Editor:
Most local residents know that the path of the proposed twin Enbridge Northern Gateway pipelines crosses the ecologically sensitive, wildfowl rich narrows between Burns and Decker Lakes.
A pipeline rupture there could coat the shores of both of these lakes with an oily mess.
The proposed pipeline path also crosses the watershed of Saul Creek, the lovely little stream that flows through the middle of our village. A burst pipeline in that section would send a flow of acidic, caustic, toxic, carcinogenic, chemically diluted sludge into the marshes and the beaver pond of the Rod Reid trail area and then on down the creek through the village.
Cleanup in the narrow, steep sided gully would be virtually impossible, so there the witches brew would sit for decades to come, slowly dispersing toxins and carcinogens across the village from right within its heart.
Not exactly a thoughtful, caring plan on Enbridge’s part.
If the pipeline is built as planned, Burns Lake will be exposed to far greater risk than other inland communities along its path.
The fact that our local elected officials have not yet joined most of their regional peers in expressing grave concerns about the project leaves me, to put it charitably, somewhat puzzled.
When our mill burnt down there was an outpouring of goodwill from our neighbours across the North.
It would be a shame to piddle that away now by opposing them on the pipeline issue.
Particularly when the issue of timber rights is brewing.
Walt van der Kamp