This is in regards to the prohibition of electric bikes in some Alberta parks and wilderness areas while mountain bikes are allowed. We are asking for the right for seniors to use these bikes. These bikes constitute no danger or harm to wilderness areas. They have no gas motor to start wildfires and their tires are no different than a fat-tired mountain bike.
Previously, we have twice contacted the NDP Ministry of Environment and Parks, once contacted the UCP Ministry of same, and twice contacted MLA Peter Guthrie regarding the use of these bikes and our concern for future use in any newly implemented parks. We have had no response.
My husband, Victor Hume, served as a Forest Ranger in the Alberta Forest service for 33 years, at Porcupine Hills, Fort McMurray, Blairmore, Grand Prairie, Canmore, Clearwater, and the Ghost. He was involved in planting the wild turkeys in the porcupine hills, now a thriving population. He was Fire Boss when a fire threatened Fort McMurray in 1975. He was in charge of construction, maintenance, and administration of recreations areas. Vic was in charge of land use administration involving timber operations and livestock grazing. He was involved in Fish and Wildlife enforcement in the Rocky Mountain Forest Reserve.
Now, when Vic is retired and wants to go back and enjoy these areas that he helped administer he is told he cannot. He is informed he must ride a horse, pedal a bike, or hike on foot. He is unable to do this. But he can ride an electric bike and I am sure there are many other seniors, myself included, faced with this same situation.
What reason does the government have for keeping him out of and denying him (and other seniors) the right to enjoy the country he loves and protected for many years of his life.
Thank you for your consideration.
Carolyn Hewitt
