Dear Editor,

(Re: “Bowhunting bylaw sought,” Question, July 29)

I support and applaud the initiative and efforts of Sylvia Dolson who is currently lobbying for a ban on bowhunting within the RMOW. Although I believe that hunting is both justifiable and necessary in less populated areas of our country, in my opinion it is dangerous and reckless for hunting of any kind to be permitted with the boundaries of the RMOW. With the number of recreational activities that take place everywhere in this community, bowhunting should not be permitted here at any time of the year. I find it very disturbing to think that my family and friends who are avid mountain bikers and hikers, as well as our much loved dogs, may be at risk of being shot accidentally as we enjoy the trails of Whistler.

As for Sylvia’s analogy that shooting bears from a roadside vantage point is like “shooting fish in a barrel,” I agree. Hunters who are truly sportsmen would not take pleasure in such activities that are clearly unfair to animals.

It is time for our elected officials to take a stand on this issue and listen to the citizens of Whistler. There is no good reason to continue to allow bowhunting within this community.

Patricia Dagg

WHISTLER