A new strategy aims to tackle the long-standing impacts of tourism and recreation on Crown land in the Koocanusa area. The actions outlined in the strategy will begin this spring, and will be funded in part by $750,000 over three to five years from the Trust.
“Residents told us that the Koocanusa area is an important asset to our region, not only in terms of tourism and recreation, but because of its natural values,” said Johnny Strilaeff, Columbia Basin Trust President and Chief Executive Officer. “By partnering on this strategy, we’re supporting solid actions that will help manage the use of this resource and ensure it remains a healthy, inviting place.”
The goal of the strategy is to foster more sustainable and responsible recreation on Crown lands. Key actions include the following:
• Continue to educate recreation users about appropriate Crown land behaviour through signage and by distributing the Koocanusa Recreation Guidelines and Map.
• Support the Koocanusa Recreation Steward Program, which provides two additional natural resource officers for the Koocanusa area.
• Complete a recreation inventory of existing roads, trails, camping sites and staging areas.
• Continue to engage with local partners, advisors and stewardship groups.
To read the full news release, click here. For more information about Koocanusa Recreation and to download a copy of the strategy, click here.
