Vandalism at Waterloo Eddy Regional Park

Nelson, BC:  The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is seeking information from the public to help locate the persons responsible for vandalism at Waterloo Eddy Regional Park (695 Waterloo Road, Ootischenia) in Electoral Area J.

Damage was discovered at Waterloo Eddy Regional Park and was reported to RDCK staff on the morning of May 2. When staff went to assess the damage it appeared as if a large machine entered the park by removing barriers meant to restrict motorized use and continued along the pedestrian path removing additional barriers. Many of the barriers removed were disposed of in riparian areas below causing significant damage.

“I am saddened to see the vandalism that occurred at Waterloo Eddy Regional Park,” said Henny Hanegraaf, RDCK Electoral Area J Director. “The Park is an outdoor space for all local residents to enjoy, in its natural state, which was expressed by residents during a public consultation process in 2015.”

The board adopted Waterloo Eddy Regional Park Management Plan, in 2016, which restricts motor vehicle access to the park due to the impact they cause to the terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Motorized vehicle access is restricted to the designated parking lot at the north end of the park. Landscape design, barriers and fencing are used to prevent motorized access to the back eddy, seasonally flooded areas, and remaining areas of the park.

This is the fourth vandalism incident that has happened at Waterloo Eddy Regional Park within the last two years. Acts of vandalism cost thousands of dollars worth of damage to our parks every year.

If you have any information in regards to the incidents please call the Castlegar RCMP at 250.365.7721 to speak with an investigator or email bylaw@rdck.bc.ca to submit a complaint.

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The content on this page was last updated May 14 2024 at 3:34 AM