Opposition by Bowser residences to ocean sewage disposal is backed by science and disregarded by the RDN.
Go to www.sosbowser.ca and read the science review in the Dr. Don Carlow report. The 2018 conclusions supported by up to date references and international scientific opinion indicate that disposal of sewage effluents at minimal standards like what is proposed for Bowser, represent a high risk activity that should no longer be permitted.
The risks from a large variety of pollutants including micro plastics, viruses, pharmaceuticals and chemicals to sea life, for further degradation of the Salish Sea, and for human health, are significant. The plan for ocean dumping in a large and growing shellfish cultivation and harvesting area immediately adjacent to a busy beach recreational area - considering the availability of green land-based alternatives - is unconscionable and contrary to current international global thinking and expert opinion.
Now it seems that the RDN’s tactic is to use in-camera meetings to cloak decisions and information about this project and a recent staff report on the feasibility of land-based disposal which was initiated by our new Area H Director.
These same old tactics and ideas got us into this mess in the first place, and will place the burden of yet more pollution, environmental and ocean degradation on future generations.
Bryan Holyk
Area H Residents Association