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Tell Your StoryHere is a selection of submissions sent to the Premier of British Columbia asking for strong endangered species regulation. Read these, then send your own.Thanks for sending us your comments and stories! The reason I love BC is because of the wide diversity of landscapes, ecosystems, plants, and animals that can be found across the province. I'm looking for a governing party that puts biodiversity and conservation high on its list of priorities. Patrick McGuiness Vancouver, BC Future generations are depending on our actions. Please do your best to protect the diversity of our beautiful province. Leo Pedersen Vancouver, BC Head stuck in the sand, we humans seem indifferent to the very life that makes our life possible. Protection of species diversity is a self-interested action. Protection now and forever! Barbara Coward Vancouver, BC I just don't think anything is more important that protecting the environment. If we don't have a healthy planet then a strong economy doesn't really matter. The provincial and federal governments need to take responsibility right away! Anna Coulter Vancouver, BC I was fortunate enough to have parents and a closely knitted community that encouraged not only to reduce, reuse and recycle but also to respect the land, water, animals and plants that make this country so unique. We as a species are obliged at least to attempt to change our damaging ways. Passing laws that will protect endangered plants and animals is just a ripple in the pond, but is necessary to the survival of our country, as we know it. I am only 22 years of age; if I am lucky I might be able to vacation in BC, once I have a family to enjoy it with. It would be a whole lot sweeter telling my kids the story of how Canadian politicians actually listen to their people and want a positive difference in the environment as much as the people lobbying for it. Thank you very much for your time. Rachel Cronin Midland, ON It is incumbent upon you and those that follow you to insure that you leave a legacy of preservation and conservation in British Columbia. Do the right thing. James Douglas Vancouver, BC It is our responsibility to make up for our actions and preserve what we have while it is still here. Nothing should be more important to our government and us, as Canadians, than the beautiful, pristine landscape we have inherited. With that said, I suggest that it is time for our government to take action and I am asking you to lead the way in making a difference for today and for future generations to come; both for human appreciation and other species alike. We are all connected and one outcome will not go without affecting the other. Sara Gerrie Vancouver, BC It's our obligation to do what is right. Darlene McLean Thank you for listening Premier Gordon Campbell. Brandi Hartley New Westminster, BC We sometimes are privileged in this world to be allowed to set examples for others. Whether it be as a nation, province, individual or company, it is a role that must be fulfilled now, so please act. Paul Tulloch Ottawa, ON With the threat of Climate Change, it is even more important to make sure that we do everything possible to protect as many of the endangered species as possible NOW! Ursula Easterbrook Delta, BC A healthy economy will rise from a healthy flourishing ecology. The focus must be on long-term vision and goals when it comes to the incredibly unique ecosystem of BC. Gem Salzburg Vancouver, BC A lot of people are just starting to wake up to what they are at risk of losing, let them have a chance to be heard, even if its just through those who speak for them. I'd say that although not that people may actually tell you what they believe, every one letter that you do receive should count for, at the very least, 10. Thank you. Beth Dunlop Alert Bay, BC A Society should be judged by its strength to be compassionate, not only to its people but it's environment as well. Graham Knell North Vancouver, BC All living things are related and needed for us to survive! To continuously treat our natural world, as it is not why we are here is ignorant and dangerous. Saving our natural world is the most meaningful ideal we as Canadians can do. Thank you. Tami Starlight Vancouver, BC All species are inter-related, not only with each other, but with ourselves too. From the smallest to the largest, they all have an important role to play, and deserve the right to exist. IF we do not protect our magnificent natural heritage now, there will be no going back, and the consequences are unimaginable. Joel Ornoy Vancouver, BC As a British Columbian with a strong pull to return home one day it terrifies me that the BC that I love and remember may someday be changed so dramatically that I may not recognize her. Please do something to protect her. You are in a place to do so and have the backing of many, many Canadians. It's time for a major change in Canada's habits and we have the opportunity to be world leaders in this aspect. Let's show them how it's done! It only takes one brave soul to say "Enough!" And that brave soul could be you! Please take a stand, for our future and for Canada. Jennifer Quint As a parent I see the importance of protecting our plants and animals so that our children will also have this beautiful and diverse landscape to grow up in. Joanne Salé-Hook Vernon, BC As a resident of Southern Ontario for my whole life, I've seen much habitat loss due to overdevelopment. Prevention is the only effective way to preserve wild spaces; restoration doesn't help species already lost. Please take legislative action to protect your beautiful species-rich province. You are steward of a most beautiful place. Help preserve it for everyone. Cynthia Redmond Innisfil, ON As a voter, we take environmental issues and species protection very seriously. Kelda and Dan Logan Salt Spring Island, BC As a young person of 10 years of age, I wrote to then premier W.A.C. Bennett to encourage his government enacts legislation to curtail pollution and the destruction of BC's Wildlife. Forty years have passed and the issue of protecting wildlife is more important than ever. Surely we can make some sacrifices to preserve our rich biodiversity for future generations! Colleen Allison Burnaby, BC As a young person who has just finished a bachelor’s degree, I believe that more resources should be put into protecting species at risk, and that conservation and education should be a priority for maintaining our future quality of life. Liane Veitch Calgary, AB As leader of our provincial government you have a responsibility to take the necessary steps to protect not only our endangered species, but also all of our precious environment (earth, water, air), for this generation and all future generations. Gilda Mahabir Vancouver, BC As much as the term animals are humans could apply to this situation, what if this was a reversal of roles? What if humans, from all ethnic backgrounds, were being killed pointlessly? Action would be taken right away. So what’s the difference? Hailey Souliere Sault Ste. Marie, ON As someone who lives and works in the heart of the biggest city in BC, I think it's an incredible privilege to be able to take a short holiday in my own province and see amazing animals, insects, and plants that I cannot see in the city. I think it's extremely important for the government of BC to protect the incredible natural wonders of BC, as we are lucky to have them. There are so many countries in the world that have forever lost native species, and I am sure if they could turn back time, their governments may wish to re-think policies (or lack thereof) that allowed them to disappear forever. Thea Woywitka Vancouver, BC As the leader of this province, it is your responsibility to care for its citizens. The well being of B.C.'s biodiversity is inextricably connected to the well being of B.C.'s human population. As such, I respectfully demand that you do whatever you can to protect secure a future for us and the biodiversity of our province. Dustin Silvester Victoria, BC As you know I voted you in but when I found out you had lifted the moratorium on the Grizzly Bear I was not impressed. Remember in this fragile ecosystem we need to be at the forefront as leaders for the world. Don't miss your opportunity to shine. Cheryl Schuh Vancouver, BC B.C.'s Landscape is changing dramatically. Everything from increased Urban sprawl, to the devastation of the Pine Beetle. We need to preserve BC's integrity and beauty. It is our job! We live here because we love it! Show us that you care! Taryn Campbell Kelowna, BC BC will not be beautiful without it's natural diversity. Our country is one in a million that hasn't been destroyed... Yet" Laura Crozman Prince George, BC BC's most valuable resource is our environment. People come here for beauty, but an environment without diversity is hardly beautiful. Keep British Columbia Beautiful and choose to focus on the long-term effects of business rather than the short-term profits. Steve Moore Vancouver, BC Beautiful BC won't remain beautiful without its wildlife Marlene Wallace Winnipeg, MB Biodiversity is necessary to ensure humanity's future. Without it, our children are doomed to live in a world prone to diseases and plagues. Your job, as I see it, is to serve and protect the best interests of the present and future public. Please utilize your office powers to protect future generations from the devastating effects of bio-monoculture. Thank you for your time and attention. Bronwyn Elko Vancouver, BC Biodiversity is not only inherently valuable, it is also valuable in countless other ways including maintaining ecological balance, providing possibilities for further medical developments, and maintaining BC as a tourist destination. Please protect our vulnerable co-habitants in this area. Your efforts will not go unnoticed. Thank you. Brenda Anderson Vancouver, BC Biodiversity is part of the web of life of which we humans are also a part. When a species disappears, this is also a loss for humankind. And when species loss becomes too much for the greater ecosystem to handle, we may lose a great deal more than just species; the ecosystem services we depend on for our health and well-being may no longer be able to support us. Please do not ignore the Suzuki Foundation's report. Kristin Bingeman Vancouver, BC Biodiversity is very important to me Mr. Campbell. It is curtail for the continued success of EVERYTHING! Please consider how we fit into the tranquil structure of complexity that is B.C. When they are gone they are GONE. Permanent wounds that will NEVER heal. Thank you, Zack Harrison Victoria, BC Canadian ornithologist, Bridget Southbury, is known for her groundbreaking work on migratory songbirds. She claims that by some estimates we may have already lost almost half the songbirds that filed the skies only 40 years ago. We are faced with daunting challenges to preserve not only the birds, but also other species of animals. I expect my government to do everything in their power to protect bird habitat." Susan Kent North Vancouver, BC