(snip) > The situation in BC will be interesting to watch as it unfolds in the > coming years, and I hope that well intentioned Canadians and > reasonable tribal leaders can sort out these issues to everyone's > satisfaction. Even the tribal leaders are aware of modern realities > (their people are no longer the only people around, for instance), and > they too can understand and appreciate how others might be concerned > about access to natural places that are important to all of humanity, > and not just themselves. Give respect, and there's a good chance to > receive respect in return. > > -- > Melissa Even before the government announcement recently, some tribal elders have been keeping some kayak stakeholders informed and involved. That's pretty cool when you consider the realities of only a few years ago. Not all First nation leaders have been as cooperative (past and present), but they are less commonly inclined that way as tourism grows in our province. For guide operators, there may even be chance for group-site enhancements - something not entirely permissible previously. While this may be bad news for purists, one also has to remember that technically, many areas - like the Bunsbys and Brooks are special environmental reserves and if push came to shove, kayakers shouldn't really even be allowed in some of these spots anyway. My experience with coastal land overseen by First Nation peoples is that there is a slight inconvenience with some destination areas securing permission to visit and camp (inconveniences to me and them), but I've never been denied - and I always respect the land I'm on and the ones who claim ownership. While the scope of land settlements recently was a shock for those who forgot that these settlement proposals were in the works for some time, one bright spot at the moment for the negatively inclined paddlers pulling out their hair is that in many cases, a two year transitional period is now in effect. I for one will be hoping paddlers can ambassador for ourselves and by association, other outdoor adventures, and work cooperatively with the new landlords to help ensure access and enjoyment for future generations - both native and none-native. It won't be perfect. Life never is. Doug Lloyd *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Fri Nov 09 2007 - 01:00:15 PST
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