In response to mounting concerns over British Columbians’ access to angling, hunting and outdoor recreation opportunities, the BC Wildlife Federation Board of Directors has established a Resident Priority Program.
“BCWF members and the general public are finding private gates on public roads, and experiencing reduced access to public resources, including fish and wildlife.
These reductions are a result of government allocating public resources to private interests at the expense of British Columbians,” said George Wilson, President of the BC Wildlife Federation.
The aim of the program is to ensure natural resources such as fish, wildlife, water, and crown land are managed in the public interest and maintain public access, except where there are public safety and/or environmental concerns.
The heritage value of public access to BC’s natural resources and crown land is paramount to all British Columbians. Access increases the stewardship and care of these resources.
Without access, the public’s interest and capacity for the protection and maintenance of natural resources is compromised.
The Resident Priority Program will develop, manage, and implement a strategy to advance the priority of our future generations to British Columbia’s natural resources. The program will strengthen and expand the outdoor user network and ensure natural resources are managed sustainably.
The BC Wildlife Federation is British Columbia’s largest and oldest conservation organization with over 46,000 members passionately committed to protecting, enhancing and promoting the wise use of the environment for the benefit of present and future generations.
Visit www.bcwf.bc.ca for more information.