Building dike trail brings three big benefits
I am writing today to support North Cowichan’s exciting plan to extend the dike trail to the BC Forest Discovery Centre along the very edge of the Somenos Marsh Conservation Area now that the funding is in place.
As a local who regularly uses the trail systems for cycling and walking I can tell you that not having to use the highway for that stretch of road is brilliant.
I understand that there is concern that the trail will encroach upon the Somenos Marsh wetlands, however, I also understand that the land that the trail will be built on is owned by highways. I can’t help but think that a walking/riding trail far surpasses a widened highway. A widened highway would have much more of an impact on the Conservation Area than a trail. And, once the trail is in place, it’s unlikely that the highway would ever be widened in that stretc — another bonus aspect of completing that trail sooner rather than later.
Wouldn’t it be lovely to have more folk educated about the precious Somenos Marsh Conservation Area simply by having experienced a safe walk or ride adjacent to it on a trail? To recap I can see three good reasons to complete the trail: A safe transit on foot and by bike from Beverly Corners to the Forest Discovery Centre; more individuals would learn about the very precious Somenos Marsh Conservation Area; it’s unlikely the highway would ever be widened one the trail is in place. All good.
Sandra Beggs
Duncan