Alberta is more than big enough for recreational land users of all walks of life to share not only responsibly but also harmoniously.
At some 661,000 square kilometres, this province is just slightly bigger than France, which is about 643,000 square kilometres. But we have a population of barely more than four million, as compared with our European counterpart’s nearly 67 million.
In other words, our population density is comparatively speaking but a miniscule drop in the bucket. That means our backyard boasts plenty of space that should be able to accommodate everyone, while keeping in mind the importance of preserving the natural splendor of our breathtaking vistas for future generations.
There has recently been some controversy brewing over Alberta Environment and Parks being lobbied by Yellowstone to Yukon as well as the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, which both want more restrictions imposed on land use and even to introduce provincial park status.
But volunteer-driven groups such as the Bighorn Heritage ATV Society, which invests plenty of time and self-raised funds to protect trails, rivers and streams, take exception with any suggestions to impose any further land-use restrictions, pointing to their track record of responsible environmental stewardship.
While I certainly agree that off-road enthusiasts should be permitted designated spaces to play, I would also assert that hikers or anyone else who so desires to escape the revving, brain-rattling roar of motors should also be accommodated with areas where ATVs and OHVs are banned. Having hiked out to camp Eagle Lake, where despite clear signs prohibiting the use of motorized transportation, ATVs still can be heard shattering all hopes for serenity, room for improvement undeniably remains.
That being said, I still could not possibly hold a grudge against someone who wants to ride their off-highway vehicle any more than I could hold a grudge against a person who wants to hear nothing more than the whistling of the wind through the trees while inhaling nothing but fresh mountain air, free from nauseating exhaust fumes.
Pretending only off-road enthusiasts are responsible for damage done to the backcountry is rather disingenuous, as is assuming that all hikers or campers are environmental saints who have never left behind refuse or otherwise negatively impacted the land. As with all other demographics, there are the proverbial good and bad apples.
Although no proposal has at this point been made public, whatever changes the provincial government might be considering in regards to the Bighorn Backcountry must be discussed openly with equal engagement and representation from responsible user groups as well as environmental activists.
