Disc golf expansion opponents demand moratorium

A newlyformed citizens group is calling for a moratorium on the proposed expansion of the disc golf course in Fredericton's Odell Park.

The Friends of Odell Park was formed after the city cut down several trees to add an additional nine holes to the course.

Graham Forbes, the group's chair and a wildlife ecologist at the University of New Brunswick, said his main concern is the impact on the forest and soil in the Fredericton park.

"The concerns are mainly that the issues of the environmental impact and the safety factor need to be addressed hence the moratorium," Forbes said.

Opponents began speaking out over the proposed disc golf expansion in June when the city began removing some trees to make way for the new holes.

The city forester has said some of the small trees that were removed already damaged by post-tropical storm Arthur last year.

Forbes said the group does not want to be antagonistic but they want the city to stop development and reconsider the disc golf course expansion.

He said the original nine holes was primarily away from the forest and in an open area. Forbes said that is going to change if the proposed holes are put in.

"It is a considerable change from what it had been," he said.

"That is the area of most concern, that is a very unique and special part of New Brunswick. That is an old growth hemlock grove."

In June, Coun. Kate Rogers said the disc golf course has been a success in the city and she said the participants have been multi-generational.

The councillor also said the plan was always to add the extra nine holes of disc golf proved to be popular.

But the opponents to the expansion project say they want more public consultation on the proposal.