While AMIB has a great history of building ramps on the island, 3 now in total, I feel that the best ramp has not yet been built. Ramps in other municipalities have a tie up location associated with them. They are protected from all inclement weather, and are infrequently placed where tidal streams can play havoc with boat launching and retrieving. There is always enough water to launch, and you don't need a 4-wheel drive to make it happen. AMIB's activities can be seen at our website, www.mayneboaters.com
Unfortunately, all ramps built to date were put in because we didn't have the ideal location for building. We do now.
With respect to the dock, I see it as an open community place, like a park, where kids and parents (or grandparents) can crab, fish, and picnic while the business of launching and retrieving boats goes on around the area. I see an interpretation centre of some kind, describing the local "finds" of marine life. I believe the inhabitants of the island would feel more secure about docking with a local government presence, and some regulations like those in White Rock where local property owners have priority, and local government controls how things are done. I for one would rather have my boat at a dock ready year round than to have it on a mooring buoy, even though the cost is less. The risk is also greater.
I know there are issues. I'd like to be able to address those in a civil way here. Mitigation is and has been possible in other areas.
Al Maxwell
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