Editor,

Banning horses from county parks because some individuals are offended by their poop would be a significant economic loss to Whidbey Island. If horseback riders don’t have anywhere to ride, they will not choose to remain here on the island. They will opt to live in another community where they are welcomed and have access to trails. Currently the horse owners on Whidbey support two major feed stores, three large animal veterinarians, several farriers and numerous horse boarding facilities.

The county doesn’t have the manpower to maintain parks such as Putney Woods. It is the local chapter of the Back Country Horsemen who cut back the brush and clear downed trees to keep the trails open. Last winter they removed over 100 fallen trees which were blocking trails. They applied for and received grants to build three bridge crossings over sections of trails that are routinely flooded during the winter rains. They have provided and installed the entry gate sign, permanent map, trail signs and posts.

Most people choose to live on Whidbey Island because they like the rural atmosphere. Driving out the horse people is just one of the first steps in urbanization of the island. Is that what most of our residents want?

SHARON VANDERSLICE

Clinton