This sign is near Sproat Lake, near Port Alberni on Vancouver Island.
The development of high quality logging roads, oiler the past 25 years, has opened up vast areas of what had been wilderness, to the family vehicle.
Logging trucks now carry loads that I thought could never be reached on twisting trials through the forest land – they have the right of way by virtue of their size, on the roads built for them.
Tourists have to be vigilant in spotting passing spots for use when a mountain of wood comes around the corner. Radio communication between all vehicles is essential to road safety especially during dusty seasons and winter snows.
The sign is graphic – it catches the eye, depicts the outcome of carelessness and illustrates the scale of large trees and small cars on remote paths erin forest to mill.
It’s the life blood of our land, our lives and our industry.
Be prepared for the unexpected – they come first.
Andy Motherwell is an amateur historian and regular Observer columnist.