CONSERVATION SCORES WITH ROYAL COMMISSION REPORT by Diane Griffin

Environmentalists have hailed the conservation tone of the Royal Commission on the Land's report. Adoption of a comprehensive set of land use plans for the entire province was recommended. Furthermore, these land use plans should include areas for natural preservation. The report had lots of specific recommendations such as prohibition of further development on any of the off-shore islands. These areas are prime wildlife habitat, particularly for birds like the Great Blue Heron which nests in secluded colonies.

And yes, there is more:

- greenbelts for rivers and streams

- measures to protect beaches and sand dunes

- more scenic heritage roads

- sunset provisions for cottage subdivisions that have not been sold - preservation of archaeological remains

- recreational trails on the abandoned rail lines

- more emphasis on the non-commercial aspects of forestry

In keeping with the positive conservation tone of the report, it was recommended that the province continue to encourage and support volunteer groups whose aims and objectives assist in preserving and enhancing natural areas.

The Island Nature Trust was particularly pleased with the recommendation that the province ensure the long-term preservation of the Greenwich area in its natural state under public ownership. The Island Nature Trust successfully fought against a huge time-share condominium project before the Land Use Commission. The case continues on through appeals and cross-appeals in the P.E.I. Supreme Court.

Where does that leave us? Hell, it appears that Premier Ghiz is prepared to act quickly on the report. Recommendations are to be received from a government task force by the end of December and the provincial cabinet will consider the document in mid-January - just in time for action in the up-coming spring session of the legislature.

Editor's Note: The Royal Commission's report is already in second printing. In addition to the many very positive recommendations with regard to the protection of certain natural features there are also some anomalies of which naturalists should be aware, namely: despite its conservation tone, no section of the report deals explicitly with wildlife; strong recommendations are made for "weed" control; . . . . .. As this report may set the stage for land use decisions for many years, I recommend that you review it.

BIRD WATCHERS LIST

At the November meeting of the Society, a member recommended that the Society create a list of those interested in birding trips so that the list could be exchanged and people could arrange small outings among themselves. Anyone interested in participating in this name exchange should contact Dan McAskill at 569-4351 (evenings).

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