Having personally experienced the wonder of the Iconic Western Brook Trail and Fjord in 2015, 2016 and 2017; I am stunned by its massacre in 2018.
The wound left in this world-renowned UNESCO site is environmentally irresponsible and irreparable.
This area of the Great Northern Newfoundland Peninsula was one of my favourite places on earth. It had a natural mystique that was magical.
For me, the magic is missing now. As are amazing life forms; this time, I didn’t see.
To quote a fellow Environmentalist and Master Gardner Maryanne Weiller “the adventure of Western Brook Pond is, or was, two-fold; the journey and the destination. One has been lost and the other lessened, by this loss.”
This Canadian protected Park will never be, the same Sanctuary.
Why?
What happened in this piece of Western Newfoundland’s protected peace.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s Flower Emblem, Sarracenia purpurea, known as the purple pitcher plant, crowned the manageable, mystical boardwalks.
Just to envision all the little eats and treats along the foot path was enchanting for entertained, envisioning minds; like mine.
The space exuded unique life, everywhere. Tiny birds sung and all kinds of humming was filling the air, in those days. The dwarf species and many mini orchids were in abundance. They’re aborted.
Fragrances and color were an unforgettable combination for the senses. I savored every step, knowing I was losing my ability to walk.
Last week, a sense of shame for mankind overwhelmed me.
I maneuvered the gravel highway by trying to find the middle tread to avoid the marbles, known to most as gravel. The sun was shining and it soothed me, somewhat.
The larches that once provided shade and an enchanted forest feel; where in a heap on the side; destroying more.
The resting nooks and crannies with natural seating and even provided seating were uncommonly placed, not plentiful.
I never had the opportunity to sit. I needed to. When I arrived at the huge culverts in the protected bog which replaced the quaint bridges, I wanted to cry.
I didn’t want to express my emotions to the guests I was alongside. I madly made the surreal stroll to the shore, thinking... one day, I’ll roar.
I cannot believe this has happened here. I have been told this happened for the purposes of inclusion and accessibility and a 911 response
I cannot accept this explanation and I feel an incredible sense of responsibility, as a person with mobility concerns to clearly state; this is not better access. It is brutal access.
It appears, for business, our jewel wetlands were obliterated, in Gros Mornes' National Park.
Moira Magee
Roddickton-Bide Arm
