Re: [Paddlewise] The Ocean is Big, Our Impact Bigger

malisle wrote:
> 
> I live on Malcolm Island on the edge of the
> Broughton Archipelago in BC.  Kayaking is getting big in our region but has had
> little impact on our
> particular community and its shoreline.  I and others want to see more kayakers
> come but we want
> this activity to be safe, low impact, and respectful of both the environment and
> its residents (animal and human).
> 
> Any advice on how to have plans and policies in place before getting an
> influx of paddlers?

Here's a start:  Figure out the sensitive areas (bird nesting places, seal/sea
lion haulouts, fragile shoreside places) and the off-limits places (private
beaches, floats, docks, islands, etc.) and publish a little brochure to hand
out to B and B visitors and at outfitters/paddleshops and the Chamber of
Commerce/Visitor Center which explains and identifies those places.  You can
also include a little about local etiquette re:  reef fisheries, net fisheries,
tidal areas under shellfish cultivation, shipping lanes, and about hazards on
the water.  Local knowledge re:  tidal streams and tricky landing spots would
be good, also.  If it helps people have a good, safe time, they'll probably
read it.

Another frequently unmet need is privies at popular launch spots.  Nothing
fancy needed.

Inasmuch as you are in Canada, you will not have to worry so much about
liability issues surrounding the booklet, unlike the States.

> A related issue for us is the sometimes unpleasant interactions between paddlers
> and commercial fishermen(though there are pleasant ones, too, to be sure). 

Folks at odds with each other, unless they know each other.  There are many
old-time gillnetters in my town and they love to rib me when they see me on the
water, although they are interested in the gear and what it can do.  Could be
some of the underemployed commercial fishers might want to do yak transport for
a few extra bucks.  Pitch that to them.  As for educating yakkers about
commercial traffic, that's tougher -- most have no basis for understanding the
commercial fishing culture.  Have 'em hang out in some bars fishers frequent. 
That'sll be an education!

-- 
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR


***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not
to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission
Submissions:     paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net
Subscriptions:   paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************