Once you open door to development ...

To the Editor:

My husband and I have lived in this beautiful county for 13 years now, having come from Vancouver. We originally visited this province as tourists in 1989 and were captivated instantly by its beauty and the friendliness of its people (something, we sadly realized, we were losing in the lower mainland).

The rich balance of the small towns and sweeping farmlands, orchards and vineyards set against a wonderful seascape. Upon moving here we operated a Bed and Breakfast for seven years and, without exception, our guests were drawn time and again for those very same reasons.

Their time spent here was like a refreshing pause in an otherwise busy life. Sometimes we need to see what we have through an outsider’s eyes to really appreciate it.

We left Vancouver due to development, some of which was good, most which wasn’t. When the agricultural lands became the target, we became very involved. I am proud to say we prevailed and today the land we struggled for nine years to preserve continues to be just a little source of beauty amid the urban sprawl and a sanctuary for migrating birds.

Development for development’s sake is not always a good thing and always causes a domino effect. The continued protection of our agricultural lands shouldn’t even be up for debate. We have seen what happens when the door opens but a crack.

Thank you

Darlene Peerless

Kentville