Organizers of Canada Day fireworks are being told to clean up after themselves.
The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee insisted Thursday that it wants a cleanup plan for Kal Beach and Kalamalka Lake for the July 1 festivities.
“They know they need to do a better job and that’s what they are saying (they will do),” said director Jim Garlick.
“We need to work with them and get more information on what they are doing.”
There were some public complaints after the 2016 fireworks, particularly about explosives debris in the lake.
Planning is already underway for 2017.
“We are looking to expand the show in terms of fireworks display and additional evening events on the beach,” said Terry Schmauder, with the North Okanagan Canada Day Committee, in a letter.
Schmauder says paper and plastic housing from the fireworks shells is an inherent aspect of such events.
“I have proposed additional measures to help contain and remove debris from the lake immediately following the show, as well as the following morning,” he said.
“Additional boats will be used to surround the barge site and fall out area to remove debris as well as doubling the cleanup crew on the morning following the event.”
Schmauder added that the 2016 event didn’t negatively impact water quality in the lake.
“The society is committed to working with the community in presenting a safe and free family oriented Canada Day Celebration for all to enjoy,” he said.
However, Doug Dirk, GVAC director, wants assurances debris will be removed.
“They need to perform like they say they will in the letter,” he said.