Response to Ludo Bogaert regarding his letter, The ART of managing a forest:
A few years ago the white spruce forest was threatened by development, which could have destroyed the forest. Dr. Murphy was part of a group that was instrumental in making the case to save the forest. Since then he has volunteered countless hours and his expertise to help develop a plan to preserve, enhance and manage the forest. If it weren’t for this initiative, it’s quite possible there would be no forest to walk in and no birds to watch.
The caragana, poplar and a smattering of shrubs and undergrowth in the cutline and along the south perimeter were removed to make room for planting 5,000 white spruce trees this spring. The rest of forest remains untouched, except for a few small areas that have been cleared of weeds and underbrush to make room for more planting. There are still many beautiful and quiet paths to walk within the forest.
Foresters do happen to enjoy birds and wildlife and it is their job to work with nature to preserve and protect them. There are moose, coyotes, squirrels and many birds in the white spruce forest and it’s the intention of the Grey Nuns White Spruce Forest Advisory Committee to continue to protect this habitat.
Dr. Murphy is working with an amazing environmentally conscious group of City of St. Albert employees and volunteers who work diligently to make sure this historic forest is maintained and enhanced. There is a comprehensive and well thought out plan for this area, and you may want to make yourself familiar with the plan before you deem the project to be “Absolute Repulsive Treeterrorism.”
Dr. Murphy is always willing to talk about his passion for forest protection and forest history. You may want to set aside your disdain for a few moments to have a proper conversation next time you see him out there – it may change your perspective and cause you to think of ways you can volunteer your time and talents to make your community a better place for present and future generations the way he has.
Sharon Murphy, St. Albert
