New ORCBC Toolkit Empowers Communities with Outdoor Recreation Research Tools
The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) is excited to introduce the release of its latest resource, Conducting and Using Visitor and Recreational User Research – a comprehensive toolkit designed to help local governments, First Nations, and recreation groups strengthen their ability to gather and apply data on recreational users and visitors.
Developed in collaboration with the Harbinger Consultancy, recognized for its expertise in outdoor recreation, community-based education, and regional economic analysis, this toolkit equips organizations with practical tools to conduct meaningful research. The insights generated from this research will enable recreation and tourism organizations to make informed decisions, enhance advocacy, and improve outdoor recreation experiences across British Columbia.
Research is critical for ensuring that decisions are based on accurate, relevant data. By understanding the needs, behaviours, and preferences of recreational users, communities can address emerging challenges, improve user experiences, and plan more effectively. This evidence-based approach supports long-term planning and strengthens the case for investment in outdoor recreation infrastructure, ensuring sustainable and beneficial outcomes for both the environment and local economies.
“This isn’t just a toolkit—it’s a game changer for recreation groups, local governments, and communities throughout BC,” said Louise Pedersen, Executive Director of ORCBC. “By providing user-friendly, practical tools for data collection and application, our goal is to enable communities to make smarter decisions that benefit everyone—residents, visitors, and the province as a whole.”
The toolkit is specifically tailored to meet the needs of small and mid-sized outdoor recreation organizations, First Nations and local governments, many of which may lack the resources to conduct in-depth research on their own. It provides actionable insights that can drive strategic decision-making, strengthen advocacy efforts, and contribute to the long-term success of outdoor recreation initiatives.
“This toolkit offers guided access to approaches we have used in more than 30 years of consulting,” noted Michele Archie, principal of The Harbinger Consultancy. “For many communities and recreation groups, spending $10,000 or $30,000 or more on an economic study isn’t in the cards. Our aim is to help them build their own capacity to generate their own insights and put them to work.”
With this new resource, ORCBC reaffirms its commitment to advancing the future of outdoor recreation in BC by promoting informed, sustainable decision-making that benefits communities, ecosystems, and recreation users alike.
To support the DIY guide and toolkit, ORCBC and Harbinger Consultancy have also recorded two webinars: