The Chinese zodiac designated 2012 the year of the water dragon, which would seem most appropriate. Record snow falls and heavy spring rains resulted in rising water in creeks and streams, on both sides of the Rockies. Washed out highways stranded motorists while rising creeks blew out weirs and damaged bridges. Forest roads and hiking trails were cut off by mudslides. In Jasper National Park stranded hikers had to be evacuated by boat across Medicine Lake. In Valemount, residents were evacuated from their homes after Swift Creek threatened its banks. Damage from last year’s water incidents are still being repaired. The icefall from Ghost Glacier on Mount Edith Cavell, and resulting mini-tsunami, had to be the most surprising event of the year. Luckily none of these specific incidents resulted in loss of life.
It was also a significant year for honouring the efforts of others. Local athletes brought much pride to our communities such as Agnes Esser of McBride or Corey Wallace of Jasper. 2012 being the year of our Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, local residents were honoured and recognized for their community involvement.
The Alberta election last year proved the unreliability of polls. The Municipality of Jasper faced tough budgeting questions concerning the new library construction and the establishment of a new dog park. Valemount’s fresh new mayor and council faced criticism surrounding the Big Foot Trail construction, but were also complimented for their swift action during the summer water crisis.
What will the New Year bring? Simply put, may we all continue to live in interesting times.
