The Cottonwood Lake Preservation Society (CLPS) was thrilled to hear the news that the Regional District of Central Kootenay will be acquiring over 21 hectares of land around Cottonwood Lake, but their efforts are continuing to try and purchase more. Society chair Andrew McBurney says a large portion of land is still at risk and would result in a profound change to the landscape if logged.
“We have about 67 per cent of the land remaining around the lake that’s still in some peril. Our mandate was always to secure all the land around the lake and keep it intact, so we’re trying to stay that course.”
McBurney describes the land as “subdivided” now where the regional district and Columbia Basin Trust have purchased property on the west shore, the entrance to the park, and alongside the Great Northern Rail Trail. Above Cottonwood Lake, however, is still privately owned which is the remaining 67 per cent. Land near Apex has always been a part of the conversation as well.
CLPS now has a funding goal of $150,000.
“It’s a nice round number,” says McBurney. “It’s a good goal and the more money that we can raise the more money that we can use that to participate in grants with.”
$55,000 has already been raised through a Go Fund Me campaign and fundraisers are planned to help that number grow. Another public meeting is also planned for April 3 at the Nelson Rod and Gun Club from 6:00-8:00pm. The society will hear community feedback on the RDCK’s purchase and discuss how the society can best use its funds to secure more land. Representatives from both the CLPS and the RDCK will provide an update and answer questions. Maps of the area in question will be provided.
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