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All BC parks closing

By Hannah Scott, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

Published 11:50 PDT, Wed April 8, 2020

Last Updated: 2:13 PDT, Wed May 12, 2021

In accordance with both federal and provincial directives to stay home, BC Parks is closing all provincial parks effective immediately. This closure notice does not apply to municipal parks.

“Because physical distancing works, it is critical that we take every action needed to restrict the spread of COVID-19,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.

“I understand and share the love people in British Columbia have for the outdoors and the connection between health and proximity to nature. We tried to provide safe space for people to get some exercise and fresh air in our beautiful parks. But it has proven too challenging to maintain safe distance between visitors. This action is difficult but necessary. We look forward to the day we can welcome people back to our wonderful parks,” Heyman said.

While many people respect the physical distancing requirements set by the provincial health officer, some ignore the order. It is challenging to enforce these restrictions in a wilderness setting.

The closure is a result of continued feedback from RCMP, local government, First Nations, local search-and-rescue organizations and the general public.

BC Parks has also extended the ban on camping in provincial parks until May 31. Those with bookings before that date will receive automatic refunds.

Any change to provincial park access or services will be posted to the BC Parks website: http://bcparks.ca

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