ENVIRONMENT AND PARKS STANDING COMMITTEE AGENDA
10:00 a.m. April 22, 2021 Board Room 155 George Street Prince George, BC
1. Call to Order
2. Adoption of Agenda (Additions/Deletions)
3. Adoption of Minutes 3.1 Item: March 18, 2021 Environment and Parks Standing Committee Minutes
Recommendation: THAT the Minutes of the Environment and Parks Standing Committee meeting held on March 18, 2021 be adopted as circulated.
4. Public Appearances 4.1 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attendance to make a presentation regarding the Regional Parks Plan Review.
5. Chairperson's Report
6. Reports 6.1 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approval of the Regional Parks Plan Review Previous Reports: Item No. 5.1, February 2019 (see below for link) Item No. 5.1, September 2019 (see below for link) Attachment(s): 2020 Regional Parks Plan – Final Draft (see below for link)
Recommendation No. 1: THAT the report be received.
THAT the Committee recommend to the Board:
Recommendation No. 2: THAT the final draft of the 2020 Regional Parks Plan be approved.
6.2 Item: ES-21-05 Caretaker Services - Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park Purpose: Consider Award of Contract Previous Reports: Item No. 6.7, March 2021 (see below for link) Attachment(s): Backgrounder
Recommendation No. 1: THAT the report be received.
Page 1 of 184 Environment and Parks Standing Committee - April 22, 2021
THAT the Committee recommend to the Board:
Recommendation No. 2: THAT Contract ES-21-05 Caretaker Services – Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park be awarded to Shelton Rafferty for the amount of $63,600 per year (excluding taxes).
6.3 Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpose: Consider Service Agreement Extension Previous Reports: Item No. 5.8 March 2018 (see below for link) Attachment(s): 1. Letter dated March 25, 2021 2. 2020 REAPS Final Report
Recommendation No. 1: THAT the report and letter dated March 25, 2021 from REAPS be received.
THAT the Committee recommend to the Board:
Recommendation No. 2: THAT the Service Agreement with REAPS be approved for a one-year contract extension for the term of May 1, 2021 to April 30, 2022.
6.4 Item: Valemount Regional Landfill – Ground Water Monitoring Well Installation Purpose: Consider Competitive Bid Process Previous Reports: None Attachment(s): None
Recommendation No. 1: THAT the report be received.
THAT the Committee recommend to the Board:
Recommendation No. 2: THAT a competitive bid process be entered into for the installation and commissioning of two (2) ground water monitoring wells at the Valemount Regional Landfill.
6.5 Item: Routine Leachate Testing Services for Waste Discharge Permit at Foothills Boulevard Regional Landfill Purpose: Consider Competitive Bid Process Previous Reports: None Attachment(s): None
Recommendation No. 1: THAT the report be received.
THAT the Committee recommend to the Board:
Recommendation No. 2: THAT a competitive bid process be entered into for services for the routine leachate testing to meet requirements under the Waste Discharge Permit for the Foothills Boulevard Regional Landfill.
7. Correspondence
8. New Business
9. Adjournment
Page 2 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND PARKS STANDING COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER-FORT GEORGE HELD ON THURSDAY, MARCH 18, 2021 IN THE BOARDROOM 155 GEORGE STREET, PRINCE GEORGE, BC
Directors Present: Director L. Beckett, Chair Director D. Alan Director J. Atkinson (via teleconference) Director P. Crook (via teleconference) Director K. Dunphy (via teleconference) (in at 10:38 a.m.) Director A. Frederick Director L. Hall (via teleconference) Director O. Torgerson (via teleconference)
Also in Attendance: Director B. Empey Director A. Kaehn Director M. Krause Director T. McConnachie – (via teleconference) (in at 11:11 a.m.)
Absent: Director K. Sampson
Staff Present: J. Martin, Administrator C. Calder, General Manager of Financial Services J. Gloger, Deputy Corporate Officer M. Higgins, General Manager of Community Services K. Jensen, General Manager of Legislative and Corporate Services K. Jonkman, General Manager of Development Services P. Wildauer, General Manager of Environmental Services
Minutes Recorded and D. Hegel, Confidential Assistant (Corporate Services) Produced by:
CALL TO ORDER The Regional District acknowledge the unceded ancestral lands of the Lheidli T'enneh, on whose land we live, work and play.
The Chair called the meeting to order at 10:33 a.m.
The Chair advised that: • the Provincial Health Order restricting public at public meetings is still in effect; • the meeting is being livestreamed and links for access have been provided on social media; and • the agenda of the meeting is available on the Regional District website.
The Chair proceeded to do a roll call of Directors to confirm those attending remotely and those attending in person in the Boardroom.
The Chair confirmed the staff that are in attendance.
The Chair provided a review of the procedure for the meeting to accommodate remote attendance.
Item: March 18, 2021 Environment and Parks Standing Committee Minutes Page 3 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Environment and Parks Standing Committee Minutes March 18, 2021 Page 2
ADOPTION OF AGENDA RES. NO. 10/21 Alan/Atkinson (ADDITIONS/DELETIONS) THAT the agenda be adopted as circulated. CARRIED
ITEM # 3.1 RES. NO. EP 11/21 Crook/Frederick FEBRUARY 18, 2021 ENVIRONMENT AND THAT the Minutes of the Environment and Parks Standing Committee PARKS STANDING meeting held on February 18, 2021 be adopted as circulated. CARRIED COMMITTEE MINUTES
ITEM # 4.1 Ms. Carly Fraser (Special Project Coordinator) and Mr. Shane Hedderson AGRICULTURAL PLASTICS (Western Region Business Manager) from Cleanfarms were in remote WASTE attendance and made a presentation regarding its Agricultural Plastics CHARACTERIZATION Waste Characterization Study including: STUDY PRESENTATION • overview of Cleanfarms including: - vision; - approach; - funding; • Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program (CASPP) including: - program objectives; - projects; - plastic materials; - pilot test phase; - collection bag operations; - collection sites; and - ask of Regional District of Fraser-Fort George.
Director Dunphy was admitted to the meeting – 10:38 a.m.
The Chief Administrative Officer responded to a query from a Director regarding how this initiative might fit into the five-year financial plan.
Ms. Fraser and Mr. Hedderson responded to queries from Directors including: • the process of collecting the plastic and the condition the plastic needs to be in; • the opportunity to have a collection site in the Robson Valley; • bale netting inclusion; • whether the program would proceed if just one Regional District participates; • estimated volume that is needed for the program to work and what happens if there is excess volume; • product that will be made from the recycled plastic; • if there has been discussion with Merlin Plastics; • feedback requested/received from farmers and ranchers in the community; and • whether fertilizer bags are treated the same as grain bags.
The Chair thanked Ms. Fraser and Mr. Hedderson for their presentation.
Item: March 18, 2021 Environment and Parks Standing Committee Minutes Page 4 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Environment and Parks Standing Committee Minutes March 18, 2021 Page 3
CHAIRPERSON'S REPORT The Chair advised that there was no report.
ITEM # 6.1 A report was presented regarding the Agricultural Plastics Recycling Pilot AGRICULTURAL PLASTICS Program - Cleanfarms. RECYCLING PILOT PROGRAM - CLEANFARMS Discussion ensued regarding the Agricultural Plastics Recycling Pilot Program including: • funding for the program including: - funding sources; - grant opportunities; - Provincial support; and • managing the program.
The Chief Administrative Officer advised that there are a number of questions that still need to be answered and that more work needs to be done before a decision can be made. He advised that the Committee could ask Administration to provide more information that would include funding source as well as a delivery plan.
RES. NO. 12/21 Alan/Crook
THAT the report and proposal from Cleanfarms be received. CARRIED RES. NO. 13/21 Hall/Torgerson
THAT Environmental Services Administration bring a report back to the Committee with further information including funding sources and a delivery plan regarding Agricultural Plastics Recycling Pilot Program – Cleanfarms. . CARRIED
ITEM # 6.2 A report was presented regarding the Purchase of Cardboard Compactors. PURCHASE OF CARDBOARD RES. NO. 14/21 Frederick/Dunphy COMPACTORS THAT the report be received. CARRIED RES. NO. 15/21 Atkinson/Crook
THAT the Committee recommend to the Board that a competitive bid process be entered into for the purchase of three cardboard compactors. CARRIED
ITEM # 6.3 A report was presented regarding the Demolition, Land Clearing and DEMOLITION, LAND Construction (DLC) Waste Diversion Program Update. CLEARING AND CONSTRUCTION (DLC) RES. NO. 16/21 Alan/Hall WASTE DIVERSION PROGRAM UPDATE THAT the report be received. CARRIED
Item: March 18, 2021 Environment and Parks Standing Committee Minutes Page 5 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Environment and Parks Standing Committee Minutes March 18, 2021 Page 4
ITEM # 6.4 A report was presented regarding ES-18-01 Roll-off Bin Hauling Services ES-18-01 ROLL-OFF BIN – Vanway Regional Transfer Station. HAULING SERVICES – VANWAY REGIONAL RES. NO. 17/21 Torgerson/Frederick TRANSFER STATION THAT the report and letter dated February 24, 2021 from Cascades Recovery+ be received. CARRIED RES. NO. 18/21 Torgerson/Dunphy
THAT the Committee recommend to the Board that Contract ES-18-01 Roll-off Bin Hauling Services – Vanway Regional Transfer Station be approved for a one-year contract extension for the term of May 1, 2021 to April 30, 2022. CARRIED
ITEM # 6.5 A report was presented regarding ES-18-02 Roll-off Bin Hauling Services ES-18-02 ROLL-OFF BIN - Quinn Street Regional Recycling Depot. HAULING SERVICES - QUINN STREET REGIONAL RES. NO. 19/21 Frederick/Crook RECYCLING DEPOT THAT the report and letter dated February 24, 2021 from Cascades Recovery+ be received. CARRIED RES. NO. 20/21 Alan/Atkinson
THAT the Committee recommend to the Board that Contract ES-18-02 Roll-off Bin Hauling Services – Quinn Street Regional Recycling Depot be approved for a one-year contract extension for the term of May 1, 2021 to April 30, 2022. CARRIED
ITEM # 6.6 A report was presented regarding ES-21-01 Construction Services ES-21-01 CONSTRUCTION Cummings Road Regional Transfer Station Redevelopment. SERVICES CUMMINGS ROAD REGIONAL In response to a query from a Director the General Manager of TRANSFER STATION Environmental Services advised that Twin Rivers has had numerous long- REDEVELOPMENT term contracts with the Regional District and she is confident that they will do an excellent job on this project as well as the other projects they are working with the contractor on. She also advised that the timeline and finances provided by Twin Rivers match with what the consultant anticipated the cost and time for the project was going to be.
RES. N0. 21/21 Frederick/Crook
THAT the report be received. CARRIED
Item: March 18, 2021 Environment and Parks Standing Committee Minutes Page 6 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Environment and Parks Standing Committee Minutes March 18, 2021 Page 5
RES. N0. 22/21 Torgerson/Alan
THAT the Committee recommend to the Board the Contract ES-21-01 Construction Services - Cummings Road Regional Transfer Station Redevelopment be awarded to Twin Rivers Development Ltd. for the amount of $ 1,354,478.54 (excluding taxes). CARRIED
ITEM # 6.7 A report was presented regarding Caretaker Services – Berman Lake CARETAKER SERVICES – Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park. BERMAN LAKE REGIONAL TRANSFER STATION AND RES. N0. 23/21 Frederick/Dunphy BERMAN LAKE REGIONAL PARK THAT the report be received. CARRIED RES. N0. 24/21 Atkinson/Crook
THAT the Committee recommend to the Board that a competitive bid process be entered into for the provision of Caretaker Services at the Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park. CARRIED
ADJOURNMENT RES. N0. 25/21 Alan/Torgerson
THAT the meeting be adjourned - 11:29 a.m. CARRIED
Chair General Manager of Legislative and Corporate Services
Item: March 18, 2021 Environment and Parks Standing Committee Minutes Page 7 of 184 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER-FORT GEORGE
Regional Parks Plan Review
Final Presentation April 22, 2021 AGENDA ITEM # Page 8 of 184 1 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Agenda
• Purpose of the Plan • Planning Process • Engagement: What We Heard • Parkland Supply • Priority Recommendations for 2020 - 2030 • Proposed Future Regional Parks • Financial Plan • Questions & Discussion AGENDA ITEM # Page 9 of 184 2 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Team
Heidi Redman, BCSLA, CSLA Ivy Smith, BSc, MLA Tracey Raume, P.Eng, PMP Principal, Landscape Architect, Associate, Sr Project Manager, Engineer LEES+Associates LEES+Associates BINNIE
Project Manager Technical Support & Site Assessments Accessibility Specialist AGENDA ITEM # Page 10 of 184 3 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Purpose of the Plan
The Regional Parks Plan Review establishes a road map to guide the planning, acquisition, development and management of regional parks, and to set out priorities to guide the Regional District over the next 10 years. AGENDA ITEM # Page 11 of 184 4 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Planning Process AGENDA ITEM # Page 12 of 184 5 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Extensive Community Engagement
Public Online Surveys Round 1: 408 responses Round 2: 191 responses
Government, Indigenous and Stakeholder Groups Round 1: 11 interviews Round 2: 10 interviews AGENDA ITEM # Page 13 of 184 6 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Engagement: What We Heard AGENDA ITEM # Page 14 of 184 7 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Engagement: What We Heard AGENDA ITEM # Page 15 of 184 8 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Parkland Supply - Does Inventory Meet Need?
11 regional parks 3 Park planning areas 330 hectares of parks AGENDA ITEM # Page 16 of 184 9 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Parkland Supply- Does Inventory Meet Need?
• The RDFFG has a reasonable supply of overall parkland on par with comparable districts with 3.5 hectares of parkland per 1,000 residents AGENDA ITEM # Page 17 of 184 10 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Parkland Distribution
• Mackenzie and Robson Valley-Canoe are well served • However, the Greater Prince George park planning area is deficient in regional parkland AGENDA ITEM # Page 18 of 184 11 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Parkland Distribution
Electoral Area ‘D’ and Electoral Area ‘E’ are underserved in parkland AGENDA ITEM # Page 19 of 184
12 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Priority Recommendations for 2020-2030
Existing Regional Parks
Berman Lake Giscome Portage • Create more accessible grades • Prepare a park management to access the dock and picnic plan that defines a mutually- areas. (High) agreed vision for the park management function of this Cedarside park. (High) • Widen the trail to the beach and develop an interpretive loop trail. Harold Mann (High) • Improve trails along the creek and bog with sections of George Hicks boardwalk. • Add informational and • Support the extension of a trail interpretive signage to highlight from the viewing platform to the the flora and fauna of the area. North Thompson Highway on the (Medium) north side of Swift Creek. (Med) AGENDA ITEM # Page 20 of 184 13 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Priority Recommendations for 2020-2030
Existing Regional Parks
John Dahl • In consultation with the District of Mackenzie consider handing John Dahl over to the District for use as a community park and acquiring another regional park site in the Mackenzie area (Med)
Koeneman • Create a defined loop access road, and upgrade the upper parking area. (High) Kristian Winther • Install interpretive signage and
benches along the Salmon River AGENDA ITEM # Page 21 of 184 loop trail. (High) 14 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Priority Recommendations for 2020-2030
Existing Regional Parks McMillan Creek • Improve information and etiquette signage at the parking lot for hikers using the park. (High)
Ness Lake • Monitor the effectiveness of the shoreline stabilization project and conduct enhancements, as necessary. (High)
Wilkins • Repair the concrete boat launch. (High) • Create an accessible loop trail with interpretive signage about the park.
(High) AGENDA ITEM # Page 22 of 184 15 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Priority Recommendations for 2020-2030
General Regional Park System
Policies & Bylaws • Review & update Regional Parks Bylaw
Accessibility • Accessible outhouses • Accessible parking stalls & picnic areas
Education & Interpretation • Interpretive signage • Interpretive talks
• Year-round use AGENDA ITEM # Page 23 of 184 16 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Priority Recommendations for 2020-2030
General Regional Park System
Stewardship & Sustainability • Provide recycling bins
Marketing & Promotion • Update brochures • Linkages with other agencies
Indigenous Relations • Relationship agreements
• Park signage with Indigenous languages AGENDA ITEM # Page 24 of 184 • Archeological sites identification 17 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Proposed Future Regional Parks
Electoral Area ‘D’ • Tabor Lake • Stoner / Stone Creek / South of Stoner on the Fraser River
Electoral Area ‘E’ AGENDA ITEM # Page 25 of 184 • Hixon Creek Falls • Woodpecker Heritage Church 18 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Proposed Future Regional Parks
• Tabor Lake and Hixon Creek Falls are recommended as priorities for further exploration as future regional parkland acquisition opportunities AGENDA ITEM # Page 26 of 184 19 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
Financial Plan
Estimated budgets over the 10 year horizon of this plan:
• Operations & Maintenance Budget: $1.2M • Capital Budget: • Projects for Existing Regional Parks: $408,965 • Projects for Proposed Regional Parks: $194,896 • Projects for General Park System Upgrades: $135,666 • Regional Park Development Reserve Fund: $707,237 AGENDA ITEM # Page 27 of 184 20 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
QUESTIONS? AGENDA ITEM # Page 28 of 184 21 Item: Representative(s) from Lees & Associates will be in remote attenda...
THANK YOU AGENDA ITEM # Page 29 of 184 22 AGENDA ITEM #
GM: ______• REGIONAL DISTRICT ~&, of Fraser-Fort George
Main Office: 155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 REPORT FOR Telephone: (250) 960-4400 / Fax: (250) 563-7520 Toll Free: 1-800-667-1959 / http://www.rdffg.bc.ca COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION
TO: Chair and Members, Environment and Parks Standing Committee File No.: PK ORP 1.0
FROM: Bryan Boyes, Utilities Leader
DATE: March 29, 2021
SUBJECT SUMMARY: Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approval of the Regional Parks Plan Review
PREVIOUS REPORTS: Item No. 5.1, February 2019 (see Agenda for link) Item No. 5.1, September 2019(see Agenda for link)
ATTACHMENT(S): 2020 Regional Parks Plan – Final Draft (see Agenda for link)
RECOMMENDATION(S): ENTITLEMENT HOW VOTE COUNTED 1. THAT the report be received All Majority 1Director/1vote THAT the Committee recommend to the Board:
2. THAT the final draft of the 2020 Regional Parks Plan be approved. All Majority 1 Director/1vote
ISSUE(S):
At the regular meeting held in September 2019, Lees and Associates Ltd. was awarded the consulting services contract for a review of the Regional Parks Plan. This plan will provide direction to projects and goals for the Regional Parks system for the period of 2020 – 2030. The plan review was delayed by the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Regional Parks Plan review process included two (2) rounds of public and stakeholder engagement conducted through online and phone surveys. A review and update of the existing Regional Parks Plan will establish a road map to guide the planning, acquisition, development and management of regional parks over the next 10 years.
Representatives from Lees and Associates Ltd. will be in remote attendance to make a presentation in regard to the Regional Parks Plan Update.
The Committee is being asked to recommend to the Regional Board approval of the review and update of the 2020 Regional Parks Plan.
RELEVANT POLICIES:
• Local Government Act • establishes requirements for continuance of parks and trails as well as recognizing Regional Districts are an independent, responsible and accountable order of government
• Official Regional Parks Plan (2010 – 2020) • provides guidance for regional parks program implementation, i.e. projects and acquisitions
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 30 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Environment and Parks Standing Committee Page 2
SERVICE RELEVANCE:
The Regional District provides regional parks services for the entire Regional District of Fraser-Fort George. The Board approved the implementation of the last official Regional Parks Plan in Fall 2010. The review and update provide a road map for Regional Parks services for the next 10 years.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATION(S):
Budget implications for this service will be reflected in the Regional Parks (5001) Budget.
OTHER CONSIDERATION(S):
N/A
DECISION OPTIONS:
1. Approve recommendations • a recommendation will be made to the Board to consider approving the final draft of the 2020 Regional Parks Plan
Other Options:
a. do not make a recommendation to the Board to consider approving the final draft of the 2020 Regional Parks Plan • not making a recommendation to approve the Plan would leave the Regional District without a current Regional Parks Plan
COMMENTS:
Representatives from Lees and Associates Ltd. will provide a presentation remotely of the final draft of the 2020 Regional Parks Plan Update and will be available to answer questions.
If the Board is supportive of the final draft plan, the 2020 Regional Parks Plan replaces the existing Regional Parks Plan from 2010.
Respectfully submitted,
Bryan Boyes, Utilities Leader Environmental Services
BB:jt
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 31 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional District of Fraser Fort George Regional Parks Plan DRAFT
Regional Parks Plan Regional District of Fraser-Fort George
March 2021
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 32 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
CONTACT INFORMATION:
509-318 Homer Street, Vancouver BC Canada, V6B 2V2 | t: 604.899.3806
51 Wolseley Street, Toronto ON Canada, M5T 1A4 | t: 416.645.7033
8 Boswell Crescent, Whitehorse YT Canada, Y1A 4T3 | t: 867.332.3806
[email protected] | www.elac.ca
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 33 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The development of this plan was guided by input from the following groups and individuals:
REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER-FORT GEORGE STAFF & DIRECTORS
Bryan Boyes Petra Wildauer Renee McCloskey Lara Beckett Art Kaehn Murry Krause
INDIGENOUS GROUPS
Lheidli T’enneh First Nation McLeod Lake Indian Band Simpcw First Nation
GOVERNMENT & STAKEHOLDER GROUPS
BC Parks Caledonia Ramblers City of Prince George Cranbrook Hill Greenway Society Homestead-Giscome Portage Heritage Society Mackenzie Outdoor Route and Trail Association Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations, and Rural Development Nechako Watershed Roundtable Prince George ATV Club Prince George Backcountry Recreation Society Prince George Cycling Club Recreation Sites and Trails BC Recycling and Environmental Action Planning Society Robson Valley Chapter, Back Country Horseman Society of British Columbia Tourism Prince George Valemount Tourism Committee Yellowhead Outdoor Recreation Association
THE CONSULTING TEAM
Heidi Redman, LEES+Associates Ivy Smith, LEES+Associates Tracey Raume, R.F. Binnie & Associates Wai-Sue Louie, R.F. Binnie & Associates
Thank you to those residents and members of the public who shared their thoughts and ideas through the Regional Parks Plan surveys.
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 34 of 184 Item: Regional Parks PlanReview –FinalDraft Purpose:Consider Approva...
Table of Contents 4. ParklandNeedsAssessment 3. Benefits &Trends 2. RegionalContext 1. Introduction 5. Vision&Goals 2.2 DemographicProfile 1.6 RelatedPlansandPolicies 1.5 What'sinthePlan? 1.4 RoleoftheRegionalDistrict 1.3 RoleofRegionalParks 1.2 ThePlanningProcess 2.3 VisitationData 3.1 BenefitsofParksandTrails 2.1 BenefitsofParksandOpenSpaces 1.1 ThePurposeofthePlan 5.1 Vision 4.1 ParklandSupply–DoesInventoryMeetNeed? 3.2 TrendsInParkandTrailUse 2.4 OtherParkandTrailsSystems 5.3 Objectives 5.2 Goals 4.3 ParklandNeedsAssessment–KeyFindings 4.2 ParklandDistribution ...... 7 1 17 27 22 ...... 19 17 14 12 28 28 27 25 25 22 7 5 4 4 3 2 9 6 AGENDA ITEM# Page 35 of184 AGENDA ITEM #
6. Engagement: What We Heard ...... 29 6.1 Engagement Purpose ...... 29 6.2 Round 1: How We Reached Out...... 30 6.3 Round 1: Public Survey Summary Results ...... 31 6.4 Round 1: Interviews Key Findings...... 41 6.5 Round 2: How We Reached Out...... 44 6.6 Round 2: Public Survey Summary Results ...... 45
6.7 Round 2: Interviews Key Findings...... 51
7. Existing Regional Parks – Priorities For 2020 to 2030 ...... 54 7.1 Current Status...... 54 7.2 Development Priorities...... 56 7.3 General Park System Recommendations...... 66
8. Proposed Regional Parks ...... 69 8.1 Criteria For Acquisition...... 69 8.2 Potential Future Regional Park Sites...... 71 8.3 Priorities For Future Regional Park Development...... 76
9. Financial Plan ...... 78 9.1 Operational Budget...... 78 9.2 Capital Budget...... 79
9.3 Regional Park Development Reserve Fund...... 79
Appendices Appendix A | Engagement Materials
Appendix B | Cost Estimates
Appendix C | Mapping
Appendix D | Projects Completed from the 2010 Regional Parks Plan
Appendix E | Additional Regional Park Development Opportunities
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 36 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 37 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
1. Introduction
The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George (RDFFG) evolved, the District’s population has changed, and is located on the territories of the Lheidli T’enneh new trends in park and trail use have emerged. In First Nation, McLeod Lake Indian Band and Simpcw addition, the Regional District 2019-2023 Strategic First Nation. The Regional District encompasses more Priorities point to “Climate Action” and “Indigenous than 52,000 km² in the central interior of British Relations” as key goals it strives towards strong, Columbia. The Regional District is comprised of four healthy, livable communities in the region. municipalities and seven electoral areas.
The Regional District is home to a diverse economy with roots in trade, transportation, and forestry. RDFFG Regional Parks at a Glance The area has rich and varied landscapes including The Regional parks system includes: mountain passes, the Interior Plateau, many rivers and valleys including the Rocky Mountain Trench, and • 11 regional parks sub-arctic boreal forest to the north. • 3 park planning areas In 1976, the Regional District opened its first regional park, at Ness Lake. Over the next thirty years additional • 330 hectares of parkland parks were established across the region. Today, the Regional District operates eleven regional day use parks encompassing a total of 330 hectares. STRATEGIC PRIORITIES The RDFFG adopted its first Official Regional Parks 2019Plan - in2023 1981 (Bylaw No. 465). A revised plan was subsequently adopted by the District Board in 1986. Revisions to the Plan were developed in 1993 and Our organizational1998 but not principles adopted. The next revised Plan wasOur leadership values • open andadopted accountable in in 2010,how business setting is conducted out priorities over a 10-year• resilient and able to cope with change • mutual respect and cooperation between elected officials, volunteers • committed to building strong relationships with Indigenous communities and staff timewho work frame. as a team to deliver services and solve problems • supportive of diversity • excellence and innovation in the delivery of cost effective, equitable, • open minded, flexible, proactive and adaptive decision making responsive,Since relevant 2010, and sustainable the needs services of the Regional District have • partner in the current and future economic, social and environmental well-being of our communities Figure 1. Berman Lake Regional Park
CLIMATE ECONOMIC INDIGENOUS STRONG ACTION HEALTH RELATIONS COMMUNITIES GOAL We will build an understanding We will be a catalyst to We will foster and build We will promote and ensure of climate change and support opportunities that contribute relationships with Indigenous the livability and longevity of strategies that promote to the economic strength of communities that have an our communities. adaptation and mitigation the region. interest in our region. efforts.
Inspire actions that result in SeekFigure partnerships 2. RDFFG for Strategicmeaningful Priorities,Champion the2019-2023 promotion of the Encourage policy development BOLD climate change mitigation change in the economic history and culture of that supports the long-term LEADERSHIP and adaption. prosperity of our region. Indigenous peoples in Northern sustainability of our communities. British Columbia. 1 SOLID Invest in our infrastructure and Implement business practices Work together with Indigenous Ensure services are delivered to ensure operational practices that support our regional partners to facilitate strong and enhance the long-term livability OUTCOMES move us towards a net zero economy. independent First Nation of our communities. carbon footprint. communities in our region.
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 38 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
1.1 The Purpose of the Plan
Building on preceding Plans, this Regional Parks Plan Review establishes a road map to guide the planning, acquisition, development and management of regional parks, and to set out priorities to guide the Regional District over the next 10 years.
This plan draws on the previous plans, as well as projects that have been completed over the past 10 years (Appendix D). A background review, and input received through engagement with government, staff, Indigenous groups, stakeholders and the public has also guided this plan.
