by Andrea Reimer

Thursday April 24, 2008 at 11:19 AM

Vancouver, BC – The Wilderness Committee is pleased to hear the announcement by Environment Minister Barry Penner that the controversial property within 500 metres of the world famous Adams River, currently up for rezoning as high density condo development, is now on his "shopping list".

A public hearing Monday night in the community of Scotch Creek drew over 500 angry residents Monday night to oppose the West Beach Village condo and marina development along the shore of Shuswap Lake. At the last minute, developer Mike Rink withdrew the marina portion of his proposal but is still proceeding with plans for a 218 unit condo and commercial development. The application passed second reading by the Columbia-Shuswap Regional District in March, and is up for third reading on May 15th.

"Withdrawing the marina application is good news, but it does not preclude the developer from applying again once the land-based portion of the development is complete," says Andrea Reimer, Executive Director of the Wilderness Committee. "People investing in this resort development want motorized boat access to Shuswap Lake which is located only metres from the largest Sockeye Salmon run in North America," she added.

As a result of public pressure including a large rally organized by local residents two weeks ago, Minister Penner announced late Tuesday that he has instructed his staff to look at the feasibility of purchasing the property and adding to Roderick Haig-Brown Park. "It is the obvious choice because it would provide complete protection for the Adams River estuary which is vital habitat for both salmon and Rainbow Trout as well as all the dependant species," noted Wilderness Committee Staff Scientist Andy Miller.

The property, sold to developers (New Recreation Ltd.) in 2005, has historically been a family campground with only light boat traffic nearby. Local residents are calling for the area to be returned to low impact camping and lake access for non-motorized boat traffic only. "There is now an opportunity to improve the riparian zone, keep motorboats away from the mouth of the Adams River, and at the same time provide much needed camping space in this stunning setting," Miller pointed out.

The Wilderness Committee fully supports local efforts to preserve this area around the Adams River and add it to Roderick Haig-Brown Park. "This year marks Roderick Haig-Browns 100th birthday and what a wonderful tribute it would be if the province secured the West Beach property this year and continue his spirit of conservation," added Reimer.

-30-

For more information contact:

Andrea Reimer, Wilderness Committee, Executive Director, 604-683-8220; 604-719-3920

Andy Miller, Wilderness Committee, Staff Scientist, 604-683-8220; 604-992-3099