World renowned wilderness artist Robert Bateman is throwing his support behind saving Langley's McLellan forest.
The B.C. painter toured the forest on Friday, joined by several other artists, families and members of WOLF (Watchers of Langley's Forests).
Bateman told the media that there is no trade off for eliminating wide-open wilderness. The Township wants to sell the 25-acre forest in Glen Valley and use the money to build a recreation centre in Aldergrove.
Bateman remarked that Langley's recreation centre is "right here" among the ferns and towering cottonwood trees at McLellan forest. He also noted that his middle name is McLellan.
The Township has given WOLF until mid December to come up with the $3 million it will cost to buy the land.
If sold, it's believed the forest will likely become estate homes.