Tragic Consequences for PEI Beaches

Prince Edward Island is known for its warm waters, big lobsters, friendly people, amazing golf, and great theatre, but there are some issues that need serious attention before more damage is done to PEI coastal environments.  There are provincial signs on north shore beaches warning residents and visitors that driving any motorized vehicle on PEI Beaches is against the law and strictly forbidden.  South shore beaches, where people enjoy swimming due to the warmer waters of the Northumberland Strait and walking on sand bars that stretch for miles at low tide, unfortunately do not receive the same protection from the provincial government.

Professional clam diggers are entitled to drive their trucks on sensitive beaches, through natural mussel beds (as seen in the photo below), and across marram grass colonies, which are supposedly protected under the law? There is quiet outrage by cottage and home owners in various south shore coastal communities where the clam digging at their doorsteps is quite exceptional. Waking up in the morning to take in the beautiful view from their decks, these homeowners are regularly greeted by noisy trucks parked on beaches at low tide. There have also been incidents of Clammer’s trucks leaking oil on beaches, garbage thrown about, and other unmentionable acts of litter on public property.

South Shore property owners understand and support the rights of professional clam harvesters to make a living. The problem is the damage being done to sensitive beach areas, as well as the effects of unsightly vehicles on beaches near local tourism rentals. No tourist renting a cottage on these lovely beaches was expecting to be greeted by trucks in front of their rental cottage.

The simple solution should be a fair compromise between the islanders who make a living harvesting clams and the people who live in the area and have invested in their lands in order to enjoy the peace and scenic views. We ask that clam harvesters not drive on any south shore beaches, but instead, park at the end of roads that provide beach access in order to launch small boats. The day’s catch can be transported to the parking area. It may not be an ideal situation for the fisher, but the current situation is not ideal for the local residents of  south shore beaches or the sensitive beach ecosystems.

Please support this cause by emailing or phoning PEI’s Environment Minister, Richard Brown at rebrown@gov.pe.ca or 902.368.6410.

Thanks for your support!