I would like you to please start caring about the environment and being an actual leader in the environmental movement. Aaron Scott North Vancouver, BC We have to start working with the future now; otherwise it’s too late. Please do your job! John Fry Bowen Island, BC We British Columbians are very fortunate to be living in the most bio-diverse region of the country. It's important that we not take for granted the beauty of the region. We have the responsibility to protect this environment and to ensure its wellness. Francis Lim Vancouver, BC Please take into consideration. I am a resident of beautiful British Columbia, and for those of us who have seen the wildlife deplete over the years feel nothing but horror. I do not own a vehicle, I recycle everything, (not enough plastics have recycling stamps by the way) and it disgusts me that my 10-year-old niece knows nothing of any of this. I think it is up to the government to inform kids in school NOW, before we kill off every species of animal, bug, and marine life. Tax dollars fund schools, and I am sick that our tax dollars do not get used to encourage children of the harsh reality of our world. Will it take living in our own waste before anyone does anything serious? On a different note, please bring in E85 fuel...is Canada a leader in this world, or are our political leaders more interested in making money off the gas and oil industries? If that is the case, there is no hope for any of us. Jolene Melnyk Chilliwack, BC Do you care at all that so many species of animals are dying for petty reasons we could stop, if we tried? Do you want to see the beautiful? Plants and animals you see today in twenty years? How ignorant are you? As a man in power, you should do as much as you can to save what is dissipating before our eyes. It is our entire fault. Lili Robinson Vancouver, BC Do you have children or grandchildren? Do you want them to be asking why didn't grandpa or grandma do something when they saw our wildlife and plants disappearing and why weren't they thinking of what our world would be like. Susanne Hutty St. Catharine’s, ON Each species is a precious part of nature that, once gone, will never re-appear. It is our duty to protect the uniqueness of species that has taken nature billions of years to create. Please act to protect endangered species now- otherwise it may be too late! Jennifer Black Vancouver, BC Ecology. Eco=home. We may be able to discard unwanted things from the structures we live in, but allowing them, even encouraging actions that support the killing of life on the land and in the air and water of our collective home is irrational, self-centered, and short term minded. The economy cannot carry on without the whole of what the earth provides. A holistic approach is necessary, and must start with that which is around us, not with us at the center. Please, seek wisdom from those who actually live in the whole of nature, not take from nature, or study one tiny little larva at a time. There is wisdom in their knowing. The time is right. Right now. Emma Bourassa Kamloops, BC Everything in nature is beautiful and sacred; Human being's (I believe) are giving the gift of recognizing this fact. Therefore it is our responsibility to ensure the well being of all things in nature (including ourselves). I am sure the extinction of the human race or cute puppies would not be allowed. There is not living thing that deserves more or less of a chance to exist. Please help to preserve what is natural in this beautiful world. There is less and less nature left by the day. Do you part to stop this please? Kaitlyn Ryan Scarborough, ON Every organism on Earth, including humans, has a niche. If even only one is lost, it will disrupt all other forms of life. Nature, which we are apart of, cannot survive if animals keep becoming extinct. John Anderson Bloomfield hills, MI Every time we let a species die we are one step closer to sealing our own fate. Please be a visionary and be proactive our lives depend on it! Heinz Nussbaumer Victoria, BC Everything in our ecosystem is balanced, losing plant and animal species is going to send us into a downward spiral faster than global warming. It is time to step up to the plate and be remembered as the government that saved us. David Hewitson Vancouver, BC Finally, as BC draws incredible amounts of eco tourism, I believe that if we strive to protect B.C.'s biodiversity it can only be a win-win situation for our environment and our province as BC will grow even stronger as a world renewed place to visit for its rich wildlife and natural beauty which in turn will strengthen our economy and health of all. Heather Hill Vancouver, BC From a young age I have thoroughly enjoyed the biodiversity of BC's woodlands, wetlands, mountains, valleys, rivers, deserts, canyons, etc. There's nothing quite like biking down a trail, twisting and turning, up and over a bridge, and around a corner to see none other than a giant 1000 yr. old Douglas Fir. Perhaps this is when you then get off your bike to further explore this ancient relic afore you and you happen to notice an owl silently watching you 20 feet away. Then you see lots of mushrooms growing around the base of the tree. Mr. Premier, it's moments like these that we all enjoy. I would think it terribly selfish to horde all of the enjoyment of these moments to us who are here on this planet right now thereby disregarding all who will come after us in the years to come. Please protect our endangered species further for the enjoyment of all generations. Thank you for your time, Lauren Evanson Gibsons, BC Get busy- Protect BC's Animals!!! They are one of the many things that attract Tourists from all over the world!! Laura McFadyen Vancouver, BC Green Plan? Where is it when we are considering Biodiversity? Gillian Boyd Burnaby, BC Having recently gone to Costa Rica this problem is rising all over the world. Progress is one thing but to have animals disappear from our forests, swamps, and oceans will cause major problems in the future. We build more and more to support the tourism industry but who wants to come to a country that is barren and lacking diversity in its animals and plants? Jennifer Ramsay Vancouver, BC Having traveled in the UK, Italy, Germany, Denmark, China, Japan, and Thailand, I know what an amazing and incredibly rich environment we live in here in BC. Please, please, please: be more assertive and forward looking in protecting what we have here. Tim Gerwing Vancouver, BC Hi! What we're saying is: we want the diversity to still be here for our children to experience, and their children's children too!! Let's get our heads out of the sand and do all we can do to preserve what's left and to strengthen the planets chances of survival – especially here in BC. Thanks, Pierce Sharelove Nelson, BC How can we possibly continue to advertise to the world that Canada is a fabulous to place to vacation? How can we correctly call this province "Super Natural British Columbia" when the wealth of animals and plants which call this province home are unprotected from development, pollution, industry and dramatic environmental change? What an outrage! As Canadians, we need to stand up for all things Canadian, and that includes slugs, bears, grasslands, wetlands, amphibians, birds, etc. Stricter, more encompassing legislation is needed to protect the 1300 species, which are currently under attack in BC. Sitting by without acting, letting these species trickle away and die...that is the very wrong thing to do. I vote. And I will vote only for those parties who put the environment FIRST. As humans, we cannot live without a natural environment. The threatened species we are overlooking are only standing as an example of what will eventually happen to everything, including humans, if we, as stewards of this province and of this planet, do nothing to change how we view the wealth that is our natural environment. We must protect it--there is no other option. The environment is OUR future. KD Ingram Nanaimo, BC I always had the wish to leave my country, Germany, and BC’s rich wildlife made my choice easy to move here. I had always heard that people in B.C. care about their direct environment and will try everything in their power to protect it. Please don't disappoint me! Susan Swolinski Vancouver, BC I am a concerned Canadian living abroad, and hope this letter is helping to save the endangered species. Thank you! Cody Rothery Taipei, XX I am a fourth generation British Columbian. I want my grandchildren and great grandchildren to enjoy the many species of wildlife that I did. Please protect the endangered species. If Ontario can do so why can't we? Mary Owen Burnaby, BC I am a proud Canadian currently living in the United States, and I love it that my roots are in British Columbia. It is important to me that the beautiful natural world I enjoyed as a child in BC be preserved and valued. BC's wild places are a treasure that I look forward to introducing to my daughter. Let's keep it spectacular for the sake of all future generations! Wendy Linton Seattle, WA I am a Scout. In scouting we were told from the age of 6 that the environment is the most important possession we were given. Ignoring animal’s rights is not a proper use of this privilege. Alex Wigle I am astonished that B.C. does not seem to care about our wildlife - whether it be allowing massive clear cuts, allowing "culling" of certain species, or logging in our own Crown land. We should be known for our environmental protection rather than clear-cutting our wildlife out of existence and reaping economic rape of our land. Diana Childs Ladysmith, BC I am born and raised in the North Okanagan and have seen changes in 50 years that should not happen. We used to have Monarch butterflies, now, no longer. We never had Knapp weed, now, we do. Habitat erosion is responsible for the first and not taking physical action, as a community is responsible for the next. Not everything is the government’s responsibility. There needs to be grass roots movements to eradicate invasive plants, it can be done. I do that locally in my own neighborhood. Protection of environment is the government’s responsibility. We need to have protection for plant and animals species now more than ever before. Please stand up and protect this beautiful province for the sake of our grandchildren and their grandchildren. The onus is on us to stand up and be counted as protectors and set an example for others. Karen Siemens Vernon, BC I am deeply saddened each time I see biologically diverse habitats paved over or demolished for the purposes of logging. We need to come up with other methods of dealing with resources and population expansion and to protect what we have because it is disappearing quickly, and this needs to be dealt with in BC's legislation. British Columbia is known far and wide for valuing its natural wealth, and we need to show it through our laws as well as our daily actions. Thank you for your time. Aimée Grimes Vancouver, BC I am extremely worried about the fate of our endangered species. I am an avid birder and enjoy observing