Columbia Basin Trust is supporting the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) to purchase 3823 Goat Canyon Road in Electoral Area B, a 4.4-acre property that will become a future regional park. This acquisition will restore long-term public access to the Goat River and support the RDCK, Town of Creston and Electoral Areas A, B & C Parks and Recreation Master Plan’s goal of adding parkland for the community. Securing this land marks an important step in re-establishing a community gathering place cherished by generations.
The land acquisition was made possible through contributions from Columbia Basin Trust ($540,000), the BC Parks Foundation ($200,000), and the RDCK ($159,000).
“Restoring access to the Goat River has long been a community priority, and we’re pleased to help make this important step possible,” said Katie Kendall, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust. “We look forward to seeing the RDCK, Yaqan Nuʔkiy, and the community shape the future of this cherished place.”
While the land is now publicly owned, it is not yet open for public use. A full risk assessment must be completed, and any identified risks mitigated, before the public can safely enjoy the park. Over the next year, the RDCK will complete these site assessments and begin developing a management plan to guide access, safety, and environmental protection.
“We’re grateful to our partners for their support in making this acquisition possible. Without their contributions, this purchase wouldn’t have been feasible.,” said Roger Tierney, Director of Area B. “It’s exciting to see our efforts to acquire parkland for the community come to life. This acquisition represents an important step toward improving parkland access in the region.”
Residents will have opportunities to provide input as planning for the future of the park moves forward. The RDCK will share engagement details once they have been determined. The RDCK has also been in contact with Yaqan Nuʔkiy throughout the acquisition and will continue their engagement as planning advances.
“Adding this land to the public trust is a real win for the Creston Valley and we are happy to have played a role in making it happen,” says Andy Day, CEO of the BC Parks Foundation. “It sets the stage for a future regional park where people will be able to swim, paddle, and spend time by the Goat River in a beautiful place. Parks like this improve people’s mental and physical health, boost the local economy, and are good for nature.”
Read the full release from the Regional District of Central Kootenay here.
