The RDCK has acquired the 8.6 acre parcel of land known as Campbell Field thanks to a generous donation by the South Slocan Sports Association.
The property is adjacent to Mount Sentinel secondary school.
“This incredible gift offers area residents a spectacular opportunity for recreation in the future,” said Slocan Valley regional director Walter Popoff. “We will be following the recommendations in Slocan Valley recreation master plan in the development of this property for the benefit of area residents.”
The property has been administered by the South Slocan Sports Association since the late 1930s, when it was acquired from West Kootenay Power. It's named after former company president Lorne Campbell.
Under the stewardship of long-time Crescent Valley resident and former school board trustee Bob Cunningham, the property has always been used for sports and cultural activities. A covenant ensures the site will always be used for those purposes.
The aging membership of the association and the mounting cost of insurance led to the group’s decision to donate the land to the RDCK to ensure the community can enjoy the property for years to come.
“We’ve been happy to maintain this pristine land for generations — we played on the field as kids and now our grandkids do, too,” said association president Phil Chernenkoff.
“Our group of 10 has done all it can do [with the site],” said Joe Nazaroff. “Donating the land to the RDCK is the best thing for the community and the future of the property.”
“These volunteers have been fantastic stewards of this property,” said Popoff. “The RDCK is thankful for this legacy and gift.”
“We are grateful to Walter Popoff for his guidance and help in having the RDCK take on this property,” said Jerry Plonidin. “The property is in the right hands.”
