Anger and concern over Livingstone-Porcupine Hills draft plans voiced at Sunday rally
LETHBRIDGE – The month-long public consultation process about the draft Livingstone – Porcupine Hills Footprint and Recreation plans will be wrapping up soon, and concerned residents say they want their voices heard.
Over 200 concerned citizens showed up for a rally in Galt Gardens at noon on Sunday (Apr 22). This group was not a mass of rowdy, boisterous rednecks. Those assembled were families with kids in tow, who are concerned about a loss of recreation, not only for them, but for their grandchildren and future generations.
The group was represented by those from all walks of life, including a doctor, and members of the Crowsnest Quad Squad. Some had travelled from Calgary and Red Deer, including the President of the Alberta Off Highway Vehicle Association (AOHVA), which represents 500,000 Albertans. They spoke about the lack of consultation and how the government is ignoring the lost revenue (upwards of $7 Million for one season) for nearby communities and businesses that meet the needs of campers and OHVers.
A release states on-line surveys were made available to Albertans as a means of providing feedback on those plans but anyone who completed the surveys, or attempted to, can attest to the fact it was a time consuming and onerous process.