Last week a new Crown forest plan was announced for New Brunswick. As CPAWS’ New Brunswick Executive Director, I’ve spent many years raising awareness with the public and government of the need for a steep increase in protected areas for our province. Did we reach the wilderness protection goals we wanted?

There are many discussions today about the loss of jobs, the retirement age and the disappearing penny in yesterday's budget. But how did nature or wilderness fare?

True to my Canadian heritage, I love winter. As soon as the first snowfall hits, I look forward to the crystal white blanket that covers my neighbourhood, the rosy cheeks sported by all, and the opportunity to snowshoe, skate, sled and of course ski! Skiing is probably my most enjoyable winter hobby and every year I look forward to night skiing on local hills and my big annual ski trip. With all this being said, is it really necessary to promote a downhill ski resort in a national park? I’m not sure if you’ve heard but Parks Canada is proposing amending the current Riding Mountain National Park Management Plan for Mount Agassiz to allow the re-development and re-opening of a downhill ski hill. And not just any downhill ski area… this one has been closed for over a decade. This is yet another example of the resurgence of this worrisome trend of inappropriate commercial development in our national parks.

CPAWS is seeking individuals who wish to be considered as nominees for its national Board of Trustees. The Board has ultimate responsibility for ensuring that as a federally-incorporated, not-for-profit, charitable organization, CPAWS is financially sound, complies with relevant laws, and has appropriate policies, plans and programs in place to accomplish its conservation objectives.

"Unless somebody like you cares a whole lot, it's not going to get better, it's not!" - Dr. Seuss from the Lorax