Parks for its community engagement efforts, highlighting adjustments made in response to feedback, such as eliminating a proposed road.
The situation on Hornby Island underscores the importance of thoroughly considering ecological impacts before filing a proposal. This also applies to any private campgrounds or RV parks. Owners and operators can learn from the residents’ concerns by conducting comprehensive environmental assessments. For campground proposals, this approach highlights the necessity of evaluating the ecological sensitivity of potential development sites, ensuring that projects do not disrupt protected areas or wildlife habitats.
Additionally, this case emphasizes the value of maintaining open and ongoing dialogue with local residents and regulatory bodies. Effective community engagement involves addressing concerns and adjusting plans based on feedback. For future campground developers, this proactive move helps gain community and council approvals.
