Dear Editor:
In the last couple months Conkle Mountain Park has been in the news, some of which is not accurate. Some background is indicated.
The creation and dedication of this park was one of three park projects during our Centennial in 2006. The other two projects were the Centennial Trail and the Fur Brigade Trail Linear Park.
I was a member of the Centennial Committee (2004-2006) which created the Centennial events and projects and was Mayor during our centennial in 2006.
There were several reasons for the creation of Conkle Mountain Park.
There was concern over possible development (Patagonia proposal). But a primary concern was protection of the Trout Creek Ecological Reserve to the south. The park would act as a buffer.
The Trout Creek Ecological Reserve Management Plan, written in partnership with B.C. Parks and the Penticton Indian Band describes the relationship between the Ecological Reserve and Conkle Mountain Park. (page 7)
A similar concern was the creation of the Fur Brigade Trail Linear Park. This park goes through our two most northern district lots, owned by the province within the District of Summerland.
The province created deer reserves in this location to protect deer habitat.
The intent of both parks was to minimize activities to protect sensitive eco-systems.
Let’s hope that focus remains.
David Gregory
Summerland