June 13, 2023
Low frequency noise disturbs neighbours
Dear Editor,
Welcome to warm weather and sunshine – at last. But very unwelcome are the excessive low frequency noises in summer that create an unwanted and very irritating soundscape from now on.
A neighbour’s greenhouse fan right beside our deck drones on from sunrise to sunset without stopping, from now till fall.
There is no available resolution to this problem, try though we might to ask for co-operation. Low frequency noise (LFN) is an increasing problem due to the rise in popularity of heat pumps, air conditioners, and other appliances that emit low frequency hums.
This problem has been well researched, and health experts have long acknowledged that LFN can affect physical, emotional, mental and psychological health, as this type of noise pollution can be felt as well as heard, and is usually beyond the affected individual’s ability to either control or escape from.
This growing problem needs to be addressed and controlled before it just becomes another background annoyance that we fail to do anything about. The frog in boiling water didn’t realize what was happening in time. Do we all want to suffer the same fate?
Rosemary Taylor, Qualicum Beach
New approach by municipal governments to protect nature
Dear Editor,
Over the years that I have lived in Qualicum Beach I have heard much concern about protecting the natural environment that contributes so much to the ‘spirit of place’ and to our health and welfare. I would like to shine a light on some positive steps being taken to the south end of the Island in actively cooperating to achieve this goal.
I recently interviewed Bob Peart https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZ1tGlFsG60 who outlines work being taken by numerous mayors, councils and citizens to work cooperatively in adopting a new approach to planning and managing our communities with a focus on protecting nature.
This new approach to working together is a refreshing change from the past patterns of competition or even political rivalry. It stands as a model which, if citizens demanded it, could become a normal approach in our region. It is only through the adoption of a common vision that progress will be made and this political and action model could be the answer.
I urge readers to listen to Bob Peart’s description of process and the results – and I urge our municipal and regional elected representatives to consider adopting this sort of cooperative vision. It will create a better and healthier community.
John MacFarlane, Qualicum Beach BC