Wednesday 3 September 2008

Water Story Update - Wetland Drainage

Yesterday was a good day. Before work, I mailed my letter of response to Sturgeon County mayor and all six council members.

After work, I met with a reporter from a local newspaper about the local wetland area that has been almost completely drained. We met at the site of the wetland. I took the above picture on August 29th, five days ago. Yesterday this side of the wetland was totally dry - the water had stopped flowing into this part of it altogether. September 1st was the last day of the 'permit' to divert water. Just in time, it would seem.

The reporter saw all of this with me, and asked a bunch of questions. He looked at the permit too, and I told him that water was being taken out of the wetland for weeks before the start date of the posted permit. There may or may not be a story in the paper about this wetland, but even if there isn't, the fact that a report came out to look at it and is going to investigate matters made it a very good day for water.

8 comments:

Simply Authentic said...

Great job Theresa! It's incredibly sad that the wetland was drained like that, but I'm glad you have been doing something about it. I hope a story does get published-keep us posted.

Theresa said...

Thanks SA. It is very sad. What makes me the most sad is just the level of oblivion about such things. But what makes me quite glad is that speaking out about it has already raised awareness, and at least a few more people are concerned about it now, and the local politicians also know there are people concerned and willing to speak out. I hope there is an article about it too. But even if there isn't I will keep on doing what I can, even if I get discouraged sometimes. :)

Amber said...

I hope this story gets published! Also, just wanted to let you know that I mailed a (very polite) letter this morning in support of your efforts and to express my own concern as a fellow Canadian. I don't know how much it will help, but it can't hurt right?

Theresa said...

Thanks so much Amber! You're the second person to do that, and it's really heartwarming. Plus, I think it will make a difference. When some people write one letter, it has more impact than one person writing many letters. They can dismiss the multiple-letter-writing person as an overzealous nutcase, but they can't (as easily) dismiss several letters on the topic from a wide cross-section of people. So I do thank you very much :)

G. Harrison said...

theresa,

the council of canadians in our fair city (Deforest city - London, Ontario) is holding a film series on october re water issues.

I attended an earlier series re factory farms and woke up a bit; maybe this next series will do the same and be reflected in my weekly column.

education, education.

keep well,

gord h.

Theresa said...

Hi Gord;

I notice that CBC's The Current (on Radio One) is also starting a series on water issues this month. Education is essential, indeed!

Kale for Sale said...

theresa - You continue to inspire me with your follow through. Big high fives on getting a reporter to the wetland. Thank you.

Theresa said...

Thanks, K4S :) That reminds me - I need to post another update about this story. I've been so caught up in election stuff I've neglected to do that....