The Save the Grove Again Committee is trying to get the Town of Arnprior to see that the standard developer-funded environmental impact study is lacking when it comes to protecting the Gillies Grove Nature Reserve.
At possible risk are not only the trees, but the critters that call the habitat home, if development on a 20 acre site adjacent to it is allowed to go ahead.
The Committee wants to go the proverbial extra mile and consult the needed expertise to assure the best outcome- because there are no second chances.
After presenting to the Town last Monday, an open-to-the-public Committee-of-Adjustment hearing that is being held Wednesday at the NSC is the next hurdle.
Spokesperson Lacey Smith says the Town already formally acknowledge the Grove as a Natural Heritage feature in its Official Plan, and therefore has a moral obligation to be proactive.
Gillies Grove Nature Reserve is more than just a clump of trees.
Smith, in effect, says proactivity is never premature.
Also absent from the required criteria of a standard Environmental Impact study is any focus whatsoever on hyrdology.
If you agree with the Save the Grove Again position, the committee says there’s strength in numbers; let Town Council know.
Lacey says there are postcards available to send our local representatives.
She says, “Please Protect the Grove for Me” is something our elected members can take a lead role in doing.
Save the Grove Again Postcards are available at Ottawa Valley Coffee (32 Elgin St. W.)
Remax Office (215 Daniel St. S.)
Ultimate Fitness Gym (4-53 James St.)
Tina’s Hair Shop (57C Madawaska St.)
The Vintage Crate (159 John St. N.)
Sweet & Sassy Cafe and Bistro (114 John St. N.)
The Committee of Adjustment Meeting in Arnprior is scheduled for Wednesday, February 5tht 6PM in
the Nick Smith Centre, Community Hall. It is open to the public.
By Rick Stow
