Fundamental changes needed to save species at risk: task-force report

Increased funding for research as well as an ecosystem-based management approach are among the recommendations of a government-appointed task force on species at risk released Monday.

The 10-member task force also urges the province to be more transparent, distinguishing between decisions based on science versus politics, including favouring the economy over nature.

It also urges widespread involvement in decision making, including the general public, first nations and industry.

“B.C.’s protected area system can be complemented by more adaptive measures over larger areas that can accommodate a wide range of sustainable uses without creating unmanageable stresses on ecosystems or species,” the report adds.

“In such cases, maintaining the key components for sustaining ecosystem and species can be compatible with careful development of economic opportunities.”

In response, three environmental groups said in a news release that the recommendations are weak and “fall far short” of the legal protection needed for species at risk.

Ecojustice, Sierra Club BC and the Wilderness Committee said they are disappointed that instead of calling for a law, the task force recommended “tinkering with B.C.’s antiquated patchwork of existing regulations.”

The province said it will study the report for several months before deciding on its next move.