This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.
Urban beaver workout
The Spokane City Council should use the county’s Conservation Futures monies to purchase the YMCA land and restore it to a natural state.
I have hiked hundreds of miles in dozens of states, but the only place I ever saw a wild beaver at work on its dam was in the narrow strip of land between the YMCA building and the river. A man pointed the creature out to my children. At least 10 people enjoyed watching the animal in just the 15 minutes we were there that day.
Such opportunities for meaningful interaction with nature are rarely found in the middle of a city. What a precious gift we have in the Spokane River and its riparian zones.
Wildlands managers the world over seek to consolidate park holdings and eliminate patchwork development to improve habitat quality for plants and animals alike.
Spokane has no shortage of vacant properties suitable for urban development downtown. Demolish the YMCA building and add to the park. Not only would human park visitors appreciate the beauty of a natural riverfront, the native flora and fauna would thrive in it. Let us make this small investment in a priceless property.
Rebecca Kemnitz
Spokane