Editor:
I think a letter may be the easiest way to tell an unusual tale of community commitment.
Last week I received a call from Westshore Terminals, which was following up on the letters that have complained about the "black stuff."
The call was a pleasant surprise, and gave me much more confidence that somebody out at Deltaport really does care about the impact they have on their neighbours.
I learned quite a bit from the call. Point Roberts, by far, receives the brunt of the dust problem, particularly in summer when the northwest winds are blowing.
Samples are showing that up to 20 per cent of the material is coal dust and to emphasize, that number varies and can be nine per cent, 14 per cent or as much as the 20 per cent.
Samples are not showing that level of coal dust in the Ladner and Tsawwassen area and the thinking (although I'm sure someone knows) is that much of our problem may be diesel emissions (a significant health problem, I would think).
I also learned that all three rail companies spray their coal cars: CP twice enroute, CN at the mine and BNR actually coats the coal cars.
But what was particularly telling about the conversation what the admission that Westshore Terminals are not happy with their performance and will not only be upgrading their dust control system, but will actually be ripping out the existing sprinklers - to the tune of $6 million or $7 million.
Now, to be sure, Westshore is expecting a large increase in the tonnages being shipped from Deltaport and is no doubt preparing for that new business. Still, I would like to applaud their professionalism in responding to complaints.
We appreciate anything they can do to lessen the impact of their industrial operation on our community.
Now, if the port would only deal with the diesel emissions...
Vicki Huntington Delta South MLA