wildlife in my spare time. Over the years I have noticed a steady loss of habitat to support wildlife. Please make some changes now before it is too late. Thank you. Linda Koch Richmond, BC I am fortunate to live in a "rural" wildness area next to a wilderness park. I urge you to consider legislation to protect our indigenous plants and animals. This along with a comprehensive environmental plan that leads the other provinces is crucial. Please work with all the parties to save our beautiful province so we can continue to call it “Beautiful British Columbia”. Jill Tate Sooke, BC I am from Quebec and I wasn't that interested in the flora & fauna before I moved to BC because it's so lush and beautiful here! And since I met a biologist I became much more passionate about it. I strongly urge you to protect it as it's what makes: Beautiful British Columbia. Karine Brochu Vancouver, BC I am honestly ashamed to live in such a wonderful county with such lax environmental legislation that favors industry and economy over the environment. Mike Harrhy Kelowna, BC I am just one of many people in my neighborhood that are very worried about the state of our endangered species. While we cannot control what happens to these animals outside of B.C, we can control their fate in British Columbia with your help. Elizabeth Stacey Vancouver, BC I am not a "greenie", and am a very average citizen living in East Vancouver. I haven't got a single friend or colleague who isn't highly concerned about the environment and wildlife situation in our country, and on top of that, they are all waiting for the government to "step up". I realize it takes more than waiting for the government to step in, but I also know that none of us know how to make our voices heard enough to tell you how we feel! Not a single one of my collective group of 100 women is environmentalists, or fanatic greenies. We're all just average moms and workingwomen and we have discovered that there is almost no one out there on the streets who doesn't care about this. It seems like the only 'people' who don't care are corporations whom it directly threatens. Please don't just "help" stop the threat to our environment (on all levels), please be the forerunner in solving the problem!!! Kari Metzger Vancouver, BC I am only 11 years old and I hope you will help protect our planet so I live a happy, healthy life. I hope you can help! Joshua Gastalsello South Surrey, BC I am personally horrified at the extent of the destruction of one of the most beautiful provinces in Canada. Perhaps we need to look at long-term sustainability encompassing not just protective legislation but keeping it in mind when enacting all legislation from immigration to Trade. Bonnie Copeland Richmond, BC I am shocked and completely dismayed by the statistics that only 5 percent of the 1348 species at risk in British Columbia receive any protection. I must insist that the government enact strong endangered species legislation. This isn't a game anymore. Our entire planet is falling apart and we need to "saddle up and ride" in our own backyards right now!!!! Kathy Holley West Vancouver, BC I am sick and tired of seeing our environment and wildlife being destroyed. Let's stop talking about what the government is going to do and do it!! Naomi Higenbottam Tottenham, ON I am so proud of our Canadian landscape...our forests and wildlife astound foreign visitors, and leave Canadians with a sense of well-being, both emotionally and physically. I'm worried about our earth, and our wildlife. Humans are consuming at far too fast a rate, ravaging the land and resources we and the other poor innocent inhabitants occupy and need to sustain ourselves. Please take action to protect the nature and wildlife that we, as Canadians, are so fortunate to have. Emily Simpson Caledon, ON I am so worried about the birds. Where are they to live when we continually ruin their habitat? Will the next generation think that all birds look like starlings? Lee Perry Vancouver, BC I am tired of seeing our earth’s habitat wasting away. We need to start making some stands in our own backyard as examples to others. Thanks. Ulf von Dehn Vancouver, BC I arrived in Likely two years ago. In the pristine region of the central interior, nature, species and ecosystems are being constantly damaged by irresponsible practices in mining and logging industries. In particular, Coho Salmon, which is affected adversely by copper particulates in water, spawns in nearby Quesnel Lake. Mount Polley Mining Corporation wants to release mining effluent into the Coho spawning area of Heseltine Creek, which runs into Quesnel Lake. These practices must be stopped, as industry and shareholder profits do not justify the destruction of our lands and waters. These resources are not owned but shared by all. Venta Rutkauskas Likely, BC I believe all life forms are connected - if one is endangered, we all are endangered. How can we as a species so flippantly risk losing critical links in the chain! I hope you will give this campaign serious consideration - my kids are counting on you! Debbie Dergousoff I believe it is our responsibility to protect these species at risk, since we are the species largely responsible for their loss of habitat and over hunting, among other problems. Mr. Campbell, you have already made some great announcements about plans to lessen our environmental footprint. This is our opportunity to be a leader in the protection of endangered wildlife - let's show the rest of Canada that BC is serious about taking care of its environment! Tessa Kitchen Vancouver, BC I believe the extinction of wildlife is absolutely a clear indication that we will also be on the endangered species list. It's just a matter of time. Water is no longer a commodity and the health of our water will certainly determine the health of all living creatures on earth. Do something now!! We can now longer put the concerns of big business in front of the concerns of the health of the planet. Donna Coughlin Toronto, ON I grew up in Southern Ontario and watched species go extinct there as I grew up. Ontario has now, too late, created endangered species legislation. BC should enact strong legislation now to save the remnant of biodiversity we still have. Please do this. Jessica Alford Victoria, BC I have always felt so privileged to share my home with our incredible wildlife, and I want to keep our biological heritage around for our kids and grandkids. Candace Batycki Nelson, BC I have always lived in BC and traveling abroad has shown me that this is the most wonderful place on earth. Our bio-diversity is a wonderful part of our wilderness. Please protect the place I love. Donovan Cavers I have always respected nature because it has respected me by providing the things I need to survive. Please respect nature or it will stop providing the things we need to survive. Thank you for your time. Belinda Maillet I have been fortunate enough to have spent half of my grade 11 year during high school as part of an outdoor-academic program that opened my eyes to the beauty and raw poetry of this province. It is our duty to protect this treasure with which we have been entrusted, and I would love for everyone to be able to appreciate this ecological splendor. I feel strongly that after having experienced it, they would want to protect it as well. Anelyse Weiler Courtenay, BC I have been to British Columbia once but it was one of the most beautiful places I have seen in Canada thus far. I cannot begin to emphasize the importance of mitigating issues concerning climate change, habitat loss, oil spills, pollution and many other human effects on the world today. It is absolutely crystal clear in my mind that we have the knowledge and the technology to do something about these types of issues before it is too late. If we can protect 1348 species instead of only 5 percent of those from extinction then doesn't that mean we saved the lives of many other related species? All existence on this earth is linked to one another in some way and it's critical that we take all the steps we can to protect that existence or our earth, as we know it and all its inhabitants will be in jeopardy. There is no longer time to deal with these issues tomorrow and these issues are most definitely real and they are happening right now. I support enacting strong endangered species legislation now. Brian Bisaillon Toronto, ON I have lived in BC my whole life and traveled to many places in Canada and the world. Every time I return to BC, I am struck by the beauty and value of our natural heritage. I see it being gradually (and increasingly more quickly) being destroyed by uncontrolled development. This development is fueled by the profit motive. Profit is good but worthless if the world is destroyed because of it. Thank you for your rapid attention to this matter. Jessie Kerr Comox, BC I have recently, through a relationship with a biologist, been introduced properly to the amazing world that is our BC wilderness. As a life long urbanite this awakening to the world around me has truly shook my core values and I ask you to do all that is within your power to protect that world which I am feeling so lucky to now know. Chris Ferguson Vancouver, BC I have spent a considerable amount of time in British Columbia and I can avow, most whole-heartedly, that it is my most favourite place on Earth. My son and his mother live in BC. As you can easily conclude, I am one of the "dirty Americans", but I want my family to be able to spend their lives in the beautiful, natural treasure that is BC. If you do not pass the laws that are needed, Canada will become nothing more than another U.S.A. We have already destroyed most of out natural treasures and, with the current political regime in control, are well on the way to destroying even more all in the name of the almighty dollar. There is no amount of money that could ever be more than the worth of the natural world that surrounds you. You have a chance to make a difference now and keep BC from becoming the wasteland that the U.S. has become through greed. Eric Fletcher Castle Rock, CO I have watched as invasive plant species have taken over and killed the natural plants within a 2 year period in the Shuswap. The frogs have almost all disappeared from a local pond and Perch have been put into our lakes (Gordon Lake) and have totally changed the biodiversity - birds and ducks have had to move. Please keep our natural B.C. beautiful! Catherine Hobbs I intend to teach my children about wildlife and nature by bringing my children to the many magical wilderness areas throughout Canada. Please help ensure there is great biodiversity in BC and throughout Canada so that we may have this to share with future generations. Melissa Thornton Saint John, NB I know I'm not from B.C., but my vision of your province is that it is the prettiest and most diverse of all Canadian provinces. Some day, I want my kids to visit B.C. and see all the beautiful wildlife. Please protect it!! Doris Olmstead St. Charles, ON I know that you recognize the splendor of your land and want to preserve what makes