Every year, over 20 million people visit one of British Columbia’s 800 parks and protected areas. British Columbians from all walks of life are proud of the natural beauty and diversity of wildlife to be found in such abundance in our province. B.C.’s world-famous park system reflects our love of the outdoors and our ethic of stewardship.

Inadequate budget: Unfortunately, policies governing BC parks have rarely been guided by this ethic. Under-funding is endemic. BC only employs 10 park rangers year-round.  Even with additional part-time staff in the summer months, the number of rangers is simply insufficient to monitor such a large area with so many visitors. Interpretive programs and trail maintenance have also suffered from a shrinking and inadequate budget.

Encroaching privatisation is another serious concern. In 2006, the government announced a plan  to allow resorts and hotels in twelve Class A parks (http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/fixed_roof/index.html). This would irrevocably damage ecosystems and blight pristine areas with resorts and infrastructure with a heavy ecological footprint.

Public backlash against lodges in parks: However, after facing intense media coverage and ongoing public criticism, only three private development proposals were submitted. Further plans to expand the roofed accommodation program were shelved - for now.

Micro-hydro? Yes, but not in parks! Run-of- the-river or micro-hydro projects can potentially be a great provider of clean, climate change-friendly electricity. Although they are much better for the environment than large dams, they can still have a serious impact on local fish habitat. Part of the reason is the infrastructure they require, such as transmission towers.