A dog off the leash on the island Viewing the agenda by the Mayor of Central Saanich

The notice of the motion, issued by Mayor Ryan Windsor before the Central Saanich Council, calls on local governments, and federal or state authorities, to address the issue of off-leash dogs threatening wildlife at Island View Beach. We are calling on local authorities to start the partnership immediately. .

“I didn’t use the word ban because I didn’t want to pre-empt the consequences, but I think there is a problem with wildlife being threatened by off-leash dogs,” Windsor said. .

Island View Beach is a popular place for locals and tourists to walk their dogs, but it’s also a resting place for migratory birds. A federal report released this summer found that canines are the number one source of disruption to coastal birds, with dogs of varying levels going off leash to chase migratory birds. is a survey of migratory bird sanctuaries in Greater Victoria that do not include Island View Beach. However, the birds were unaware of these jurisdictional issues and there was conflict at Island View Beach.

According to the municipality, owners must keep their dogs on a leash while at the park’s campgrounds. “From June 1st he will be allowed to stay on all beaches above the natural boundary of the ocean until September 15th. No.”

Windsor said he prepared a motion notice after hearing more and more concerns about the issue. I was.

Windsor later added that Motion’s aim was to create an open and transparent process with all actors.

Windsor acknowledged the political risks of the motion. “I think they[dog owners]are[large political constituencies]and they will speak up, but I don’t think they should be afraid of the process. is.”

On the other hand, those who care about wildlife also make up the constituency, and the two categories are not mutually exclusive. “I know some dog owners who are wild animal obsessed and they will help.”

Windsor said it would take about six to nine months to resolve the issue if the motion passed. “But maybe we’ll see another season when[birds]migrate. If there’s anything substantial, that would be great.”

After the federal government changed regulations dealing with migratory birds, Central Saanich became more active.

An analysis by advocacy group Birds Canada found that new changes announced this summer ban the capture, killing, trapping, harming and harassment of migratory birds, and that these prohibitions apply to all activities. It turns out that the current ambiguity regarding the fact that Among other improvements.

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wolfgang.depner@peninsulanewsreview.com

environment