Key areas to be addressed include:
• Provide a clear direction and priorities for regional parks in the Regional District for the period 2020 to 2030;
• Integration of trails compatible with the City of Prince George’s Trail Task Force goals;
• Determine the current and future needs for parks and identify opportunities to make up for unmet needs within the Regional District;
• Develop recommendations and policy for park land acquisition for the period 2020 to 2030;
• Review existing park infrastructure to include implementation strategies/priorities and recommendations for renewal and improvement, as well as scope of use available year-round;
• Include any changes and future considerations for applicable legislation;
• Complete public consultation with residents and stakeholders, as well as staff project team to ensure the incorporation of feedback into the Plan, and
• Prepare a long-term financial plan relating to the execution of the reviewed Regional Parks Plan.
Figure 3. Ness Lake Regional Park
2
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 39 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
1.2 The Planning Process
The review and revision of the Regional Parks Plan included the following five phases:
Spring 2020 Summer 2020 Fall 2020 Winter 2021 Spring 2021
Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 Phase 4 Phase 5 Project Start up + Community Draft Plan Community Final Plan Background Engagement Engagement Review Round 1 Round 2
Figure 4. Project Planning Phases and Timeline
1. Plan Review and Current State – The first phase consisted of background information gathering including existing maps, past plans, relevant reports and policies. The project goals and objectives were confirmed, and a community engagement plan prepared. This phase also included a review and analysis of demographics, park counter data, benefits and trends that affect park and trail use.
2. Community Engagement Round 1 – Gauging Satisfaction and Demand – The first round of engagement focused on gathering input from government, Indigenous groups, stakeholders and the public through a public survey and one-on-one interviews. Team members also conducted field visits to assess each of the Regional Parks. The focus of the visits was to complete an inventory of existing facilities, identify constraints and condition issues, and opportunities for improvement. Regional District staff assisted with site assessments at park sites in the more remote park planning areas.
3. Draft Plan Development – Information from the first two phases was compiled into a draft revised Regional Parks Plan. Outcomes from the background review, feedback from RDFFG staff, comments from the public survey, and information from Indigenous groups, and stakeholder interviews all provided important input into developing the draft Regional Parks Plan.
4. Community Engagement Round 2 – After review with RDFFG staff, the draft plan will be presented for feedback. Feedback from project stakeholders, government, Indigenous groups and the public will be gathered through materials posted on the RDFFG website, a second public survey and key follow up interviews.
5. Finalizing the Plan – The Round 2 engagement results will be reviewed and incorporated into a final plan with direction for RDFFG staff. The final Regional Parks Plan will be presented to the Regional District Board.
3
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 40 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
1.3 Role of Regional Parks
The Regional Park system is intended to provide primarily day-use outdoor recreation opportunities and complete the range of open spaces between Provincial and Municipal Parks.
It is the intention of the RDFFG to complement and coordinate with the overall network of parks and trails in the region, but not duplicate the services of other agencies in fulfilling its Regional Parks mandate. The general role of the regional park system is to provide opportunities for the public to access and enjoy scenic or historically significant locations for a range of year-round outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, walking, boating, paddling, fishing, wildlife viewing, picnicking and swimming.
1.4 Role of the Regional District
The role of the Regional District is to:
1. Acquire, develop and manage Regional Parks under the Regional Parks Bylaw (Bylaw No. 724). The Regional District allocates funds to a Regional Parks budget for this purpose. The Regional District may contract out some development, operational and maintenance services to member municipalities and community organizations, the funds for which are provided under its Regional Parks budget.
2. Coordinate with and support the efforts of other levels of government and community organizations in developing and managing parks, recreational areas and open spaces that complement the goals and objectives of the Regional Parks system. The RDFFG may support these efforts, by application, through the Regional District’s Community Grants in Aid program, through park budget allocation, or through “in kind” activities such as equipment, staff time of administrative support.
4
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 41 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
1.5 What's in the Plan?
The following components make up this plan:
Chapter 2: Regional Context – provides an overview of Regional District of Fraser-Fort George and the context in which it is situated. This chapter outlines key demographics, visitation data of current regional parks, other parks and trail systems, and identifies gaps in the existing regional parks system.
Chapter 3: Benefits and Trends – summarizes the benefits of regional parks and outlines relevant trends that should be considered when planning the future of regional parks.
Chapter 4: Parkland Needs Assessment – provides an analysis of current and future parkland supply and distribution.
Chapter 5: Vision and Goals – includes a summary of the vision, goals and objectives of the Regional Parks plan to guide future management, planning and development decisions.
Chapter 6: Engagement – What We Heard – summarizes feedback received and key findings from Round 1 and Round 2 engagement.
Chapter 7: Existing Regional Parks - Priorities 2020-2030 – describes the existing regional parks and provides specific recommendations for future development in each of the parks over the next 10 years.
Chapter 8: Proposed Regional Parks – presents criteria and priorities for future regional park acquisition.
Chapter 9: Financial Plan – identifies and prioritizes estimated costs, including capital, operational and maintenance budgets to chart the path for successful implementation of the plan.
5
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 42 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
1.6 Related Plans and Policies
The Regional Parks Plan is being updated in the context of existing plans, policies and legislation. A summary of background documents relevant to the Regional Parks Plan is presented in the table below.
Document Title Content Implications
Outlines four strategic goals to The Regional Parks Plan can help to RDFFG Strategic Priorities ensure strong, healthy and livable achieve the RDFFG’s goals of Climate (2019-2023) communities in the Regional Action, Economic Health, Indigenous District Relations and Strong Communities. Outlines a roadmap for the Regional Park Bylaw No. Sets a general framework for the acquisition, development and 724 regional parks function. operation of Regional Parks. Identifies significant maintenance Sets out goals, objectives and required at the Huble Homestead RDFFG Cultural Plan (2016- actions related to cultural Historic Site in Giscome Portage 2020) development in the region. Regional Park. An implementation plan that The Prince George identifies trail development Identifies potential future trail Centennial Trails Project priorities to achieve a connections from the City trails system (2008) comprehensive, City-wide trails to McMillan Creek Regional Park. system. Outlines development strategies Can help achieve the goal of building to support the collaboration Northeastern BC on the wealth of regional parks in of agencies in the further Destination Development Northeastern BC to better service development of BC as a world Strategy (2019) existing and future visitors. class tourism destination.
Table 1. Related Plans and Policies
6
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 43 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
2. Regional Context
2.1 Benefits of Parks and Open Spaces
The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George encompasses more than 52,000 km² in central and eastern British Columbia, which is about 6% of the total land area of the Province of British Columbia (Figure 5). Geographically, it is among of the largest Regional Districts in the province.
The RDFFG contains a variety of landscapes from alpine environments to rivers and lakes. The eastern side of the Regional District is located within the Rocky Mountain Trench and the central part of the district within the Interior plateau. The majority of the Regional District is comprised of the sub-boreal spruce bio geoclimatic zone, with the remaining portion made up of Engelmann spruce – subalpine Fir and a small portion containing Interior Cedar-Hemlock forests. Figure 5. Location of the RDFFG in British Columbia
There are numerous rivers and lakes within the Regional District, including the headwaters of the Fraser River.
In terms of transportation, the Regional District is connected by Highway 97 running north-south and Highway 16 east-west. The Town of Mackenzie is accessed via Highway 39 in the north while Highway 5 serves Valemount and other communities in the eastern part of the Regional District.
Residents live in one of four municipalities (Prince George, Mackenzie, Valemount and McBride) or seven unincorporated Electoral Areas. For the purposes of regional parks planning, the Regional District is divided into three park planning areas, concentrated around major population centres (Figure 7): 1. Greater Prince George (Prince George, Electoral Areas A, C, D, E & F) 2. Mackenzie (Mackenzie and Electoral Area G) 3. Robson Valley-Canoe (McBride, Valemount and Electoral Area H)
7
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 44 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
PARK PLANNING AREAS MAP REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
PARK PLANNING AREAS ELECTORAL AREAS
Salmon River-Lakes Mackenzie A LegendC Chilako River-Nechako Greater Prince George 1 HighwayD Tabor Lake-Stone Creek District of Mackenzie Mackenzie Park Planning Area Robson Valley-Canoe E Woodpecker-Hixon Legend Greater Prince George Park Planning Area RobsonF Willow Valley-Canoe River-Upper Park Planning Fraser Area Highway Existing Regional Parks Mackenzie Park Planning AreaG Crooked River-Parsnip G Greater Prince George Park Planning Area Highway H Robson Valley-Canoe Robson Valley-Canoe Park Planning Area 2 REGIONAL PARKS 3 8 F 1 John Dahl 7 McMillan Creek A 4 6 7 2 Giscome Portage 8 Harold Mann 5 City of Prince George 3 Kristian Winther 9 Koeneman D 4 Ness Lake 10 George Hicks C 5 Berman Lake 11 Cedarside E 6 Wilkins Village of McBride 9
H Village of Valemount 10 11
025 50 100 Kilometers N 1:3,000,000
Figure 6. Park Planning Areas in the Regional District of Fraser Fort George 0 25 50 100 Kilometers N 1:3,000,000 AGENDA ITEM # Page 45 of 184
8 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
2.2 Demographic Profile
As of 2016, the total population of the Regional District was 94,506 (Table 1). This was a 2.9% increase since 2011 (Figure 9). The most populated area is Prince George which comprises over 90% of the total Regional District population.
2016 Census Population Density Land Area (km2) Population (people/km2) Municipality
District of Mackenzie 3,714 155.4 23.9
Village of McBride 616 4.6 132.8
Village of Valemount 1,021 5.2 197.5
City of Prince George 74,003 17,686.1 4.2
Total 79,354
Electoral Areas
Salmon River-Lakes (A) 3,463 1,381.7 2.5
Chilako River-Nechako (C) 3,527 2,806.3 1.3
Tabor Lake-Stone Creek (D) 4,278 668.6 6.4
Woodpecker-Hixon (E) 526 614.9 0.9
Willow River-Upper Fraser (F) 1,246 12,506.1 0.1
Crooked River-Parsnip (G) 334 17,259.6 0.02
Robson Valley-Canoe (H) 1,586 14,940.1 0.1
Total 14,960
Table 2. Population Distribution in the RDFFG
9
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 46 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Figure 7. Population change in the RDFFG
The following table shows 2016 population figures broken down by park planning area:
Park Planning Area 2016 Census Population
1. Greater Prince George (Prince George, Electoral Areas A, C, D, E & F) 87,043
2. Mackenzie (Mackenzie and Electoral Area G) 4,048
3. Robson Valley-Canoe (McBride, Valemount and 3,223 Electoral Area H)
Table 3. Population by Park Planning Area
10
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 47 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
The Statistics Canada Census Reports (2016), reveal the following key characteristics about the population of the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George:
• Approximately 97% of the total RDFFG population resides in the four municipal jurisdictions (District of Mackenzie, Village of McBride, Village of Valemount, and City of Prince George); the remainder of the population is distributed among the seven Electoral Areas.
• Electoral Area D (Tabor Lake-Stone Creek) is the second highest population centre with 4,278 residents.
• Seventy-five percent of the Regional District’s population identifies as European while approximately 15% of the population identifies as Aboriginal.
• Children and youth under 14 years of age represented 17% of the population in 2016.
• The average age in the RDFFG is 39.6 years.
• Over one third of the total population is between the ages of 25 and 49, with the highest concentration (15%) between the ages of 50 to 59 years of age. This is about on par with the national average.
To ensure the updated Regional Parks Plan aligns with the changing demographics, the Regional District should focus on providing:
• Family-oriented parks where a mix of ages can spend time recreating together;
• Recreational opportunities for people (particularly children) to interact with the natural environment in a meaningful way;
• Parks and trails for a variety of users and levels of mobility, ensuring accessibility to as many residents as possible;
• Parks that are evenly distributed across the Regional District, and
• Opportunities to respect and engage with Aboriginal rights holders in regional park planning.
11
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 48 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
2.3 Visitation Data
In order to gain a better understanding of the volume of users in the Regional Park system, the Regional District has installed counters at six Regional Park locations. Park visitation data available from 2014 to 2019 is summarized in the following table. The data collected provides important information about the relative volumes of users at these locations.
Average Annual Total Regional Park (2014-2019)
Wilkins 41,528*
George Hicks 40,513
Giscome Portage (Huble Homestead) 7,514**
Berman Lake 6,198
Ness Lake 5,105
Cedarside 987
Kristian Winther 903
*counter broke down after July 23 2018 ** data based on Huble Homestead visitor data provided by Huble Homestead/ Giscome Portage Heritage Society Table 4. RDFFG Counter and Visitor Data
Key Findings:
• According to counter data as well as the public survey (September 2020), Wilkins Regional Park is the most visited Regional Park, with an average annual total of over 41,000 visitors captured on counters and 60% of survey respondents indicating they have visited the park in the past two years.
• It is noted that visitation to George Hicks Regional Park includes a large cohort of tourists in comparison to other Regional Parks, particularly in the summer, and during the annual salmon migration.
12
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 49 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
# Visits Reported Visits per 100 residents Electoral Area/ Regional Park (Public Survey, (Based on 2016 Census Municipality 2020) population)
Giscome Portage 192 Area G 57.49
Koeneman 227 Area H 14.31
Kristian Winther 195 Area A 5.63
Harold Mann 56 Area F 4.49
George Hicks 68 Area H 4.29
Wilkins 129 Area C 3.66
Cedarside 50 Area H 3.15
Berman Lake 90 Area C 2.55
John Dahl 89 District of Mackenzie 2.40
Ness Lake 69 Area A 1.99
McMillan Creek 146 City of Prince George 0.20
Table 5. Visitation Results from Public Survey
The above table shows visitation results as reported in the Regional Parks Plan public survey (September 2020) compared to 2016 Census population data for the relevant Electoral Area or Municipality
Key Findings:
• When combining the public survey visitation results with 2016 Census population data, Giscome Portage Regional Park has the highest visitation rate per 100 residents, followed by Koeneman Regional Park.
13
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 50 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
2.4 Other Park and Trail Systems
In addition to Regional Parks, there are other types of parks such as municipal parks, provincial parks and other protected areas that make up the overall Fraser-Fort George parks system.
2.4.1 MUNICIPAL PARKS AND TRAILS
Municipal parks, located within the four major municipalities in the RDFFG, vary in size and typically aim to serve the needs of local residents. The City of Prince George contains the most municipal parks in the regional district, with over 100 parks. These parks offer amenities such as sports fields, walking paths, benches, and playgrounds. In 2017, The City of Prince George completed a City Parks Strategy which prioritized parks infrastructure investment to meet the needs of the growing population.
2.4.2 PROVINCIAL PARKS, PROTECTED AREAS AND RECREATION SITES
There are a number of Provincial Parks, Protected Areas and Recreation sites within or within close proximity to the RDFFG. There are approximately 41 Provincial Parks, 15 Protected Areas and 8 Ecological Reserves located within the RDFFG. These parks and protected lands are typically managed by BC Parks under the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations.
Provincial Parks are lands that are dedicated to the preservation of the natural environment for the inspiration, use and enjoyment of the public. Most Provincial Parks are larger than Regional Parks and offer amenities including vehicle access camping, backcountry camping, hiking, biking, caving, picnic areas, fishing, skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. An example ofa Provincial Park is Eskers Provincial Park located less than a 15-minute drive northeast of Ness Lake Regional Park.
Protected areas are designated under the Environment and Land Use Act by order in council. These lands typically have one or more existing or proposed activity that are not usually allowed in a park and allowed uses are determined by provisions and special conditions.
Ecological Reserves are crown lands reserved for ecological purposes including protection of rare or endangered species or ecosystems. These lands are considered the most highly protected and the most isolated from human disturbance as all extractive activities are prohibited. An example of an Ecological Reserve in the RDFFG is the Tacheeda Lakes Ecological Reserve north of Prince George.
14
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 51 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
There are over 200 Recreation Sites and over 750 km of managed Recreation Trails within the RDFFG. Recreation Sites and Trails are managed by the provincial government Recreation Sites and Trails BC under the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. Recreation Sites are located in remote areas and usually accessed via gravel forestry roads. They typically provide rustic camping opportunities and offer basic facilities including fire rings, picnic tables, outhouses, and in some cases boat launch ramps. Occasionally, these sites will contain a cabin or shelter. Often BC Recreation Sites and Trails will partner with local groups to manage the recreation site.
Recreation Trails can be used for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, ATV riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Recreational trail types can range from wide trails with quality surface to single track pathways with natural surface. Examples of Recreation Sites are Gataiga Lake Rec site south of Mackenzie, Camp Lake Rec Site South of Prince George and Beaver River Falls Rec Site south of McBride.
2.4.3 OTHER AGENCIES AND ORGANIZATIONS
The Regional District continues to partner with the Huble Homestead / Giscome Portage Heritage Society to operate and maintain Giscome Portage Regional Park which contains the Huble Homestead Historic Site. The Heritage Society hosts public events, and runs school programs and tours for visitors. Since being declared a designated heritage site in 1986, the Heritage Society has restored the homestead building, and restored other buildings on site. The Heritage Society has operated under Operations Service Agreements with the Regional District since 2006. This service agreement is currently under review.
15
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 52 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
REGIONAL PARKS IN THE CONTEXT OF OTHER PARKS # REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW # # # # ## # ## # # # # PARK PLANNING AREAS # ## # # # # # # # Mackenzie # # Legend # # # RegionalGreater Par ksPrince George ## # ## District# of Mackenzie # ## # # ### ### # # # # # ##### # # ### BC Rec Sites # # # # Robson Valley-Canoe # ## # Provincial Parks and Protected Areas # # # # # Legend # # ## # # Highway # # # # # # # Highway # # ## Highway ## # # ### # Mackenzie Park Planning Area # ## G # # # MackenzieLegend Park Planning Area # # # # RobsonExisting Valle Regionaly-Canoe Park Parks Planning Area ## # ### # Greater Prince George Park Planning Area # # # GreaterRegional Princ Parkse George Park Planning Area # # ## # ### # # # ## # # # # # # Robson# Valley-CanoeBCBC Rec Recreation Sites Park Planning Sites Area # # # # ##### # # ### ### # # # # ## ### # ### # # # Provincial Parks and Protected Areas # # # # # # F ## # # # Provincial Parks ## # # City of # A Highway Prince# # # # # # ### # # ## # ## ## # George ## ### Mackenzie Park Planning Area ## ## # # # ### ## ELECTORAL AREAS # # # # ## # Robson Valley-Canoe Park Planning Area # # # # # # D #### # ## # # ## # Salmon River-Lakes # ## # # ### # ## # # A Greater Prince George Park Planning Area ## # ## ## C# # # # # # # # # # # # # # ## # E ####### C Chilako River-Nechako ## # #### ###### # # ### # # ### ## # # # # # # ### # # ### # Village# of McBride## # # # Tabor Lake-Stone Creek ## # # # ## D # # # # # # # ## ### # # # ## ## # # # # ## # E Woodpecker-Hixon # # # # # # H # # # # # # ###### # # # # ## #Village# of# Valemount F Willow River-Upper Fraser ### # # #### # # # # ## ### # ## # ### # ## # # # # # # # Crooked River-Parsnip # ## # ####### # # G # ##### # # ##### #### # # # ## # # # ###### # ## #### ## # # ## ## ### # # # # ## H Robson Valley-Canoe # # # # # ## # ### # # #### # # # # ## # # # # # # ### #### # # # # # # # ## ## # # # # # # # 0 25 50 100 # # # # ### Kilometers # ## 0##25 50 100 N # # 1:3,000,000Kilometers N Figure 8. Regional Parks in the Context of Other Parks #### ## # # # # ## ##### ### 1:3,000,000 # # # # # ## # ## ### ## ## # # ## # # # # ## # # # # # # ## AGENDA ITEM #
Page 53 of 184 # ## ## # # # # # 16 # 0 25 50 100 Kilometers N 1:3,000,000 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
3. Benefits & Trends
3.1 Benefits of Parks and Trails The Canadian Parks and Recreation Association, in Research shows the numerous benefits of parks and trails including partnership with the Alberta positive effects on individual well-being, physical health, ecological Recreation and Parks health, and economic benefits. Association, has assembled the National Benefits Hub Health Benefits (Canadian Parks and Health concerns including obesity, diabetes, Recreation Association and mental health issues are on the rise due National Benefits Hub, n.d.), to contributing factors such as increasingly an online resource with sedentary lifestyles and increased prevalence over 1,000 evidence-based of technology (i.e., screen time). In 2018, 63% references that detail the of adults in Canada had increased risks due to benefits of parks, recreation, excess weight, a 2% increase from 2015 (Statistics sports, fitness, arts, and Canada, 2018). culture. Key areas of benefit include individual well-being, When parks and trails are accessible and equitably distributed across community connectedness, a community, they contribute to a better quality of life for everyone. ecological health, and Studies have shown that people exercise more when they have economic benefits. access to parks. Reducing barriers and increasing accessibility can decrease the health inequities that exist for vulnerable populations (BC Centre for Disease Control), and benefit all ages and abilities.
Community Social Benefits Regional parks and trails contribute to a livable region. They conserve natural features and ecosystems and connect people with nature. Parks and trails enhance the quality of life of residents and visitors and offer opportunities to explore and experience the natural world. Parks offer a great opportunity to host events outdoors. Events such as the Kids Carnival and Halloween Spooktacular held at the Huble Homestead in Giscome Portage Regional Park are opportunities that bring the community together.
Parks and trails also offer the opportunity for educating the public on topics of history, culture, geography and the natural world through interpretive signage. In some areas, parks have become classrooms, by which children can learn by first-hand by experiencing nature.
Parks are an opportunity for people to learn about the traditional territories of the region’s Indigenous groups.
17
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 54 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Environmental Benefits According to the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA), parks and trails help to conserve natural resources, provide wildlife habitat, protect the air and water quality, balance carbon, as well as preserving open space for future generations. Stewardship and volunteer activities in parks are ways that the public can get involved in preserving parks for the future as well as increase the awareness of environmental issues both locally and globally.
Regional Parks in the RDFFG play a role in protecting important ecosystems and natural features like rivers, lakes, spawning areas, and marshes while providing habitat for a variety of wildlife including moose, caribou, dear, bears, birds, salmon and trout.
Economic Benefits Parks and trails encourage people to get outside and moving, contributing to long term reductions in healthcare costs associated with the health burden of physical inactivity and associated chronic diseases. It is estimated that an increase of 10% in physical inactivity rates in Canadians would result in $280 billion dollar reduction in direct healthcare costs (BC Provincial Health Services Authority, 2019).
Regional Parks and trails are destinations that attract visitors and residents alike. Park and trail infrastructure offers opportunities to generate revenue through venue rentals, events, educational and interpretive programs. Huble Homestead at Giscome Portage currently offers venue rental for weddings, birthdays, and other occasions. Other Regional Parks can be used for planned events at no cost through application for a Park Use Permit. The economic benefits have the potential to spill out into the adjacent communities. Visitors to parks will help to stimulate the economy of the local community by purchasing food, gas and other supplies.
18
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 55 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
3.2 Trends In Park and Trail Use
Signage and Interpretation There is an increasing desire to be educated and informed about the world we live in. People are interested in learning more about Indigenous culture and history as well as interest in learning more about the flora and fauna that inhabit parks. Interpretive signage and guided tours within parks can educate park visitors about the place they are visiting and offer a more meaningful experience than simply just being in the space.
During interviews with stakeholders, it was suggested that there could be more interpretive panels in parks, and the desire for interpretive talks hosted in parks.
Tourism According to the 2017 Annual Cultural Report for the RDFFG, the eight funded cultural sites within the Regional District saw a 5% increase in visitors between 2016-2017.
Visitor Centres in Mackenzie, Prince George and Valemount also saw significant increases in visitors between 2016-2017, with the largest increase in Prince George which saw a 41% increase in visitors in 2017 (Annual Cultural Report, 2017). Huble Homestead Historic site located in Giscome Portage Regional Park is one of the eight cultural sites within the region and received 7,701 visitors in 2017 which is a 2% increase from 2016 (Annual Cultural Report, 2017). With this rise in the popularity of visiting northern regions of BC, Regional Parks in the RDFFG could expect to see more visitors in the coming years.
With an increased interest in nature-based adventure travel activities like hiking and mountain biking outside of the city, Regional Parks may become important destinations for tourists. Visitors will likely stop in at nearby communities to pick up supplies before venturing out to a park. This could bring more economic activity to smaller communities adjacent to Regional Parks.
Accessibility With an aging population in BC, there will be growing numbers of people facing mobility challenges at a time in their lives when the importance of getting out and staying active increases.
Options within Regional Parks that are safe and pleasant for the elderly and those with limited mobility are attractive and usable for all age groups, including children and parents with strollers. Safe and easily usable trails are especially important in encouraging and empowering children and youth to exercise.
19
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 56 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Accessibility is not just an issue for children and the elderly. According to the Canadian Survey on Disability Reports, one in five (22%) of the Canadian population aged 15 and older had one or more disabilities in 2017 (Canada, 2020). Disabilities ranging from mild to severe pose challenges to the most vulnerable members of the community in accessing public facilities. In order to achieve the many benefits of parks and trails for everyone, accessibility is a key consideration.
Accessibility was highlighted by survey respondents with 15% of respondents indicating that they were not satisfied with the existing accessibility within Regional Parks.
Climate Change Northern BC is experiencing the effects of climate change that contribute to wildfire risk, extreme weather events, and other changes that impact residents’ health and community infrastructure. “Climate Action” is identified by the RDFFG as one of four strategic goals as part of the 2019-2023 RDFFG Strategic Priorities. Climate change will be top of mind for future park endeavors including operational practices, maintenance considerations and park acquisition.
Recreation Trends Activities such as fishing, mountain biking, cycling for recreation, canoeing, stand up paddle boarding, horseback riding, motorized trail use, walking and hiking continue to increase in popularity – highlighting the importance of planning and managing for diverse use and potential conflicts associated with shared use of parks.
Wildlife viewing is an increasing trend among both residents and visitors in northern BC. Northern areas of BC including the Prince George area have been touted as some of the best places to see undisturbed wildlife in more remote areas. Wildlife viewing is relatively accessible and can be done with little equipment, making it an accessible activity for all ages. Education of park visitors is key to ensuring the safety of the public when wildlife viewing and to prevent human-wildlife conflicts. The public survey indicated that bird watching and wildlife viewing (46%) and photography (43%) were among the top five activities enjoyed in Regional Parks.
Mountain biking is a growing trend internationally, and is also rapidly expanding as a recreational pursuit in Northern BC for both residents and visitors. The sport has the potential to increase tourism and the local economy within the RDFFG. Mountain biking is becoming more accessible, shifting from an exclusive sport only done by elite riders to a recreational activity for all ages. Fat biking (winter mountain biking) is also on the rise, adding to the suite of winter activities favoured by local residents. A number of stakeholder groups and provincial agencies interviewed reported an increase in the popularity of mountain biking in the region, and a need for infrastructure to support those increases.
20
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 57 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
The Northeastern BC Destination Development Strategy (2019) identifies growth in mountain biking infrastructure and services in the region, and recommends mountain biking (including winter mountain biking) as a key experience to be developed in locations that posess great terrain for this activity. Mountain biking can be supported through partnerships with local volunteer organizations, and Recreation Sites and Trails BC.
In discussions with provincial Fisheries, staff noted that while there is a strong angler base in the region, fishing is decreasing as a recreational activity, with a steady decline in angler days over the last 15 years. However, this can vary depending on the lake and season. In general, fishing at stocked lakes has remained popular, and is supported by learn to fish programs offered by organizations such as the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.
Equine tourism is established in the region, and has potential for future growth, supported by organizations such as the Back Country Horsemen Society of British Columbia. For example, the Robson Valley Chapter is actively looking to rebrand Highway 16 as a horse-friendly route to support people travelling with horses through the Robson Valley through multi-use and multi-season trail development, and equine campgrounds. Regional Parks can support equine recreation by providing infrastructure such as equine friendly rest areas, parking for horse trailers and staging areas to access local trails.
