To the editor:
Re: "Park Board duplicity realizes 'green' goals," Aug. 3.
Our decision to restore Beaver Lake was based on scientific data presented in the Stanley Park Ecology Society's State of the Park Report for the Ecological Integrity of Stanley Park.
Beaver Lake's rapid infilling was identified as a priority action area to benefit the health and biodiversity of park ecosystems. A consultancy will assess the lake's unique environment and determine the best range of solutions to restore it. Environmental experts from SFU, BCIT and UBC have provided advice for the terms of reference. Public consultation will be included to find a common vision for the lake. As part of stakeholder engagement, we became aware the site is significant to First Nations partners in the park and we have been meeting with them to ensure the scope of work reflects any cultural sensitivities. The $500,000 in the draft 2012-2014 capital plan is our best estimate of funds likely required to begin work and to provide leverage opportunities with outside partners once we have a restoration plan approved by the board. That capital plan is still open for public input and approval by residents in the November election. As for Mark Hasiuk's comments about Jericho Wharf, the decision to remove it for public safety and ecological restoration was based on extensive public consultation over a two-year period. Funding for the project was approved by Vancouver voters in 2008.
Aaron Jasper, chair Loretta Woodcock, commissioner
Vancouver Park Board
