This letter is addressed to all Prince George residents who enjoy off-roading in their trucks and ATVs.
I grew up in Prince George, and like many other young children, I spent much of my time in the spring and summer searching for and catching frogs, toads, and salamanders. As a young boy, the resilience and tenacity of these small creatures never ceased to amaze me. It is safe to say that this admiration has persisted into adulthood.
This April, armed with a flashlight and a pair of rubber boots, I took a walk one evening on the trails above Kimball Road, off Highway 16 West in search of some old friends. I was not disappointed, as I soon discovered several adult salamanders migrating to their breeding pools; amazingly, many were even crawling on top of the half-melted snow banks. The next day I discovered that several salamanders had laid their eggs in some old tire ruts in the middle of the road that had filled with snow melt and rain water.
Unfortunately my heart sank, when upon returning to the spot several days later, I discovered that someone had driven their truck right through the site, displacing all the eggs out of the water and onto the shore, where they had subsequently dried out.
I understand that quading and off-roading are an an integral part of the culture in this city, and that many people enjoy this type of outdoor recreation.
However, I ask those who do, to be cognizant and considerate of the other animals that use the small bodies of water that litter the trails and roads you ride on.
If you are not aware of what I'm talking about (and I know many people are) next time you are out walking or riding, take the time to peer into these pools, and you too may discover life's humble secrets.
Matt Robinson
Prince George