British Columbia so spectacular. I urge you to respond to the growing need for greater protection of endangered and threatened species, a concern shared by Canadians not just in B.C. but also throughout the country. Jeremy Marks Hamilton, ON I live in the South Okanagan where species like the burrowing owl will disappear if it is not protected. It is important to preserve the species of British Columbia and to protect them... not just for them or so we can see them on the wildlife documentaries, but because they are part of an ecosystem that humans are also a part of and changes in the amount of any species will affect us all, our food supply, insects, pine beetles. It's time to learn from the past and make the future our priority -not just for the animals but for everyone. Laura Coldwell Naramata, BC I lived in Vancouver for four years and it is, by far the most beautiful city I have ever lived in. I have traveled throughout British Columbia and, having grown up in Ontario was blown away by how breath-taking B.C. is. It worries me that the natural habitat is not protected the way it should be. I have so much faith and belief in David Suzuki and his foundation and urge you to consider his proposal. Jennifer Grant Ottawa, ON I may be only 16 years old, but already I'm worried that my children's world will be devoid of the natural diversity BC currently is privy to. Please take action to protect my future environment and their future environment. Rosalind Sadowski New Westminster, BC I moved to B.C. two years ago and am amazed at the abuse of wildlife in this area. A colony of painted turtles (endangered species) is presently being buried alive by a large industrial company - not humane to say the least. I am led to understand that there are no laws in this province protecting these creatures or prohibiting the way they are being destroyed. Jean Jones Kelowna, BC I myself notice fewer butterflies and songbirds, and now bees, in my Kitsilano garden. It's kind of heartbreaking. Life is shrinking away from us, even here in British Columbia. Most people live in a far more urban environment than us. If we in this rich, lovely place can't protect our endangered species, no one can, Premier Campbell. Please listen and help us help nature. I believe it's your high responsibility to do so. Tara Cullis Vancouver, BC I realize that the main concern about politicians is getting reelected, but I'd like to think that people that are in politics got where they are by being driven to make things better. I would love you to forget about the “politics” of these issues and start acting in a way that shows you care about what's right. Increase gas taxes - make the people that choose to drive irresponsible cars suffer for it - or at least redirect the money from existing gas taxes and use the money to do more for the environment - rather than letting Translink waste as much as they do! Dawn Hancock I recently had an opportunity to work with the Spotted Owl project in the lower mainland. This experience provided me the opportunity to learn just how little our province is doing to protect such a threatened species. The spotted owl is a magnificent bird that barely stands a chance for survival if the MoE continues to ignore the fact that their habitat must be protected. The percentage of logging occurring in old growth forest must be curbed, not only for owls, but to maintain a healthy level of biodiversity that is not only crucial for the species living within that ecosystem, but also for BC residents. Sustainable logging practices will not only protect many valuable species (flora and fauna), but it will maintain important ecosystem processes, including (but not limited to) watershed stability and filtration, clean air and a healthy economy for our future. It is appalling and depressing that the leaders of our province are unable to see the values (economic and ecological) of logging for the future and not for the present. Danielle Backman Revelstoke, BC I see from different reports and actions that Premier Campbell has changed his thinking on many Aboriginal and First Nation issues and challenges. I hope along with that understanding he has gained some insight on First Nations deep respect for the land and everything that lives on it, under it, in the water and above us. That we are part of the nature circle not above it. What we do to any one species affects us all; we are all connected in the circle. I ask you to please protect species that are at risk. Thank you. Randy Cairns Mission, BC I see the destruction of the old forests around me every day on the Sunshine Coast. I am horrified by the Campbell government’s lack of concern for biodiversity here and its unwillingness to acknowledge the importance of protecting our watershed. Barbara DeMott I strongly support your plans to reduce greenhouse emissions. Now please show me that your protection of our environment extends to animals and plants, after all, we won't survive without them. Philip Solman Vancouver, BC I strongly urge you to consider not only adopting strong legislation protecting wildlife and especially the most threatened wildlife, but also consider adopting strong legislation protecting the health and welfare of all living things. That is if you want to keep your job in politics. Because believe me, change has come, ordinary people are fed up, and only the political people who are going to get the job done – stopping global warming, stopping the industrial devastation for greed, and act on protecting our legacy to future generations - "our"(meaning all human beings!) planet Earth... are going to be standing at the end of this series of changes. The time is at hand, act in accordance with the wishes of the people or fall by the wayside. Charles Ward I teach preschool and have taught the children to respect the world. If children of three to six are aware of their impact on the environment, the adults in their world should be no less aware. We need to protect all aspects of our environment so that we can perhaps pass it on to future generations in the best possible condition. We are all part of the same web. If you pull on any corner, you pull on yourself. Just because you can't see the result immediately doesn’t mean that they are not there. Denise Grieve Port Moody, BC I think that we should not be using oil or burn other things for energy. I think we should build solar panels in the desert and wind turbines because there is more than enough wind and sun to power the world. Seb Mcfadden Little York, PE I think we have to stop polluting the water because it will kill our underwater animals and I would hate that. What’s the point of scuba diving with no sea animals, you can’t? So please be more cautious of what you do to our ocean. Kayla Nordoff Charlottetown, PE I think you should do this because one day this is going to be in the history books what someone did for Canada and for its people. From, A 9 year old with a dream for his country. Mohammed Odusanya Brampton, ON I understand the spotted owl is being replaced by the barn owl – surely this is a result of old growth forest being cut down and the barn owl can survive in newer growth forests whereas the spotted owl cannot? Please do more to protect more than 5% of our wildlife and wild plants. Heather McCallum Vancouver, BC I understand you wish to make a serious effort to address the issue of climate change. The issue of species protection is also very important and linked to climate change. Please demonstrate a serious commitment to species protection enacting strong laws for endangered species. John Harrison Vancouver, BC I urge you to dedicate time and money to applying as many of the recommendations proposed by the David Suzuki Foundation re: biodiversity as possible. Susan Barois Vancouver, BC I urge you to make more responsible and sensible choice's when it comes to taking care of our planet. Erin Roberton I urge you, on the behaviour of our province to take this matter seriously and implement an act that would provide serious and conceit solutions for BC's wild life. As our provincial marketing campaign states "the best place on earth", let's not only make BC the best but the most “wildlife-friendly” place on earth. Cassandra Linklater I want to be clear that I am willing to sacrifice economic wealth for environmental wealth. Chris Joseph Squamish, BC I was born and raised in British Columbia and taught to respect the fact we have such amazing and diverse plant and animal life in British Columbia. We must take action to protect this diversity. Please make this a priority now! Danna Lewis Gabriela, BC I was lucky to grow up one of the most beautiful places in the world. We're incredibly lucky to lay claim to some of the world's last temperate rainforests, most beautiful coastlines & most majestic mountain ranges. These places are special because of the plants and animals that inhabit them, from the frogs that croak near our creeks to the lichen that hangs on the 1,000 year-old trees in Cathedral Grove. Please help to protect our endangered species. Let's set an example for the rest of Canada. Liz McDowell Langley, BC I was surprised when taking a course to find the lack of protection these species have. Biodiversity is a key part of sustainability. Sue Maxwell Vancouver, BC I would also urge your government to reconsider its position on fish farms which pose a threat to our wild salmon. British Columbia should be a leader in sustainable environmental practices. Erica Pinsky Vancouver, BC I'd like to see our province kept for future generations to see the natural beauty that has been destroyed in so many other places around the world. In the long run what will be more important, oil & coal bed methane or water and forests and the balance that nature provides for us all. I sadly see that in the area I live the thousands of frogs that lived right next door to me have been wiped out by bulldozers making the world more convenient for the people who are moving here. I stupidly thought that one of the jobs of government was to look out for our total world not just the money derived from it. Claudia Evans Summerland, BC If history is considered, it is often organizations like the David Suzuki Foundation that draw public attention to issues. It is important that the ideas of these organizations are not overlooked. Would the world have a widespread international whaling moratorium without the work of Greenpeace, for example? Perhaps the government could act to protect the natural wonders of BC before it is too late for some of the endangered species and bring in protective legislation. Barry Walker Comox, BC If we want tourism to be a large part of the BC economy, we've got to protect the reasons so many people describe our province as one of the most beautiful places in the world. Kate Douglass Vancouver, BC If you don't start acting on all environmental problems, you'll just be going down as another old cash grabbing city politician. And better be soon Gordon, you don't look good in many places. Patrick Carr Winlaw, BC If you haven't noticed from last year's winter storms, our environment