Geoengineering Free Canada supports this Call To Action from Kelowna and Cranbrook BC
For Immediate Release
Kelowna Citizens Safety Association and Call To Action Cranbrook Call for Cancellation of Aerial Spraying of Foray 48B, BTK a bacterial pesticide.
West Kelowna and Cranbrook, BC – May 30, 2024 - The West Kelowna Branch of the Kelowna Citizens Safety Association (WKB/KCSA) and Call To Action Cranbrook are urgently requesting the cancellation of the proposed aerial spraying of the bacterial pesticide Foray 48B, which contains 87% undisclosed ingredients, in West Kelowna and Cranbrook. The communities are subject to aerial spraying with only 48 hours' notice, marked by signage at entry points to the spray areas.
This situation is particularly alarming as both communities, including School Districts #5 and #23, along with other local employers, are actively participating in GoByBike Week. This event encourages residents to bike to work, school, and throughout the communities with safety in mind. Promoting safety while potentially exposing cyclists to aerial spraying is contradictory, given the potential harm posed by the bacterial pesticide to unsuspecting cyclists.
James Shannon, director of Call To Action Cranbrook, expressed his concerns about the community's lack of awareness regarding the timing and potential damage of the aerial spraying. "In the Cranbrook spray zone, we have 13 daycare centers, 6 schools, parks, an endangered butterfly species, wetlands, and a hospital less than one kilometer from the spray drift zone. The danger to the hospital, daycares, and school children is unacceptable. The potential to eliminate an endangered butterfly illustrates the foolishness of this spray program."
Both organizations have formally written to their respective School Boards, City Councils, and Regional Districts, requesting the enforcement of WorkSafe BC pesticide regulations to ensure the safety of workers, staff, and students from pesticide exposure, including residues left after the spray.
The WKB/KCSA supports the GoByBike week endorsed by the City of West Kelowna and Cranbrook. They urge both City Councils and School Districts to express their concerns to the Premier and the Ministry of Forests. "It is time for this uncertainty to end and for the spray program to be cancelled. The organizers and sponsors of GoByBike week are encouraged to notify all participating cyclists of the imminent danger posed by this aerial bacterial application," stated Lloyd Manchester, President of WKB/KCSA.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Lloyd Manchester
Phone: 250-878-9352
Kelowna Citizens Safety Association
Spray Hot-line: 1-800-573-0213
James Shannon
Phone: 250-420-1406