Outdoor Recreation Council of British Columbia

🌲 Dirt bikers as environmental stewards? Absolutely! In our latest blog, we highlight how the Blue Mountain Motorcycle Club (BMMC) and BC’s off-road community are leading the way in sustainable trail practices. From building bridges to creating guides on trail-sharing with horses, dirt bikers are showing they care about stewardship as much as the thrill of riding. Check out how they’re helping redefine the sport at: https://lnkd.in/gbG4fcHK

Did you know that outdoor recreation provides an incredible $15 billion in economic benefits to British Columbia each year? Or that 7 in 10 British Columbians spent time in nature over the past 12 months? Earlier this year, we released a literature review that breaks down how outdoor activities not only enhance our health and well-being but also strengthen communities, boost local economies, and foster inclusion. 🌍💪 From improved physical and mental health to fostering connections within communities, the benefits of spending time in nature are truly limitless. Outdoor recreation also supports diverse rural economies by attracting new residents and promoting sustainable tourism. Dive into the full report to learn how time outdoors can make life better for us all—and our communities. 📈🌲 https://lnkd.in/gip3yYQB

Underfunded, understaffed, and in urgent need of repair, BC's provincial park system is struggling to keep up with growing demand. ⛺ In an open letter, the Elders Council for Parks in British Columbia calls for increased funding, improved infrastructure, and greater public involvement to protect and preserve these natural spaces for future generations. 🌲 Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gJWijNGW

Did you know ORCBC records all of our webinars and shares them on our YouTube channel? 👩💻 Our webinars aim to bring together researchers, government agencies, planners, tourism stakeholders, recreation advocates, trail builders and volunteers for conversations about current and emerging topics that impact outdoor recreation in BC. No one understands how busy outdoor recreation groups are better than we do, which is why we record all of our webinars so they can be shared, referred back to, and accessed at your convenience whenever you need them. Here are some webinars from the past year that are available online: 🌱 The science and art of building volunteer partnerships 🌱 Forest landscape planning and recreation 🌱 Recreaton and stewardship: The Kwantlen story 🌱 BC's outdoor recreation economy 🌱 Reconciliation and recreation: Indigenous perspectives 🌱 How to make stewardship part of your organization's mission 🌱 Tips to promote your recreation organization through social media Watch our webinars here: www.youtube.com/@orc_bc/ Fill out a survey about webinars you would like to see in the future: https://lnkd.in/gRy8i94j

How cool is this? 🔎 One Million Observations and Counting! 🌿 BC’s protected areas are so much more than beautiful places to explore—they’re vital habitats for safeguarding biodiversity. Thanks to thousands of dedicated citizen scientists we’ve hit one million iNaturalist observations in BC Parks, revealing rare species and even some potentially new-to-science discoveries like the Undescribed Globular Springtail photographed in the South Okanagan Grasslands Protected Area (photo). Have you joined the movement yet? The BC Biodiversity Program wants your help! Download the iNaturalist app and start exploring! Who knows what you’ll discover next? 📸 Read the full article from the BC Parks Foundation: https://lnkd.in/gsfEJ6Tg

Exciting News! Protect Our Winters Canada has just released a new report on the outdoor recreation economy in Canada. The findings are impressive: the outdoor recreation economy now surpasses the fisheries, forestry, and agriculture sectors in its contribution to the national economy. This is a game-changer for how we view the economic impact of outdoor activities in Canada. Here in BC, the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC, and friends such as the KORE - Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise Initiative, are calling on the BC government to develop an economic impact model that assesses the value of the outdoor recreation economy to the overall BC economy.

All hands on deck! 🚣♀️ Transport Canada - Transports Canada is seeking feedback on the mandatory use of PFDs/lifejackets for individuals on board recreational vessels. Currently, you are required by law to have a lifejacket or PFD (personal flotation device) on board for each person on a watercraft, including human-powered crafts however you are not legally required to wear it. Not using a personal flotation device (PFD) or lifejacket is a leading cause of death among recreational boaters, accounting for 89% of all fatalities. How to participate: 🛥 Take the Transport Canada survey to share your thoughts regarding mandatory use of PFD/Lifejackets. 🛥 Participate in the discussion forum 🛥 You can also send comments to: MSSRegulations-ReglementsSSM@tc.gc.ca. Survey link: https://lnkd.in/ggdDSEeZ Discussion forum link: https://lnkd.in/g4trnsCM

At ORCBC, we have always been committed to providing the organized recreation sector with the tools and knowledge needed to maximize its impact. As we work to enhance and grow our efforts, we value your insights on the challenges and needs your organization faces. Please take 10 minutes to complete this brief survey, accessible here: https://lnkd.in/gWdZWkT8 Your insights will guide the development of future programs and strengthen our advocacy efforts when meeting with senior public servants and ministers. We will share the key findings of this survey with you all. The deadline for responses is Monday, Oct. 21.

British Columbians will elect a new provincial government on October 19. 🗳 We asked the parties three pointed questions about recreation policy and direction. Read our newest blog article for their answers. https://lnkd.in/gGxE2yFp

Hello! 👋 I'm Soraya, ORCBC Communications and Engagement Officer, and today I wanted to jump on here for #WorldMentalHealthDay to remind you that it is okay to not be okay and that you are not alone. 💛 Spending time in nature and accessing community outdoor spaces plays a huge role in maintaining and improving mental health. These spaces provide a place to disconnect, get active, and find solace away from the stresses of daily life. This is why it is vital to protect public recreation opportunities and work together to break down barriers to participation. Throughout my twenties, I dealt with periods of depression and anxiety, and getting outside was so much more than “fun”—it was a lifeline. Nature became a safe space where I could ground myself, clear my mind, and find a sense of peace. This is why I am so passionate about advocating for outdoor recreation and accessible and inclusive outdoor spaces, ensuring everyone has the chance to experience the healing power of nature. This year's theme is Mental Health in the Workplace, and I would also like to highlight the role of volunteers. For dedicated volunteers, the passion and commitment they bring can sometimes come at a personal cost, leading to burnout. It’s important for organizations to be clear about time commitments, honor boundaries, and provide support. At ORCBC, we are committed to supporting volunteers through building capacity, increasing funding, and continued advocacy efforts. If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone, and there are people and resources ready to support you. Let’s continue to protect these spaces and support each other on this journey. Crisis lines and contact information: 💛 9-8-8 (call or text) to reach a trained responder 💛 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) crisis line. Free and available 24 hours a day 💛 310-6789 (no area code needed) - BC Mental Health Support Line. Free and available 24 hours a day