Take Action for More Recreation Funding in the 2022 Budget

Destination BC | Tourism Whistler | Justa Jeskova.

This morning we are launching a letter-writing campaign to encourage everybody who loves the outdoors to send a note to their MLA with a request to invest more in outdoor recreation.

Last year, people like you helped secure a historic funding increase of $83 million for new recreation opportunities and improvements within BC Parks. We believe it's crucially important that the provincial government also recognizes the need to invest in outdoor recreation on the rest of the land base (the other 85%).

The provincial government is working on the 2022 budget right now so time is of the essence to show as much support as possible for more financial support for Recreation Sites and Trails BC.

RSTBC is a small government agency that plays a crucial role in facilitating outdoor recreation experiences on public lands outside of BC's protected areas, municipal boundaries, and First Nations reserves. Yet this agency seems to have somehow slipped under the radar of government priorities.

A historical lack of provincial investments in supporting its operation means that the agency faces a very significant maintenance backlog, an overreliance on partnerships with volunteer recreation groups without providing adequate support, and an inability to participate effectively in land use and recreation planning.

In response to submissions for the budget 2022 consultation made by the Outdoor Recreation Council and our member organizations, the Select Standing Committee recommended in its budget consultation report to government to:" provide increased funding for parks, recreation and trails to address gaps in maintenance and staff, including dedicated funding to community-based organizations for trail maintenance and development."

If you, too, believe there's a need for more funding for recreation and trails, please help us advocate for more support for Recreation Sites and Trails BC in the 2022 provincial budget.

Click the button below to use our instant letter-writing tool to contact your local MLA. We've provided a template you can use, though personalizing your letter triples the impact. If you like, add a personal note sharing why BC's trails and recreation sites are essential to you.