Simon Metke and Denis Manzer with the Strathmore Bird Sanctuary Initiative have reacted to the announcement of the Eagle Heights development being resumed.
The development was announced earlier this year, with Manzer and Metke going to Strathmore Town Council in early February, asking them to reconsider the development, claiming the construction would cause damage to local wildlife.
The development was cancelled on February 13 but was resumed in early April following an appeal by the developers.
Manzer said the two are "quite upset" over the news.
"I'm really grateful that we've started this conversation, because it's a very important conversation to have. How do we protect Strathmore's beauty and grow in a way that's good for the people, the environment, and the culture?" said Manzer. "We need to protect what makes Strathmore great and beautiful."
Metke and Manzer also thanked those in their Facebook group and the Town of Strathmore for helping to cancel the development permit prior to the appeal.
"Obviously the municipal government tried, but it looks like we're going to have to look at the provincial government," added Manzer. "This wetland falls under the Water Act, so we're hoping that the provincial government can at least investigate this, because this water belongs to everyone."
Metke argues that keeping the wetland is more important to Strathmore than the apartment complex that Eagle Heights hopes to build.
"This is one of the things that makes Strathmore a gem of a town. Ultimately, keeping this ecological asset is many times more valuable for future generations, not only for the organisms that use it and live there, but all the people who enjoy it," added Metke. "Sure, it's been private property for a long time, but many people think it's a part of the park, and they enjoy it nonetheless."
Metke and Manzer are also considering speaking with newly elected MP David Bexte about the wetland.
"At this point, we're trying to make a platform for the community to have a voice, because this little forest is full of amazing bird sounds, frog sounds, and deer families, but obviously they're not going to stand up for themselves."
The two recommend that all residents read the 28-page document that goes over the appeal made by the developers.
Beyond ending the development, the group hopes to turn themselves into Strathmore's official bird sanctuary, creating an interpretive centre for residents and tourists to visit.