Year-Round Park Use In the RDFFG winter weather can be experienced for almost six months of the year. Embracing the snow and cold by promoting winter outdoor recreation is important to keep people moving and using parks year-round.
Suggestions for promoting year-round recreation arising from the parks plan engagement include promoting family friendly activities such as ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and skating in Regional Parks where these can be realistically accommodated.
The Northeastern BC Destination Development Strategy (2019) recommends the development of more formalized winter tourism experiences (including ice fishing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, wind kiting on frozen lakes, and winter mountain biking) as a key action for the region.
21
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 58 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
4. Parkland Needs Assessment
4.1 Parkland Supply – Does Inventory Meet Need?
There is not a definitive way to establish whether a region has an adequate supply of parkland; it depends on the values, wants and needs of the communities. However, common metrics include comparisons to other jurisdictions, assessments of the amount of parkland per capita, and whether residents can easily access parks. The following sections provide an analysis and discussion of these metrics and their utility in evaluating the RDFFG’s parkland supply.
4.1.1 COMPARATIVE PARKLAND AVERAGES
Every region is unique in its geography, population, economy, values, and opportunities. However, comparisons offer useful reference points against which the RDFFG can measure its parkland provision and identify significant gaps. For this purpose, an average of regional parkland area was assembled from five other Regional Districts in British Columbia (see Table 6). Comparable districts were selected with similar characteristics such as large geographic areas with low population density. It is noted that some Regional Districts, such as Bulkley-Nechako and Skeena-Queen Charlotte, do not provide regional park services. The Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako is currently exploring options for regional park service delivery.
Parkland supply metric calculations are developed for high level comparisons and are based on information from various available sources. This analysis provides a “snapshot” of current regional park supply by which the RDFFG can evaluate current and future levels of service.
While this benchmarking exercise provides a useful point of comparison, It should be recognized that many jurisdictions do not use these type of quantity standards because the facilities and quality of parks play an equal, if not more important, role in meeting community needs. These metrics are provided as a reference point for understanding where the RDFFG’s supply of parkland fares relative to comparable districts.
22
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 59 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
Population Total Area of Regional Parkland (ha) per 1,000 Regional District (2016 Census) Parks (ha) residents
Thompson-Nicola 132,663 67 0.5
Peace River 62,942 72 1.1
Central Kootenay 59,517 86 1.4
Fraser-Fort George 94,506 330 3.5
East Kootenay 60,439 254 4.2
Central Okanagan 194,882 2,020 10.4
Average 3.5
* Note: Parkland supply metric calculations are developed for high level comparisons and are based on information from various available sources. Table 6. Comparative Parkland Supply Metrics
4.1.2 PARKLAND PER CAPITA ANALYSIS
Data on existing Regional Parks in the RDFFG was provided in Geographic Information System (GIS) format. Using GIS area calculations and population estimates, the current supply of regional parkland was determined for each of the park planning areas within the RDFFG and is summarized in the table below. Overall, the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George has approximately 330 hectares of regional parkland. This equates to an overall average of 3.5 hectares of parkland per 1,000 residents for the Regional District. Parkland provision within each of the three park planning areas is summarized in Table 6.
Compared to the parkland average of comparable Regional Districts, the Greater Prince George park planning area is below average in its supply of regional parkland (3.2 ha per 1,000), while the Mackenzie and Robson Valley-Canoe park planning areas are above average (5.9 and 7.9 ha per 1,000 respectively). Approximately 96 hectares of additional parkland would be required to provide a comparable provision of regional parkland in the Greater Prince George park planning area.
23
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 60 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Current Additional Park Planning Area Population Regional Parkland Area Parkland Parkland (2016) (ha) Provision (ha Requirement per 1,000) (ha)
Greater Prince George (Prince George, 87,043 280.0 3.2 96 Electoral Areas A, C, D, E & F)
Mackenzie (Mackenzie 4,048 23.8 5.9 none and Electoral Area G)
Robson Valley-Canoe (McBride, Valemount 3,223 25.5 7.9 none and Electoral Area H)
Table 7. Present and Potential Regional Park Need
24
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 61 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
4.2 Parkland Distribution
As mentioned above, while population-based parkland supply and adequacy standards and comparisons are a useful tool, they alone cannot address all of the unique conditions, needs and goals of specific jurisdictions. How well a region is served also depends on equitable distribution of parks. For example, if a park planning area has a high amount of parkland in hectares per 1,000 population, but the parks are all located in one municipality or electoral area, they may be relatively inaccessible to some residents. To address overall accessibility, a measure of relative distribution of regional parkland provides an additional meaningful indicator of parkland adequacy.
Regional Parks within the RDFFG are relatively well distributed. However, as illustrated in Figure 8, two electoral areas within the Greater Prince George park planning area are deficient in regional parks. These include:
• Electoral Area ‘D’ (Tabor Lake-Stone Creek), and
• Electoral Area ‘E’ (Woodpecker-Hixon)
4.3 Parkland Needs Assessment – Key Findings
The parkland needs assessment analyses indicate that:
• The Mackenzie and Robson Valley-Canoe park planning areas are well served with parkland.
• The Greater Prince George park planning area is below the standard for parkland per 1,000 residents compared to the average of other Regional Districts. Approximately 96 hectares of additional parkland would be required to provide a comparable provision of regional parkland.
• Within the Greater Prince George park planning area, Electoral Area ‘D’ (Tabor Lake-Stone Creek) and E’ (Woodpecker-Hixon) are underserved in parkland.
25
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 62 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
UNDERSERVED AREAS MAP REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
Legend Highway District of Mackenzie Mackenzie Park Planning Area PARK PLANNING AREAS ELECTORAL AREAS Legend Greater Prince George Park Planning Area Robson Salmon Valley-Canoe River-Lakes Park Planning Area MackenzieHighway A Mackenzie Park Planning AreaC Chilako River-Nechako G GreaterGreater Prince Prince George George Park Planning Area D Tabor Lake-Stone Creek Robson Valley-Canoe Park Planning Area Robson Valley-Canoe E Woodpecker-Hixon
F F Willow River-Upper Fraser A Existing Regional Parks G Crooked River-Parsnip City of Prince George D Highway H Robson Valley-Canoe C E Village of McBride
H Village of Valemount
025 50 100 Kilometers N 1:3,000,000
Figure 9. Areas underserved in parkland in the RDFFG 0 25 50 100 Kilometers N 1:3,000,000 AGENDA ITEM # Page 63 of 184
26 AGENDA ITEM #
5. Vision & Goals
Building from the 2010 Regional Parks Plan and from government, Indigenous groups, stakeholder and public input, this section presents an updated vision, goals and objectives to guide the management of Regional Parks and trails for the next ten years.
5.1 Vision
The RDFFG has a diverse, accessible and high quality Regional Parks system that:
• Secures, protects and stewards lands and waterbodies of recreational, environmental and historic value to the region and its communities;
• Provides day-use facilities that support rewarding outdoor recreational opportunities;
• Preserves the environmental and heritage values represented in the parks;
• Promotes the history and culture of Indigenous peoples in the region;
• Moves toward an interlinked system of public trails and open spaces in coordination with other park and trail systems in the region;
• Fosters understanding and appreciation of the Region’s natural and cultural assets;
• Incorporates the RDFFG’s climate action targets; and
• Enhances the quality of life, health and wellbeing of current and future residents and visitors of the region.
27
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 64 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
5.2 Goals
1. To provide primarily day-use, year round outdoor recreation opportunities close to population centres and available for residents and visitors of all ages and abilities, within developed park areas that are representative of the region’s natural environment, recreation and heritage resources.
2. To support the creation of trail-based linkages amongst regional, provincial, and municipal park and trail systems.
5.3 Objectives
1. To provide Regional Parks on a reasonably balanced geographic basis throughout the Regional District, recognizing the main population centres.
2. To relate the amount, location and type of Regional Park development as well as present and future recreation needs, environmental considerations, respect for traditional territories, opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships, and other existing and planned outdoor recreation areas and facilities.
3. To identify, reserve and preserve land for Regional Park purposes that are representative of the natural and cultural resources of the region.
4. To develop, operate and maintain Regional Parks at a level that is cost-efficient and financially sustainable to the taxpayer.
5. To provide rewarding outdoor recreational opportunities in a way that stewards the land while fostering education and appreciation of the region’s natural and cultural assets.
6. To consider the RDFFG’s climate action targets and fostering and building Indigenous relations in planning and implementing regional park projects and activities.
28
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 65 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
6. Engagement: What We Heard
Feedback and ideas from residents, stakeholders, Indigenous groups, the general public and other affected groups was gathered in several ways. Feedback from the engagement will be used to understand what people think about the existing Regional Park system and inform the drafting of a well-supported vision for the future. The following is a summary of the engagement process as well as the key findings from the feedback received. 6.1 Engagement Purpose
The engagement is separated into two rounds with distinct objectives. They are described below.
Round 1 Objectives:
• Increase knowledge of the Regional District’s parks system;
• Understand satisfaction (likes and dislikes) with the existing Regional Park system;
• Understand the public’s needs and demands for parks, preferred activities, and values;
• Understand any barriers to using Regional Parks;
• Understand people’s vision for the future, including potential future park sites, areas for park improvements or other actions, and
• Identify partnership and cooperation opportunities.
Round 2 Objectives:
• Present a Draft Regional Parks Plan, including “what we heard” from Round 1;
• Share how feedback influenced the creation of draft recommendations;
• Confirm vision; vet and prioritize key draft recommendations, and
• Seek feedback on the draft recommendations and policies outlined in the plan.
29
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 66 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
6.2 Round 1: How We Reached Out
6.2.1 PUBLIC SURVEY
Input from the public was sought through a public survey (Appendix A). Survey responses were collected from September 1 to 30, 2020. Hard copies of the survey were made available at regional transfer stations. The survey received 408 responses in total, of which 394 (97%) were completed online. Just under half of survey respondents were from Prince George, with remaining surveys coming from elsewhere in the Regional District. A small number were from elsewhere in BC.
6.2.2 INTERVIEWS
Government, Indigenous groups, and stakeholders were invited to participate in one-on-one interviews. A total of 55 representatives were contacted by letter and invited to participate in an interview and complete the survey. One-on-one interviews were conducted with the following representatives:
GOVERNMENT, INDIGENOUS AND STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS
• Lheidli T’enneh First Nation: Rena Zatorski, Economic Development Manager; Chus Sam, Natural Resource Manager • McLeod Lake Indian Band: Adele Chingee, Band Manager Stephanie Rocheleau, Land & Stewardship Director • Electoral Area C / Chilako River-Nechako: Lara Beckett, Director • Electoral Area E / Woodpecker-Hixon: Art Kaehn, Director • Homestead-Giscome Portage Heritage Society: Krystal Leason, Executive Director • Tourism Prince George: Tracey McBride, Chief Executive Officer and Sherry McKay, Visitor Services Manager • Tourism Valemount: Silvio Gislimberti, Valemount Tourism Committee, and Economic Development Officer at Village of Valemount; Patricia Thöni, Valemount Tourism Committee, and President, Yellowhead Outdoor Recreation Association • Cranbrook Hill Greenway Society: Roger Wheate, Vice-Chair • Prince George Backcountry Recreation Society: Alex Bevington, President • Prince George ATV Club: Lance Anderson, President • Nechako Watershed Roundtable: Wayne Salewski, Core Committee
A complete list of agencies and organizations who were contacted can be found in Appendix A.
30
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 67 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
6.2.3 RDFFG WEBSITE
The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George website was used as a primary information sharing tool. It was updated with information about the project objectives and planning process through a project Fact Sheet (Appendix A), and a link to the online version of the public survey.
6.3 Round 1: Public Survey Summary Results
6.3.1 KEY FINDINGS FROM THE PUBLIC SURVEY:
Key themes:
• Interest in having more Regional Parks as well as having them distributed equally across the Regional District;
• Accessibility within Regional Parks could be improved (for those with limited mobility but also for families and elders);
• Water and lake access are desired park features;
• Desire for more interpretive and educational signage and information (about local ecology and conservation) available at Regional Parks, and
• Desire to learn more about Indigenous culture and heritage.
31
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 68 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
6.3.2 ACTIVITIES:
The two most popular activities when using Regional Parks from respondents were walking/hiking (94%) and picnicking (62%) with other popular activities being kayaking/canoeing/stand up paddle boarding (47%), bird watching/ wildlife viewing (47%) and photography (43%).
Figure 10. Activities in RDFFG Regional Parks from Online Survey
32
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 69 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
6.3.3 REGIONAL PARK USE:
• Most respondents used regional parks and trails monthly (36%) or weekly (33%);
• Being too busy (42%) was the top reason for not using Regional Parks more often, and
• Wilkins (60%), Ness Lake (51%) and McMillan Creek (50%) were the top three most visited Regional Parks by survey respondents. The least popular Regional Parks to visit were Koeneman (13%) and Cedarside (12%).
Figure 11. Reasons preventing Online Survey Respondents from using Regional Parks
Figure 12. Parks Visited by Survey Respondents
33
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 70 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
6.3.4 SATISFACTION:
Regional Park system:
• Ease of getting to the parks: 73% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
• Variety of recreational activities: 69% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
• Directional signage and information: 67% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
• Distribution of regional parks and trails: 49% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
• Sufficient Regional Parks: 46% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
Figure 13. Satisfaction with the Regional Parks System from the Online Survey
Regional Park Facilities:
• Parking: 72% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
• Maintenance: 64% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
• Trail conditions: 64% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
• Garbage/recycling: 59% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
• Seating/benches: 55% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
• Interpretive/educational signage: 50% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
• Maps & information: 50% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
• Washrooms: 49% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
• Accessibility within the parks: 48% Satisfied or somewhat satisfied
34
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 71 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Figure 14. Satisfaction with Regional Parks Facilities from the Online Survey
35
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 72 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
6.3.5 PRIORITIES FOR EXISTING REGIONAL PARKS:
• Most selected priorities for future improvements to the Regional Parks system were “developing more trails within Regional Parks” (68%), “preserving and restoring natural features” (59%) and “improving maintenance of Regional Parks” (42%).
• Additional ideas for improvement included:
• Designating more land for parks (16 mentions)
• Accessibility improvements (including wheelchair access and parking and opportunities for families) (11 mentions)
• Improved maintenance including cleaning washrooms regularly, trail clearing and disposing of garbage (12 mentions)
• Provide more information on parks including opening and closing times and types of activities available (9 mentions)
Figure 15. Priorities for Future Regional Parks System Improvements From Online Survey
36
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 73 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
6.3.6 PRIORITIES FOR FUTURE REGIONAL PARKS:
• The top two priorities in terms of future parks for survey respondents were “Parks with lake access” (54%) and “More regional trail connections” (54%).
• Other important priorities were: “river corridor parks” (37%), “mountain or alpine parks” (33%) and cultural heritage (including historic sites and areas supporting traditional Indigenous use) (31%)
• Locations for improvement suggested by respondents include:
• Tabor Mountain/lake area (12 mentions)
• Nechako River (9 mentions)
• Crooked Lake/river area (5 mentions)
• Salmon Valley area (4 mentions)
Figure 16. Priorities For Future Regional Parks Sites From Online Survey
37
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 74 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
6.3.7 DEMOGRAPHICS:
• The majority (57%) of survey respondents were from the Prince George Area
Figure 17. Residence of Online Survey Respondents
Figure 18. Age of Online Survey Respondents
38
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 75 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Figure 19. Gender of Online Survey Respondents
A sample of additional comments from the survey:
• “Maintenance and safety should always be #1 and #2 should be well lit and accessible.”
• “Signage to control motorized use.”
• “Need more water access for beaches similar to Lucerne Lake provincial park.”
• “Add indigenous place names and stories!”
• “Invest in parks in the smaller communities too not just where the larger population centres are.”
• “More signage is needed to direct on trails and amenities.”
• “Wheelchair access is important.”
• “More promotion about them to increase awareness.”
39
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 76 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGERegional Parks Plan | 03.2021 REGIONAL PARKS PLAN
T R P
O
Figure 20. Highlights from the Regional Parks Plan public survey, September 2020 S
40
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 77 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
6.4 Round 1: Interviews Key Findings
During the interviews, government, Indigenous groups and stakeholders were asked to share their thoughts about Regional Park issues and opportunities and hopes for the future. Feedback emerging from the interviews is summarized below.
6.4.1 WHAT IS VALUABLE ABOUT THE EXISTING REGIONAL PARKS SYSTEM?
The most frequently value identified was “Connects people with nature.” Other include:
• Enhances quality of life for residents and visitors • Opportunities to experience nature • Mitigate climate change, contributes ecological goods and services • Public access • Interpretation about historical and cultural resources • Low impact, relaxing experiences • Proximity to towns • Adds to the overall mosaic of parks • Accommodates flexible activities • Well distributed
6.4.2 WHAT IS GREAT THAT THE RDFFG COULD DO MORE OF?
• More picnic areas, water access, trails • More interpretive signage • Park representation in all electoral areas • Education around appropriate uses, safety • More maps and information
6.4.3 WHAT IS THE BIGGEST ISSUE CHALLENGE FOR THE REGIONAL PARKS SYSTEM?
The most frequent challenge identified was “Lack of accessibility.” Other issues included:
• Awareness of regional parks, information on what is available in the parks • More directional/access signage • Geographically spread out • Misuse related to motorized uses
41
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 78 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
6.4.4 WHAT OPPORTUNITIES DO YOU SEE FOR IMPROVING EXISTING REGIONAL PARKS OVER THE NEXT 10 YEARS?
• Improve accessibility, highlight accessible features • More trails, trailhead signage, variety of loops • More picnic areas, fire pits • Viewing platforms, expand wildlife/nature viewing opportunities • More interpretation about natural systems • Exploit active transportation opportunities • Connections with other park and trail systems • Work together with Indigenous groups to promote culture & heritage, traditional territories • Inclusion of Indigenous languages, trails and traditional site names • Work with Indigenous groups to identify potential archaeological sites within existing parks • Increase public knowledge about parks (brochure/marketing/promotion/outreach) • Education around stewardship • Educational events in parks (host speakers on relevant topics i.e., Indigenous Peoples Day, Indigenous culture and history, local ecology, biology, conservation, safety talks, community paddling events)
6.4.5 OPPORTUNITIES TO INCREASE YEAR-ROUND USE
• Snowshoeing, skating, cross-country skiing, ice fishing where winter access/plowing is feasible
6.4.6 WHERE SHOULD THE RDFFG PRIORITIZE NEW REGIONAL PARK DEVELOPMENT?
• In proximity to residents • Underserved areas and electoral areas • More diversity of parks
6.4.7 WHAT TYPES OF PARKLAND ACQUISITION SHOULD BE PRIORITIZED?
• Lake access • River edges (Nechako and Fraser Rivers) • Cultural/heritage sites • Indigenous cultural sites • Agriculture/agricultural history • Wetlands • Mountain/alpine sites
42
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 79 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
6.4.8 DO YOU HAVE SPECIFIC LOCATIONS IN MIND FOR FUTURE REGIONAL PARK DEVELOPMENT?
• Tabor Lake (4) • Cranberry Marsh (2) • Crooked River / Parsnip area (2) • Others: Lost Lake Area, Horseshoe Lake, Crystal and Emerald Lakes, McLeod Lake area (in partnership with McLeod Lake Indian Band), Salmon Valley, Bear Lake, Otway/Miworth Trail, Pine Pass, Pass Lake, McBride Peak, Support for trails connecting Wilkins to McMillan, Dome Creek, Stoner/Stone Creek, Hixon Creek Falls, Woodpecker Heritage Church, Robson Valley
6.4.9 VISION – DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL REGIONAL PARKS SYSTEM
Figure 21. Vision for the Regional Parks system
43
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 80 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
6.5 Round 2: How We Reached Out
6.5.1 PUBLIC SURVEY
A second public survey gathered feedback and comments on the draft Regional Parks Plan. Survey responses were collected from January 15 to February 5, 2021. The survey was available online via the RDFFG website, and hard copies of the survey were made available at regional transfer stations. The survey received 191 responses in total. Over 60% of survey respondents were from Prince George, with remaining surveys coming from elsewhere in the Regional District. A small number were from elsewhere in BC.
6.5.2 INTERVIEWS
In the second round of one-on-one interviews, we reached out to government agencies, Indigenous groups, key stakeholders who did not participate in the first round of interviews, and additional groups mentioned during the first round of interviews. In addition, those who participated in Round 1 interviews were provided with a project update and a copy of the draft report for comment. A total of 28 groups were contacted by email to participate in interviews and complete the online survey. One-on-one interviews were conducted by telephone or video conference with the following representatives:
GOVERNMENT, INDIGENOUS AND STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS
• Simpcw First Nation: Kerri Jo Fortier, Natural Resource Manager • Recreation Sites and Trails BC: District Recreation Officer, Karen Mohr and Recreation Technician, Brock Paciejewski • BC Parks: Dave Merritt, Omenica Area Supervisor • Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations, and Rural Development: Nikolaus Gantner, Senior Fisheries Biologist, and Ian Spendlow, Fish Biologist - Omineca Region • City of Prince George: Sean LeBrun, Manager of Parks & Solid Waste Services • RDFFG Board of Directors: Murry Krause, Director, City of Prince George • Mackenzie Outdoor Route and Trail Association (MORATA): Ross Hobbs • Caledonia Ramblers: Mark Nielsen, President and Nowell Senior, Past President • Prince George Cycling Club: Byron Conroy, President • Robson Valley Chapter, Back Country Horseman Society of British Columbia: Eileen MacDonald and Brian Wallace
In addition, written comments, or acknowledgement was received from several groups including the Lheidli T'enneh First Nation, Homestead-Giscome Portage Heritage Society, and Prince George Backcountry Recreation Society. A complete list of agencies and organization who were contacted in Round 2 can be found in Appendix A.
44
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 81 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
6.6 Round 2: Public Survey Summary Results
6.6.1 KEY FINDINGS FROM THE PUBLIC SURVEY:
Key Findings: • The draft Vision Statement received general support among survey respondents with 88% agreeing or strongly agreeing with the proposed vision. • The highest ranked recommendation themes from the draft report were Accessibility, Stewardship and Education and Interpretation. • In terms of proposed improvements to existing regional parks, all of the proposed improvements were generally supported, with recommendations for Wilkins (83%), Ness Lake (80%), Berman Lake (76%), McMillan Creek (73%) , and Giscome Portage (71%) receiving the most support. • All of the proposed potential future Regional Park site options received general support from respondents with Hixon Creek Falls receiving the most support with 84% strongly agreeing (55%), or agreeing (29%). • The additional comments showed that respondents valued accessibility within Regional Parks, for all ages and abilities to experience parks.
45
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 82 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
6.6.2 VISION STATEMENT
When asked to what extent respondents agreed with the Vision Statement within the draft report, 88% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed.
To what extent do you agree with the Vision Statement? 60%
49% 50%
39% 40%
30% Responses 20%
10% 10% 1% 1% 0% Strongly agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly disagree Figure 22. Vision Statement Agreement from Online Survey
6.6.3 RECOMMENDATIONS:
Recommendation Themes When asked to rank key recommendation themes within the draft report, respondents valued Accessibility, Stewardship and Education & Interpretation as the top ranked themes.
Proposed Improvement Recommendations
Please rank how important the following recommendation themes are to you from highest importance (1) to lowest (6):
6
5
4
3
2 Weighted Score
1
0 Accessibility Stewardship Education & Indigenous Policies & Marketing & Interpretation Relations Bylaws Promotion Themes
Figure 23. Recommendation Themes ranking from Online Survey (higher weighted score indicates higher ranking)
46
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 83 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
When asked to rank proposed improvements at existing Regional Parks, recommended improvements for Wilkins (83%), Ness Lake (80%), Berman Lake (76%), McMillan Creek (73%), and Giscome Portage (71%) were the most supported with over 70% respondents agreeing or strongly agreeing with the proposed recommendations.
Harold Mann (55%), Kristian Winther (52%), Cedarside (52%) , Koeneman (51%) and George Hicks (50%) received majority support with over 50% of respondents agreeing or strongly agreeing to the proposed recommendations.
Most respondents felt neutral about John Dahl recommendations with 51% reporting they felt neutral about the proposed recommendations.
Potential Future Regional Park Sites
To what extent do you agree with the proposed recommendations for improvements at each of the Regional Parks.
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0% Berman Cedarside George Giscome Harold John Dahl Koeneman Kristian McMillan Ness Lake Wilkins Lake Hicks Portage Mann Winther Creek
Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree
Figure 24. Proposed Recommendations Agreement from Online Survey
47
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 84 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
When asked about the level of agreement with the potential future Regional Park locations, respondents generally agreed or strongly agreed with all of the proposed sites. Hixon Creek Falls (Electoral Area 'E') received the most support with 55% strongly agreeing and 29% agreeing.
To what extent do you agree with the following sites as potential future Regional Parks? 60%
50%
40%
30% Strongly Agree Agree 20% Neutral 10% Disagree 0% Strongly Disagree Tabor Lake Stoner/Stone Woodpecker Hixon Creek Falls (Electoral Area D) Creek/South of Heritage Church (Electoral Area E) Stoner on the (Electoral Area E) Fraser River (Electoral Area D) Figure 25. Potential Future Sites Agreement from Online Survey
A sample of additional comments from the survey:
• "I would like to see focus on elements of conservation which contribute to the values that result in human use."
• "It would be great to see RD take such great care of Hixon falls that they do of their other parks."
• "More areas for families and more spots for short term camping."
• "We live in the Shelley Rd area and would really love to see and have facilities/park built at Tabor Lake."
• "I would like to see more nature hiking trails that are not so advanced just a really nice walk."
• "Accessibility is an important issue. It would be great to have a dedicated walker/wheelchair accessible beach."
48
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 85 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
6.6.4 DEMOGRAPHICS:
Similar to the first public survey, most of the respondents (64%) lived in Prince George.
Please identify your place of residence.
City of Prince George 64% Electoral Area ‘C’ – Chilako River-Nechako 16% Electoral Area ‘D’ – Tabor Lake-Stone Creek 10% Electoral Area ‘A’ – Salmon River-Lakes 4% Elsewhere in BC 3% Electoral Area ‘F’ – Willow River-Upper Fraser 2% Village of Valemount 2% Responses Outside of BC 0% Electoral Area ‘H’ – Robson Valley-Canoe 0% Electoral Area ‘G’ – Crooked River-Parsnip 0% Electoral Area ‘E’ – Woodpecker-Hixon 0% Village of McBride 0% District of Mackenzie 0%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% Figure 26. Residence of Online Survey Respondents
Most of the survey respondents were between the ages of 40 and 64 years of age. Age: 70% 59% 60% 50% 40% 30% 24%
20% 13% Responses 10% 5% 0%
Figure 27. Age of Online Survey Respondents
49
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 86 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
Most of the survey respondents were female.
Gender: 70% 66%
60%
50%
40% 29% 30% Responses
20%
10% 5% 0% 0% Male Female Prefer not to say Prefer to self identify Figure 28. Gender of Online Survey Respondents
50
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 87 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
6.7 Round 2: Interviews Key Findings
6.7.1 DO YOU SUPPORT THE DRAFT PLAN’S PROPOSED VISION?
• General support for the proposed vision
6.7.2 DO YOU HAVE FEEDBACK ON ACTIONS PROPOSED IN THE DRAFT PLAN?
• Connect McMillan with Prince George Heritage Trails • Prioritize new signage at McMillan • Prioritize expansion of trail system at Wilkins • Enhance equine friendly facilities at Koeneman • John Dahl is underutilized
6.7.3 ARE THERE ANY ISSUES OR OPPORTUNITIES THAT HAVE NOT BEEN ADDRESSED?
• Integration of electric vehicle charging stations, wifi at Regional Parks • Consider increasing trend in mountain biking / fat biking in the region
6.7.4 ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL PARTNERSHIP OR COLLABORATION OPPORTUNITIES THAT COULD BE IDENTIFIED?
