I appreciated your special feature on Climber Camping Culture. The “dirtbag” lifestyle undoubtedly has charm – one may even say that its unregulated chill vibe is a large part of what defines Squamish identity.
I also appreciated that the article highlighted John Harvey’s efforts to develop regulated camping options for climbers and the like, in an effort to curb “nature camping” or squatting-type situations.
I feel that the article failed to articulate just how sensitive “nature camping” areas are, and how the increasing pressure from more and more self-proclaimed “dirtbags” is taking its toll.
This seemed like a climber, telling a story from his perspective. Editorial review however, may have considered how this would reflect in the broader context – perhaps noting the work of organizations like the Squamish River Watershed Society, Squamish Environment Society, Squamish Streamkeepers, Squamish Climate Action Network and more who have, and continue to restore and protect the areas where summertime squats are popping up.
The Squamish Estuary is a Wildlife Management Area designated under section 4(2) of the Provincial Wildlife Act for fish and wildlife habitat. The estuary is protected habitat, not a recreational playground. I do love how this town is swelling with recreational enthusiasm, and feel it is time for our environmental management, and reporting of this to catch up and keep pace.
Kimberley Armour
Squamish B.C.
