Unlocking the Full Potential of Snowmobiling in the South Peace Region: An Update from BCSf
The journey of the South Peace Snowmobile Development Master Plan began in response to the closure of several snowmobiling areas in 2021 as part of the province’s Caribou Recovery Effort. In recognition of the importance of maintaining recreational opportunities for snowmobilers, the BC Snowmobile Federation (BCSF) secured funding to assist the Chetwynd, Tumbler Ridge, and Mackenzie snowmobile clubs in re-establishing and improving their remaining recreation areas. The creation of the Master Plan marked a significant step in ensuring the long-term sustainability of clubs.
These volunteer-driven clubs, operate with limited membership, minimal funding, and a general shortage of resources. One of the critical developments in our journey was the appointment of a dedicated Club Coordinator for the South Peace Region to support the arduous administrative tasks clubs were facing.
The next immediate focus has been cleaning up back of house items to bring clubs into compliance. The priority worklist includes:
Navigate the process of acquiring land use authorizations, partnership agreements, and promoting club memberships.
Facilitate movement toward Section 56 and Partnership Agreements with Fee Determinations for all trails, cabins, and parking areas that would see these areas as official designated snowmobile recreation sites and clubs holding Section 57 agreements which authorize the club to groom and maintain these trails and infrastructure.
Manage Active Management / Permit Only area paperwork.
Serve as the main point of contact for District Recreation Officers, BC Parks representatives, and other land managers.
Updating club websites and membership registration systems.
Fundraising efforts, including grant applications and reporting.
This week, we kick off field planning for the Wolverine Trail restoration in Tumbler Ridge. Meanwhile, in Mackenzie, we're collaborating with the club and District to formally establish the Morfee Mountain shelter and trail system. In Chetwynd, our team has been diligently working on their applications and annual reports.
Each club is actively engaged in developing sustainable operating plans aimed at ensuring the long-term environmental and financial sustainability of our trail systems. These plans will outline strategies to maintain the trails, manage resources efficiently, and promote responsible trail use for the benefit of both the community and the environment.
While we are making headway, Challenges do lie ahead of us. Many of the South Peace clubs are currently grappling with issues, including trespass orders resulting from outdated or unauthorized structures. The process is strenuous and moves very slowly through the numerous required levels of government, stakeholders, and First Nations communications. It is essential to confront these challenges methodically and work head-on collectively to overcome them.
At the BC Snowmobile Federation, our commitment to establishing, maintaining, and safeguarding quality snowmobiling opportunities across BC remains unwavering. With nearly 60 snowmobile clubs and 44,000 riders united under our banner, we are a community bound together by our shared passion for adventure and our reverence for the natural beauty that surrounds us. Our dedicated volunteers are champions of safety, stewardship, and responsible backcountry snowmobile recreation.
Stay tuned for further updates as we navigate the twists and turns on this path to unlock the full potential of snowmobiling in the South Peace Region.
For More information Contact:
Donegal Wilson
Executive Director
BC Snowmobile Federation
office@bcsf.org