• Relationship agreements with Indigenous groups • Finding synergies with various recreation land management agencies • Freshwater Fish Society of BC, promotion & resources, learn to fish programs
6.7.5 ARE THERE ANY OTHER POTENTIAL FUTURE REGIONAL PARKS SITES THAT SHOULD BE IDENTIFIED?
• Morfee Lakes • Little Lost Lake • Eena Lake • Pidherny
6.7.6 FROM YOUR PERSPECTIVE, WHAT ARE THE HIGHEST PRIORITIES FOR IMPLEMENTATION?
• Promoting history and culture of Indigenous peoples • Engagement with Indigenous groups • Public safety • Accessibility • Year round use • Signage • Better amenities • Stewardship of the land • General support for Hixon Creek Falls and Tabor Lake as potential future Regional Park sites
51
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 88 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
52
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 89 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
53
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 90 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
7. Existing Regional Parks – Priorities For 2020 to 2030
This section of the plan describes the existing regional parks and specific recommendations for future development in each of the parks over the next 10 years.
7.1 Current Status
There are currently 11 Regional Parks in the RDFFG totaling approximately 330 hectares. Most of the Regional Park acquisition occurred between 1976 and 1993, with the latest park acquired in 2003. Six of the Regional Parks are owned by the RDFFG and five are on leased Crown land.
The RDFFG maintains the Regional Parks in the greater Prince George park planning area, while contract agreements are in place for some operation and maintenance duties with the Village of Valemount and District of Mackenzie for parks in the Mackenzie and Robson Valley-Canoe park planning areas. An agreement is also in place with a non-profit organization for the operation and maintenance of the Giscome Portage Regional Park. The Regional District also retains some site contractors for day-to-day operational duties with the Regional Parks, such as opening and closing, lawn care and cleaning.
Since the 2010 Regional Parks Plan, thirteen improvement projects were completed at eight Regional Parks, including the installation of signage, fencing, viewing areas, trails and shoreline improvements. These projects are noted in Appendix D.
The main features and facilities found in each of the 11 Regional Parks is summarized in Table 2. Site assessments of parks within the Greater Prince George park planning area were completed by R.F. Binnie & Associates staff, in September and October 2020. Site assessments of parks within the Mackenzie and Robson Valley-Canoe park planning areas were undertaken by RDFFG staff. The most common facilities in the regional parks include trails, picnic areas and outhouses. Seven of the regional parks have fire pits, and six of the parks have picnic shelters. Seven of the regional parks have highway/entrance road directional signage.
54
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 91 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
Year Contract Park (Electoral Area) Size (ha) Acquired Tenure Agreements
Trails Picnic Area Picnic Shelter Fire Pit Outhouse Boat Launch (nm = Non Motorized) Swimming Area Change Rooms View Points Heritage Buildings Play Areas Entry Gate Interpretive Sign Highway Sign Informal Area (Lawn)
Berman Lake (Area C) 38 1976 Crown lease - nm • • • • • • • • Cedarside (Area H) 18.5 1993 Crown lease Village of Valemount • • • • • RD owned; MoT Village of George Hicks (Area H) 2.5 1984 right-of-way at Valemount • • • • • • bridge
Giscome Portage (Huble Giscome Portage Homestead Historic Site) 22 1989 RD owned Heritage Society • • • • • • • • (Area G)
Harold Mann (Eaglet Lake) 13 1984 RD owned - (Area F) • • • • • • • • • John Dahl (located within District of District of Mackenzie 1.8 1990 Mackenzie lease Mackenzie boundary) Koeneman (Area H) 4.5 1981 RD owned - • • • • nm • • • Kristian Winther (Area A) 28 2003 RD owned - • • • • • • • McMillan Creek (located within City of Prince 60 1980’s Crown lease - • • • • • George boundary)
Ness Lake (Area A) 84 (inc. 14 1976 Crown lease - developed) • • • • • • • • • • • Wilkins (Area C) 57 1976 RD owned - • • • • • • • • Totals # of Specific Facilities
329.3 - 6 RD Owned - 8 9 6 7 10 3 4 3 2 2 1 4 5 7 5
Table 8. Current Status of 11 Existing Regional Parks in the RDFFG AGENDA ITEM # Page 92 of 184
55 AGENDA ITEM #
7.2 Development Priorities
This section provides a summary of the highlights of each regional park, current issues, and opportunities for future park development, renewal and improvement. The proposed recommendations are based on: input from government, Indigenous groups, the public and stakeholders during the engagement process, individual park site assessments, and improvements noted in previous park plans.
The park development recommendations are assigned a priority rating based on urgency, and ease of implementation: • High Priority (with 1-5 years) • Medium Priority (within 6-10 years) • Low Priority (within the 2020-2030 period as time and funding permit, or after 2030)
Chapter 9 includes additional information on implementation including cost estimates for each of the projects listed below.
7.2.1 BERMAN LAKE
Park Description Berman Lake Regional Park is located 45km west of Prince George. Park highlights include a dock, swimming beach, and trails. Other facilities include picnic areas, fire pits, outhouses, changing shelter, informal lawn area. Trails follow the shoreline and naturally formed eskers, enabling access to view a variety of wildlife and their habitats.
The park has two separate picnic areas. One is located in a small treed area with a dock for launching canoes. The second picnic area is located in a large open lawn area with a sandy beach, and designated swim area.
Issues and Opportunities During the engagement process, the public and stakeholders expressed a desire for improved access to the dock and picnic areas. Park assessments revealed a need for upgrades to the trails. Many facilities such as the outhouses and picnic areas are not accessible for those with mobility constraints. There is an opportunity for increased Figure 29. Berman Lake Regional Park interpretation of the lake and wetland habitat and associated wildlife.
Park Development Recommendations 1. Create more accessible grades to access the dock and picnic areas. (High) 2. Upgrade trails (including repair of wooden stairs, bridge railings, and trail surfaces). (Medium) 3. Install a viewing platform into the wetland with interpretive signage. (Low)
56
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 93 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
7.2.2 CEDARSIDE
Park Description Cedarside Regional Park is 18.5 ha in size and is located 2.5 km south of Valemount on Little Cranberry Lake. The Park is maintained by the Village of Valemount under contract to the Regional District. Cedarside is a popular spot for swimming in the summer, and skiing, snowshoeing and sledding in the winter. Facilities include a large parking area, outhouses, picnic tables, fire pits and access to a large sandy beach.
Issues and Opportunities During the engagement process, the public and stakeholders expressed a desire for improvements to the picnic area, beach and swimming area, and the development of trails. While there is a signed trail from the parking lot to the beach, a steep bank at the north end is used for informal, more direct access. This is accelerating erosion.
Figure 30. Cedarside Regional Park Future Park Development Recommendations 1. Widen the trail to the beach and develop a loop trail with interpretive signage. (High) 2. Install additional barriers to discourage access on steep banks to beach. (High) 3. Rake and screen the beach. (Medium) 4. Install highway directional signs at 200m and/or 400m before the park entrance. (Low)
7.2.3 GEORGE HICKS
Park Description George Hicks Regional Park is 2.5 ha in size and is located in Valemount, BC. The Park is maintained by the Village of Valemount under contract to the Regional District.
The Park has a walking trail and two viewing platforms that offer excellent Chinook salmon viewing opportunities along Swift Creek in late July to mid August. George Hicks was the second most visited Regional Park of those where the Regional District collects park counter data.
Other facilities at George Hicks include an information kiosk, picnic area, and outhouses. Figure 31. George Hicks Regional Park
57
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 94 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Issues and Opportunities A trail connection was recently constructed between the park and visitor’s centre, as well as installation of a second viewing platform and interpretive signage along the new trails. Due to its prominent and central location this park acts as a gateway to Valemount and plays an important role for residents and visitors. Tourism Valemount and the Village of Valemount expressed an interest in partnering with the Regional District to extend trail connections within the park. Specifically, there is an interest in creating a new trail that connects north from the existing viewing bridge to the North Thompson Highway, to allow visitors staying at the campground to access the park directly without walking along the Highway.
Future Park Development Recommendations
1. Support the extension of a trail from the viewing platform to the North Thompson Highway on the north side of Swift Creek. (Med)
7.2.4 GISCOME PORTAGE (HUBLE HOMESTEAD HISTORIC SITE)
Park Description Located 40 km north of Prince George, Giscome Portage Regional Park was created to preserve the Huble Homestead, Giscome Portage, and surrounding area. Located on the upper Fraser River, the homestead site includes the original 1912 dovetail log house, as well as reconstructed buildings including the general store, blacksmith shop, barns and others. Events are held at the Park during the summer season.
The Giscome Portage was a historic trade route used by the Lheidli T’enneh, who called the trail Lhdesti or “the shortcut.” The Giscome Portage is a designated Heritage Trail operated by BC Parks. Trailhead parking is located at the Huble Homestead.
The Huble Homestead at Giscome Portage Regional Park is operated and maintained by the Huble Homestead / Giscome Portage Heritage Figure 32. Giscome Portage Regional Society under contract to the RDFFG. Park
Issues and Opportunities
• Giscome Portage Regional Park provides a casual, family friendly setting for visitors to relax, explore the natural surroundings and learn about important history of area.
• Given the ongoing partnership with the Huble Homestead / Giscome Portage Heritage Society, the Park would benefit from a park-specific Park Management Plan, separate from the existing culture plan, that defines a vision for the Park, and clarifies roles and responsibilities.
58
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 95 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
• Signage at Highway 16/Mitchell road is faded and should be replaced to attract more visitors. Signage could better identify the park as a Regional Park.
• The parking lot could be improved with a turnaround area and designated parking aisles through use of signage and physical delineations such as bollards or islands.
• The riverfront trail is scenic but prone to flooding and can be extremely wet in sections.
Future Park Development Recommendations
1. Prepare a park management plan (complementing the RDFFG Cultural Plan) that defines a mutually-agreed vision for the park management function of this important park, and identifies how the RDFFG will work with the Huble Homestead / Giscome Portage Heritage Society and other interested organizations to achieve the long-term vision. Include BC Parks to identify and address mutually beneficial opportunities for the Regional Park and Giscome Portage trail. (High)
2. Support trail enhancements on the site such as exploring alternatives for the riverfront trail and creating rest points with benches along the trail from the parking lot to the Huble Homestead entrance. (Medium)
3. Replace Highway signage (at Highway 16 and Mitchell Road). (Medium)
4. Improve entry drive by adding signage at corners, and advisory signage at the first cattleguard on Mitchell Road. (Low)
7.2.5 HAROLD MANN
Park Description Harold Mann Regional Park is located 50 km northeast of Prince George via Highway 16 East and Upper Fraser Road on Eaglet Lake. The park is 13 ha in size and provides opportunities to view wildlife, especially birds, on the short but scenic trail along the creek, marsh and lake. A large open area of grass, and a new picnic shelter provide flexible spaces to relax and enjoy the scenery or take part in recreational activities. Fishing can occur from the shoreline, however no dock or boat launch is provided.
Facilities at the park include picnic tables, picnic shelter, fire pits, outhouses, swimming area and changing structure. Figure 33. Harold Mann Regional Park
59
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 96 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Issues and Opportunities
• Beaver activity has led to ongoing seepage from the wetland area, which is surfacing in the lawn as it drains towards the lake, leading to standing water in some areas and erosion at the beach.
• There is an opportunity for enhanced trails, viewpoints and interpretive signage around the wetland area for wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching.
Future Park Development Recommendations
1. Monitor and assess the impacts of the shoreline mitigation work conducted in 2020. Consider expanding as required to mitigate seepage along the lake shore. (High)
2. Improve trails along the creek and bog with sections of boardwalk, and informational and interpretive signage to highlight the flora and fauna of the area. (Medium)
3. Install Highway signage (from Prince George) at 200 m and/or 400 m from the park entrance. (Low)
7.2.6 JOHN DAHL
Park Description John Dahl Regional Park, jointly developed by the District of Mackenzie and Regional District of Fraser-Fort George, is located within the District of Mackenzie. At 1.8 ha it is the smallest of the Regional Parks, and primarily serves the residents of Mackenzie.
The Regional Park contains the 2.2 km long Barb Dahl trail, the 1.5 km long Dick Dauphinee trail, and viewpoints overlooking Morfee Lakes. Trails remain open year-round and provide walking and hiking experiences in spring, summer and fall. The trails are groomed by the District in the winter for cross-country skiing. The RDFFG contracts basic maintenance to the District of Mackenzie.
Issues and Opportunities
• There are very few amenities in the Park which diminishes the quality of the park. The lack of amenities, as well as wet areas mean the park is generally underutilized.
• There is little directional signage to the entrance of the park and/or informational signage making it difficult for Figure 34. John Dahl Regional Park visitors to Mackenzie to utilize the park.
• The District of Mackenzie has recently installed a small informal parking area.
60
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 97 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
• There are opportunities for enhanced viewpoints to Morfee Lakes, and increased winter use with more consistent winter grooming.
Future Park Development Recommendations
1. In consultation with the District of Mackenzie consider handing John Dahl over to the District for use as a community park and acquiring another regional park site in the Mackenzie area, such as in the Morfee Lakes area, if this would better meet the Regional District and area’s park needs. Morfee Lakes is discussed further in Appendix E. (Med)
2. Formalize a trailhead with a kiosk with information on trail use, etiquette and maps. (Med)
3. Consult with the District of Mackenzie on options to improve directional signage to the park entrance. (Low)
7.2.7 KOENEMAN
Park Description Koeneman Regional Park is located near the southern boundary of McBride. The 4.5 ha park is located on the east side of the Fraser River. The Park was donated to the RDFFG by the Koeneman family in 1981. The park features the Koeneman House, a dovetail cornered log house, a picnic shelter and infrastructure to support equine tourism including an equine emergency stop, rest area and parking area for accessing local riding trails on McBride peak. Other facilities include a picnic area, outhouses, interpretive signage and informal lawn area. The Koeneman House was previously used for community activities but remains unused as local community organizations have not been able to raise consistent funds to support restoration and maintenance.
Issues and Opportunities Since the 2010 Parks Plan the RDFFG has investigated the feasibility of a boat launch. However, since the Village of McBride has installed a boat launch directly across the Fraser River, demand for a launch at Koeneman has been minimized. The Koeneman House is a heritage asset for the park but requires upgrades and ongoing maintenance. The ground is soft, particularly in spring making it susceptible to rutting by vehicles.
Koeneman received the lowest amount of use of the Regional Parks according to the 2020 public survey, underscoring that the park is currently underused. Multi-use trail networks in the area (including McBride Peak and the Teare Mountain Bike Trail Network) attract a broad range of users including equine, mountain biking and hiking, suggesting the park could be improved as a hub and staging area for trail users. There is an opportunity for improved directional and Figure 35. Koeneman Regional Park informational signage on the highway, and interpretive signage within the park. There is interest in a non-potable water source for watering horses to support the parks use as an equine rest area.
61
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 98 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Future Park Development Recommendations
1. Create a defined loop road, and upgrade the upper parking area with gravel and grading. (High)
2. Install Highway signs at 200 m and/or 400 m before the park entrance. Ensure signage highlights equine facilities available within the park. (High)
3. Replace existing garbage receptacles, and the outhouse at the north end of the Park. (Med)
4. Add interpretive signage to the existing kiosk with information about local heritage within the Park and surrounding area, such as the Koeneman House and fire lookout near McBride Peak. (Med)
5. Investigate the potential for a non-potable water source on the site. (Low)
6. Consult with the community to define levels of community interest in using the Koeneman house, and supporting the long-term maintenance of this heritage structure. Apply for funding to complete renovations once community support becomes evident. (Low)
7.2.8 KRISTIAN WINTHER
Park Description Kristian Winther Regional Park is located on the south shore of the Salmon River, 30 km north of Prince George. The park is 28 hectares in size and has a short 700 m loop trail that follows the Salmon River and back through new growth forest. The trail offers opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing including deer, moose and bear tracks.
Facilities at the park include an informal lawn, picnic tables, a picnic shelter, fire pits and outhouses.
Issues and Opportunities • Erosion and undercutting is present at three trail access points. • A lack of highway directional signage travelling south makes the park underutilized.
Future Park Development Recommendations
1. Install interpretive signage and benches along the Salmon River loop trail. Install warning signage and/or barriers where riverbank erosion is severe along the trail. (High)
2. Install a kiosk in the parking lot with maps, trail and park information. (Med) Figure 36. Kristian Winther Regional Park 3. Install Highway signage (on Hwy 97 travelling south) at 200m and /or 400m from the park entrance. (Low)
62
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 99 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
7.2.9 MCMILLAN CREEK
Park Description McMillan Creek Regional Park is situated in northern Prince George, and is the only Regional Park located within the City of Prince George boundaries. The Park is accessed via the Hart Highway 97 North off Hoferkamp Road. At 60 hectares it is the largest of the Regional Parks. The Park offers outstanding views from the top of the Nechako River cutbanks to the City of Prince George and surrounding landscapes.
McMillan Creek passes through a deep ravine surrounded by towering Douglas fir trees. The creek is an important habitat for rainbow trout and provides valuable spawning beds. Figure 37. McMillan Creek Regional Park A scenic 2.5 km forested trail system, starting at the main parking lot, winds through several ecosystems allowing an opportunity to view various plant species. A shorter, 1 km trail returns to the lookout on the cutbanks. The northern portion of the park is currently undeveloped.
Facilities at the park include trails, outhouses, interpretative signs regarding the geographic history of Prince George and safe and scenic viewpoints of the City from the cutbanks.
Issues and Opportunities
• The parking lot is located away from the main trailhead forcing hikers to walk along a narrow section of Hofferkamp Road, and thus reducing the overall accessibility of the park. There are limited sight lines in one direction for vehicles to see pedestrians walking along the road.
• Informal trails have been created at each end of the viewpoint fence line.
• Interpretive signage is in poor condition, and requires replacement.
• There is an opportunity to further link the Park with the City of Prince George trails system. Specifically, there is a vision to establish a connection with the McMillan Creek Fishing Park through the Heritage River Trail system. There are also potential connections to the Cranbrook Hill Greenway and beyond.
Future Park Development Recommendations
1. Improve informational and etiquette signage at the parking lot for hikers using the park. (High)
2. Perform selective pruning, and removal of dead and dangerous trees alongside the road. (High)
3. Extend fence line barriers and replace interpretive signage to enhance the viewpoint. (Med)
4. Consider acquiring an easement to provide park access at higher ground, or a new switchback trail to improve connectivity and access. (Low)
63
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 100 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
7.2.10 NESS LAKE
Park Description Ness Lake Regional Park is located 35 km northwest of Prince George. The 14 hectare park has 1.2 km of trails within its boundaries. The trails provide an easy walk to view the wildlife and plant life of the park. The park is frequented year round with a full fifty percent of survey respondents reported visiting Ness Lake in the past two years.
The park has a scenic lake front with a beach that provides access to the lake for canoe launching, and a designated swimming area. In the winter the lake is a destination for ice fishing. Other facilities at the park include picnic tables, fire pits, a picnic shelter, outhouses, change houses, terraced lawn area with a sand box, and a forested trail system which showcases the site’s natural ecosystem and large fir trees. Figure 38. Ness Lake Regional Park
Issues and Opportunities
• The shoreline has experienced erosion along the shoreline, particularly at the north edge at the end of the retaining wall. A shoreline mitigation project was undertaken by the Regional District in 2018 to address erosion and stabilize the shoreline. Although erosion protection measures have been introduced, some areas of the shoreline remain steep, impeding access to the lake.
• Access points along the outer trail can be accessed by motorized vehicles which are causing some damage to the ditch and slopes.
Future Park Development Recommendations
1. Monitor the effectiveness of the shoreline stabilization project and conduct enhancements, as necessary. (High)
2. Consider further improvements to the shoreline to improve access to the water for swimming. (High)
3. Install signage and bollards or barriers at access points along the outer trail to discourage use by motorized vehicles. (Med)
4. Enhance trails with additional wayfinding and interpretive signage. Improve timber stair access and slope angle on trails at the south end of the park which are quite steep. (Low)
64
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 101 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
7.2.11 WILKINS
Park Description Wilkins Regional Park is located in Miworth, 15 km west of Prince George. At 57 hectares, Wilkins is the second largest of the Regional Parks. The park is located on the Nechako River with a large system of trails offering scenic views of large cottonwood trees. At certain times of the year, salmon can be viewed moving up the river to spawn.
The site is popular for walking, boating picnics, campfires and in the winter for snowshoeing. The picnic shelter is often used for special events such as weddings, family gatherings and community events. Wilkins is the most visited of the Regional Parks according to both park counter data, and the public survey.
Figure 39. Wilkins Regional Park Facilities include a picnic shelter with a wood burning stove, outhouses, picnic tables, fire pits, trails, a boat launch and a large lawn area providing a place to hold events.
Issues and Opportunities
• The gravel access road drive requires re-grading.
• Trail access is discontinuous from the park gate to the river, requiring hikers to walk on the road.
• The concrete base around the wood stove in the shelter has been vandalized. There is some damage (heavy rutting) in picnic areas at the east end of the park from motorized vehicle use.
• Paddling the Nechako from Wilkins Regional Park to Prince George is a popular day trip.
• The concrete boat launch is too short at some water levels and is experiencing erosion at the end. Many visitors are using the adjacent gravel launch due to grades and conditions.
Future Park Development Recommendations
1. Repair the concrete boat launch. (High)
2. Create a short accessible loop trail with interpretive signage about the park. (High)
3. Repair worn or missing timber elements, including bridge decking, loose railings and picnic tables. Add railings to the boardwalk/bridge on the trail to Miworth Road. (Med)
4. Install educational signage about park etiquette including motorized vehicle use. (Med)
65
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 102 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
7.3 General Park System Recommendations
The following is a summary of key findings related to the overall RDFFG Regional Park system that were identified through the course of the background review, site assessment, and Round 1 engagement. In order to address these system-wide issues and opportunities a series of recommendations are proposed under the following themes: Policies & Bylaws, Accessibility, Education & Interpretation, Stewardship, Marketing & Promotion, and Indigenous Relations.
7.3.1 POLICIES & BYLAWS
Key Findings The current Park Bylaw (Bylaw No. 724) was last updated in 1986 and is in need of an update to reflect current park practices and uses.
Recommendation
1. Review and update the Regional Parks Bylaw (Bylaw No. 724).
7.3.2 ACCESSIBILITY
Key Findings Lack of accessibility was a frequent challenge identified by the public and stakeholders, and during the site assessments.
Recommendations
1. Ensure all parks have an accessible outhouse.
2. Ensure parking lots have accessible parking stalls identified near the park entrance.
3. Ensure universal access, where feasible, at the main park entrance and to day use picnic areas, with provision of accessible picnic tables.
4. Explore partnerships to undertake accessibility audits at all Regional Parks to identify and prioritize where further accessibility improvements within parks can be addressed.
5. Establish accessibility standards to ensure future Regional Park facilities, and upgrades to existing Regional Parks amenities are built to an age-friendly standard.
6. Enhance and promote accessible trail loops at Regional Parks.
66
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 103 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
7.3.3 EDUCATION & INTERPRETATION
Key Findings People are increasingly looking for interpretative and cultural history experiences in parks, and opportunities to learn about historical and cultural resources in the region. There is also a desire to be connected with nature, and for more education around appropriate uses and safety.
Recommendations
1. Support the enhancement of existing trails, and development of new trails within Regional Parks to create a variety of loop trails with interpretive signage that offers opportunities to learn about flora and fauna, i.e., topics such as the role wildfire and succession in the boreal forest, and the role of key species such as beavers in the landscape. Collaborate with the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development (fisheries and ecosystems sections) to create interpretive signage relating to park ecosystems, conservation initiatives, invasive species, fishing regulations, best fishing practices, and regulatory information.
2. Support the hosting of educational and interpretive talks in Regional Parks. This could include speakers about relevant topics such as Indigenous Peoples Day, Indigenous culture and history, local ecology, wildlife and conservation, safety education talks, winter recreation, learn to fish programs, and community paddling events.
3. Consider opportunities to facilitate more year-round use in Regional Parks such as snowshoeing, skating, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing where winter access/plowing is feasible. Ness Lake was identified by stakeholders as a potential site for enhanced access for winter recreation opportunities such as ice fishing and snowshoeing.
7.3.4 STEWARDSHIP & SUSTAINABILITY
Key Findings There is a growing awareness about our environment, and a desire for this to be addressed in Regional Parks, including through life-cycle costs and waste reduction.
Recommendations
1. Ensure all Regional Parks have recycling bins in addition to standard waste receptacles.
2. Consider alternative materials such as concrete or recycled plastic at sites where timber amenities such as benches and tables are repeatedly vandalized.
3. Establish and assign service levels to parks to help prioritize and schedule regional park maintenance activities in a cost-effective manner, while keeping in mind safety, budgets, personnel and environment concerns. These can also be used as a mechanism for evaluation.
67
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 104 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
7.3.5 MARKETING & PROMOTION
Key Findings There is a lack of knowledge and awareness about the Regional Parks system. There is interest in more maps and information about what is available in each of the parks.
Recommendations
1. Update brochures noting facilities available at each Regional Park; use universally recognized symbols that can be readily interpreted by residents and visitors, and highlight accessible features available at the parks, such as trails and outhouses.
2. Ensure all Regional Parks have a central kiosk with maps, etiquette, safety & informational signage.
3. Undertake cross-training with the tourism sector, through presentations of the Regional Park system to tourism teams within the park planning areas. Consider linkages with other agencies providing park services such as BC Parks, Recreation Sites & Trails BC, and the City of Prince George.
7.3.6 INDIGENOUS RELATIONS
Key Findings There is an interest in working together with Indigenous groups in the region to foster and build relationships, and promote Indigenous history, language and culture within the Regional Parks system.
Recommendations
1. Increase collaboration by establishing "Relationship Agreements" or Memoranda of Understanding on Regional Park planning with local Indigenous groups with a priority on outlining how and when the groups will communicate regarding park planning issues.
2. Engage with Indigenous groups to incorporate informational and interpretive signage that reflects Indigenous cultural values, historical trails, culture camps, and other uses within the region.
3. Ensure park signage acknowledges the traditional territories of local Indigenous groups.
4. Partner with Indigenous groups to ensure the preservation of culturally modified trees (CMT) and understory and culturally significant trees (CST) within Regional Parks, and interpretation where appropriate.
5. Consider the re-naming of Regional Parks and trails, and where Indigenous languages and place names can be represented.
6. Partner with Indigenous groups when strategizing to manage wildlife issues encountered in the parks.
7. Work with Indigenous groups to identify where archaeological sites may exist within existing Regional Parks.
68
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 105 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
8. Proposed Regional Parks
This section of the plan outlines recommendations and policies for proposed Regional Parks for the period 2020 to 2030. It provides qualitative parkland acquisition criteria for considering potential Regional Park sites, discusses potential future park sites identified during the public and stakeholder engagement process, and recommends priorities for future Regional Park development.
8.1 Criteria For Acquisition
As the RDFFG grows, the following parkland acquisition criteria can assist in ensuring that appropriate future parkland sites are identified through the planning process. The following criteria build on the those developed in the 2010 Regional Parks Plan with the addition of two criteria that are important to consider in parkland acquisitions: accessibility and indigenous relations.
This is gauged through the public engagement processes associated with the Public input/ review of this Plan, requests from interest groups regarding specific sites, and demand other past and future interaction with the residents of the Region.
All electoral areas should be represented in the Regional Parks system, taking into Geographic coverage consideration that the majority of the population, and therefore demand arises, from the Prince George area.
Park and/or trail The site should provide or enhance linkages among existing parks, trails and linkages recreation areas of all types.
Recreational The site already supports current recreational activities or has the ability to capacity, support activities that are in high demand; e.g., hiking, picnicking, fishing, etc. experiential value
69
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 106 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Ready access to lake and river shores is generally in high demand throughout the Water access Region; the type of access and uses would depend on the nature of the shore and water body.
