Brian Lee
Small communities like ours often observe informal rules that evolve over time to become accepted behaviour. Most are common sense, some aren’t. At one time, local fishing families offered a second-born child to the sea for safe passage (this practice was abolished in 2006).
These days, local codes are much less severe but still a valued framework for maintaining civility. As we welcome more people to our community each summer, conflicts will inevitably occur. So, consider this a friendly PSA to help visitors avoid a potentially embarrassing conflict with a fed-up local:
• First, and most importantly:
DO NOT risk the wrath of the Bargain Barn volunteers (see p. 29) by leaving "donations" after hours. They’re meaner than they look.
• Garbage — admittedly, we suffer a shortage of waste bins but whether it’s Waugh Lake or Irvines Landing pier, please take it with you.
• Similarily, if you’re on a boat, don’t pump your poo overboard. Pender Harbour already suffers from unacceptable levels of fecal waste from aging septic systems and pollutive liveaboards.
• Watch your wake. Officially, the speed limit within Pender Harbour (including Bargain Harbour) is seven knots. Unofficially, even boats travelling below the speed limit while throwing a massive wake may be peppered with paint balls by dock owners.
• Slow down, but keep moving. Local roads may seem empty but no matter how tempting that real estate sign or unexpected viewpoint might be, your curiosity does not justify parking in the middle of the road. Or even pulling halfway off. Be mindful that many here have kids, work and appointments, and don’t accept the risk of a head-on collision to get by someone who just spotted an eagle.
• Poaching? Dumping illegally? Go ahead — locals and visitors are itching to dial #7277 to report you.
• Garbage and wildlife. Once a bear tastes your leftovers, it will equate humans with food — and will eventually be euthanized.
• Fires. There is a total fire ban in place. If you think it’s OK to have a small fire so your kids can have the true camping experience, people will report you quicker than you can say, "The smores are ready."
If you see a wildfire, campfire, or any of the banned activities listed on page 6, dial *5555 on a cell or 1(800) 663-5555 toll-free.
• If you come across a secluded swimming spot and there’s already someone there, move on. There is one exception:
If your group arrives early at Garden Bay Lake and sets up camp on the T-dock, you are jerks. Parents should encourage their kids to continue to use the dock for its intended purpose and soak your stuff because — lawn chairs on land, kids on T-dock.
• If you plan a day at Dan Bosch Park, leave your music in the car. Aside from duelling stereos and drunken teens, DBP is one of the safest swimming spots around for children — so please be considerate.
• Tip service staff. An extreme labour shortage means they are probably overworked.
• Finally, if you’re fit and good looking, show it off.
Comments