is taking a beating. It's your chance to make things right. Please help the environment and the future. Miguelito Andaluz Vancouver, BC I'm a First Nations woman, the plants and animals of our country has always and will be a part of our lives. Our ancestors have used plants and animals to survive. We do not own this world. We are borrowing it from our children (this is from the elders before us) and it would be nice to have them learn from their elders what plant helps or heals. Thank you. Rita L. Surrey, BC I'm sure you'd like your grandchildren to remember you as a hero for protecting our diversity of life in BC and saving them from a life devoid of these creatures. Karen Hodgson Vancouver, BC In addition to stronger protection of endangered species, we need to protect all ecosystems currently endangered or not. Allowing hunting licenses for big game, disrupting the balance of nature by not having accurate counts on the animals such as bears is criminal in my mind. Stronger penalties for those people who destroy habitat and shoot animals should be enacted. A recent example in my region was the senseless killing of a spirit bear. Education, legislation and a move to conservation of all creatures, plant life and existing forests, streams, fields are long overdue. Shannon Jones Terrace, BC It is arrogance of the most completely ignorant kind that allows us to disregard the species of this planet. And what absolutely grotesque characteristic in comparison to the majestic diversity that we behold on planet earth. Brian Reschke Vancouver, BC It is my opinion that it is the government’s responsibility to do everything within its power to protect our environment and endangers species. Like all levels of government throughout Canada the B.C. provincial government needs to show leadership and commitment to protect our natural resources." Heather Kirby East Chester, NS It is passed time. We need to get a handle on what puts plants and animals at risk of being endangered. The BC Provincial Government needs to address the forest practices and how logging companies are devastating the land by clear cutting. The laws around development must also be addressed. Urban sprawl can no longer continue. The human race is out of control. We must step back and reassess how we are proceeding. If we want to change the course of our existence and the existence of the earth's species we must first change ourselves and that very much includes our governing bodies. It is time to actually learn to "live lightly on this earth and leave no trace" before it is too late. I just heard a remark, which is so appropriate. "You never see a hearse pulling a U-Haul". Let’s leave the earth in her perfection and stop trying to take it all with us. Step forward Mr. Premier and start by protecting our endangered species and then take a bigger step by protecting all species, which includes us. Thank you. Marcia Stewart Youbou, BC It is quite unbelievable that the present government in B.C. apparently doesn't listen to Dr. Suzuki's pleas for legislation to protect our endangered species. Shame on all the MLA's and the leader! Betty McWhinnie Whistler, BC It is really everyone's responsibility to do what they can in order to preserve a healthy environment for our children. Chris Kalbfleisch It is the mature and forward-thinking thing to do. Ken Lister Qualicum Beach, BC It is the wonder of strange and beautiful creatures and greens that keep us alive. Please do your part and protect ourselves by protecting the miraculous gifts around us. Rebecca World Vancouver, BC It is vital that we truly put our environment before our wanting of commercial and material goods. It is the environment that will last forever, if we all help together to allow animals to keep their natural cycles in their natural environment. We need to stop being selfish, and to immediately start thinking of alternatives. David Suzuki is an excellent example of who we should be listening to! Please help us keep our environment for many, many generations to come. I'm certain you want your grandchildren and their children to have the opportunity to live in a healthy world, where they will be aware that you had a large part protecting the species and the environment that we so rely on. Miranda Tanner Hamilton, ON It saddens me greatly to think that my infant daughter may not meet the many animal species that I spent hours watching as a child - frogs, butterflies, owls, to name a few. We have already done so much damage to our environment. It's time we move beyond our selfish human interests and protect those who can't protect themselves. We are but one species among many. It's time we learn to share our resources so other plants and animals survive. Please do what is right and put some strong legislation into place in British Columbia to protect its rich biodiversity. Joy Schellenberg Vancouver, BC It's time the Canadian government start taking environmental issues seriously and starts implementing concrete solutions to help our endangered species, to diminish pollutants, to protect green spaces, etc.!!! Evelyn Sponza D.D.O., QC I've never been to BC. I love to hike though so when I do go I would love to see signs saying these are the animals that live here, and not these were the animals that lived here. Rose Sharpe-Schmid Kanata, ON Let us leave the world in better shape than we found it, let us give that legacy to future generations. The Environment and Nature do not currently have a seat at the stakeholder table. Look inside yourself. John Borg Richmond, BC Lets act now, when they are gone they are gone we don't get a second chance. Teresa Stilling White Rock, BC Let's keep BC the best place on earth. It's time we do more to protect our province’s natural beauty. Chris Bowes Nanaimo, BC Let's stop stealing our children's future from them. I cry to think that my children's children may never hear the frogs sing. Monique Richoux Falkland, BC Living in Kelowna, I see the intense destruction of already dwindling habitats, such as the wetlands and the grasslands, everyday as a result of development. Threatened species cannot survive unless they have a place to live. I realize that development is going to keep happening. However, the most threatened habitats (those which have seen more than a 50% loss in the past 100 years) must be protected NOW, before it is too late! Furthermore, a less invasive form of development that works within the natural landscapes, and utilizes the natural flora would be a great way to maintain the genetic diversity of our native species of plants. I would love to see legislation, which would demand that sites not be completely bulldozed, and that all native species of plants from an area slated for development must be collected and used in the landscaping of the development after it is finished. You keep the plants, you keep more living space for the animals too. Tanis Gieselman Kelowna, BC Many of the future environmental problems we face will be exacerbated by further development of the lands and increasing the population of British Columbia. We must stop sacrificing the natural ecology of BC in the pursuit of more economic and population growth. I would urge a strategy of slowing growth in favor of preserving the environment and quality of life we have established. Anthony Dean Many people don't fully appreciate the complexity of the natural environment. I believe that species we may not pay any attention to affect the whole web of life in profound ways. I also definitely believe that a healthy ecosystem provides us with services we don't recognize economically until they're lost. B.C. is amazing, and I sincerely hope you recognize our responsibility to protect it. Jodie McCormick Burnaby, BC Many tourists and locals alike boast of BC's beautiful wilderness which we take so for granted, but what would we have to boast about if these were gone? The 2010 Olympics lose their luster after a few weeks, I hear. Vanessa Peacock Powell River, BC Mr. Premier, if one of your citizens was dying, you wouldn't ignore them would you? You can't ignore animals either. They start out the same as us, and they aren't that different from us, we are simply more intelligent and civilized. They cannot protect themselves, so we have to protect them. Please help us, and don't let our efforts go to waste! Hannah Tamblyn Thunder Bay, ON Mr. Gordon Campbell promised to make major changes at the Al Gore Presentation in front of many witnesses. This message is to remind him of that. Pauline Wong Vancouver, BC Mr. Premier please don’t allow these species to disappear from your beautiful province! It has been a lifelong dream of mine to explore the land and drink in the beauty that is so rare now in this world. What you-we have in the diverse and educational possibilities of B.C. are priceless. Please protect the land and the life that lives on it. It is our duty as human beings to guard this planet. I urge you to stand as a guardian of our land. Thank you C. Jensen Toronto, ON Mr. Premier, try to think long term - that's not five years, that's 500. Only business thinks long term is 5-20 years, and that thinking is never sustainable (I should know as a CFO of a $50 million BC company). Thanks for your consideration of this issue. Derrick Hamada Richmond, BC No greater legacy can be left by any leader than to have left the planet in better shape at the end of their term than when they started. How about you and your colleagues linking the saving of species to the global warming and environmental programs you are finally starting. James Head Vancouver, BC Not only is BC the most biologically rich it seems we are also the most economically rich lately. In a province where the cost of land is becoming insanity it should be more important than ever to protect what we have before it and everything that lives on it is consumed / developed in this mad greed fueled economy. Leah Weinberg Anmore, BC Now is a crucial time for conserving our awesome natural biodiversity here in BC. Please provide strong legislation in regard to protecting more of the species at risk of disappearing in our wonderful province. Now is the time! James Adams Kelowna, BC Once it's gone, it's gone forever. We need to save this planet and all of us who live here, now. Michelle Gierden Victoria, BC Once these species are lost they will be gone forever, and as obvious as that may sound, it should be enough for us to do whatever we can to preserve them. Please do what you can! Maureen Campbell Victoria, BC Once they are gone we can never get them back. What could be more important than preserving Gods creation. Bertel Gregersen Vernon, BC One of my fears is that by the time I have my own family, there will not be any of our beautiful animals for my kids to see. And they'll miss out on what I've grown up with, and what I'm still growing up with. M Marshall Victoria, BC Our “Beautiful British Columbia” won’t be beautiful much longer if we don’t start taking action to preserve the very things that make this province so unique and a great place to live! Shannon Tyre North Vancouver, BC Our generation, now, is