BCSF Takes Center Stage: Advocating for Snowmobile Recreation in the 2024 BC Budget Process
The BC Snowmobile Federation (BCSF) is taking center stage this week to advocate for member clubs and riders across British Columbia. On June 8th, 2023, they will present two crucial recommendations to the BC Select Standing Committee on Finance, which could greatly impact the snowmobiling community.
The committee, composed of Members of the Legislative Assembly, plays a vital role in the provincial budget process. The BCSF aims to provide valuable feedback and influence resource allocation, giving snowmobilers a chance to contribute and have their voices heard.
These recommendations, carefully crafted and backed by the expertise and experience of the BCSF, aim to address key areas that impact snowmobilers and contribute to the growth and sustainability of the sport. The BCSF’s recommendations focus on the two identified priorities:
#1: A new annual investment of $400,000 in off-road vehicle trails, infrastructure and safety by providing matching funding into the existing Off Road Vehicle (ORV) Trail Fund.
The Province established the ORV Trail Fund in 2017, funded from a portion of ORV registration fees collected by ICBC. The objectives of the Fund include the (1) construction and maintenance of ORV trails; and (2) support and promotion of safe and responsible ORV use. By providing matching funding, the Province would contribute to enhancing off-road vehicle trails, enriching the outdoor recreation experience for residents and visitors to British Columbia.
The ORV Trail Fund currently relies solely on public money generated through off-road vehicle registrations and does not receive any additional funding from the Province, apart from the administration provided by RSTBC. However, the demand for funding in 2022 far exceeded the available resources, leaving numerous worthwhile projects unfunded.
#2: Dedicate at least $2 million in annual funding for road infrastructure to support the upkeep of roads that provide access to recreation sites on public lands or within BC Parks.
While volunteer clubs have invested considerable time and resources in creating vibrant recreation sites, the lack of funding within the Engineering Branch to maintain the access roads poses a significant challenge. By allocating dedicated funding, the Province would ensure that the efforts and investments made by various stakeholders, including Indigenous governments, Provincial government staff, and recreation clubs are protected, and the public’s access to these valuable recreation assets is preserved.
The BCSF, representing 59 member clubs and 44,000 snowmobilers, is an influential organization dedicated to advancing snowmobiling in British Columbia. This opportunity to shape the provincial budget is a significant milestone for the BCSF's tireless efforts to advocate for snowmobilers' interests. Their aim is to secure the necessary support and investments for a vibrant and sustainable snowmobiling experience across the province.
August 10th, 2023 Update
The BCSF was pleased to see the Select Standing Committee include recommendations made by the BCSF in their Report on the Budget 2024 Consultation. You can read the full report HERE.
If you would like more information please contact:
Donegal Wilson, Executive Director
BC Snowmobile Federation
(250) 499-5117
Email dwilson@bcsf.org
