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Jul 22, 2022

Letter of Support for the New BC Trail Fund

Letter from Tourism Industry Association of BC

Advocacy

RE: TIABC SUPPORT FOR THE NEW BC TRAIL FUND

To Whom It May Concern:

On behalf of the Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia, I am writing in support of the Outdoor Recreation Council of British Columbia’s proposal to establish an endowment for the BC Trail Fund.

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) is a province-wide advocacy organization that represents the interests of more than 19,000 businesses and 350,000 people working in the tourism and hospitality sector. Tourism is an integral part of BC’s character and economy. It is interwoven throughout the fabric of the province, supporting families and anchoring the culture of communities.

As you are aware, the Super, Natural BC brand is built on the incredible landscapes and waterways throughout our province. Each year, countless residents and visitors alike enjoy outdoor adventure and recreation at any one of the thousands of lakes, rivers, mountains, parks, and trails that span all regions of BC. Unfortunately, some of our natural attributes run the risk of damage due to overuse and recklessness unless we take steps to protect the environment…in this case the extensive trail system on crown land that has seen an exponential increase in usage, particularly during the pandemic.

The BC Trail Fund is very much needed by everyone who looks after trails and recreation assets in BC given that the upkeep and stewardship of our existing trails, facilities, and outdoor spaces have not benefitted from the COVID-19 recovery grants. Consequently, without ongoing and dedicated funding, deteriorating trail conditions, overcrowding, and environmental damage will continue to occur. The BC Trail Fund will help ensure that there is a long-term plan for caring for these valuable assets.

We strongly urge government to consider a grant to establish the BC Trail Fund in the interest of protecting, maintaining, and sustaining the many trails enjoyed by residents and visitors throughout British Columbia today and in the years to come.

If you have any questions about TIABC’s support for this initiative, please contact me at your earliest convenience.

Best Regards,

Walt Judas
CEO, TIABC
T – 778-953-0620

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