responsible for protecting our amazing province and the species which live here. Our challenge is to establish ways to harvest and sustain then pass our province on, stronger and more beautiful to the next generation. Erica Dillon Victoria, BC Our government seems to neglect the importance of our environment and our ecosystem on the survival and well being of all Canadians. We need to protect our wildlife, our natural agriculture, our forests as well as our climate. Without a healthy environment, the health care system will continue to be over run and our children will grow up to not know what Canada really is all about, the natural resources that make it such a wonderful place to live and visit. Robyn Muccillo Vancouver, BC Overdevelopment is one of the reasons we are losing habitat for wild species. Species cannot survive if their habitat is destroyed for housing, highways (Eagleridge Bluffs comes to mind) big box stores, etc. Stella Dodge North Vancouver, BC People come from all over the world to experience British Columbia's wonderful diversity of life, generating considerable revenue for the province. For this reason alone, we must do everything we can to ensure survival of all species. Joan Jochim Quesnel, BC Please do not ignore this very important letter. Future generations will be left with nothing if we keep letting this global warming go on and nothing being done about it. Tasha Darwin Vancouver, BC Please do something to protect these animals. B.C is a beautiful province mainly because of the wildlife; you need to keep it that way. Natasha Fry Ottawa, ON Please enact stronger species protection legislation immediately. Shame on you for squandering this opportunity so far. It is more than alarming, as an environmentalist, to watch this apathy in action. Why not change it? Why not do your job and protect B.C.'s precious ecology? Why is it so unimportant to you? Has nobody stopped for a moment to consider that losing a species is PERMANENT!? Please enact legislation to protect the environment immediately. Laura Gillespie Calgary, AB Please make a difference and take action to protect endangered plants and wildlife our future depends on it. Yvette Nunes Leget Strathroy, ON Please make the efforts needed to ensure a sustainable future. It is our responsibility! Chris Bratseth Victoria, BC Please pay attention to the details of keeping our planet alive for your and my children… Kerstin Battie Ladysmith, BC Please protect all old growth in the province. Selectively log the second growth. Protect Vancouver Island's East Coast Douglas Fir. Michael Ferrario Chemainus, BC Please protect BC's wildlife. Once they're gone, they're gone forever. Christine Backhouse Montreal, QB Please protect it now; when it's too late, it's too late!! Candice McMillan Edmonton, AB Please protect more species at risk with stronger legislation. Losing a species is forever, while economic gains are only temporary. Claude Tani Vancouver, BC Please protect our plants and wildlife. Without them, our future will have nothing. Kelly Arnold Vancouver, BC Please protect the plants and wildlife of BC. If nothing is done to protect the natural environment and what lives in it, there won’t be anything left for them or us for tomorrow. Protecting wildlife and their habits as well as plant life assures our generation and the next enjoyment and a good quality of life for the future, man and animals and plants alike. Frank Fenn Calgary, AB Please protect the wildlife so that I and my children's children can have the same privilege of seeing these unique animals in the future that generations have enjoyed viewing in the past. Heather Rodd Portage la Prairie, MB Please put our planet and all its life forms first. Too much development and not enough joy! Gloria Davies Vancouver, BC Please set an example for other provinces, including Alberta! Lori Smith Calgary, AB Please for out children and their children. We cannot know this information and not do anything about it. I feel so helpless as a public member. I beseech those with power to do the right thing. Thank you. Leslie Anne Franklin La Canada, CA Premier Campbell, I feel proud to live in the "Super Natural" Province of British Columbia, but I cannot say I feel the same way about the rate of progress our legislative body is taking towards the steps necessary to protect our beautiful lands, and all the species that live here with us. Please make this area of concern a priority, before it is too late... Chris Nucci Present BC endangered species legislation seems to be an afterthought within a framework focused on hunting regulation. That isn't adequate. Legislation should take into account that the most efficient and effective way to protect species is to protect the habitats that they rely on, and link these in ecological networks; it should encourage stewardship of the environment beyond the protected area network (other species shouldn't expected to understand our geographical boundaries!); and decision-making on protection should be based on good science, not political expediency. Shouldn't "the best place on Earth" be striving to be the world leader in every field that it can - including the quality and effectiveness of its environmental legislation? Michelle de Cordova Vancouver, BC Protect the dynamic west coast ecosystems for generations to come. Ensure that environmental protection laws have teeth so that they can really protect what Canadians are for- a rich and dynamic ecosystem! Charles Gardner Toronto, ON Protecting just 5% of our species at risk is shameful. I think all of our species at risk deserve your protection. One reason is to do it for the species themselves. They don't deserve extinction. Another is to do it for our own self-serving human interests; biodiversity strengthens the food chain and is important to life, as we know it. Another reason is to stand out to visitors as a place that protects diversity of life, a place that others will travel to and look up to as a model. Debra Mikaelsen Vancouver, BC Remember that tourism, especially eco-tourism, is an important part of our economy. Erin Byers Victoria, BC Science shows that our planet is heading towards its sixth mass extinction, but this time, as a direct result of how we humans behave towards the ecosystem that sustains our lives. Our children are faced with dire outcomes of this behaviour we are enacting today. Our children cannot and will not have a blooming economy without a healthy ecology. It is the time right now, today, to take determined steps and pass legislations that protect the intricate and necessary balance of all species in this province. Each species needs a fine balance with the others in order to perform its task in this natural system that we humans require for our very existence. We urge you here and today to pass legislations that will do this important job. Thank you. Cornelia Zeisser 2125 Main Mall Vancouver, BC Stop putting our planet at risk, leave the oceans alone. They belong to everyone, not just Canada! Isn't it time you protected more than 5% of native species that are fast becoming extinct. Do your grandchildren a favor and save these endangered species. Wanda Van-Der-Zyden High Wycombe, XX "Super Natural BC”? More like supernatural BC if all we have left are ghosts of species. Once they're gone, that's it, and there's enough pressure out there without adding to it. Can you please just be sensible for the sake of all our grandchildren and their grandchildren? If we need to have areas where human access is limited to get this done, so be it. Alice Harris Burnaby, BC Thank you for protecting some of the caribou's habitat, just announced this week. With the spirit bear as one of B.C.'s mascots, I can see that you are starting to realize that once a species is extinct, it is forever gone. We do not want to be like Easter Island, and have nothing to show for our existence because we did not realize that we live in a finite place. Let us now learn to co-exist with nature, instead of using everything. Thanks. Jenna Hunt Vancouver, BC The Fact that we have an abundance of Forests does not mean we should be deforesting any of our old forests any more. Every single forest that is old should be protected. Use the new forests that have been planted in place of what was taken down already. It’s a simple system, take it down, replace it and come back to in a 10 years. Of all the Forest in Canada that have been Replanted this is enough to last decades. No excuses. The roads are made for deforestation use them again. It’s cheaper. Chris Page The government's support and action regarding environmental issues this far has been absolutely ridiculous!! Now is the time to act. The window of opportunity is closing to act quickly. Ashley Sutherland The natural world and survival of diverse species is essential to our survival as we are not separate from the natural world. I urge you to put in place immediately a plan to protect BC's plants and wildlife. Anita Melin Proctor, BC The Okanogan Valley in BC is the 3rd most endangered ecosystem in Canada. BC has more endangered flora and fauna than any other province and the Okanagan Valley has the majority of them...some are found nowhere else in the world! The Species at Risk Act does not protect non-federal lands and leaves it up to a panel of non-scientists to decide which species are the COSEWIC lists! What is wrong with this picture? We MUST speak up for the flora and fauna that cannot defend them. Laurie Rockwell Summerland, BC The rapid rate of development and resource use in BC requires the government to take action now. Environmental issues have now become a leading issue among all Canadians, and the BC Liberals need to start responding to their constituents concerns and stop listening to the big businesses. I urge you to be responsible and take your role as representatives of BC citizens more seriously. Please ensure that we have proper legislation to make a difference in the protection of our natural habitat and species at risk. Tanya Bettles Aldergrove, BC There is no logical reason for not protecting our diverse range of species. Michael Apps Kingston, ON There is no time to waste on this issue. It's a shame that we concentrate our energies on material wealth and short-term gain at the expense of our environment. As you know, everything is related and once species go they carry others to extinction. We owe it to our kids, grandchildren and others to have the opportunity to see the world as it is. There's no point to have stacks of money if the world to live in is in tatters. I am ready to make sacrifices for this and I'm sure most people would if they were given the chance. You can do something about it. While I applaud your words on making BC greener I would like to see some action. For example, how about lowering the speed limit by 10km/hour on all roads to save energy and emissions? These species need protection. The world is crumbling under the buckling weight of humanity, and those humans who have the power to make a difference and alleviate that incomprehensibly heavy burden seem reluctant to do so. If those in power