We are requesting your support to encourage the (CRD) Capital Regional District, to move ahead with plans for purchase of a thermal conversion biochar facility. It would be incredibly useful to have Nanaimo and the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) send letters of support for the biochar facility, which is still in the public consultation stage. If you have a moment, please go to the survey: https:// getinvolved.crd.bc.ca/biochar to find out more and share your thoughts.
Friends of Nanaimo River is a community group of RDN Area A and Area C and CVRD Area H citizens, concerned with the practice of depositing biosolids, for a quarry reclamation project on the Nanaimo River. Tonnes of biosolids originating in the CRD, are disposed of at this location on the Nanaimo River. The CRD recently established that biosolids are not permitted on any and all lands within the CRD.
As concerned citizens, we think that all regional governments should follow this action for biosolids disposal. In particular it is suggested that the RDN follow this measure to protect the Nanaimo River, its tributaries, ground water resources, and associated salmonid species, especially in view of the increasing population demand on what we see as an ever-diminishing resource.
We are concerned about the potential for water contamination by for-ever chemicals (PFAS), heavy metals, and pathogens on downstream water users, including the Snuneymeux people, and its impact on salmon. To our knowledge, no testing for water contamination involving PFAS, and related organic contaminants is performed for downstream users and related aquatic resources.
For maximum impact, letters should be addressed to CRD Board and Chair, and CRD CEO Ted Robbins. Email: crdboard@crd.bc.ca
Yours truly,
Pauline Hunt and Rob Waters for Friends of Nanaimo River