Environmental, The occurrence of a representative or unique landscape or a regionally significant cultural or heritage historic or cultural site may be a consideration, particularly if the site fills a gap in representation such representation.
Sites that are already protected under provincial or municipal park or recreational Existing level of site designations may not need regional park status compared to unprotected protection (or sites. threat) The RDFFG wishes to complement not compete with or take over existing park areas.
Priorities from past These are sites identified as possible parks or recreational concepts in the 2010 plans Regional Parks Plan.
The relative ease with which the public (and the RDFFG) could access the site is an important factor.
Where feasible, a desirable park gradient will be in the range of 0-5% for the majority of the site to ensure accessibility to a wide population. Accessibility Lands up to a 10% slope may be considered if they can be graded to 5% to accommodate park uses. Consideration of natural geographic features (such as hills, knolls) must be made on a park by park basis. These may act as features of a regional park, but active portions of the park should be capable of accommodating universal accessibility and a range of recreational activities.
Acquisition cost may be a consideration if the site is privately owned; for the Costs longer term, development and operation/maintenance costs must also be considered.
The potential to offset costs and stretch the RDFFG’s limited resources more effectively, through the involvement of interest groups or other government Partnerships agencies in acquiring, funding, developing and/or maintaining the site, is an important consideration.
There may be the potential to foster and build relationships with Indigenous groups when considering land acquisition. Sites that could support the promotion Indigenous Relations of the history and culture of Indigenous peoples should be considered with a commitment to reconciliation.
Table 9. Parkland Acquisition Criteria
70
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 107 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
8.2 Potential Future Regional Park Sites
The following potential Regional Park sites were suggested for consideration during the Round 1 engagement with government, Indigenous groups, stakeholders and the public. Potential future sites were identified in each of the Electoral Areas of the Regional District.
Electoral Area A: Electoral Area G: Saxton Lake Morfee Lakes Chief Lake McLeod Lake Nukko Lake Crooked River Salmon Valley Bear Lake Wilkins-McMillan Creek Connections Teapot Mountain Eena Lake Pidherny Electoral Area H: Dome Creek Electoral Area C: McBride Peak Bednesti Lake Cranberry Marsh Lost Lake (near Beaverly) Horseshoe Lake Fraser River Canyon by West Lake Trail to access Mount Terry Fox Provincial Park
Electoral Area D: Stoner or Stone Creek Two miles south of Stoner on Fraser River Tabor Mountain and Tabor Lake
Electoral Area E: Woodpecker Heritage Church Hixon Creek Falls
Electoral Area F: Sinclair Mills area McGregor River/Torpy Mountain/Pass Lake area Penny (potential sites around community)
The locations of the potential future Regional Park sites identified during the engagements are shown on the map on the following page.
71
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 108 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
SUGGESTED FUTURE REGIONAL PARKS SITES REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
SUGGESTED PARKS BY ELECTORAL AREA: PARK PLANNING AREAS
Electoral Area A: 1. Saxton Lake Electoral Area G: Mackenzie 2. Chief Lake 17. Morfee Lakes 3. Nukko Lake and Eena Lake 18. McLeod Lake 17 Greater Prince George 4. Salmon Valley 19. Crooked River 5. Wilkins-McMillan Creek 20. Bear Lake District of Mackenzie Connections and Pidherny Robson Valley-Canoe 21. Teapot Mountain 18 Legend Electoral Area C: Legend Highway Electoral Area H: ighway 6. Bednesti Lake 22. Dome Creek 19 ighway 7. Lost Lake (near Beaverly) acken ie Park Planning Area 23. McBride Peak G acken ie ParkExisting Planning Regional Area Parks 8. Fraser River Canyon by West Lake 24. Horseshoe Lake Greater Prince George Park Planning Area 20 Greater PrinceSuggested George Park Future Planning Regional Area 25. Cranberry Marsh Ro sonParks Valley anoe Sites (Stakeholder Park Planning Area Electoral Area D: 21 Ro son Valley anoeInterviews) Park Planning Area 9. Stoner or Stone Creek 10. Two miles south of Stoner on 2 4 F Suggested Future Regional Fraser River 15 Parks Sites (Public Survey) 1 A 3 14 11. Tabor Lake City of 6 5 11 Prince 16 ELECTORAL AREAS Electoral Area E: George 7 D 22 8 12. Woodpecker Heritage Church C 9 A Salmon River-Lakes 13. Hixon Creek Falls 10 E 12 Chilako River-Nechako 13 23 C Electoral Area F: Village of McBride Tabor Lake-Stone Creek 14. Sinclair Mills area 24 D 15. McGregor River/Torpy Mountain/ Pass Lake area H E Woodpecker-Hixon 16. Penny (potential sites around community) Village of Valemount 25 F Willow River-Upper Fraser
G Crooked River-Parsnip
H Robson Valley-Canoe
ilometers N ilometers Figure 40. Suggested Future Regional Park Sites : N : AGENDA ITEM # Page 109 of 184
72 AGENDA ITEM #
Given the parkland deficiencies identified in the Greater Prince George park planning area, and in Electoral Areas ‘D’ and ‘E’ specifically (see Section 4 – Parkland Needs Assessment), potential sites suggested within these Electoral Areas are discussed further on the following pages. These include: Tabor Lake and Stoner (Electoral Area ‘D’), and Woodpecker Heritage Church and Hixon Creek Falls (Electoral Area ‘E’). For each potential Regional Park site the current status is summarized, and the concepts from previous plans are outlined (if applicable).
8.2.1 TABOR LAKE (Electoral Area ‘D’)
Background Tabor Lake is approximately 18 km east of Prince George and due to its proximity, is a longstanding recreational area for residents of Prince George and the surrounding area. The area is truly multi-use and has significant recreation values including hiking, cross- country skiing and snowmobile trails. While Tabor Lake is the closest lake to Prince George City limits, there is currently no public access to the lake. Figure 41. Tabor Lake (Photos: TMRS)
Concepts from Previous Plans Previous Regional Park plans contemplated development of a Regional Park on Crown land on the east side of Tabor Lake, as a local destination that could also be developed as a staging area for the Groveburn area. Development of a park on Tabor Mountain was also considered but not pursued, and protection is already in place, to some extent, at the provincial level.
Current Status Tabor Lake received significant support in the 2020 Regional Parks Plan engagement and was the most identified potential Regional Park site in both the public survey and one-on-one interviews. Development of a Regional Park at Tabor Lake is generally supported by stakeholders interviewed including BC Parks and the City of Prince George. Members of the public and stakeholders expressed a desire for public access on the south east side of Tabor Lake. Potential types of development at the site could include a dock, beach access, a picnic shelter, picnic sites, fire pits and a trail system. Lake access should accommodate day use activities such as paddle boarding, canoeing and swimming. There is also significant potential for winter recreational activities to occur in the area. The site can be accessed via the existing road network.
It is recognized that the development of a Regional Park in this area could be complex in terms of acquisition. Other interests in the lake are present, such as its connection to the drinking water system for local residents. As such water quality is of high concern in the area. Security concerns and the potential for vandalism are also concerns due to the proximity to residential areas. This could be potentially be mitigated through use of access gates with limited opening hours, similar to other Regional Parks in proximity to residential areas, such as Wilkins.
The Prince George ATV Club expressed an interest in assisting with a Tabor Lake Regional Park – through grants for remediation or help with trail maintenance. Members of the Tabor Mountain Recreation Society also use the area and should be involved. Further discussion with stakeholder groups including the Tabor Mountain Recreation Society needs to occur in Round 2 engagement. Development of a Regional Park in the area also requires further consultation with Indigenous groups and area residents.
73
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 110 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
8.2.2 STONER / STONE CREEK / SOUTH OF STONER ON THE FRASER RIVER (Electoral Area ‘D’)
Concepts from Previous Plans Crown land parcels adjacent to the Fraser River in the Stoner area were previously identified as possible future park sites, including District Lots 4615, 922 and 924.
Current Status The above parcels were put forward for consideration during the 2020 Regional Parks Plan interview process. The Crown land parcel 3 km south of Stoner includes access to the Fraser River. This would fulfill an underrepresented park type in the area, as there is currently very little public access to the Fraser River between Prince George and Quesnel. This site could possibly be developed as an agriculture themed park, as the property includes a small field, and previous uses included traditional farming with mixed operations (potatoes, berries, etc.). Development challenges include the need for an access road.
Consideration of a Regional Park in this area should involve early discussions and consultation with local Indigenous groups as there is likely evidence of traditional use.
8.2.3 WOODPECKER HERITAGE CHURCH (Electoral Area ‘E’)
Background St. Marks Anglican Church is a heritage building located in the community of Woodpecker, about 11 km north of Hixon on Highway 97. Built in 1939 as the first church in the district, it was later turned over to the Hixon Women’s Institute Heritage Committee but remains a dedicated Anglican church. The church did not see regular church services for most of the last 30 years, but reopened in 2019, for monthly Sunday morning services. The church was refurbished by the Women’s Institute and Volunteer Fire Department in Hixon. Figure 42. Woodpecker Church (Photo: PG Citizen) The site straddles Highway 97, and includes the church and a heritage cemetery, and several acres of land on the west side of the highway.
Concepts from Previous Plans The potential of a Regional Park was considered in previous plans pending commitments from local community interest groups to take on fundraising, operation and maintenance responsibilities. While the church has heritage and possible tourism value, the building would require significant ongoing maintenance.
Current Status Consideration of this site as a Regional Park candidate was validated during the 2020 Parks Plan engagement. However, similar to the RDFFG’s experience with the heritage building at Koeneman this site would require firm commitments from local community interests to take on restoration and upkeep. Proximity to private land, and the noncontiguous nature of the parcel are challenges to Regional Park development at this site.
74
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 111 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
8.2.4 HIXON CREEK FALLS (Electoral Area ‘E’)
Background Hixon Creek Falls is located on Crown land, via a trail at the end of Hixon Creek Road, approximately 4 km from Highway 97 at the north edge of Hixon. Often described as a "hidden gem," the site has two short trails - one trail follows Hixon Creek for 3-4 km to the falls with very little elevation gain. The second trail follows Hixon Creek to a narrowing in the gorge with fast flowing water. The latter trail is in need of upgrades. The respective trailheads are 200m apart. The site is a very popular day use destination for families, offering views and access to pools of water along the creek.
The trails, as well as an informal parking area were constructed in the early 1990s under the Community Forest Program with funding, materials and labour provided by the RDFFG, the provincial government, the Hixon Community Association and local businesses. Current maintenance of the trail is unknown.
Concepts from Previous Plans A possible park around Hixon Creek Falls was identified in previous park Figure 43. Hixon Creek Falls (Photo: Pat Suter) plans, pending further consultation with the community to confirm its status as a local priority, and levels of interest to participate in its development and operation.
Current Status Hixon Creek Falls is an extremely popular area primarily as a day use recreational destination. This fits well with the Regional Park mandate. Hixon Creek Falls received significant support in the public survey and interviews as a potential regional park site, including general support from organizations such as Recreation Sites and Trails BC, BC Parks and the Caledonia Ramblers.
Challenges to acquisition and development include mining and a tree farm license in the area, and access road issues. Improvements to the access road could possibly be completed by or in partnership with other interested agencies.
Potential types of development at the site could include picnic sites, fire pits, an accessible outhouse facility, accessible boardwalk/ viewpoint, interpretation and an improved trail system.
75
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 112 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
8.3 Priorities For Future Regional Park Development
The four potential Regional Park sites discussed in Section 8.2 were compared against the acquisition criteria to gauge the extent to which they fulfill the desired attributes for future park sites. Table 9 compares the proposed park sites against the criteria for acquisition. Tabor Lake and Hixon Creek Falls fulfill the greatest number of criteria. Given their location in underserved Electoral Areas, their potential to meet the regional parkland acquisition criteria, and the current context, the Tabor Lake and Hixon Creek Falls sites are recommended for further exploration as future Regional Park land acquisition opportunities.
Stoner/Stoner Hixon Creek Woodpecker Acquisition Criteria Tabor Lake Creek Heritage Falls Church
Public input/demand
Geographic coverage
Park and/or trail linkages
Recreational capacity, experiential value
Water access
Environmental, cultural or heritage representation
Existing level of protection (or threat)
Priorities from past plans
Accessibility
Costs
Partnerships
Indigenous Relations
Table 10. Potential Regional Park Sites Comparison
76
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 113 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
In order to further exploration o these sites as potential future Regional Parks, it is recommended that the District undertake the following phases.
Tabor Lake - Recommendations
1. Phase 1: In consultation with Indigenous groups, the province and area residents explore options for a future Regional Park site on Tabor Lake.
2. Phase 2: If a suitable parcel is identified, take steps to acquire the land through a lease, grant or purchase.
3. Phase 3: Design and develop appropriate facilities in consultation with Indigenous groups, stakeholders and area residents. Consider site development options to accommodate a range of day use activities such as fishing, a boat launch, beach access, swimming, picnic shelter, picnic sites, fire pits and a trail system.
Hixon Creek Falls - Recommendations
4. Phase 1: In consultation with Indigenous groups, the province and area residents explore options for a future Regional Park site at Hixon Creek Falls.
5. Phase 2: If a parcel is identified, take steps to acquire the land through a lease, grant or purchase.
6. Phase 3: Design and develop appropriate park facilities in consultation with Indigenous groups, stakeholders and area residents. Consider site development options to accommodate a range of day use activities such as picnicking, fire pits, hiking, interpretive trails and viewpoints.
77
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 114 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
9. Financial Plan
Chapters 7 and 8 outline the proposed priorities for existing and future Regional Parks respectively. The recommendations are assigned a broad priority rating based on urgency, and ease of implementation:
• High Priority (with 1-5 years) • Medium Priority (within 6-10 years) • Low Priority (within the 2020-2030 period as time and funding permit, or after 2030)
The allocation of RDFFG budget to implement these projects is outlined in this chapter. This section addresses operational and capital budgets, and is supported by detailed cost estimates included in Appendix B. The cost estimates incorporate a 2% construction inflation rate over the horizon of this plan.
The cost estimates provided are Class 'D' estimates intended as a general guideline suitable for budget planning purposes. More detailed cost estimates will be required during planning, design and prior to construction of specific recommendations. Some of the recommendations will required detailed design including engineering services, while others can likely be achieved using typical details.
The budgets should be reviewed annually to respond to changes, ensure integration with other RDFFG initiatives, and take advantage of potential funding and partnership opportunities.
9.1 Operational Budget
The operations and maintenance budget includes two main components:
• Park maintenance contracts: This includes annual contractor costs for existing parks, as well as contracts for proposed future parks starting in 2023.
• Park maintenance (conducted by the RDFFG): This includes trail maintenance, lawn care, painting, staining, pine beetle, pest, and invasive plant management, parking lot maintenance, signage and vandalism management.
With inflation, the total operations and maintenance budget is estimated at approximately $1.2 million over the 10 year horizon of this plan.
78
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 115 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
9.2 Capital Budget
Capital budgets for existing parks, proposed parks and general park system upgrades, as described in this plan, are presented in this section, and in Appendix B.
9.2.1 PROJECTS FOR EXISTING REGIONAL PARKS
Ten-year budgets for completing capital projects within each of the 11 existing Regional Parks are provided in Appendix B. The 10-year budget for all existing Regional Parks after inflation is in the order of $408,965.
9.2.2 PROJECTS FOR PROPOSED REGIONAL PARKS
Capital projects for establishing future Regional Parks at Tabor Lake and Hixon Creek Falls are presented in Appendix B. The 10-year budget for developing new Regional Parks totals approximately $194,896 over the ten-year horizon of this plan. This does not include any land acquisition costs, as these are assumed to be covered under the Regional Park Development Reserve Fund.
9.2.3 PROJECTS FOR GENERAL PARK SYSTEM UPGRADES
Ten-year budgets for completing general park system capital projects to improve communications and marketing, as well as accessibility within each of the 11 existing Regional Parks are provided in Appendix B. The 10-year budget for general park system upgrades with the Regional Parks totals approximately $135,666 after inflation.
The total 10-year budget, including inflation, to implement this plan is estimated at approximately $1.9 million. 9.3 Regional Park Development Reserve Fund
This fund was created in the 1980s to provide the Regional District with a source of surplus funding to cover unexpected expenses, special one-time projects and future parkland acquisition.
Separate reserve funds are established for Regional Parks including the Operating Reserve, Equipment Reserve, and Parks Development Reserve.
79
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 116 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Regional Parks Plan | 03.2021
Appendices
Appendix A: Engagement Materials Appendix B: Cost Estimates Appendix C: Maps Appendix D: Projects Completed From 2010 Regional Parks Plan Appendix E: Additional Regional Park Development Opportunities
80
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 117 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Appendix A: Engagement Materials
81
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 118 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Government, Indigenous and Stakeholder Contacts - Round 1
The following groups and organizations were contacted in Round 1 by letter and invited to participate in an interview and complete the public survey.
Indigenous Groups Community Interest – Outdoor Recreation and Lheidli T’enneh First Nation Environment McLeod Lake Indian Band Caledonia Ramblers Hiking Club Simpcw First Nation Northwest Brigade Paddling Club & Backwater Paddling Provincial Government Cranbrook Hill Greenway Society Recreation Sites and Trails BC Alpine Club of Canada - Prince George Section BC Parks Caledonia Nordic Ski Club (Otway) Prince George Backcountry Recreation Society Local Government Ridge Riders ATV Club City of Prince George Prince George ATV Club District of Mackenzie Prince George Snowmobile Club Village of Valemount Tabor Mountain Recreation Society Village of McBride Valemount and Area Recreation Development Electoral Area A / Salmon River-Lakes Association Electoral Area C / Chilako River-Nechako Mackenzie Nordiques Ski Club Electoral Area D / Tabor Lake - Stone Creek Prince George Cycling Club Electoral Area E / Woodpecker-Hixon Prince George Rod & Gun Club Electoral Area F / Willow River-Upper Fraser Valley UNBC Outdoors Club Electoral Area G / Crooked River-Parsnip Prince George Horse Society Electoral Area H / Robson Valley-Canoe Prince George Naturalists Club Mackenzie Nature Observatory Community Interest – Heritage, Tourism and Spruce City Wildlife Association Education McBride Big Country Snowmobile Association Huble Homestead-Giscome Portage Heritage Society Ducks Unlimited Tourism Prince George Nechako Watershed Roundtable Robson Valley Visitor Centre REAPS (Recycling & Environmental Action Planning McBride Tourism Society) Prince George Tourism Valemount Valemount Chamber of Commerce Mackenzie Tourism Mackenzie Chamber of Commerce University of Northern British Columbia School District 57 College of New Caledonia
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 119 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Government, Indigenous and Stakeholder Contacts - Round 2 The following groups and organizations were contacted in Round 2 and invited to participate in a one-on-one interview, provide written comments and/or complete the public survey.
Indigenous Groups Community Interest Lheidli T’enneh First Nation Caledonia Ramblers Hiking Club McLeod Lake Indian Band Cranbrook Hill Greenway Society Simpcw First Nation Horse Council British Columbia Huble Homestead-Giscome Portage Heritage Society Provincial Government Tabor Mountain Recreation Society BC Parks Mackenzie Outdoor Route and Trail Association Recreation Sites and Trails BC Prince George Backcountry Recreation Society Prince Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource George Cycling Club Operations and Rural Development (Fish & Wildlife) Nechako Watershed Roundtable REAPS (Recycling & Environmental Action Planning Local Government Society) Prince George City of Prince George Robson Valley Chapter - Back Country Horseman District of Mackenzie Society of British Columbia Village of Valemount Tourism Prince George Village of McBride Tourism Valemount Electoral Area A / Salmon River-Lakes Electoral Area C / Chilako River-Nechako Electoral Area D / Tabor Lake - Stone Creek Electoral Area E / Woodpecker-Hixon Electoral Area F / Willow River-Upper Fraser Valley Electoral Area G / Crooked River-Parsnip Electoral Area H / Robson Valley-Canoe
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 120 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW - PUBLIC SURVEY
We want to hear from you! The Regional District of Fraser Fort George is reviewing and updating our Regional Parks Plan to provide a clear direction and priorities for regional parks over the next 10 years. We need your help to create a plan that reflects our communities’ needs and aspirations for regional parks, trails, and outdoor recreation areas. We invite you to fill out this survey and let us know what you think.
SECTION 1: REGIONAL PARK USE
The following questions ask about your USE of the Regional Park system. Think about how you have used the parks over the past two years. Consider all times of year when responding to the questions. 1. From the list below indicate all of the activities you engage in when using Regional Parks. Select all that apply.
Walking, hiking Swimming Photography
Picnicking Bird watching / wildlife viewing Fishing
Mountain Biking Backcountry ski / snowshoeing Snowmobiling / All‐ terrain vehicle (ATV)
Horseback Riding Boating (motorized) Kayak / Canoe / Stand up paddle board (SUP)
Community Events Other (please specify):
2. How frequently do you use Regional Parks in the Regional District of Fraser Fort George?
Weekly Once every few months I am not a user
Monthly Once a year
3. Is there anything that prevents you from using our Regional Parks more often? Select all that apply.
I’m too busy Parks difficult to access or too far to travel Lack of information
Feeling unsafe Poor maintenance or conditions Not interested
Lack of barrier‐free Do not accommodate the activities I want Other, please specify: facilities
1
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 121 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
4. Which of the following Regional Parks have you or other members of your household visited in the past two years? Select all that apply.
Wilkins Ness Lake McMillan Creek Kristian Winther
Koeneman John Dahl Harold Mann Giscome Portage
George Hicks Cedarside Berman Lake
SECTION 2: EXPERIENCES
The following questions ask about your EXPERIENCES while using the Regional Park system. Think about your experiences in the parks over the past two years. Consider all times of year when responding to the questions.
5. Please rate your level of satisfaction with our Regional Parks system. Very Somewhat Neutral Somewhat Very satisfied satisfied dissatisfied dissatisfied Variety of recreational opportunities Directional signage and information Ease of getting to the parks Sufficient regional parks Distribution of regional parks and trails
6. Please rate your level of satisfaction with our Regional Park facilities. Very Somewhat Neutral Somewhat Very satisfied satisfied dissatisfied dissatisfied Washrooms Garbage/recycling Parking Interpretive/educational signage Seating/benches Maps & information Trail conditions Accessibility within the parks Maintenance
2
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 122 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
7. Please select your top three priorities for future improvements to the Regional Parks system. Select all that apply.
Improving maintenance of Improving signage within Developing more trails within Regional Parks Regional Parks Regional Parks
Improving water access for Preserving and restoring Other, please specify: recreation natural features
8. How else can our Regional Parks system be improved to better serve your needs?
SECTION 3: FUTURE USE
The following questions ask about your thoughts on FUTURE PLANNING for the trail network. 9. When considering potential future Regional Park sites, what should be the priority? Select your top three.
More regional trail Parks with lake access Mountain or alpine parks connections
Parks with wetlands River corridor parks Parks for motorized recreational vehicles
Cultural heritage sites Nature preserves (with Other, please specify: (including historic sites and areas limited public access) supporting traditional Indigenous use)
10. Do you have a specific site that you would like to see developed as a future Regional Park or Regional Trail? Please specify:
3
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 123 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
11. Do you have any other comments related to Regional Parks in the Regional District of Fraser Fort George that you would like to share?
SECTION 4: BACKGROUND INFORMATION
These questions ask about you. We use this information to better understand who is using Regional Parks and how. Your answers to these questions will not identify you in any way. 12. Please identify your place of residence.
City of Prince George District of Mackenzie Village of McBride
Village of Valemount Electoral Area ‘A’ – Salmon Electoral Area ‘C’ – Chilako River‐Lakes River‐Nechako
Electoral Area ‘D’ – Tabor Electoral Area ‘E’ – Electoral Area ‘F’ – Willow Lake‐Stone Creek Woodpecker‐Hixon River‐Upper Fraser
Electoral Area ‘G’ – Crooked Electoral Area ‘H’ – Robson Elsewhere in BC River‐Parsnip Valley‐Canoe
Outside of BC
13. Gender and age.
Gender: Male Female Prefer not to say Prefer to self identify: ______
Age: Under 24 25 to 39 years old 40 to 64 years old 65 years old and older
Thank you for your valuable input!
Please return your completed survey by September 30, 2020 to the RDFFG main office: 155 George St., Prince George, BC V2L 1P8, or to a local Regional District office or facility. Or email it to: [email protected] This questionnaire can also be completed online at: www.rdffg.bc.ca
4
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 124 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
PUBLIC SURVEY - DRAFT REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
We want to hear from you! The Regional District of Fraser Fort George is reviewing and updating our Regional Parks Plan to provide a clear direction and priorities for regional parks over the next 10 years. We need your help to create a plan that reflects our communities’ needs and aspirations for regional parks, trails, and outdoor recreation areas.
We are seeking input on the Draft Plan including the proposed vision and draft recommendations. We invite you to fill out this survey and share your feedback.
Please review the Draft Parks Plan Fact Sheet prior to filling out the survey. We recommend you keep it on hand to refer to when completing the survey. The Fact Sheet can be found here: www.rdffg.bc.ca
1. VISION STATEMENT Building from the 2010 Regional Parks Plan and public input, the vision for the RDFFG’s Regional Parks for the next 10 years is a system that: Secures, protects and stewards lands and waterbodies of recreational, environmental and historic value to the region and its communities; Provides day‐use facilities that support rewarding outdoor recreational opportunities; Preserves the environmental and heritage values represented in the parks; Promotes the history and culture of Indigenous peoples in the region; Moves toward an interlinked system of public trails and open spaces in coordination with other park and trail systems in the region; Fosters understanding and appreciation of the region’s natural and cultural assets; Incorporates the RDFFG’s climate action targets, and Enhances the quality of life, health and well being of current and future residents and visitors of the region.
To what extent do you agree with the Vision Statement?
Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree
2. GENERAL PARK SYSTEM RECOMMENDATIONS Please refer to the Fact Sheet for a description of specific recommendations under the following themes: Policies & Bylaws, Accessibility, Education & Interpretation, Stewardship, Marketing & Promotion, and Indigenous Relations Please rank how important the following recommendation themes are to you from highest importance (1) to lowest (6):
1
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 125 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Priority Ranking (1‐6) Accessibility Education & Interpretation Indigenous Relations Marketing & Promotion Policies & Bylaws Stewardship
3. EXISTING REGIONAL PARK IMPROVEMENTS To what extent do you agree with the proposed recommendations for improvements at each of the Regional Parks. Please refer to the Fact Sheet for details on specific recommendations for each park. Strongly Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Agree Disagree Berman Lake Cedarside George Hicks Giscome Portage Harold Mann John Dahl Koeneman Kristian Winther McMillan Creek Ness Lake Wilkins
4. POTENTIAL FUTURE REGIONAL PARKS Potential future Regional Park sites were suggested for consideration during the Round 1 engagement. The following sites were proposed within areas currently underserved in parkland: Electoral Area ‘D’ (Tabor Lake‐Stone Creek) and Electoral Area ‘E’ (Woodpecker‐Hixon). To what extent do you agree with the following sites as potential future Regional Parks? Strongly Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Agree Disagree Tabor Lake (Electoral Area D) Stoner/Stone Creek/South of Stoner on the Fraser River (Electoral Area D) Woodpecker Heritage Church (Electoral Area E) Hixon Creek Falls (Electoral Area E)
2
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 126 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
5. General Comments Do you have any comments that you would like to share regarding the Draft Regional Parks Plan?
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
These questions ask about you. We use this information to better understand who is using Regional Parks and how. Your answers to these questions will not identify you in any way. 6. Please identify your place of residence.
City of Prince George District of Mackenzie Village of McBride
Village of Valemount Electoral Area ‘A’ – Salmon Electoral Area ‘C’ – Chilako River‐Lakes River‐Nechako
Electoral Area ‘D’ – Tabor Electoral Area ‘E’ – Electoral Area ‘F’ – Willow Lake‐Stone Creek Woodpecker‐Hixon River‐Upper Fraser
Electoral Area ‘G’ – Crooked Electoral Area ‘H’ – Robson Elsewhere in BC River‐Parsnip Valley‐Canoe
Outside of BC
7. Gender and age.
Gender: Male Female Prefer not to say Prefer to self‐identify: ______
Age: Under 24 25 to 39 years old 40 to 64 years old 65 years old and older
Thank you for your valuable input!