do not promote conservation, humans will ultimately suffer the price as well. Please, answer the call. Nicole Khosla Oakville, ON Think about it, I'm not going to a university in a province that doesn't care for its animals. An ecologically friendly province with many animals is so much more appealing then smog covered one with little or no wildlife. Alicia MacCara Truro, NS Think fast. Too many meetings will end in too few species. Christine Fagan Duncan, BC This is a serious issue. It is about helping the other animals of the planet! Because, you know, we're not alone. Justin Powell Mission, BC This is an extremely important environmental issue. You have expressed concern about global warming so I hope you can understand and take action to address the serious issue of protecting BC's biodiversity. John Harrison Vancouver, BC This is ridiculous I grew up thinking Canada was the most environmental country and find out that we have 1,300 plants and wildlife in danger that’s just stupid I guess I was wrong about use eh thanks for letting me down. Francesca Huneke Port Alberni, BC This province's environmental record is an embarrassment. Examples: Lack of protection for the spotted owl, lack of innovation in alternative energy development (wind farms, tidal power generation) etc., lack of tax incentives for developing alternative power sources. Grandstanding for the Olympics - "the Hydrogen Highway" just doesn't cut it. Kelly Rivard Vancouver, BC This would be my second time posting a message to you. I do not want your staff to look at your need to protect the provinces wildlife because only you can do that not your staff! Mohammed Odusanya Brampton, ON Though I don't live in your province, I am a frequent visitor. I always look forward to enjoying the beauty of the British Columbia wilderness and can't imagine it without the great variety of wildlife and amazing flowers. I hope you make every effort to preserve all these precious species. Yvonne Schmitz Calgary, AB To be a leader in the world, we must make nature and our environment the number one concern. Growing up in B.C., I was lucky enough to spend a lot of time enjoying our surroundings. I believe this is an integral part of personal development and we must protect it. Richard Seymour Vancouver, BC To protect endangered wildlife, we must protect their habitat. Your environment minister has shown blatant disregard for our environment here in BC. Forestry profits are put before watersheds and habitat protection. Short-term profit does not help our province, show leadership please. Nadja Hocking Powell River, BC To: Gordon Campbell I spend a lot of time in the wilderness, and have been blessed with the sights and sounds of nature my whole life. It is devastating to see this province eating up its resources and wildlife for the sake of jobs and money. I often talk to people around the world, and have actually convinced people to come to BC to experience its beauty. If money is the priority, then tourism is one way to ensure a steady flow. If we don't make drastic changes in terms of conserving what we have, the people of BC might not be able to convince others to visit the beauty, because the beauty will be lost in the past. Please do all the citizens of BC a favor and protect our endangered species. Lliam Hildebrand Sidney, BC Want to save as much of the present environment for future generations, as humanly possible. Helen Tokay Maple Ridge, BC We as Canadians, and you as a part of the government, have a responsibility to preserve all wildlife that is within the area, and help them thrive. Extinction means never again existent, never being revived, never again. This is a dangerous and irreversible permanence that just cannot occur not only for the species that are affected but also for the global balance. Despite strong tendencies towards specism, we as the human race must change our intrusive and destructive ways and help preserve the natural balance as it is meant to exist. A Metcalfe Listowel, ON We can't truly say "Supernatural BC" unless we address these issues. I'd love to be able to say that I'm proud of my BC government for taking a leadership role here. Thank you. I know leading this province is difficult and I thank you for listening to all voices, even those of our tender wildlife that need our help. Susan Stenson Victoria, BC We continue to encroach on our environment. We need to build up, not out: apartments (even condos spread too much). Reforest after logging, instead of building houses higher on the mountains! (See Abbotsford/ Masque hills disappearing - right behind Mission's.) Quit building roads! Alternatives are needed!!! Leslie Christensen Mission, BC We don't tend to miss things until they are gone. I'd rather not miss things. Our way of life in part includes being able to enjoy our wilderness - everybody's life is made better by the ability to go camping and see something they've never seen before, to experience a life that isn't widely seen on TV, or at all in the city. Our wilderness, our biodiversity, is critical to the Canadian way of life, and needs to be protected. Alyssa Roode Vancouver, BC We have a special responsibility to act as guardians of these precious resources, not only for our self, but for the entire world. We cannot be derelict in our duty. Please do the right, responsible thing and protect these species before it is too late. Mark McConchie Vancouver, BC We have the power to protect, but we need action. Ernie Hilts Wasaga Beach, ON We live in a forest of trees with wildlife around us all the time. More land is being cleared around us causing water run off, upsetting wildlife territories and residents moving in who have no idea how to respond to bears, coyotes, raccoons plus others. We need policies to protect these animals and also keep as many of the large trees as possible for the birds that nest here. Shirley Steemers Maple Ridge, BC We Must Have Strong Endangered species legislation! It’s good for business as well as the environment! Walter Wilson Qualicum beach, BC We need strong legislation and strict enforcement. Wendy Hinestrosa Burnaby, BC We need stronger endangered species legislation to prevent further extinction of species in British Columbia. What is "Beautiful British Columbia" without all its diversity of flora and fauna? Gaik Beng Khoo Vancouver, BC We need to do more to save and protect those things most valued and loved in our society, and our environment is the most important! Our future depends on it. Stop the growth of the concrete jungle! Mike Botic Vancouver, BC We need to do something now to protect our beautiful province for our future generations. Please help us! Vanessa Sobkovich Selkirk, ME We need to protect our environment. Losing species (due to human involvement) is not a good sign for the future of this planet. Janet Cook Nanaimo, BC We need to stop it or the glaciers will melt and we’ll all drown. Avery Hillstrom Charlottetown, PEI We have one chance to save these animals. Once they are gone they are gone forever. Jess Rutherford Winnipeg, MB We really do owe it to the fauna of our province as they are some of the biggest draws for industry and our standard of living. Ben Wari Vancouver, BC We see no toads and frogs and few butterflies. Where have they gone? And no cougar or bear sightings for over a year. How come? Yet we expand are housing and run about in our quads and 4x4s as if we own the forest. We protect only 5% of our endangered species? That's shameful! Let's get with it. Do the right thing with legislation, which protects all creatures and plants. Just like human beings wild creatures only survive if their habitat is healthy. Let's repair any damage we have done and enrich it wherever we can. Greatly strengthened endangered species legislation is a good start. John Connolly Nelson, BC We trust that you will take action for the benefit of future generations to come. Alain Hamelin Carignan, QC We're counting on you to represent all of us, and we will vote accordingly. Peter Graham Vancouver, BC What will our children have to look forward too? Lisa Hoffman Calgary, AL When biodiversity disappears, everything suffers. Please make the right decision for our future and pass strong protective legislature for our endangered species. Thanks. Mike Chilton Vancouver, BC When I talk about and think about our province, it's the natural beauty and richness that comes to mind first. The diversity of species and natural ecosystems that support them must be protected. Kelly Compton Nanaimo, BC When I was a child I was obsessed with animals. When I’d spot something in the wild that I had never seen before I was more excited that any other time. The state of the world today makes me afraid to bear children; I don’t want the guilt of them being a terminal generation. A bit heavy I agree, but small steps toward the salvation of our natural world will add up to a longer and healthier existence for the future. It's getting critical. Please help us all. Dylan Davenport Surrey, BC When we sit back and watch these things happen to our beautiful province and its natural inhabitants we are no better than the ones logging the forest, over fishing and generally destroying our amazing habitat. We take things for granted, I know that as a British Columbian I am very proud of where I am from and I boast of its beauty regularly. But also as a Canadian I get to boast about our government and the free nation we call home. Please let that be something I can do with a clear conscience for decades to come. Brit Chreptyk Surrey, BC Who knows what will unravel when one strand of the web of life is broken? Please do more to protect wildlife. Damara Nickerson With the mushrooming human population in the South Okanagan our native antelope brush habitat is seriously threatened. Along with that many plants and animals are more at risk than ever before. I won't mention any specific species here - your own biologists already know full well what's at stake. Robert Klei Osoyoos, BC Well I need to tell y’all that you got to do something about this thing that you guys call global warming. You, the scientists and smart people, team together and teach each other what you know about it, and help each other plan to do something to save the human race, I’m scared concerned and want help, I’ll help you if you need the help, although I may not be as smart as you, I do know one thing, we need to do something to protect the world and every thing living on it! Nicole Shaw Covehead, PEI
If we can't give our children a healthy planet, then everything else we try so hard to give them is in vain.
