The woods behind the former Eldorado Elementary School are getting a trim over the next couple of weeks.
“We’re not clearing the trees. We’re clearing the underbrush,” says Jenn Stone, who is responsible for intergovernmental relations and communications for the Town of Drayton Valley.
In the past, there has been discussion about clearing all of the trees, but on October 26, town council decided to clear the underbrush instead.
“We want to make sure we’re taking care of our green spaces, and that is a nice space,” says Stone.
Currently, the undergrowth presents a fire hazard. Should something happen when the area is dry, the fire would be able to spread rapidly with the dried grass and bushes.
Another reason for the trim is that it provides better sight lines. Currently, anyone using the paths will have a difficult time seeing much in the woods. Once the underbrush is cleared, it will be safer for people to walk through.
Stone says the removal of the underbrush will also hopefully deter activity in the area. The space backs onto a residential area, the school, and the Shangri-La Lodge and some people may not be comfortable using the area if it seems like there is illicit activity.
After consulting with Fish and Wildlife, the Town has determined that the best time for clearing the area is now. There are no animals starting families at this time of year, and there will be less of a chance of disturbing any nests or other habitats.
There are no plans to put in additional lighting at this time, says Stone. However, public works will be ensuring the area is cleared of garbage and debris, whether they do it themselves or hire a contractor.
Stone says if they find anyone who has been living in the area, the Town plans to encourage them to use the shelter pods. “We don’t want anyone living rough,” says Stone.
At this time, Stone says the Town isn’t planning to clear the undergrowth in any of the other green spaces in the community.