Please return your completed survey by February 5, 2021 to the RDFFG main office at: 155 George St, Prince George BC, V2L 1P8, or to a local Regional District office or facility. Or email it to: [email protected] This questionnaire can also be completed online at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/RDFFGparksplan2
3
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 127 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Appendix B: Cost Estimates
91
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 128 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
RDFFG Regional Parks Plan 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 Capital and O&M Budget Summary 12 3 45 6 78 910 10‐Year Net % RD 10‐Year Net Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual Capital Budget Capital capital after Capital Capital Capital Capital Capital Capital Capital Capital Capital Capital Capital Total w/ Inflation Project Budget Total contributions Budget Budget Budget Budget Budget Budget Budget Budget Budget Budget Budget (2%) CAPITAL PROJECTS ‐ EXISTING REGIONAL PARKS Berman Lake $ 30,500 100%$ 30,500 8,480$ 14,250$ 11,600$ $ 34,330 Cedarside $ 39,850 100%$ 39,850 33,125$ 2,800$ 2,850$ 4,320$ $ 43,095 George Hicks $ 10,000 100%$ 10,000 10,400$ $ 10,400 Giscome Portage $ 43,300 100%$ 43,300 26,000$ 16,200$ 2,016$ 1,740$ $ 45,956 Harold Mann $ 36,800 100%$ 36,800 10,800$ 28,000$ 2,088$ $ 40,888 John Dahl $ 9,000 100%$ 9,000 10,600$ 8,550$ 1,770$ $ 20,920 Koeneman $ 43,100 100%$ 43,100 26,000$ 3,816$ 13,200$ 2,850$ $ 45,866 Kristian Winther $ 19,300 100%$ 19,300 8,400$ 2,160$ $ 10,560 McMillan $ 37,500 100%$ 37,500 2,600$ 5,300$ 5,700$ 29,500$ $ 43,100 Ness Lake $ 30,000 100%$ 30,000 5,200$ 16,200$ 2,800$ 8,550$ $ 32,750 Wilkins $ 76,500 100%$ 76,500 30,600$ 40,500$ 7,150$ 2,850$ $ 81,100 Subtotal Capital ‐ Existing Parks$ 375,850 $ 375,850 $ 408,965
CAPITAL PROJECTS ‐ PROPOSED REGIONAL PARKS Tabor Lake (Proposed) $ 92,000 100%$ 92,000 27,500$ 11,200$ 10,146$ 18,560$ 12,508$ 30,000$ $ 109,914 Hixon Creek Falls (Proposed) $ 75,800 100%$ 75,800 21,200$ 5,184$ 7,150$ 7,952$ 7,296$ 29,000$ 7,200$ $ 84,982 Subtotal Capital ‐ Proposed Parks$ 167,800 $ 167,800 $ 194,896 Subtotal Capital Budget $ 543,650 $ 543,650 30,600$ 70,200$ 82,521$ 88,884$ 55,000$ 63,168$ 63,042$ 62,988$ 43,778$ 43,680$ $ 603,861
GENERAL PARK SYSTEM PROJECTS Parks Bylaw Update $ 20,000 100%$ 20,000 22,000$ $ 22,000 Accessibility Upgrades to Outhouses $ 15,050 100%$ 15,050 15,652$ $ 15,652 Accessible Parking Stalls near Park Entrances $ 8,800 100%$ 8,800 10,560$ $ 10,560 Improve Universal Access to Park Entrance/Picnic Areas $ 25,200 100%$ 25,200 28,728$ $ 28,728 Accessible Picnic Tables $ 16,875 100%$ 16,875 18,900$ $ 18,900 Recycling Bins $ 16,200 100%$ 16,200 19,116$ $ 19,116 Support for Eductational/Interpretive Talks $ 10,000 100%$ 10,000 11,600$ $ 11,600 Regional Parks Brochure Update $ 3,500 100%$ 3,500 3,710$ $ 3,710 Website Upgrades $ 5,000 100%$ 5,000 5,400$ $ 5,400 Subtotal General Park System Projects Budget $ 120,625 $ 100,625 $ ‐ 15,652$ 3,710$ 5,400$ 22,000$ 18,900$ 28,728$ 11,600$ 19,116$ 10,560$ $ 135,666
OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE Park Operations Contracts Existing Parks $ 617,570 $ 617,570 62,992$ 64,252$ 65,537$ 66,848$ 68,185$ 69,548$ 70,939$ 72,358$ 73,805$ 75,281$ $ 689,746 Contracts Proposed Parks $ 83,200 $ 83,200 6,784$ 6,920$ 14,080$ 14,362$ 14,649$ 14,942$ 15,241$ 15,545$ $ 102,522 Park Maintenance $ 322,884 $ 322,884 32,934$ 33,593$ 34,265$ 34,950$ 35,649$ 36,362$ 37,089$ 37,831$ 38,588$ 39,359$ $ 360,620 (painting, lawn care, invasive plant removal, etc.) Subtotal O&M Budget $ 1,023,654 $ 1,023,654 95,926$ 97,845$ 106,586$ 108,717$ 117,914$ 120,272$ 122,677$ 125,131$ 127,634$ 130,186$ $ 1,152,889
GRAND TOTALS $ 1,687,929 1,667,929$ 126,526$ 183,697$ 192,817$ 203,001$ 194,914$ 202,340$ 214,447$ 199,719$ 190,528$ 184,426$ $ 1,892,416 AGENDA ITEM # Page 129 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
RDFFG Regional Parks Plan Review Proposed Capital Projects within Existing Regional Parks Class 'D' Cost Estimate
APRX EXTENDED APRX EXTENDED ITEM DESCRIPTION PRIORITY UNIT UNIT PRICE ITEM DESCRIPTION PRIORITY UNIT UNIT PRICE QTY AMOUNT QTY AMOUNT
1 Berman Lake 9 McMillan Creek 1.1 Create more accessible trail access to picnic areas and dock High L.S.$ 8,000.00 1$ 8,000.00 9.1 Improve informational and etiquette signage at the parking lot for hikers using the park High L.S.$ 2,500.00 1$ 2,500.00 1.2 Upgrade trails (including repair of wooden stairs, bridge railings, trail surfaces) Med ea.$ 12,500.00 1$ 12,500.00 1.3 Install a viewing platform into the wetland with interpretive signage Low L.S.$ 10,000.00 1$ 10,000.00 9.2 Selective pruning / removal of dead & dangerous trees alongside road High sq. m.$ 5.00 1,000$ 5,000.00 Sub‐Total =$ 30,500.00 9.3 Extend fenceline barriers and replace interpretive signage at the viewpoint Med L.S.$ 5,000.00 1$ 5,000.00 2 Cedarside 9.4 Acquire an easement to provide park access at higher ground, or a new switchback Low L.S.$ 25,000.00 1$ 25,000.00 2.1 Widen trail to beach and develop a loop trail with interpretive signage High l.m.$ 25.00 1,250$ 31,250.00 Sub‐Total =$ 37,500.00 2.2 Install additional barriers to discourage access on steep banks to beach High L.S.$ 2,500.00 1$ 2,500.00 10 Ness Lake 2.3 Rake and screen the beach Med L.S.$ 2,500.00 1$ 2,500.00 10.1 Monitor shoreline erosion through the services of a professional engineer High L.S.$ 5,000.00 1$ 5,000.00 2.4 Install Hwy directional sign Low ea.$ 1,800.00 2$ 3,600.00 Sub‐Total =$ 39,850.00 10.2 Consider further improvements to the shoreline to improve swimming access Med L.S.$ 15,000.00 1$ 15,000.00 3 George Hicks 10.3 Install signage and barriers at access points along the outer trail Med L.S.$ 2,500.00 1$ 2,500.00 3.1 Support the extension of a trail from the viewing platform to the Hwy Med l.m.$ 50.00 200$ 10,000.00 10.4 Enhance trails with wayfinding/interpretive signage, and improve stairs Low L.S.$ 7,500.00 1$ 7,500.00 Sub‐Total =$ 10,000.00 Sub‐Total =$ 30,000.00 4 Giscome Portage 11 Wilkins 4.1 Prepare a Park Management Plan High L.S.$ 25,000.00 1$ 25,000.00 11.1 Repair the concrete boat launch High L.S.$ 30,000.00 1$ 30,000.00 4.2 Support trail enhancements on the site Med L.S.$ 15,000.00 1$ 15,000.00 11.2 Create a short accessible loop trail with interpretive signage Low l.m.$ 50.00 750$ 37,500.00 4.3 Replace highway signage (at Hwy 16/Mitchell Road) Med ea.$ 1,800.00 1$ 1,800.00 11.3 Repair timber bridge decking/loose railings/picnic tables High L.S.$ 6,500.00 1$ 6,500.00 4.4 Improve entry drive by adding signage at corners and first cattleguard Low ea.$ 1,500.00 1$ 1,500.00 Sub‐Total =$ 43,300.00 11.4 Install educational signage about park etiquette including motorized vehicle use Med L.S.$ 2,500.00 1$ 2,500.00 5 Harold Mann Sub‐Total =$ 76,500.00 5.1 Monitor shoreline mitigation work, expand as required to mitigate seepage along shore High L.S.$ 10,000.00 1$ 10,000.00 Sub‐Total for CAPITAL Projects: $ 375,850.00 5.2 Improve trails w/ sections of boardwalk, add informational/interpretive signage Med L.S.$ 25,000.00 1$ 25,000.00 5.3 Install Hwy directional sign (from PG) Low ea.$ 1,800.00 1$ 1,800.00 Sub‐Total =$ 36,800.00 6 John Dahl 6.1 Consult with District of Mackenzie to confirm long term park management needs High ea. $ ‐ 1 $ ‐ 6.2 Install a trailhead kiosk with trail information, etiquette and maps. Med ea.$ 7,500.00 1$ 7,500.00 6.3 Consult with the District of Mackenzie on options to improve directional signage Low L.S.$ 1,500.00 1$ 1,500.00 Sub‐Total =$ 9,000.00 7 Koeneman 7.1 Create a defined loop road, upgrade the upper parking area with gravel and grading High L.S.$ 25,000.00 1$ 25,000.00 7.2 Install Highway signs at 200m and/or 400m before the park entrance High ea.$ 1,800.00 2$ 3,600.00 7.3 Replace existing garbage receptacles and outhouse at the north end of the Park Med L.S.$ 12,000.00 1$ 12,000.00 7.4 Add interpretive signage to the existing kiosk with information about local heritage Med ea.$ 2,500.00 1$ 2,500.00 7.5 Consult with the community to define levels of interest in using the Koenenman house Low ea. $ ‐ 1 $ ‐ Sub‐Total =$ 43,100.00 8 Kristain Winther 8.1 Install interpretive signage & benches along loop trail & barriers/signage along bank High L.S.$ 10,000.00 1$ 10,000.00 8.2 Install a kiosk in the parking lot with trail information, and maps Med ea.$ 7,500.00 1$ 7,500.00 8.3 Install Highway directional sign (Hwy 97 travelling south) Low ea.$ 1,800.00 1$ 1,800.00 Sub‐Total =$ 19,300.00 AGENDA ITEM # Page 130 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
RDFFG Regional Parks Plan Review RDFFG Regional Parks Plan Review Proposed Capital Projects for General Park System Upgrades Proposed Capital Projects within Proposed Regional Parks Class 'D' Cost Estimate Class 'D' Cost Estimate
APRX EXTENDED APRX EXTENDED ITEM DESCRIPTION PRIORITY UNIT UNIT PRICE ITEM DESCRIPTION PRIORITY UNIT UNIT PRICE QTY AMOUNT QTY AMOUNT
1 General Park System Projects 1 Tabor Lake (Proposed) 1.1 Park Bylaw Update High ea.$ 20,000.00 1$ 20,000.00 1.1 Gravel parking area High L.S.$ 25,000.00 1$ 25,000.00 1.2 Accessibility Upgrades to Outhouses High ea.$ 2,150.00 7$ 15,050.00 1.2 Highway signage High ea.$ 1,800.00 1$ 1,800.00 1.3 Accessible Parking Stalls near Park Entrances High ea.$ 800.00 11$ 8,800.00 1.3 Park entry signage High ea.$ 3,000.00 1$ 3,000.00 1.4 Improve Universal Access to Main Park Entrance/Picnic Areas Low ea.$ 3,600.00 7$ 25,200.00 1.4 Outhouse / pit toilet High ea.$ 6,500.00 1$ 6,500.00 1.5 Accessible Picnic Tables High ea.$ 1,875.00 9$ 16,875.00 1.5 Informational kiosk Med L.S. $ 3,500.00 1$ 3,500.00 1.6 Recycling Bins Med L.S. $ 1,800.00 9$ 16,200.00 1.6 Waste and recycling receptacles Med ea.$ 1,800.00 3$ 5,400.00 1.7 Support for Eductational/Interpretive Talks Med ea.$ 1,000.00 10$ 10,000.00 1.7 Picnic area Med L.S. $ 3,200.00 5$ 16,000.00 1.8 Regional Parks Brochure High ea.$ 3,500.00 1$ 3,500.00 1.8 Fire rings Med ea.$ 250.00 4$ 1,000.00 1.9 Website upgrades High L.S. $ 5,000.00 1$ 5,000.00 1.9 Park interpretive signage Med ea.$ 1,200.00 4$ 4,800.00 Sub‐Total =$ 120,625.00 1.10 Install a trail system Low l.m.$ 25.00 1,000$ 25,000.00 Sub‐Total =$ 92,000.00 Sub‐Total: $ 120,625.00 2 Hixon Creek Falls (Proposed) 2.1 Gravel parking area High L.S.$ 20,000.00 1$ 20,000.00 2.2 Highway signage High ea.$ 1,800.00 1$ 1,800.00 2.3 Park entry signage High ea.$ 3,000.00 1$ 3,000.00 2.4 Outhouse / pit toilet High ea.$ 6,500.00 1$ 6,500.00 2.5 Informational kiosk Med L.S. $ 3,500.00 1$ 3,500.00 2.6 Waste & recycling receptacles Med ea.$ 1,800.00 2$ 3,600.00 2.7 Picnic area Med L.S. $ 3,200.00 2$ 6,400.00 2.8 Improve the trail system Low L.S.$ 25,000.00 1$ 25,000.00 2.9 Park interpretive signage Med ea.$ 1,200.00 5$ 6,000.00 Sub‐Total =$ 75,800.00
Sub‐Total for PROPOSED CAPITAL Projects: $ 167,800.00 AGENDA ITEM # Page 131 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Appendix C: Maps
95
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 132 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
PARK PLANNING AREAS MAP REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
PARK PLANNING AREAS ELECTORAL AREAS
Salmon River-Lakes Mackenzie A LegenCd Chilako River-Nechako Greater Prince George 1 HDigh w Taboray Lake-Stone Creek District of Mackenzie Mackenzie Park Planning Area Robson Valley-Canoe E Woodpecker-Hixon Legend Greater Prince George Park Planning Area RoFb s oWillown Valley -River-UpperCanoe Park P Fraserlanning Area Highway Existing Regional Parks Mackenzie Park Planning AreGa Crooked River-Parsnip G Greater Prince George Park Planning Area Highway H Robson Valley-Canoe Robson Valley-Canoe Park Planning Area 2 REGIONAL PARKS 3 8 F 1 John Dahl 7 McMillan Creek A 4 6 7 2 Giscome Portage 8 Harold Mann 5 City of Prince George 3 Kristian Winther 9 Koeneman D 4 Ness Lake 10 George Hicks C 5 Berman Lake 11 Cedarside E 6 Wilkins Village of McBride 9
H Village of Valemount 10 11
0 25 50 100 Kilometers N 1:3,000,000
0 25 50 100 Kilometers N 1:3,000,000 AGENDA ITEM # Page 133 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
Legend MACKENZIE PARK PLANNING AREA MAP Legend Regional Parks Regional Parks REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW cological Reser e cological Reser e Protected Area Protected Area ighway ighway Roads LEGEND Roads akes akes Legend Pro incial Parks Pro incial Parks acken ie Park PlaExistingnning Area Regional Parks Regional Parks acken ie Park Planning Area Ro son Valley anoe Park Planning Area EcologicalRo so nReserves Valley anoe P ark Planning Area cological Reser Gereater Prince George Park Planning Area Greater Prince George Park Planning Area Protected Area Protected Areas ighway Provincial Parks Roads Lakes akes Highway Pro incial Parks Roads District of Mackenzie acken ie Park Planning Area Greater Prince GeorgePark Park PlanningPlanning A rAreasea Mackenzie
Greater Prince George
Robson Valley-Canoe
ilome ters ilometers N N : :
ilometers N : AGENDA ITEM # Page 134 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
Legend GREATER PRINCE GEORGE PARK PLANNING AREA MAP Legend Regional Parks Regional Parks REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW cological Reser e cological Reser e Protected Area Protected Area ighway ighway LegendRoads LEGEND Roads Reg ioankaels Parks akes coPlorgoi cianlc Riael sPearr kes Pro incial Parks Prot ecatcekde An reiea Park PlaExistingnning Area Regional Parks acken ie Park Planning Area ighRwoa yson Valley anoe Park Planning Area EcologicalRo so nReserves Valley anoe P ark Planning Area RoaGdrseater Prince George Park Planning Area Greater Prince George Park Planning Area akes Protected Areas Pro incial Parks acken ie Park PlanninProvincialg Area Parks Ro son Valley anoe Park Planning Area Greater Prince George LakesPark Planning Area
Highway
Roads
Park Planning Areas Mackenzie
Greater Prince George City of Prince George Robson Valley-Canoe
ilome ters ilometers N N : :
ilometers N : AGENDA ITEM # Page 135 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
Legend ROBSON VALLEY-CANOE PARK PLANNING AREA MAP Legend Regional Parks Regional Parks REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW cological Reser e cological Reser e Protected Area Protected Area ighway ighway Legend Roads LEGEND Roads Regi oankael sParks akes colPogroic ainl cRiaels Pear reks Pro incial Parks Prote catecdke Anr eiae Park PlaExistingnning Area Regional Parks acken ie Park Planning Area ighRwoa yson Valley anoe Park Planning Area EcologicalRo so nReserves Valley anoe P ark Planning Area RoadGsreater Prince George Park Planning Area Greater Prince George Park Planning Area akes Protected Areas Pro incial Parks acken ie Park PlanninProvincialg Area Parks Ro son Valley anoe Park Planning Area Greater Prince George PLakesark Planning Area
Highway
Village of McBride Roads
Park Planning Areas Mackenzie
Greater Prince George
Robson Valley-Canoe
Village of Valemount
ilome ters ilometers N N : :
ilometers N : AGENDA ITEM # Page 136 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
BERMAN LAKE REGIONAL PARK REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
Berman Lake
orman ake Rd
orman ake Rd erman ake Regional Park Rd orman ake Rd
erman ake Regional Park Rd erman ake Regional Park Rd
Norman Lake Road
LEGEND Legend
oses Pl LegendRegional Park Boundary LegendRegional Park Trails
oses Pl
oses Pl Park TrailsRegional Park Trails RegionalRegional Parks Park Trails RoadsRegional Parks RoadsRegional Parks WetlandsRoads etlandsRoads etlands etlands Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity
Source: sri igitalGlo e . Geo ye arthstar . Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us ilometers S S A SGS AeroGR G N and the G S ser ommunity . . . : . ilometers N ilometers : N
: AGENDA ITEM # Page 137 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
CEDARSIDE REGIONAL PARK REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
ighway S
Little Cranberry Lake
ighway S
ighway S
estridge SR
estridge SR
estridge SR
LEGENDLegend Regional Park Boundary LegendRegional Park Trails Park TrailsLegend ighway Regional Park Trails hiskeyfill Rd Highway Regional Park Trails Regional Parks ighway
ighway hiskeyfill Rd
Roads hiskeyfill Rd Regional Parks Regional Parks Roads Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G Roads and the G S ser ommunity
. . Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S ilometers S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR N G and the G S ser ommunity : . . . ilometers . ilometers N N AGENDA ITEM # Page 138 of 184 : : Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
GEORGE HICKS REGIONAL PARK REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
ighway
ighway
ighway
Pine Rd
Pine Rd Pine Rd LEGEND Legend RegionalLegend Park Boundary etlandsLegend Park Trails ighway etlands etlands Roads Roads ighway ighway Highway Regional ParksRoads Roads Wetlands RegionalRegional Parks Parks
Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity
Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity Source: . sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar . Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity ilometers N . . . ilometers . : ilometers N N : : AGENDA ITEM # Page 139 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
GISCOME PORTAGE REGIONAL PARK REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
G S P RTAG TRA PR T T AR A
G S G S P RTAG P RTAG TRA PR T T TRA PR T T AR A AR A
itchell Rd
itchell Rd itchell Rd
Fraser River
LEGEND
LegendRegional Park Boundary LegendPark LegendTrailsProtected Area RoadsRoads ProtectedProtected Area Area Regional Park Trails ProtectedRoads AreaRoads Regional Parks RegionalRegional Park TrailsPark Trails RegionalRegional Parks Parks Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity
. . Source: sri Source: igitalGlo e sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geo ye Geographics arthstar Geographics S Air us S Air us S S A ilometers S SGS S A AeroGR SGS AeroGR G and the G G SN and ser the ommunityG S ser ommunity : . . . . ilometers ilometers NN AGENDA ITEM #
Page 140 of 184 : : Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
HAROLD MANN REGIONAL PARK REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
pper raser Rd
pper raser Rd pper raser Rd
Eaglet Lake
LEGEND Legend Regional Park Boundary LegendLegendRegional Park Trails Park Trails RegionalRegional Park Parks Trails Roads Regional Park Trails RegionalRoadsRegional Parks Parks Wetlands Roads etlandsRoads etlands etlands Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity
Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar . Geographics S Air us S S A . SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us ilometers S S A SGS AeroGR G N and the G S ser ommunity : . . . . ilometers ilometers N N : : AGENDA ITEM # Page 141 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
JOHN DAHL REGIONAL PARK REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
LEGEND Regional Park Boundary Legend Park Trails LegendRegional Park Trails Roads Legend Regional Park Trails RegionalRegional Parks Park Trails Regional Parks Roads Regional Parks Roads Roads Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity
Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar . Geographics S Air us S S A . SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us ilometers S S A SGS AeroGR N G and the G S ser ommunity . . : . ilometers . ilometers N : N
: AGENDA ITEM # Page 142 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
KOENEMAN REGIONAL PARK REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
Rain owRd
Rain owRd Rain owRd
ountain View Rd
ountain View Rd ountain View Rd
oeneman Rd
oeneman Rd oeneman Rd
LEGEND Legend Ra en Rd Regional Park Boundary LegendLegend ighway Ra en Rd Ra en Rd c ride ighway Park Trails ighway ighway c ride ighway c ride ighway Roads Roads RoadsRegionalRoads Park Trails Highway RegionalRegional RegionalPark Parks Trails Park Trails Regional RegionalParks Parks
Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity
Source: sri igitalGlo e Source: sri Geo ye igitalGlo e arthstar . Geo ye Geographics arthstar S Air us Geographics S S Air us S A . SGS S AeroGR S A SGS G andAeroGR the G S G ser and ommunity the G S ser ommunity ilometers N . . . . : ilometers ilometers N N : : AGENDA ITEM # Page 143 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
KRISTIAN WINTHER REGIONAL PARK REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
ld Summit ake Rd Sponaugle Rd
ld Summit ake Rd Sponaugle Rd art wy ld Summit ake Rd Sponaugle Rd
art wy art wy
eadow iew Rd
Salmon River eadow iew Rd eadow iew Rd
Salmon Valley Rd
Salmon Valley Rd Salmon Valley Rd
inney Rd
inney Rd inney Rd alnut Rd alnut alnut Rd alnut alnut Rd alnut
arlin r
arlin r arlin r
LEGEND Legend LegendRegional Park Boundary Legend ighway Park ighway Trails Roads ighway RoadsRoads RegionalRoads Park Trails HighwayRegional Park Trails RegionalRegional Parks Park Trails Regional Parks Regional Parks
Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity
Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity Source: sri . igitalGlo e Geo ye . arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity ilometers . . N . . ilometers : ilometers NN : : AGENDA ITEM # Page 144 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
MCMILLAN CREEK REGIONAL PARK REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
LEGEND
LegendRegional Park Boundary Legend ParkLegend TrailsRegional Park Trails Regional Park Trails RoadsRegionalRegional Parks Park Trails Regional Parks RoadsRegional Parks Roads Roads
Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity
Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity Source: . sri . igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics . S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity ilometers . . . N . . . ilometers : ilometers NN : : AGENDA ITEM # Page 145 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
NESS LAKE REGIONAL PARK REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
Sicamore Rd
Sicamore Rd Sicamore Rd
ess ake Regional Park Rd Ness Lake
ess ake Regional Park Rd ess ake Regional Park Rd
akeside r
akeside r
akeside r
LEGEND ess ake Rd Legend ess ake Rd ess ake Rd LegendRegional Park Boundary LegendRegional Park Trails ParkRegional Trails Park Trails RegionalRegional Parks Park Trails Roads Regional Parks RoadsRegional Parks Wetlands Roads etlandsRoads etlands etlands
Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity
Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye . arthstar Geographics S Air us . S S A SGS AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity ilometers . . N . . : ilometers ilometers N N : : AGENDA ITEM # Page 146 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
WILKINS REGIONAL PARK REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
Nechako River
ilkins Rd
ilkins Rd
ilkins Rd
iworth Rd iworth iworth Rd iworth
South echako Pl Rd iworth LEGEND
South echako Pl lint Rd South echako Pl RegionalLegend Park Boundary rankford Rd lint Rd lint Rd Park TrailsRegional Park Trails Legend ountry Rd rankford Rd Legend rankford Rd Roads Regional Parks Regional Park Trails ountry Rd Regional Park Trails ountry Rd indsayRd Roads eppel Rd Regional Parks
echako res elsham Rd Regional Parks anks Rd
indsayRd Roads indsayRd eppel Rd eppel Rd Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR Roads G and the G S ser ommunity echako res elsham Rd echako res anks Rd elsham Rd anks Rd . . Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS ilometers AeroGR G and the G S ser ommunity Source: sri igitalGlo e Geo ye arthstar Geographics S Air us S S A SGS AeroGR G andN the G S ser ommunity . . : . . ilometers ilometers N N : : AGENDA ITEM # Page 147 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
SUGGESTED FUTURE REGIONAL PARKS SITES REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
SUGGESTED PARKS BY ELECTORAL AREA: PARK PLANNING AREAS
Electoral Area A: 1. Saxton Lake Electoral Area G: Mackenzie 2. Chief Lake 17. Morfee Lakes 3. Nukko Lake and Eena Lake 18. McLeod Lake 17 Greater Prince George 4. Salmon Valley 19. Crooked River 5. Wilkins-McMillan Creek 20. Bear Lake District of Mackenzie Connections and Pidherny Robson Valley-Canoe 21. Teapot Mountain 18 Legend Electoral Area C: Legend Highway Electoral Area H: ighway 6. Bednesti Lake 22. Dome Creek 19 ighway 7. Lost Lake (near Beaverly) acken ie Park Planning Area 23. McBride Peak G acken ie PExistingark Plan Regionalning Area Parks 8. Fraser River Canyon by West Lake 24. Horseshoe Lake Greater Prince George Park Planning Area 20 Greater PrinSuggestedce George P Futureark Plan Regionalning Area 25. Cranberry Marsh Ro Parksson V aSiteslley (Stakeholderanoe Park Plan ning Area Electoral Area D: 21 Ro son ValInterviews)ley anoe Pa rk Planning Area 9. Stoner or Stone Creek 10. Two miles south of Stoner on 2 4 F Suggested Future Regional Fraser River 15 Parks Sites (Public Survey) 1 A 3 14 11. Tabor Lake City of 6 5 11 Prince 16 ELECTORAL AREAS Electoral Area E: George 7 D 22 8 12. Woodpecker Heritage Church C 9 A Salmon River-Lakes 13. Hixon Creek Falls 10 E 12 Chilako River-Nechako 13 23 C Electoral Area F: Village of McBride Tabor Lake-Stone Creek 14. Sinclair Mills area 24 D 15. McGregor River/Torpy Mountain/ Pass Lake area H E Woodpecker-Hixon 16. Penny (potential sites around community) Village of Valemount 25 F Willow River-Upper Fraser
G Crooked River-Parsnip
H Robson Valley-Canoe
ilometers N ilometers : N : AGENDA ITEM # Page 148 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
UNDERSERVED AREAS MAP REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW
Legend Highway District of Mackenzie Mackenzie Park Planning Area PARK PLANNING AREAS ELECTORAL AREAS Legend Greater Prince George Park Planning Area Rob s oSalmonn Valley- CRiver-Lakesanoe Park P lanning Area MackenzieHighw ay A Mackenzie Park Planning AreCa Chilako River-Nechako G GreaterGr ePrinceater Pr iGeorgence Geor ge Park Planning Area D Tabor Lake-Stone Creek Robson Valley-Canoe Park Planning Area Robson Valley-Canoe E Woodpecker-Hixon
F F Willow River-Upper Fraser A Existing Regional Parks G Crooked River-Parsnip City of Prince George D Highway H Robson Valley-Canoe C E Village of McBride
H Village of Valemount
0 25 50 100 Kilometers N 1:3,000,000
0 25 50 100 Kilometers N 1:3,000,000 AGENDA ITEM # Page 149 of 184 Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva...
