The Outdoor Recreation Fund of British Columbia distributed CA$42,500 to four organizations in the Kootenay region, aiming to enhance environmental education and nature-based experiences.
This funding is part of a larger initiative to support outdoor recreation and conservation efforts across the province.
The grants are part of the inaugural funding round from the Outdoor Recreation Fund of B.C., established last year with a CA$10 million contribution from the provincial government.
The fund aims to support organizations and initiatives that enhance outdoor infrastructure, provide environmental education, and make outdoor recreation more accessible and inclusive for all British Columbians.
The Outdoor Recreation Council of B.C. (ORCBC) manages the fund and oversees the grant distribution process. In this first round, CA$250,000 was allocated to 30 organizations and initiatives across the province.
The response to the inaugural grant intake was positive, with ORCBC receiving 208 applications collectively requesting CA$1.8 million in funding.
Tourism Fernie received CA$25,000 for a project to improve boating access along the Elk River. The project includes the installation of a boat launch pad, parking enhancements, and the addition of informative and interpretive signage.
In Kimberley, the local Trails Society also acquired CA$7,500 to upgrade the popular Sidecut Trail. The refurbishment aims to accommodate increased two-way traffic while enhancing safety measures and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Wildsight Invermere was granted CA$10,000 to develop outdoor education programs and events that focus on reducing the impact of recreational activities on wildlife and their habitats.
Another funding was given to the Kootenay-Columbia Discovery Centre Society. It received CA$10,000 to fund an educational program centered on the wetlands in the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area, offering hands-on experiences through activities such as canoeing, hiking, and nature camps.
According to an article published by Creston Valley Advance, ORCBC executive director Louise Pedersen expressed pride and inspiration at the response to their first grant intake, noting the overwhelming number of applications and the variety of high-quality projects.
Pedersen highlighted the commitment of volunteer-led recreation groups, First Nations, and local governments to enhancing and preserving outdoor spaces and expressed excitement about the positive impact the grants will have on communities in B.C.
“We are excited to see the positive impact these grants will start to have on communities in B.C.,” Pedersen said.