Jessica Hedrick Mission, BC I envy Canadians who have the opportunity to live in such a beautiful province with an abundance of wildlife. Please protect our species. Laura Sosin Toronto, ON I have been very disappointed with the lack of action by the government of British Columbia regarding the protection of endangered species, and I want to see the B.C. government take more action towards protecting these animals. The biodiversity of British Columbia is one that should be enjoyed by our children and their children as well. I want the B.C. government to provide more protection to these endangered species. Shira Biner Thornhill, ON We only have one chance to correct this issue before it is too late. Procrastinating dealing with this issue is not acceptable. Holly Hyatt Kelowna, BC IT'S SOOOO IMPORTANT TO SAVE THEM Sara August Whitby, ON I believe it is our duty to dedicate ourselves to the preservation of our planet and all the life forms on it! Every single living thing is essential to the continued existence of our Universe. It is imperative to protect our endangered species, as they are an integral part of maintaining our eco-systems! Please do whatever is necessary to protect these beautiful beings! Gary Gottselig Vancouver, BC B.C.’s plants and wildlife need protection for present and future generations. Patricia De Lorenzi Windsor, ON Time is of the essence. Please take action today to preserve species for tomorrow. Louisette Lanteigne Waterloo, ON I am first and foremost an environmentalist, but even if you are not as ecologically concerned consider that we are also a province that benefits greatly from environmental tourism. If we allow this "commodity" to slip, what will happen to the economy? If we allow species that are intrinsic to this "commodity" to disappear, give a good-bye kiss to that lucrative business as well. Lisa Jensen North Vancouver, BC We are for the protection of endangered animals everywhere in Canada, and also for a real and honest environmental plan. Long life to such a person as David Suzuki (lets call him a really concerned human being). Ramzi Taleb Ontario, BC I am originally from the Okanagan Valley and in my time there I witnessed unprecedented development eating away the grasslands. Even Ellison Provincial Park has been impacted by the rapid and seemingly unchecked growth. A developer has somehow gained the right to build right up to the park boundary. Campers can now sit by their fires and glance at the giant super lit homes that stand where trees used to. Please do something to protect wildlife habitat so that my children can know the beauty and diversity that BC is famous for. Jackson Renée Toronto, BC I would like to say that the Premier of British Columbia needs to pay attention to what is important for this land and what needs to be done in order to protect our species. While it is true that future generations are depending on this, what about here and now, I depend on the sights and sounds of all our wonderful animals, I love to walk through wooded areas, to sit on the grass in the summertime. I listened to the news this morning from Washington only to hear that a decision has been put on hold concerning the Polar Bears being put on an endangered list until the oil drilling in a new area has finished. How can it be? That the greed for money has surpassed the value of our environment. Do you care, do you have any compassion, is it that you just do not understand. There is nothing more beautiful than nature and so I ask you Mr. Premier to listen, pay attention and act now, stand up and let your voice be heard, protect our animals from becoming extinct. Please, look into the window of your soul and do the right thing now. Nancy Forward Arias Ottawa, ON Hello. I should start by saying that I am not pierced, tattooed smoke pot or tie myself to trees. I am however a hard working 39 year old man who has watched in my lifetime the deterioration of our society and the brutal disregard to the longevity of our earth. We are more worried about our yoga classes to help our mind/body than we are about the most important body, body earth. Please consider the future of our planet and our brothers and sisters. Trent Stewart Vancouver, Canada A response to this letter, with your intentions to help resolve these issues, and any another other ideas you may have that could benefit from my assistance would be greatly appreciated. I do believe these issues cannot be solved by one person alone, but with support from each other, we can make the difference! Peace and blessings. Launa McGraw Windsor, ON Even though I am only 15, I have learned that my generation will have to start caring and respecting the environment. Passing an endangered species legislation will not only help endangered animals, but the whole ecosystem. Please help us and those poor animals out. Priya Nagra Port Coquitlam, BC I am coming to the conclusion that Liberal government is more about the corporation then it is about the long term health of this province; enact strong protection for all of BC species. Jack Buxton Chilliwack, BC I live on the Chilliwack River and have been watching the Salmon stocks get smaller and smaller each year. This is just one example. Please do something before it is too late... Keith Thomson Chilliwack, BC As a proud Canadian, which I know that you are as well, I have a great deal of pride when telling international people about our wildlife. However, we are not doing all that we can for the animals that share our home. And, as a Canadian I should feel pride for our creatures, where I feel shame in admitting, we are not doing all that we can. As the leader of our beautiful and diverse province, you should be the first to take a stand in preserving our endangered species, the ones that need our help. We need to save our wildlife if we are to save our future. Please, be the leader for our province, and look at Ontario's example. We can change the future for our wildlife, but we need the help of everyone, especially our Premier. Sincerely, Erin Giesbrecht Kamloops, BC You are in a position of power. Do something with it. Chris Mennel Cawston, BC I am extremely concerned about the state of our natural environment. More habitat needs to be protected to preserve BC's various species. Ray Freeman Victoria, BC The age of over-industrialization and domination of the environment is over. This is clear to anyone who studies the state of the planet as well as our place within it. There is no time to delay any longer. We are an integral part of this great web of life, but we are only one part. Our scars have been plentiful, and we're nearing a serious threshold in many aspects of this precious planet. Of paramount importance is the biodiversity of species on this planet and the effect they have on the greater collective of the ecosystems, which they reside. We have the potential to alleviate some amount of the devastation. It can be reversed, but action is required NOW. The funding is available if only our leaders can take a stand and make the voice of the people be heard. I'm fully aware of the pressures put on a person in your position, and I have sympathy for the difficulty of that platform, but an individual with a moral conscience for his fellow man, and for the long term future of this planet must make tough decisions. David Hegner Coquitlam, BC Be the change you want to see. Sean McKillop Vancouver, BC Protection of all species are all equally important. The extinctions of just one species has a chain effect, and can wipe out other species as well. Biodiversity and keeping global warming at bay are top priorities for me. This is why I became a vegetarian, reduced the amount that I drive and why I have taken other steps to protect the environment. How I vote will also reflect my concerns on these issues. Eric Mousseau Surrey, BC I have lived in and visited BC and I think it the most beautiful place I have ever been and I cry (I've cried buckets) every time I have to leave it. In my heart it will always be home. There is nothing more amazing to me than the smell of the ocean, the phenomenal old growth forests, the incredible moss, the... I volunteer with Greenpeace, The Kananaskis Society, The Rainforest Action network, I have lived in the forests of BC... I urge you to preserve the forests. It may not be safe for me to return to the coast for 20 years, I want it to still be there for me then. Teri (Tazra) Sonnenberg Calgary, AB Please, take responsibility. Kara Johnson Victoria, BC As a Canadian living abroad, the impact that Canada has on Nature is of great personal importance. Not only will the legacy we leave affect the future of all Canadians, but also it speaks of the honor and nobility of Canada itself. Stephanie Greenish Woburn, MA Damage to our planet affects everyone, and so decisions about its welfare include everyone. Please be a progressive force in conservation, and planning for the future. Thank You Jessy Bell-Smith Guelph, ON It is time that our governments wake up!You all have children...what kind of world are you going to leave for them? Kia Robertson Vernon, BC Thousands of tourists visit our beautiful province each year, and rave about our forests, ocean, and wildlife. Why aren't we protecting what we're most proud of? Let's make a change, here and now, to ensure the next generations will be able to live in a province where they can go out and see our wildlife - not just pictures of them in books. Chelsie Krenze Kamloops, BC When will the sense of urgency set in? Have we not witnessed enough proof of what Dr. Suzuki has been telling us for over 30 years? What is it going to take? Esther Loenzo Ste. Genevieve, QC Once species drop bellow a minimum viable population (mvp) level, there is little hope for recovery. It is also very difficult to determine the number for an mvp, as each population will have a different value. Therefore, species must be protected before there populations show a drastic decline. BC, along with the rest of Canada, needs to do more to protect at risk species. Thank you. Patrick Gauley-Gale Vancouver, BC Growing up in BC and having moved to Halifax, NS for schooling and even to Ontario, I realize that there is not a more beautiful province than British Columbia with its beautiful forests and wildlife. BC is the place where I want to spend the rest of my life and to have my children grow up, when I have them. However, if the province continues to degenerate and lose wildlife and its forests, I do not know where I would go. I do not think there would be anything as wonderful as living in British Columbia. I realize that our population is continuing to grow and its impact is continually affecting the environment, but we should still promote sustainability as much as possible regardless of the cost before it is too late. It may not affect us in this lifetime, but in our children's lifetime. I do not want them to never forget us because we did not think of the affect our current ways will have on them. Jessica Lo Halifax, NS Is it not obvious? I'm a 15-year-old girl, and I know and understand the whole picture. What part of protecting the world, and BC, is difficult for you to understand? Anum Khan Brampton, ON The most important thing to remember is that you are also helping the ones you love, you are contributing towards a better future for them and not just for yourself. We must be awake to our actions in the here and now, in order for them to make any real impact in the future. Thank you for doing the right thing. Angela Scott Burnaby, BC |
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Species at Risk Act
Rich Wildlife, Poor Protection
