How do myths come about? False and erroneous information that is repeated over time until it is believed.
That is what has happened with the land at 630 Munson Mountain Rd. This is the proposed parcel of land for a BMX track.
Myth No.1: The land has never been farmed. The truth: It has been farmed — it was an apple orchard in the past
Myth No.2: The soil is substandard and not good for farming. The truth: in 1984 an application was submitted to the ALC to place 350,000 cubic metres of fill in the ravine. On Sept. 19, 1984, Resolution #1347/84 for Application #30-V-84-18380 stated: “That the application be allowed subject to the following conditions: Topsoil be removed from the ravine bottom and stockpiled above the ravine at least 10 metres from the ravine edge; Upon completion of filling, the upper 50 to 100 cm be finer than sand and coarser than clay with a maximum 25 per cent gravel content”(these requirements illustrate the fill was clean good for farming).”
The ALC report also states: “that the ravine to be filled suffers from cold air drainage. The addition of fill to a level 10-15 metres higher than the present level would ensure good drainage and make the land suitable for fruit trees.”
This location is also noted in the Grape Atlas as having the highest rating for agricultural soil, class one — the best. It is currently flat and perfect for farming.
Once again this prime piece of agricultural land is under attack to be used by the city as an easy fix — this time to re-locate the BMX track.
I urge our city council to review our OCP which clearly states that our historical foundation of agriculture is supported and protected.
The citizens of Penticton have clearly stated their desire to keep the agricultural land of our benches in farmland. The OCP states: “In addition to the important economic benefits of the farming industry to our community, the residents have expressed a desire to maintain farmland and open space in Penticton to preserve the ambiance and character of Penticton.”
The 2005 city referendum asked citizens if they approved of farmland to be used for sports fields and/or ball field, the answer was no.
Since 2004, 16 properties around Munson Mountain are now in agricultural production, placing a BMX track in the middle of active farmland is not a good fit. This is our farmland and the gateway of our wine industry. The Naramata Bench is a beautiful, economically profitable area which draws tourists from around the world. The rural setting and scenery is an important aspect of the bench.
The city needs to support the farmers who have invested millions of dollars into our economy through land, tourism, employment and commerce.
Our council needs to plan wisely and keep this precious, limited agricultural land as farmland. Dividing and removing farmland out of our agricultural bench does not reflect good planning. Leave this land in agriculture and let it be farmed.
Elaine and Terry Swan
Penticton