REGIONAL PARKS IN THE CONTEXT OF OTHER PARKS # REGIONAL DISTRICT OF FRASER FORT GEORGE - REGIONAL PARKS PLAN REVIEW # # # # ## # ## # # # # PARK PLANNING AREAS # ## # # # # # # # Mackenzie # # Legend # # # RegGreaterional Par kPrinces George ## # ## District# of Mackenzie # ## # # ### ### # # # # # ##### # # ### BC Rec Sites # # # # Robson Valley-Canoe # ## # Provincial Parks and Protected Areas # # # # # Legend # # ## # # Highway # # # # # # # Highway # # ## Highway ## # # ### # Mackenzie Park Planning Area # ## G # # # MacLkengzieen Pdark Planning Area # # # # RobExistingson Vall eRegionaly-Canoe P Parksark Planning Area ## # ### # Greater Prince George Park Planning Area # # # GreRaetgeiro Pnariln Pcea rGkseorge Park Planning Area # # ## # ### # # # ## # # # # # # Robso#n VaBlBCleCy -R CRecreationeacn Soeit ePsark P lSitesannin g Area # # # # ##### # # ### ### # # # # ## ### # ### # # # Provincial Parks and Protected Areas # # # # # # F ## # # # Provincial Parks ## # # City of # A Highway Prince# # # # # # ### # # ## # ## ## # George ## ### Mackenzie Park Planning Area ## ## # # # ### ## ELECTORAL AREAS # # # # ## # Robson Valley-Canoe Park Planning Area # # # # # # D #### # ## # # ## # Salmon River-Lakes # ## # # ### # ## # # A Greater Prince George Park Planning Area ## # ## ## C# # # # # # # # # # # # # # ## # E ####### C Chilako River-Nechako ## # #### ###### # # ### # # ### ## # # # # # # ### # # ### # Village# of McBride## # # # Tabor Lake-Stone Creek ## # # # ## D # # # # # # # ## ### # # # ## ## # # # # ## # E Woodpecker-Hixon # # # # # # H # # # # # # ###### # # # # ### ## # #Village# of## Valemount ## F Willow River-Upper Fraser ### # # # # # # # # ## # ## # # # # # # # # # ### # ##### # # G Crooked River-Parsnip ## ####### ### # # # ## ### # ## ###### ### ### # ## ## # # # # # ### ## # # #### # # Robson Valley-Canoe # # ## ## # # # # H # ### ## # ### # # # # ## # # # ## ## ## # # # # # ##### ## ## # # # # # # # # # # 0 25 50 100 # # ## ### Kilometers # # # 0##25 50 100 N # # # Kilometers ## # 1:3,000,000 N ###### ### # # # ## ## 1:3,000,000 AGENDA ITEM # Page 150 of 184 # # # # # ## # # # ## # # # # # # # ## # # #### # # # ## # # # ## ## ## # # # # # # 0 25 50 100 Kilometers N 1:3,000,000 AGENDA ITEM #
Appendix D: Projects Completed From 2010 Regional Parks Plan
114
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 151 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Projects Completed From the 2010 Regional Parks Plan
Cedarside • Fencing around pine beetle area • Install barrier and restore steep bank to shoreline
George Hicks • Add interpretive signage • Trail connector between park and visitor center • Install second viewing area
Giscome • Install highway directional signs (with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure)
Harold Mann • Install a picnic shelter • Seepage control project (2020)
Koeneman • Investigate boat launch
Kristian Winther • Install highway signage • Invasive plant removal ongoing
McMillan • Trail improvements ongoing
Ness Lake • Mitigate lake shore erosion
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 152 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Appendix E: Additional Regional Park Development Opportunities
116
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 153 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
ADDITIONAL REGIONAL PARK DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
The following additional potential future Regional Park sites were suggested for consideration during Round 1 and Round 2 engagements with stakeholders.
CRANBERRY MARSH (ELECTORAL AREA 'H')
Background The Cranberry Marsh site is situated just southeast of the Village of Valemount. It is recognized as a valuable wildlife area and is a popular recreational area for residents of Valemount and the surrounding area. The proposed site on McKirdy Road is located on Crown Land, adjacent to a 319 ha provincial Wildlife Management Area designated Figure 1. Tabor Lake (Photos: TMRS) in 2013.
The area has significant year-round recreation values including bird-watching, wildlife viewing, walking, hiking, canoeing, berry picking, cross- country skiing, snowshoeing and skating. The site has an existing parking lot, easily accessible trail system, and a new boardwalk with viewpoints to the marsh. Figure 44. Cranberry Marsh (Photo: Valemount Trails) Concepts from Previous Plans The 2010 Regional Park plan contemplated development of a regional park at Cranberry Marsh (McKirdy Road) to serve the local population as well as a draw for visitors. The proposed site was supported by local proponents including the Valemount Chamber of Commerce, Yellowhead Outdoor Recreation Association, Friends of Valemount, Village of Valemount and BC Parks.
Current Status The site received continued support for consideration as a future regional park during the 2020 stakeholder and public consultations. The proposed site is already well used, offering beautiful views, and the potential for further development as a recreational area. Its proximity to town and the Valemount Visitor Centre make it an ideal location for year-round recreational activities.
Proponents envision additional day-use facilities at the site such as portable toilets, garbage containers and a picnic shelter. Existing facilities such as the boardwalk could be retrofitted to be further accessible to those with limited mobility.
Local organizations including Tourism Valemount, the Village of Valemount and the Yellowhead Outdoor Recreation Association see a partnership opportunity and role for the RDFFG in supporting further development of the site and would be willing to contribute funding and assist with planning, site development and maintenance efforts. As a Resort Municipality, the Village of Valemount can access potential funding for allocation through the Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT), formerly known as the Hotel Room Tax.
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 154 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
EENA LAKE (ELECTORAL AREA 'A')
Background Eena Lake is located 35 km north west of Prince George. The lake has a dock, installed by the provincial Fisheries branch, but no managed recreation. The site is easily accessible and popular with a range of users for activities such as boating, canoeing, kayaking and angling. There is an electric only policy for motorized use. Facilities are limited to an earthen boat ramp, dock, garbage receptacle, and signage.
Concepts from Previous Plans Eena Lake was not contemplated in the 2010 Regional Park plan.
Current Status The Eena Lake site received support as a potential future regional park site during the Figure 1. Tabor Lake (Photos: TMRS) 2021 stakeholder consultations. The proposed site is well used and has the potential for future development as a recreation area.
The lake is a valuable fishing destination for families and has potential ice fishing opportunities. The access road is managed by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. Figure 45. Eena Lake (Photo: Nikolaus Gantner Challenges to development include limited land, as there are private properties at either end of the proposed site. In addition, Eena Lake is in close proximity to an existing Regional Park (Ness Lake).
Proponents envision additional facilities such as managed (gated) access, outhouses, additional informational and interpretive signage, an improved boat launch, picnic sites and fire pits.
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 155 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
PIDHERNY (ELECTORAL AREA 'A')
Background The Pidherny Recreation Site is a 620 hectare area located about 12km to the northwest of downtown Prince George. The trail network is managed by the Prince George Cycling Club through an agreement with Recreation Sites and Trails BC. With approximately 30 kilometres of trails, it is used by walkers, runners, hikers, skiers, mountain bikers and snowshoers.
The area has an abundance of suitable terrain for trail development and the potential to accommodate increased growth of the trail network.
Concepts from Previous Plans Pidherny was not contemplated in the 2010 Figure 1. Tabor Lake (Photos: TMRS) Regional Park plan.
Current Status Pidherny was identified as a potential future regional park site during the 2021 park plan stakeholder consultations, with support from the Prince George Cycling Club, and Recreation Sites and Trails BC. The site is well used with Figure 46. Pidherny Recreation Site increasing pressure on the existing parking area, and many requests for improved day use amenities.
The site has an existing lower and upper parking lot and an access gate. The access gate is often closed in the winter, however, there is a desire for increased winter plowing and access. Trails are groomed in the winter for fat biking, and are also used by walkers, snowshoers and hikers.
The upper parking lot has limited parking, some picnic tables and a pump track geared towards children and youth. The upper parking lot has the potential to be developed as a day use area with additional amenities and infrastructure. The Prince George Cycling Club is currently pursuing grant funding to develop an adaptive mountain bike trail and accessible washroom facility at the site.
There is a beetle kill area nearby that was recently logged (approximately 500 m from the current parking area) that could serve as a future overflow parking lot.
Proponents envision additional day use facilities such as an improved parking lot, outhouses, picnic areas, garbage and recycling, and improvements to the gated access.
Challenges to development include proximity to the RDFFG's largest drinking water resource, and its location downstream of the landfill.
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 156 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
MORFEE LAKES (ELECTORAL AREA 'G')
Background Morfee Lakes is located 2 km east of the District of Mackenzie town centre, accessible by a gravel road. Morfee Lakes is divided into two sections by a large sandbar and has two sandy beaches. It is recognized as a popular destination for fishing, boating, swimming, hiking and mountain biking. The first lake is restricted to canoes, kayaks, and electric motorboats. Morfee Lakes currently has a wild fishery.
Concepts from Previous Plans Morfee Lakes was not contemplated in the 2010 Regional Park plan.
Current Status The Morfee Lakes area has high potential recreational value and is easily accessible due Figure 1. Tabor Lake (Photos: TMRS) to its adjacency to town.
The site was proposed as a potential future regional park during the 2021 stakeholder consultations. The Mackenzie Outdoor Recreation and Trails Association (MORATA) has been working on creating a mountain biking and tourist destination in the Morfee Mountain Figure 47. Morfee Lakes (Photo: District of Mackenzie) and Morfee Lakes area and is spearheading the creation of a Master Plan to guide development of recreational assets in the area. Recreation Sites and Trails BC has been working with MORATA to provide support and permitting for the development of the mountain bike network in the Morfee Mountain area, however there is a desire for additional trailheads and amenities in the Morfee Lakes area closer to town.
MORATA is working on a perimeter trail with the District of Mackenzie which goes around the community, and ties into John Dahl Regional Park. The perimeter trail is an important community amenity popular with a range of users including walkers, hikers, and dog walkers. There is also a lakeshore perimeter trail around Morfee Lakes, and MORATA envisions that additional portions of the perimeter trail be developed for adaptive mountain bike use. The District of Mackenzie maintains a beach at the Morfee Lakes, however, the lake is currently lacking a day use area as a hub for activities around the lake.
A day use area would ideally include support amenities and infrastructure such as a parking lot, accessible outhouse, picnic area, garbage receptacles, and potentially a bike tool stand and bike washing station.
If boat access to the lake is upgraded, and it sees more use and fishing it is possible the lake would need to be managed as a conservation area.
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 157 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
GM: ______
Main Office: 155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 REPORT FOR Telephone: (250) 960-4400 / Fax: (250) 563-7520 Toll Free: 1-800-667-1959 / http://www.rdffg.bc.ca COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION
TO: Chair and Members, Environment and Parks Standing Committee File No.: PK ORP 1.0
FROM: Bryan Boyes, Utilities Leader
DATE: February 4, 2019
SUBJECT SUMMARY: Item: Review and update of the 2010 Regional Parks Plan Purpose: Consider Competitive Bid Process
PREVIOUS REPORTS: None
ATTACHMENT(S): None
RECOMMENDATION(S): ENTITLEMENT HOW VOTE COUNTED 1. THAT the report be received All Majority 1Director/1vote THAT the Committee recommend to the Board:
2. THAT a competitive bid process be entered into for the purpose of engaging All Majority consulting services for the review and update of the 2010 Regional Parks Plan. 1 Director/1vote
ISSUE(S):
The current Regional Parks Plan received approval by the Regional District Board in 2010. This plan provides direction to projects and goals for the Regional Parks system for the period of 2010 – 2020. A review and update of the existing Regional Parks Plan will ensure that current needs and services are reflected for the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George.
The Committee is being asked to recommend to the Regional Board that a competitive bid process be entered into for for the purpose of engaging consulting services for the review and update of the Regional Parks Plan.
RELEVANT POLICIES:
1. Local Government Act • Establishes requirements for continuance of parks and trails as well as recognizing Regional Districts are an independent, responsible and accountable order of government
2. Official Regional Parks Plan (2010 – 2020) • Provides guidance for regional parks program implementation, i.e. projects and acquisitions
3. Policy RD-03-09: Procurement of Goods and Services • Provides for procurement levels and limits
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 158 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Environment and Parks Standing Committee Page 2
SERVICE RELEVANCE:
The Regional District provides regional parks services for the entire Regional District of Fraser-Fort George. The Board approved the implementation of the last official Regional Parks Plan in Fall 2010.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATION(S):
Budget implications for this service are reflected in the Regional Parks (5001) budget.
OTHER CONSIDERATION(S):
N/A
DECISION OPTIONS:
1. Approve recommendation: • recommendation will be made to the Board to enter into a competitive bid process for the purpose of engaging consulting services for the review and update of the Regional Parks Plan Other Options:
a. do not approve entering into a competitive bid process for the purposes of engaging consulting services for the review and update of the Regional Parks Plan • not making a recommendation to enter into a competitive bid process would delay the implementation of the updated Regional Parks Plan
COMMENTS:
Environmental Services Administration recommends that a competitive bid process be entered into for the purpose of engaging consulting services for the review and update of the Regional Parks Plan.
Respectfully submitted,
Bryan Boyes, Utilities Leader Environmental Services
BB:jt
I:\Report Working\2019\02 - February\Env Serv\BB - Review and update of the 2010 Regional Parks Plan.docx
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 159 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
GM: ______
Main Office: 155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 REPORT FOR Telephone: (250) 960-4400 / Fax: (250) 563-7520 Toll Free: 1-800-667-1959 / http://www.rdffg.bc.ca COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION
TO: Chair and Members, Environment and Parks Standing Committee File No.: PK ORP 1.0
FROM: Bryan Boyes, Utilities Leader
DATE: September 5, 2019
SUBJECT SUMMARY: Item: Regional Parks Plan Review Purpose: Consider Award of Contract PREVIOUS REPORTS: Item No. 5.1, February 2019 (see Agenda for link)
ATTACHMENT(S): Backgrounder
RECOMMENDATION(S): ENTITLEMENT HOW VOTE COUNTED 1. THAT the report be received All Majority 1Director/1vote THAT the Committee recommend to the Board:
2. THAT Contract ES-19-12 Regional Parks Plan Review be awarded to E. Lees & All Majority Associates Consulting (LEES + Associates) for the period of October 1, 2019 – 1 Director/1vote October 1, 2020.
ISSUE(S):
At the regular meeting held February 2019, Board approved entering into a competitive bid process for a review of the Regional Parks Plan. This plan provides direction to projects and goals for the Regional Parks system for the period of 2010 – 2020. A review and update of the existing Regional Parks Plan will ensure that current needs and services are reflected for the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George.
The Committee is being asked to recommend to the Regional Board to consider the award of Contract ES-19-12 for the purpose of engaging consulting services for the review and update of the Regional Parks Plan.
RELEVANT POLICIES:
• Delegation Bylaw No. 3082, 2018 • provides that authority delegated only applies if project has been included and is within costs estimates in the annual budget or financial plan approved by the Board • Board approval required on award as bid value exceeds project cost estimate
• Local Government Act • establishes requirements for continuance of parks and trails as well as recognizing Regional Districts are an independent, responsible and accountable order of government
• Official Regional Parks Plan (2010 – 2020) • provides guidance for regional parks program implementation, i.e. projects and acquisitions
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 160 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Environment and Parks Standing Committee Page 2
SERVICE RELEVANCE:
The Regional District provides regional parks services for the entire Regional District of Fraser-Fort George. The Board approved the implementation of the last official Regional Parks Plan in Fall 2010 and this document has guided the work of the Regional Parks crew for the last ten years.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATION(S):
The initial cost estimate for the review and update of the Regional Parks Plan was $35,000 and was based on the cost to do the previous review and update. The value of the one bid received is $59,985.20. It is proposed that the Regional Park Service reserve fund be used to fund the increased cost as there are sufficient funds in the reserve fund. The net impact to the budget would remain unchanged.
OTHER CONSIDERATION(S):
Lees & Associates is a firm with a large amount of experience in the Parks Planning Field. They have produced plans for municipalities, Regional Districts and First Nations groups throughout BC. They have reviewed our Request for Proposal document and produced a proposal that both reflects and exceeds our requirements in a positive way.
The team they have assembled for this project is also well educated, professional and experienced in the park planning field. They have developed what appears to be an efficient, effective work plan and methodology as well as a well-laid out schedule with monitorable goals and benchmarks. They have identified important partners to collaborate with including member municipalities and user groups ahead of time, and inclusion of tools and techniques to maximise interest.
DECISION OPTIONS:
1. Approve recommendation: • recommendation will be made to the Board to award Contract ES-19-12 for the purpose of engaging consulting services for the review and update of the Regional Parks Plan • the budget amendment will be captured in the 2019-2023 Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw to be brought forward to the Board for approval in February 2020
Other Options:
a. do not award the contract for the purposes of engaging consulting services for the review and update of the Regional Parks Plan • not awarding the contract would delay the implementation of the updated Regional Parks Plan
COMMENTS:
Environmental Services Administration has reviewed the proposal and believes that the submission is well structured and will provide the intended results. It is recommended that the contract for the purpose of engaging consulting services for the review and update of the Regional Parks Plan be awarded to LEES + Associates.
Respectfully submitted,
Bryan Boyes, Utilities Leader Environmental Services
BB:jt
I:\Report Working\2019\09-September\Env Serv\BB -Award - Regional Parks Plan Review.docx
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 161 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Environment and Parks Standing Committee Page 3
BACKGROUNDER
The Regional Parks Plan Review was considered in the 2019 Regional Parks (5001) Budget in the amount of Thirty- five thousand dollars, $35,000. The estimate was based on the previous project expenditure. The only bid received from a qualified bidder was in the amount of fifty-nine thousand, nine hundred and eighty-five dollars and twenty cents, $59,985.20 (excluding taxes).
The Request for Proposals was advertised on the Regional District web page and the Provincial BCBid® website as of August 16, 2019. The Request for Proposals deadline was September 3, 2019.
Total Proponent (excluding GST) LEES + Associates $ 59,985.20
The proposal submitted was complete, with no errors or variances noted. The proposal submitted is very professionally produced and should reflect the product offered.
I:\Report Working\2019\09-September\Env Serv\BB -Award - Regional Parks Plan Review.docx
Item: Regional Parks Plan Review – Final Draft Purpose: Consider Approva... Page 162 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
GM: ______
Main Office: 155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 REPORT FOR Telephone: (250) 960-4400 / Fax: (250) 563-7520 COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION Toll Free: 1-800-667-1959 / http://www.rdffg.bc.ca
TO: Chair and Members, Environment and Parks Standing Committee File No.: TRAN 19.2 PK BERM 1.1 FROM: Aaron Moberg, Superintendent, Solid Waste Operations
DATE: April 12, 2021
SUBJECT Item: ES-21-05 Caretaker Services - Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman SUMMARY: Lake Regional Park Purpose: Consider Award of Contract
PREVIOUS REPORTS: Item No. 6.7, March 2021 (see Agenda for link)
ATTACHMENT(S): Backgrounder
RECOMMENDATION(S): ENTITLEMENT HOW VOTE COUNTED 1. THAT the report be received. All Majority 1Director/1vote THAT the Committee recommend to the Board:
2. THAT Contract ES-21-05 Caretaker Services – Berman Lake Regional Transfer All Majority Station and Berman Lake Regional Park be awarded to Shelton Rafferty for the 1Director/1vote amount of $63,600 per year (excluding taxes).
ISSUE(S):
At the March 2021 Board meeting, the Board approved entering into a competitive bid process for caretaker services at Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park. Tenders for ES-21-05 Caretaker Services – Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park were available on the Regional District web page and the Provincial BCBid® website as of March 29, 2021 with a closing date of April 12, 2021. One (1) complete bid was received from a qualified service provider.
The Committee is being asked to recommend to the Board to consider award of Contract ES-21-05 Caretaker Services - Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park to Shelton Rafferty for the amount of $63,600 per year (excluding taxes) for the period May 1, 2021 – April 30, 2024.
RELEVANT POLICIES:
1. Delegation Bylaw No. 3082, 2018: • provides for the delegation of authority to the Chair and Corporate Officer to execute contract as per Bylaw • requires contracts over $100,000 in value to be considered for approval by the Board
2. Policy RD-03-09: Procurement of Goods and Services • provides for procurement levels and limits
3. Regional Solid Waste Management Plan (RSWMP): • provides for the operation of a transfer station system for the collection of both residential solid waste and recyclable materials
Item: ES-21-05 Caretaker Services - Berman Lake Regional Transfer Statio... Page 163 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Environment and Parks Standing Committee Page 2
4. Regional Parks Plan: • provides guidance for Regional Parks operation and maintenance
STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT:
Climate Action Economic Health Indigenous Relations Strong Communities
None – Statutory or Routine Business
SERVICE RELEVANCE:
The Regional District provides solid waste services for the entire Regional District including rural transfer stations and parks. Having caretaker services at the solid waste and park facilities provides a safe site and addresses Regional District liability concerns.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATION(S):
Budget implications for these services are reflected in the 2021 Solid Waste Management (3305) and Regional Parks (5001) Budgets.
OTHER CONSIDERATION(S):
N/A
DECISION OPTIONS:
1. Approve recommendations. • a recommendation will be made to Board to award Contract ES-21-05 Caretaker Services - Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park to Shelton Rafferty Other Options:
a. do not make recommendation to Board to award Contract ES-21-05 Caretaker Services - Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park • would result in caretaker services provision for both Regional District facilities being seized
COMMENTS:
Environmental Services Administration recommends that Contract ES-21-05 Caretaker Services - Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park be awarded to Shelton Rafferty for the amount of $63,600 per year (excluding taxes).
Respectfully submitted,
Aaron Moberg Superintendent, Solid Waste Operations
AM:jt
Item: ES-21-05 Caretaker Services - Berman Lake Regional Transfer Statio... Page 164 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Environment and Parks Standing Committee Page 3
BACKGROUNDER
The Regional District issued an Invitation to Tender ES-21-05 for caretaker services at Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park which was made available on the Regional District web page and the Provincial BCBid® website on March 29, 2021. The Invitation to Tender deadline was Monday, April 12, 2021.
One (1) company attended the mandatory site meeting on Tuesday, April 6, 2021. One (1) qualified bid was received from the competitive bid process.
Regional Transfer Station Regional Park Yearly Cost Name Monthly Cost Monthly Cost (excluding GST) 12 months 5 months (excluding GST) (excluding GST) Shelton Rafferty $ 4,800 $ 1,200 $ 63,600
Transfer station costs associated with purchasing portable shelter and portable toilet facility attributed to an $800 a month increase to $4,800 compared to the 2015 price of $4,000.
The July 1st change in hours of operation were discussed in addition to the ongoing analysis of the days of closure efficiencies.
Item: ES-21-05 Caretaker Services - Berman Lake Regional Transfer Statio... Page 165 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
GM: ______
Main Office: 155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 REPORT FOR Telephone: (250) 960-4400 / Fax: (250) 563-7520 Toll Free: 1-800-667-1959 / http://www.rdffg.bc.ca COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION
TO: Chair and Members, Environment and Parks Standing Committee File No.: TRAN 19.2
FROM: Aaron Moberg, Superintendent, Solid Waste Operations
DATE: March 9, 2021
SUBJECT Item: Caretaker Services – Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional SUMMARY: Park Purpose: Consider Competitive Bid Process PREVIOUS REPORTS: None
ATTACHMENT(S): None
RECOMMENDATION(S): ENTITLEMENT HOW VOTE COUNTED 1. THAT the report be received. All Majority 1 Director/1vote THAT the Committee recommend to the Board:
2. THAT a competitive bid process be entered into for the provision of Caretaker All Majority Services at the Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake 1 Director/1vote Regional Park.
ISSUE(S):
The contract for Caretaker Services for Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park expired on November 30, 2020.
The Committee is being asked to recommend to the Regional Board that a competitive bid process be entered into for the provision of Caretaker Services at the Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park facilities.
RELEVANT POLICIES:
1. Delegation Bylaw No. 3082, 2018: • provides for the delegation of authority to the Chair and Corporate Officer to execute contract as per Bylaw • requires contracts over $100,000 in value to be considered for approval by the Board
2. Policy RD-03-09: Procurement of Goods and Services • provides for procurement levels and limits
3. Regional Solid Waste Management Plan: • provides guidance for residual waste management
4. Regional Parks Plan: • provides guidance for Regional Parks operation and maintenance
SERVICE RELEVANCE:
The Regional District provides solid waste and parks services for the entire Regional District which includes rural transfer stations and parks.
Item: ES-21-05 Caretaker Services - Berman Lake Regional Transfer Statio... Page 166 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Environment and Parks Standing Committee Page 2
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATION(S):
Budget implications for these services are reflected in the 2021 Solid Waste Management (3305) and Regional Parks (5001) Budgets.
OTHER CONSIDERATION(S):
N/A
DECISION OPTIONS:
1. Approve recommendations. • a competitive bid process for caretaker services at Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park would be entered into
Other Options:
a. do not approve entering into a competitive bid process for caretaker services at Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park • would result in caretaker services provision for both Regional District facilities being seized
COMMENTS:
Environmental Services Administration recommends that a competitive bid process be entered into for caretaker services at Berman Lake Regional Transfer Station and Berman Lake Regional Park.
