INSIDE

Take a hike, taxpayers say

By Knick Pyles

About 60 supporters and advocates for the preservation of Lily Point – the still forested and undeveloped southern tip of Point Roberts – participated in a public awareness walk on Saturday, August 12.
The walkers, ranging from youth to seniors, from Point Roberts and many other places in Washington and British Columbia, collected litter on the beach as they walked around the Point, from South Beach to Boundary Bay.

Docents from the Point Roberts Historical Society accompanied the group to provide historical perspective and answer questions about the Native American presence, early Icelandic settlers, and salmon canneries that influenced the history of Lily Point and Point Roberts.
Many of the participants were surprised to learn that Lily Point is not protected, public land. Among the participants were Barbara Brenner, Whatcom County Council member, Michael McFarlane, director of Whatcom Country Parks and Recreation, and Lena Tso, Lummi Nation Tribal Historic Preservation Office compliance officer.

The walk was organized by the Point Roberts Taxpayers Association, whose members resolved at their last annual general meeting to work for the acquisition and preservation of Lily Point. The privately owned but still undeveloped tract is a popular destination for walkers, cyclists, horseback riders, fishers, kayakers, and swimmers. It holds significant native American archeological value and important bird and other wildlife habitat.

Individuals and organizations wishing to get involved or seeking more information may email lilypoint812@dccnet.com or contact Mark Robbins, Point Roberts Taxpayers Association board member at 945-1357.