Whistler’s trees aren’t currently protected—even those critical to wildlife and climate resilience. On June 10th, the RMOW will hold the first reading of the Tree Protection Bylaw (2435), and your voice matters.
AWARE Whistler strongly supports this vital step toward preserving biodiversity, habitat, and Whistler’s natural character. Without this bylaw, we risk losing habitat, worsening flood risk, and increasing emissions. This bylaw builds on the RMOW’s Priority Habitat Framework and Big Moves Strategy (Goal 3: Ecosystem Resilience), making it a win for both climate and community. Please join us in supporting it now.
What you can do:
- Sign and send the pre-written email below or copy and email a draft to: ac.reltsihw@etaroproc before 12:00 p.m. on June 9, 2025.
- Attend the first reading of this bylaw at the scheduled Council meeting on June 10, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Maury Young Arts Centre (4335 Blackcomb Way)
Expand to Read the Full Email Content
Dear Mayor & Council,
Re: Support for Environmental Protection Bylaw Revisions and the Tree Protection Bylaw
I hope this message finds you well.
I am writing to express my strong support for the revisions proposed in the RMOW’s Environmental Protection Bylaw. In particular, I am encouraged and heartened by the introduction of the Tree Protection Bylaw. I commend RMOW staff for their thoughtful and forward-thinking efforts in advancing this important initiative. This is a solid step toward ensuring that our municipal legislation continues to reflect Whistler’s environmental values and priorities.
Trees are foundational to the ecological integrity of our region. A Tree Protection Bylaw will play a critical role in helping us protect biodiversity, sustain wildlife habitat connectivity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions through increased carbon sequestration. These benefits are not only environmental – they also contribute meaningfully to community well-being, public health, and climate resilience.
The proposed bylaw meaningfully complements existing RMOW initiatives, including:
- The Priority Habitat Framework, and
- The Big Moves Climate Change Strategy, particularly Adoption Goal 3: Protect, support and increase the resilience of local ecosystems, natural assets, and biodiversity.
Without this bylaw in place, our community risks:
- The loss of habitat trees that support important species,
- Degradation of soil health and increased flood risk,
- Decreased tree cover, impacting air quality and mental wellness,
- Loss of the natural character of Whistler’s neighbourhoods, potentially impacting tourism appeal,
- Reduced urban cooling capacity, which is vital as temperatures rise, and
- Increased greenhouse gas emissions from unnecessary tree loss.
This bylaw is timely, necessary, and aligned with the values of the Whistler community. I urge you and the Council to adopt and implement the Tree Protection Bylaw as part of the broader Environmental Protection Bylaw update.
Thank you for your leadership and continued commitment to environmental stewardship.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your City of Residence]
[Date]
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