Report on the Halfmoon Bay Backyard Burning Forum

News and Blog

There was a backyard burning forum in Halfmoon Bay on May 7 hosted by Gary Nohr (SCRD Director for Halfmoon Bay). In attendance were Paul Fenwick (General Manager of Community Services for the SCRD), Murray Smith (Conservation Officer), Greg Phelps (Halfmoon Bay Fire Chief), Donna Shugar (SCRD Director for Roberts Creek) and about 14 Halfmoon Bay residents.

The officials each gave a brief talk about their role in the air pollution arena. The residents then split into 2 groups to discuss the issue of back yard burning.

Most residents in attendance were opposed to back yard burning and would be prepared to pay increased taxes to facilitate alternatives. Some of the people in favor of burning, were in favor of some change to the bylaw. One couple said they only burned branches once per year after they had cured them under a tarp for the summer season. There seemed to be an understanding from the people in favor of burning that the smoke was a problem and should be kept to a minimum. There was also a willingness to stop burning if appropriate alternatives were offered.

Gary Nohr will take the information gleaned from this meeting and publish the results in his upcoming newsletter. In summary, there was an obvious will from the residents in attendance to change the BYB bylaw and Gary Nohr seems to be willing to do this if the will is there.

There was lots of reference to the SCCAS at the meeting so we are obviously making some impact.

There were also comments about the runaround given to residents trying to report illegal back yard burns. This has been an ongoing issue with the answering service who, despite having been instructed otherwise, continue to discourage reporting. If you are reporting a violation in Halfmoon Bay, DO NOT let the answering service discourage you! When they start to ask you questions, just say, "Have Mr. Phelps call me", and leave your number. If you don't get a response, please e mail the SCCAS and we will contact Mr. Phelps directly.