Living near Sumas Mountain Regional Park in the Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD), I've seen firsthand how vulnerable our cherished green space is to threats from rising fire risks. Recent years have brought about significant challenges, exacerbated by the impacts of homelessness, illegal dumping, and a worrying low snow pack that has intensified the fire hazard in our area. The park, with its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty, is now at risk of disastrous wildfires—a threat that puts both nature and our community at stake.

Ensuring the safety of our park and the residents requires reinstating daily gate closures at dusk and reopening at dawn. This simple, yet crucial step, coupled with regular patrols, is necessary to curb activities that inadvertently increase fire risks and harm our community's beloved natural environment. Not only does this measure help reduce the likelihood of catastrophic fires, but it also serves as a deterrent to illegal dumping, which continues to plague the area.

Financially, maintaining gate control and implementing regular patrols is significantly more sustainable than the exorbitant costs associated with fire damage and the ongoing clean-up of dumped waste. Consider the devastation that a wildfire could cause—the environmental destruction, the threat to wildlife, and the possible loss of property and lives. 

By signing this petition, you're making a plea for the FVRD to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of its residents and the protection of Sumas Mountain Regional Park. We need your support to urge local authorities to take immediate action and reinstate these critical safeguarding measures. Let's come together to protect what's precious to us all.