Residents who live around the east side of Capilano River Regional Park can expect a stern letter from Metro Vancouver soon in the wake of someone illegally cut down about 35 trees in the park in January.
"We will be sending a letter out shortly reminding the residents that the property that's bordering them is parkland and it needs to be respected, which I'm sure most of them fully respect the park values," said Mitch Sokalski, parks manager.
Sokalski said the letter will cover a range of activities that are not permitted but are known to happen.
". . . the disposing of garden refuse, any kind of limbing of trees is not permitted, and also ensuring that people understand that they can't be redirecting water over the embankment because it is very steep," he said.
Sokalski said a preliminary look at the slope shows no signs of dangerous erosion since the trees were cut, but a larger geotechnical study still needs to be done.
In the meantime, Metro Vancouver is accepting bids for the removal of the 35 fallen trees and brush, which is expected to cost around $50,000. Replanting to support the embankment will follow.
North Vancouver RCMP say the investigation into who illegally cut down the trees is still ongoing.
"At this point, being an active investigation, all leads are being looked into, and potential suspects are being interviewed. It's everything and everybody at this point of the investigation. We can't single someone out and say they're the primary suspect," said Cpl. Richard De Jong.
De Jong urged patience during the investigation.
"These things can be very time consuming and if people are unwilling to talk or people have short memories - those sorts of things - it can make it hard," he said.
Anyone with information about the Jan. 10 incident is asked to contact North Vancouver RCMP at 604-985-1311.
Follow us on Twitter: @NorthShoreNews
