Good morning:

I am emailing today to advise that as of Wednesday, April 8^th, 2020, we are closing all provincial parks until further notice. This action is being taken in response to the call for increased action to address the COVID-19 pandemic and aligning with federal and provincial experts requesting citizens to stay home.

With the Easter holiday now upon us, and the challenges posed by COVID along with the expected influx of visitors, we feel it is beyond the ability of BC Parks to manage for physical distancing and general public safety. We feel this closure is necessary to ensure the health and safety of our visitors, employees, park operators and their staff, volunteers, and park contractors. Along with this, the spill-over to neighbouring communities raised concerns with citizens, local government officials, First Nations and police along with a general concern with provincial parks overcrowding and the lack of social distancing.

This temporary measure means that any activity involving the participation of the public is prohibited for the duration of the order. Where permit holders need to access a park for activities not involving the participation of the public, but as required for the preservation and maintenance of the park or their own private facilities, they must have a written exemption from the Regional Director responsible for the park in question. Requests for exemptions should be coordinated through the BC Parks staff contacts listed on your permits. Park closures will be enforced through regular monitoring and patrols and anyone found in a closed park without a written exemption may be evicted and could face a $115 fine.

A public notice will be issued when this closure is lifted, and regular public access and permitted operations can resume.

BC Parks appreciates your understanding, cooperation, and support during this challenging time.

Thank you,

Jim Standen

Jim Standen Assistant Deputy Minister BC Parks & Conservation Officer Service Telephone: 250-387-1288 jim.standen@gov.bc.ca