Respectfully submitted,
Aaron Moberg Superintendent, Solid Waste Operations
AM:jt
Item: ES-21-05 Caretaker Services - Berman Lake Regional Transfer Statio... Page 167 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
GM: ______• REGIONAL DISTRICT A°"-. of Fraser-Fort George REPORT FOR Main Office: 155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 Telephone: (250) 960-4400 / Fax: (250) 563-7520 COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION Toll Free: 1-800-667-1959 / http://www.rdffg.bc.ca
TO: Chair and Members, Environment and Parks Standing Committee File No: REAP 1.0
FROM: Rachael Ryder, Waste Diversion Program Leader
DATE: March 30, 2021
SUBJECT Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services SUMMARY: Purpose: Consider Service Agreement Extension PREVIOUS REPORTS: Item No. 5.8 March 2018 (see Agenda for link)
ATTACHMENT(S): 1. Letter dated March 25, 2021 2. 2020 REAPS Final Report
RECOMMENDATION(S): ENTITLEMENT HOW VOTE COUNTED 1. THAT the report and letter dated March 25, 2021 from REAPS be received. All Majority 1 Director/1vote THAT the Committee recommend to the Board:
2. THAT the Service Agreement with REAPS be approved for a one-year contract All Majority extension for the term of May 1, 2021 to April 30, 2022. 1 Director/1vote
ISSUE(S):
REAPS has provided promotional and educational services to the Regional District since 2007. These services include promotion and education throughout the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George on waste reduction and home composting. The current service agreement expires April 30, 2021. The current contract allows for two one-year extensions, with the total contract duration not to exceed five years. This is the first one-year extension under this agreement.
The Committee is being asked to consider recommending to the Regional Board that the Service Agreement with REAPS be extended for one year, for the term May 1, 2021 to April 30, 2022.
RELEVANT POLICIES:
1. Environmental Management Act: • requires regional districts to have a solid waste management plan outlining waste diversion strategies including education and promotion programs
2. Regional Solid Waste Management Plan (RSWMP): • provides guidance for implementation of waste reduction and residual waste management services, including the provision of waste diversion education and promotion programs
3. Delegation Bylaw No. 3082, 2018 • provides for the delegation of authority to the Chair and Corporate Officer to execute contract as per Bylaw • requires contracts over $100,000 in value to be considered for approval by the Board
Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpo... Page 168 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Environment and Parks Standing Committee Page 2
STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT:
~ Climate Action Economic Health Indigenous Relations Strong Communities □ □ None – Statutory or Routine Business □ SERVICE RELEVANCE:
The Regional District provides solid waste services for the entire Regional District of Fraser-Fort George including waste diversion programs.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATION(S):
The value of the Service Agreement term (May 1, 2021 to April 30, 2022) is $89,630 (eighty-nine thousand six hundred and thirty).
Budget implications for this service are reflected in the Solid Waste Management (3305) budget.
OTHER CONSIDERATION(S):
N/A
DECISION OPTIONS:
1. Approve recommendations. • a one-year extension to the Service Agreement with REAPS will be recommended to the Board
Other Options: a. do not recommend to the Board consideration of approving the one year extension to the Service Agreement with REAPS • would result in limiting the Regional District’s waste reduction education and promotion programs after April 30, 2021
COMMENTS:
The services offered by REAPS assist the Regional District in achieving the waste diversion goals set out in the 2015 Regional Solid Waste Management Plan. During the Covid-19 pandemic REAPS has been able to adapt their programs to provide online workshops and learning and continue to demonstrate fulfilment of waste diversion education and promotion programs. Environmental Services Administration recommends extending the current Service Agreement with REAPS for a one year extension, May 1, 2021 to April 30, 2022.
Respectfully submitted,
Rachael Ryder Waste Diversion Program Leader
RR:jt
Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpo... Page 169 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
• REGIONAL DISTRICT ,♦~ of Fraser-Fort George
Head Office: March 25, 2021 REAP 1.0 155 George Street Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 James Spankie Telephone: REAPS (250) 960-4400 Long Distance from within the Regional District: 1-800-667-1959 Dear Mr. Spankie:
Fax: (250) 563-7520 Re: Extension of Service Agreement http://www.rdffg.bc .ca Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services
Munlclpal/ties: McBride The purpose of this letter is to enquire if you are interested in a one-year service agreement Mackenzie extension under the conditions of the Service Agreement, Compost Demonstration Garden and Prince George Outreach Education Services. The extended period of work would be from May 1, 2021 to Valemount April 30, 2022. Electoral Areas: Chilako River-Nechako If you find the above terms agreeable please sign the bottom of this letter and return it to me as Crooked River-Parsnip soon as possible if you accept this service agreement extension. Robson Valley-Canoe Salmon River-Lakes Tabor Lake-Slone Creek Yours truly, Willow River-Upper Fraser Woodpecker-Hixon
Rachael Ryder Waste Diversion Program Leader
Telephone: 250-960-4400 Facsimile: 250-562-8676
RR:jt
I, James Spankie, accept the extension with above mutually agreed upon terms of the Service Agreement, Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education for the duration of May 1,~ .u:.-..-U.l.,_ April 30, ~
Date
Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpo... Page 170 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
REAPS RECYCLING & ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLANNING SOCIETY
COMPOST DEMONSTRATION GARDEN AND OUTREACH EDUCATION SERVICES
REAPS Final Report 2020
Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpo... Page 171 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
It is no secret that COVID-19 has profoundly impacted nonprofits and their communities, but despite a challenging operating environment REAPS had in 2020 our outlook is still positive. REAPS remained open and operating, with staff working in person and working virtually. 2020 required REAPS to grow and stretch in many ways. As a result, the needs of our staff grew, too. REAPS required our staff to shift and adapt operations and services, with the most prevalent being pivoting to virtual service delivery. Additionally, REAPS made a concerted effort to connect personally with residents, forge strategic collaborations and refocus on enhancing delivery strategies.
Hotline / Email
In operation since 1989, the REAPS Hotline continues to receive calls from residents inquiring about items and where it can be recycled in the RDFFG. As well, the internet has provided a convenient forum for residents to ask their questions and receive brochures, tips, and resources on effective ways to reduce their household waste.
Residents are provided with literature on backyard composting; starting and maintaining their own vermicomposter; build and install a doggie dodo composter for Fido; location of nearest recycling depot or transfer station; Repair It Guide (encouraging repairing household items disposing or recycling) and the Waste Reduction Directory which lists of over 80 other items that can be safely be diverted from the Regional Landfill through recycling in the RDFFG.
Business Organics Collection
2020 saw a reduction in organics collected. Businesses were either closed or at reduced capacity or concerned with accepting collection bins into their kitchens due to Covid-19. This year 1065.5 kg of organics were collected from 3 local restaurants in Prince George. The organics that were diverted from the landfill were used to feed the Compost Demonstration Garden’s 13 hungry composters and over 10,000 worms housed in our 2 large vermicomposters. The backyard / vermi composters provide an educational medium for visitors to learn, choose a design and ask questions on how to successfully backyard compost. The finished compost is used in our garden to showcase the benefits of compost as a mulch, top dressing, or soil supplement.
REAPS Website / Facebook Page
With a grant from NDIT and matching dollars, REAPS was rebranded with a new logo and website. REAPS brochures were updated/reworked to provide information through the online website access. Our volunteer continues to keep the website up to date, current and informative. The Waste Reduction Directory and Repair It Guide is available for residents to
Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpo... Page 172 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
quickly assess to search for recycling / repair alternatives in our community. The Facebook page provides current events on environmental issues facing us, tips on reducing waste, information on recycling, reducing food waste, greener lifestyle and much more.
REAPS School / Outreach Programs
Our school presentations and community outreach were tailored to be given via zoom or as a narrated PowerPoint. The online platform of ZOOM became a frequent tool to present environmental education in the schools and the community. Our total number of presentations were about 50 lower than previous year and participants were also greatly reduced with the move away from in person workshops.
Our various school environmental programs (over 33) from Dumpy the Overfed Landfill to Food for Thought, empower the youth to make changes in their everyday habits at school, home and at play. We offer our programs via Zoom, at our Garden or in the classroom. Our environmental programs assist children to connect to nature in their everyday activities such as: the importance of composting an apple instead of landfilling; to turn off the tap water instead of running the water while brushing your teeth -making those connections in our home to our environment and the importance of our lifestyle impacts how our environment thrives.
Castings – our school newsletter is sent to teachers and schools (monthly) in the RDFFG monthly (September to June) which highlights environmental programs / activities and the benefits of vermicomposting in their classrooms and the care of the worms.
REAPS provides presentations and resources to businesses and offices to reduce or green their environment. REAPS provides a monthly “Green Office Tip” that is found on our website and sent monthly to offices that have registered with us. We offer various workshops in person, via ZOOM or provide written literature on Composting, Vermicomposting, Recycling, Organic Garden, Reducing Food Waste, Making your own Produce Bag and more.
In the News
Thanks to the local media, REAPS was featured throughout the year speaking about Green New Year resolutions, Earth Day, Single Use Plastic, Litter Clean Up, Beverage Container recycling, Compost Week, Green Christmas, Say NO to the Water Bottle, Waste Reduction and more.
Advocacy and Outreach
In 2020 REAPS outreach team saw community events cancelled throughout the RDFFG. Community events provides REAPS the opportunity to connect with visitors at a booth to share information and to chat about waste reduction and sustainability.
Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpo... Page 173 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Working towards the organization’s mission to promote waste reduction, backyard composting, environmental education, and sustainability, the Executive Director saw fewer opportunities available in 2020 to participate in. However, a move to online workshops and conferences provided participation with: NGO Dialogue; Coast Waste Management Conference; Department of Fisheries & Oceans – Stream to Sea Education Steering Committee; Community 2 Classrooms; and CaNOE. As well, I participated in several stewardship review forums.
VALUE
The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George financial contributions to REAPS programming and the long partnership provides a foundation for us to seek other funders; supports our outreach and delivery of our environmental programs; and provides operational funding for the Compost Demonstration Garden towards our common goal of reducing solid waste within the RDFFG.
REAPS FUNDING SOURCES
RDDFG REAPS FUNDS GRANTS, DONATIONS, VOLUNTEER TIME CONTRACT RAISED CONTRACTS $ AMOUNT
2016 $84,460.00 $23,244.49 $63,695.00 $8,591.75 (672 hrs)
2017 $86,150.00 $16,392.35 $57,406.26 $6,772.00 (493 hrs)
2018 $87,873.00 $21,654.56 $75,794.65 $6,952.50 (444 hrs)
2019 $89,630.00 $14,572.82 $67,692.10 $9375.00 (625 hrs)
2020 $89,630.00 $10,685.70 $65,802.12 $3561.25 (225 hrs)
Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpo... Page 174 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Summary of 2020 Program Stats
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC TOTALS Hotline Calls
calls 30 41 57 75 69 66 33 34 44 41 19 7 516 visitors 10 12 9 17 153 259 167 210 135 78 12 5 1067 School Programs / workshops presentations 3 13 4 32 14 18 14 7 7 11 21 1 145 Unknown #
of zooms zooms zooms zooms zooms participants participants 57 294 84 13 6 42 12 27 45 164 38 21 803
Radio / 0 2 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 7 media Community Events
events 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 participants 21 8 133 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 162
We thank the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George for their financial contributions to our programing and appreciate the long partnership and opportunities that provide support to our outreach and delivery of our environmental programs, operation of the Compost Demonstration Garden and our common goal of reducing solid waste within the RDFFG.
Terri McClymont Executive Director
Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpo... Page 175 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
GM: ______
Main Office: 155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 REPORT FOR Telephone: (250) 960-4400 / Fax: (250) 563-7520 COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION Toll Free: 1-800-667-1959 / http://www.rdffg.bc.ca
TO: Chair and Members, Environment and Parks Standing Committee File No: RECY 1.0
FROM: Laura Zapotichny, Waste Diversion Program Leader
DATE: March 1, 2018
SUBJECT Item: Update on Extended Producer Responsibility - Stewardship Programs in British SUMMARY: Columbia Purpose: For Information PREVIOUS REPORTS: Item No. 4.4 Committee Report, June 2012, (see Agenda for link)
ATTACHMENT(S): Backgrounder
RECOMMENDATION(S): ENTITLEMENT HOW VOTE COUNTED THAT the report be received. All Majority 1Director/1vote
ISSUE(S):
British Columbia currently has 22 industry-led Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) recycling programs covering 14 different product categories of consumer products.
Three models seem to be emerging in providing collection services for these products: - Providing a broad range of services at local government facilities; - Local/municipal government not participating in administering EPR service delivery directly where these services are well supported, but engaging in areas where EPR services are not otherwise available; or - Minimizing local/municipal government participation.
Each model is discussed in detail in the backgrounder.
The Regional District provides various service levels for some EPR programs at a number of solid waste facilities, in some instances in addition to private or return to retailer programs that are available.
The Committee is not being asked to take any action at this time. Environmental Services Administration will be in attendance to make a presentation regarding EPR service provision in the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George.
RELEVANT POLICIES:
1. Environmental Management Act: establishes the requirement for regional districts to undertake solid waste management planning provides authority for the Minister to regulate Extended Producer Responsibility (product stewardship) initiatives
2. Recycling Regulation: establishes implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (product stewardship) programs
3. Regional Solid Waste Management Plan: establishes stewardship programs as waste management tool states that the Regional District supports full cost recovery for the delivery of any product stewardship program
Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpo... Page 176 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Environment and Parks Standing Committee Page 2
SERVICE RELEVANCE:
The Regional District provides Solid Waste Management services to the entire Regional District of Fraser-Fort George including recycling opportunities under the Regional Solid Waste Management Plan. Product Stewardship initiatives are supported in the Regional Solid Waste Management Plan by establishing policy framework for EPR.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATION(S):
Budget implications for the potential decrease in waste disposed is considered in the long term financial plan for Solid Waste Management. Supporting some EPR programs at various facilities is reflected in the 3305 budget.
OTHER CONSIDERATION(S):
N/A
DECISION OPTIONS:
1. Approve recommendations.
COMMENTS:
With the increasing number of EPR services the Regional District requires a policy framework for Extended Producer Responsibility.
The approved Waste Diversion Implementation Strategy recommended establishing a policy framework for EPR as one of the priorities to achieve a lower per capita waste disposal rate in the RDFFG.
Environment Services Administration is actively collaborating with stewardship agencies to engage stewards in finding alternatives to improve services beyond regulatory requirements.
Respectfully submitted,
Laura Zapotichny Waste Diversion Program Leader
LZ:jt
Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpo... Page 177 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Environment and Parks Standing Committee Page 3
BACKGROUNDER
Current EPR in the RDFFG
Stewardship programs, also known as Extender Producer Responsibility (EPR) are a resource management policy where the producer’s responsibility for managing the environmental impact of their product is extended across the entire life cycle of the product, from initial selection of materials, through use and ultimate disposal at end of life. Currently the RDFFG does not have a policy framework for decision making in regards to EPR and as EPR becomes an increasingly significant component of BC’s waste management system, the RDFFG and member municipalities must determine the extent to which they wish to engage in EPR related services.
Environmental Services Administration examined the three ways EPR products are currently handled: return to retailer, private company, and a partnership between local government and a stewardship agency.
The return to retailer program is an industry led product stewardship option where the retailers of certain products accept them back for recycling. An example of this type of program is automotive batteries, medications, tires and cell phones. There are several return to retailer programs available in Prince George and Mackenzie, while fewer options exist in McBride and Valemount.
The second EPR delivery option involves private companies that establish recycling return it centers. These ‘return it depots’ tend to accept multiple stewardship products and exist in areas where the population can produce an adequate volume of materials to be returned. Prince George has two private run collection facilities, Mackenzie has one bottle depot and the Village of Valemount has one return it center that is open for a few hours each week. Recycle BC operates curbside collection in Prince George entirely independently from local/municipal government involvement.
The third delivery option for stewardship programs are ones that are delivered in partnership with local government. These are the programs that are either available curbside or exist at landfills and transfer stations. Programs in this category at RDFFG facilities currently include oil, antifreeze, batteries, and tires.
The chart below outlines the current stewardship programs available in our four member municipalities, delivered in one of three ways - private, return to retailer or government. Programs with an astrix (*) are programs that the RD manages ‘outside’ of the stewardship agency. Prince George is well-serviced by EPR take-back services, but the rest of the region is much more limited in terms of locations where regulated products can be dropped off.
Program McBride Mackenzie Valemount Prince George Outdoor Power Equipment Thermostats Cell Phones Small Appliances Electronics Smoke Alarms Medications Fluorescent Bulbs Paints, Solvents Batteries Beverage Containers Tires Oil, Antifreeze Large Appliances/Metal* Printed Paper and Packaging*
Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpo... Page 178 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Environment and Parks Standing Committee Page 4
When the RDFFG does engage in EPR programs at our facilities, there are additional costs such as:
- Staff are required to be in the main disposal areas to conduct load inspections and to answer questions; - During peak season, staff spend an average of 30 to 45 minutes a day managing products such as tires and automotive batteries; - Fridges and freezers must be moved daily to a storage area at the main facility, requiring the use of a truck with a lift gate and staff members to move each unit; - Staff must be provided with Personal Protective Equipment to handle hazardous materials; - Moving EPR materials requires a vehicle (insurance, fuel, repairs and wear and tear); - Some EPR programs require additional certification by all staff/contractors, such as Transportation of Dangerous Goods, which must be renewed every three years; - EPR programs are developed in the Lower Mainland by stewards that are unaware of the levels of snow in the RDFFG. There are requirements that EPR materials must be stored in shelters, which have capital costs as well as ongoing maintenance and repairs associated with these buildings.
EPR in Neighboring Regional Districts Engaging in meaningful EPR programs in rural areas continues to be a challenge for Regional Districts with large geographical areas and low population density. Environmental Services Administration examined EPR programs in our neighboring, primarily rural, Regional Districts. It is clear there is no “one size fits all” model when it comes to EPR programs and services.
Each neighboring Regional District has created their own unique way of engaging with EPR. The information is presented graphically below.
16 14 12 10 8 6
# of # Services 4 2 0 Product Care Recycle BC Depot Recycle BC Curbside BCUOMA
EPR Models and Upcoming Deadlines
As EPR becomes an increasingly significant component of BC’s waste management system, the RDFFG and member municipalities must determine the extent to which they wish to engage in EPR-related services. In BC, three models appear to be emerging: 1. Providing a broad range of services at local government facilities; 2. Local/municipal government not participating in administering EPR service delivery directly where these services are well supported, but engaging in EPR services in areas where EPR services are not otherwise available; or 3. Minimizing local/municipal government participation.
Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpo... Page 179 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Environment and Parks Standing Committee Page 5
Model One:
If the RDFFG commits to providing a broad range of services at local government facilities the responsibilities and costs of managing EPR programs shifts away from the producers and stewards and back onto the taxpayer and the consumer as local/municipal facilities are operated through a combination of taxation and user fees. This model would require the RDFFG to have funding commitments in place in order to ensure that the costs of providing EPR programs is not doubled for the consumer - once at the point of purchase and again through taxation/user fees. These funding commitments may be difficult to secure, as the Recycling Regulation does not mandate rural participation by Stewards.
The benefits of choosing this type of model include better representation for rural residents living in member municipalities, as well as increased user participation in a “one stop drop”. There is potential for coordination with stewards to reduce hauling costs by grouping different EPR products together for transportation. Currently ESA is in the process of building a new transfer station area at the Mackenzie Regional Landfill and in negotiations on the future of the Quinn Street Recycling facility. Both facilities could become models for multi-stream EPR product drop depots and will require a policy framework for EPR before construction begins.
Model Two:
Currently the RDFFG has a hybrid model of EPR participation. Some products are collected such as oil, antifreeze and tires at the main facilities in the member municipalities. In Prince George there are numerous return to retailer or private collection options for residents to engage in, however the RD continues to provide some EPR at Foothills, Vanway and Quinn Street. In smaller areas such as Mackenzie, Valemount and McBride, fewer options exists outside returning these products to the local government run facilities. Private and return to retailer are not always options in rural areas.
The hybrid model poses a challenge as users favor a “one stop drop” location but this model has users return EPR products to a variety of locations. Education and awareness remain the largest challenges in enacting effective waste diversion behaviors. Ultimately the goal of EPR is to have these products recovered fully by the producers and shift the responsibility away from local government. Directing residential users to access more than one disposal location (i.e. tires and electronics) can result in lower compliance and resistance from users.
Model Three:
Minimizing government participation or not participating in EPR programs directly at facilities operated by the RDFFG is a viable policy solution in a large urban area like Prince George. Within the City of Prince George there are numerous private and return to retailer options for residents. The consequence of not participating in, or assisting product stewardship programs, may be that consumers dispose of their recyclable materials in local landfills. However through education and awareness, these EPR products can be restricted from disposal at government run facilities and redirected to their appropriate disposal location.
Choosing this model for rural area residents would essentially force local government to either subsidize recycling programs in rural areas, thus effectively having the consumer pay twice for the product (once through the eco fee and again through either taxation/user fees), in order to provide the same services available to those in more urban areas, or force residents to dispose of EPR items in the waste stream.
Conclusion
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a provincial policy tool that aims to shift the physical and economic responsibility for end-of-life management of products to the producers and consumers and away from local governments. The legislation that governs EPR programs is the Recycling Regulation, which falls short in addressing service levels including rural low population density areas throughout the province.
The Regional District is committed as a member of the British Columbia Product Stewardship Council, and Recycling Council of British Columbia to continue collaborating with Stewardship agencies and address issues and concerns with programs and service levels in our district. In order to assess the Regional District’s role in providing services at solid waste facilities a policy framework is required.
Item: Compost Demonstration Garden and Outreach Education Services Purpo... Page 180 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
GM: ______
Main Office: 155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 REPORT FOR Telephone: (250) 960-4400 / Fax: (250) 563-7520 Toll Free: 1-800-667-1959 / http://www.rdffg.bc.ca COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION
TO: Chair and Members, Environment and Parks Standing Committee File No.: LAND 1.20.5
FROM: Darwin Paton, Environmental Services Technician
DATE: March 25, 2021
SUBJECT SUMMARY: Item: Valemount Regional Landfill – Ground Water Monitoring Well Installation Purpose: Consider Competitive Bid Process
PREVIOUS REPORTS: None
ATTACHMENT(S): None
RECOMMENDATION(S): ENTITLEMENT HOW VOTE COUNTED 1. THAT the report be received. All Majority 1Director/1vote THAT the Committee recommend to the Board:
2. THAT a competitive bid process be entered into for the installation and All Majority commissioning of two (2) ground water monitoring wells at the Valemount Regional 1Director/1vote Landfill.
ISSUE(S):
The Valemount Regional Landfill has been closed to Municipal Solid Waste since 1995 and to all waste since 2013. The Regional District maintains a long-term groundwater monitoring program with a current network of seven (7) monitoring wells in the vicinity of and around the perimeter of the former landfill. The Valemount Landfill Closure Plan, completed in 2016, recommended that the installation of two (2) additional ground water monitoring wells be undertaken. The ongoing groundwater monitoring program forms part of the closure plan for the site and is a regulatory requirement.
The Committee is being asked to recommend to the Board to consider entering into a competitive bid process for the installation and commissioning of two (2) ground water monitoring wells at the Valemount Regional Landfill.
RELEVANT POLICIES:
1. Environmental Management Act: Landfill Criteria for Municipal Solid Waste • provides key elements that pertain to groundwater monitoring
2. Guidelines for Environmental Monitoring at Municipal Solid Waste Landfills • provides framework and guidance in the development and maintenance of monitoring programs at MSW facilities in the province of British Columbia
3. Policy RD-03-09: Procurement of Goods and Services • provides for procurement levels and limits
Item: Valemount Regional Landfill – Ground Water Monitoring Well Install... Page 181 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Environment and Parks Standing Committee Page 2
STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT:
Climate Action Economic Health Indigenous Relations Strong Communities
None – Statutory or Routine Business
SERVICE RELEVANCE:
To continue the Regional District’s ongoing commitment to environmental monitoring activities and fulfilling regulatory requirements by maintaining a long term groundwater monitoring program and in preparation of the Valemount Landfill Final Closure Project.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATION(S):
Budget implications for this groundwater well replacement are reflected in the Solid Waste Management (3305) Budget.
OTHER CONSIDERATION(S):
N/A
DECISION OPTIONS:
1. Approve recommendations. • a recommendation will be made to the Board to consider entering into a competitive bid process for the installation and commissioning of two (2) ground water monitoring wells at the Valemount Regional Landfill
Other Options:
a. do not recommend to the Board to consider authorizing entering into a competitive bid process for the installation and commissioning of two (2) ground water monitoring wells at the Valemount Regional Landfill • the regulatory compliance of the ground water monitoring program will not be met
COMMENTS:
Environmental Services Administration supports recommending to the Board to consider authorizing entering into a competitive bid process for the installation and commissioning of two (2) ground water monitoring wells at the Valemount Regional Landfill.
Respectfully submitted,
Darwin Paton Environmental Services Technician
DP:jt
Item: Valemount Regional Landfill – Ground Water Monitoring Well Install... Page 182 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
GM: ______
Main Office: 155 George Street, Prince George, BC V2L 1P8 REPORT FOR Telephone: (250) 960-4400 / Fax: (250) 563-7520 Toll Free: 1-800-667-1959 / http://www.rdffg.bc.ca COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION
TO: Chair and Members, Environmental and Parks Standing Committee File No.: LAND 1.6.5.6
FROM: Anson Hardjojo, Solid Waste and Waste Diversion Coordinator
DATE: March 22, 2021
SUBJECT Item: Routine Leachate Testing Services for Waste Discharge Permit at Foothills Boulevard SUMMARY: Regional Landfill Purpose: Consider Competitive Bid Process
PREVIOUS REPORTS: None
ATTACHMENT(S): None
RECOMMENDATION(S): ENTITLEMENT HOW VOTE COUNTED 1. THAT the report be received. All Majority 1Director/1vote THAT the Committee recommend to the Board:
2. THAT a competitive bid process be entered into for services for the routine All Majority leachate testing to meet requirements under the Waste Discharge Permit for the 1 Director/1 Vote Foothills Boulevard Regional Landfill.
ISSUE(S):
In May 2020, the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George received a Waste Discharge Permit for releasing leachate into the wastewater collection system of the City of Prince George. The Permit requires monthly submittal of leachate analysis. In order to meet the prerequisites for leachate discharge, routine leachate testing is required.
The Committee is being asked to recommend to the Board to consider entering into a competitive bid process for Routine Leachate Testing Services to meet requirements under the Waste Discharge Permit for leachate from the Foothills Boulevard Regional Landfill.
RELEVANT POLICIES:
1. Delegation Bylaw No. 3082, 2018: • Requires contracts over $100,000 in value to be considered for approval by the Board
2. Policy RD-03-09: Procurement of Goods and Services • provides for procurement levels and limits
3. Regional Solid Waste Management Plan (RSWMP): • maintain and operate disposal facility in compliance with municipal wastewater discharge City of Prince George Bylaw No. 9055, 2019, and as outlined under Discharge Permit #006
STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT:
Climate Action Economic Health Indigenous Relations Strong Communities
None – Statutory or Routine Business
Item: Routine Leachate Testing Services for Waste Discharge Permit at Fo... Page 183 of 184 AGENDA ITEM #
Report to Chair and Directors Page 2
SERVICE RELEVANCE:
The discharge of leachate from the Foothills Boulevard Regional Landfill to the City of Prince George’s wastewater collection system assists the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George in meeting its environmental responsibilities.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATION(S):
Budget implications for this service are included in the 2021 Solid Waste Management (3305) Budget.
OTHER CONSIDERATION(S):
NA
DECISION OPTIONS:
1. Approve recommendations. • a recommendation will be made to the Board to consider authorizing entering into a competitive bid process to acquire routine leachate testing services to meet requirements under the Waste Discharge Permit for the Foothills Boulevard Regional Landfill
Other Options: a. do not make a recommendation to the Board to consider authorizing entering into a competitive bid process for the routine leachate testing at Foothills Boulevard Regional Landfill • the requirements under the Waste Discharge Permit for leachate from the Foothills Boulevard Regional Landfill will not be met
COMMENTS:
To meet the requirements under the Waste Discharge Permit issued by the City of Prince George, the Regional District needs to perform leachate testing and submit a monthly report.
Environmental Services Administration recommends recommending to the Board to consider authorizing entering into a competitive bid process for Routine Leachate Testing Services to meet requirements under the Waste Discharge Permit for leachate from Foothills Boulevard Regional Landfill.
Respectfully submitted,
Anson Hardjojo Solid Waste and Waste Diversion Coordinator
AH:jt
Item: Routine Leachate Testing Services for Waste Discharge Permit at Fo... Page 184 of 184