The Friends of Island View Beach
Guiding principles for a new park plan in 2016
The Friends of Island View Beach believe the thrust of the 2016 CRD draft plan is out of touch with the wishes of the great majority of the citizens of the Capital Region. We recommend the plan be redrafted on these guiding principles:
1. That it be recognized that Island View Beach Regional Park is in a relaxed, rural setting, and that from its inception in 1966 the park has been valued by Victorians for the unrestricted natural access they have there.
2. That areas scientifically proven to be environmentally sensitive and at risk, be fenced off instead of excluding the public from the area.
3. There be unconditional commitments to maintain the mosquito drainage ditches, the mosquito control program, and the sea wall.
4. A prohibition against hunting in any form.
5. Provision for horse riding in the park
6. Provision for continued unfinished hiking trails through the park
7. Provision for secure bike stands for cyclists
8. Unrestricted access to the beach from the park
9. Acknowledgement that the park is unique within the Capital Regional District for dog owners because of the wilderness, the off leash provisions, and access to the sea, and that there is a need for certainty for dog owners after these years of turmoil:
(a) that for certainty, because of its unique nature, that any regulation about dogs be incorporated into the plan and that the general dog regulations of the CRD do not apply
(b) that dogs continue to be allowed off leash except in the camp ground and picnic areas
10. The CRD has two, half acre lots at the end of Island View Road which are overgrown and unused - that both to be graveled and:
(a) the north one be set aside for horse trailer parking and other large vehicles
(b) the south one be set aside for boat trailer parking
11. That the regional importance of the public boat ramp be recognized, and the CRD repair the existing structure, or contribute towards its rebuilding by Central Saanich.
12. A program for control of invasive plants to allow hikers and equestrians access in the grasslands.