Dear Editor,
I would like to commend the Columbia Valley Cycling Society board of directors on their hosting of a highly successful open house on Friday, January 20th and Saturday, January 21st to inform and gather public input on the societys proposed Barbour Rock trail project on Crown land on the Toby Benches near Invermere.
Disclosure: I am the former president of the society. When I was on the board we made sure to do everything carefully and the right way, seeking appropriate provincial approval for trails on Crown land and consulting with stakeholders and other user groups. I must say this tradition has become even stronger under the societys current board of committed and passionate volunteers.
The society put itself on full public display last weekend and showed what it is all about: healthy and responsible recreation that is good for individuals and families of the Columbia Valley. The Columbia Valley Cycling Society is truly a community leader among backcountry user groups and this was shown again this past weekend.
It is time to put to rest the tired caricature of the destructive cyclist who has no regard for nature or other backcountry recreationalists and recognize cyclists, especially those representing the Columbia Valley Cycling Society, for what they truly are: modern conservationists who take pleasure in an active lifestyle and wish to enjoy, respect, and preserve the natural environment for current and future generations.
Adrian Bergles
Radium Hot Springs
