ORCBC collaborating with Selkirk Innovates on guide for rural communities

Vancouver Island Dirt Riders Association photo

ORCBC has partnered with Castlegar-based Selkirk Innovates to create a guide designed to empower rural BC communities to identify, understand, and seize opportunities for economic and community development through outdoor recreation.

Rich with practical advice, tools, and strategies, the guide will promote the sustainable use of local natural resources, enhancing both local economies and overall well-being.

Key areas covered in the guide include:

• identifying effective ways to incorporate outdoor recreation into community economic development strategies

• Conducting market analyses and other essential research.

• Mapping community and recreational assets.

• Building support and collaboration around an outdoor recreation vision.

• Generating momentum for projects.

• Identifying and accessing funding sources.

• Anticipating challenges and offering practical solutions.

This initiative is backed by a technical advisory committee representing a wide range of sectors, including local governments, community development, outdoor recreation, conservation, and tourism.

The guide and accompanying resources, such as webinars, are expected to be available by March 2025.

ORCBC extends its gratitude to ETSI-BC and the Province of British Columbia through the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program who have made this project possible.