Newsroom - Cariboo Chilcotin Coast tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2011-03-30://1 2013-05-17T22:28:39Z Movable Type Enterprise 4.38 BC Coroners Service warns of high-water dangers tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.6007 2013-05-17T22:05:00Z 2013-05-17T22:28:39Z On the eve of the Victoria Day long weekend, the BC Coroners Service is warning residents to take extreme care near streams and rivers which are currently running much faster and higher than normal. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/

VICTORIA - On the eve of the Victoria Day long weekend, the BC Coroners Service is warning residents to take extreme care near streams and rivers which are currently running much faster and higher than normal.

People can significantly underestimate the force that can be unleashed by a fast-running river, said Chief Coroner Lisa Lapointe, and do not realize how different it is from the quiet stream where they regularly swim, raft or paddle.

Three such deaths already have occurred this spring: two young men swept away in Golden Ears Provincial Park, and a young woman who fell into Swift Current Creek near Valemount.

If a river is running quickly, about 15 1/4 centimetres (or six inches) of water can sweep a person downstream, and a little over six-tenths of a metre (or two feet) of water can carry away most vehicles.

Although the bank of a fast-running creek may look stable, such banks are often eroded by the water and can collapse with the added weight of persons standing on them. Moving water or standing pools of water also can contain dangerous debris, so no one should try to walk or drive through them.

The warning comes as the BC Coroners Service releases its newest report into Accidental Drowning Deaths, covering the five-year period from 2008 through 2012. The report looks at a total of 397 deaths over the five-year period. Of those, 58.7 per cent occurred in the summer months of May through August.

The statistics make clear the danger of mixing alcohol or drugs with water-related activities. Of all deaths recorded, impairment by alcohol or drugs was a factor in 40.2 per cent of the cases.

The full report can be found on the BC Coroners Service website at: http://www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/coroners/publications/docs/stats-water-related-fatalities.pdf

Media Contact:

Barbara McLintock
Coroner, Strategic Programs
BC Coroners Service
250 356-9253

]]> Statement on Hon. Steven Point resignation tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.6005 2013-05-17T17:00:00Z 2013-05-17T20:44:29Z Minister of Justice and Attorney General Shirley Bond released the following statement today following the resignation of the Honourable Steven Point as chair of the advisory committee on the safety and security of vulnerable women. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - Minister of Justice and Attorney General Shirley Bond released the following statement today following the resignation of the Honourable Steven Point as chair of the advisory committee on the safety and security of vulnerable women:

"I have accepted the resignation of the Honourable Steven Point from his position as chair of the advisory committee on the safety and security of vulnerable women. His last day will be May 30, 2013.

"I appreciate the decisions of the four families of missing women who have chosen to pursue civil suits related to the Pickton case, but I am disappointed that the no doubt unintended consequences of these claims have led Mr. Point to conclude that he must step aside.

"When matters proceed to court, the litigation process takes precedence over all other related processes. The plaintiffs have put Mr. Point on notice that, in his role as chair of the advisory committee, his comments and remarks may well become evidence in the course of the litigation. This would have placed an impossible burden on Mr. Point to avoid making statements that could be misinterpreted or be used in or influence the course of litigation.

"As well, this pursuit of litigation will impact the government's current process in responding to the recommendations from the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry (MWCI), and we now have to analyze how we will continue to move forward while the court case is underway.

"That said, I can tell you that our government remains committed to creating a legacy of safety and security for vulnerable women. We have always known that necessary changes won't be easy and they wouldn't happen overnight.

"I want to thank Mr. Point for the work he has done to date as a champion for implementation of the MWCI recommendations, and I know the foundation he has built in the past five months will serve us well as we move forward within the constraints of our ability due to these active civil suits.

"As Attorney General and due to the legal sensitivities of this situation, I am unable to make any further comment at this time."

Media Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Justice
250 356-6961

See backgrounder attached for the text of the Hon. Steven Point's resignation letter.

BACKGROUNDER

Text of the letter from the Honourable Steven Point to Minister of Justice and Attorney General Shirley Bond

It is with regret that I find it necessary to advise you that litigation has been commenced by certain family members of the victims of Pickton, and I have been served with documents that have put me on notice regarding this litigation.

As a consequence of this development I have concluded that it is impossible to continue in my role as special advisor to government in relation to the recommendations by Commissioner Oppal in his report on Murdered and Missing Women.

I have consulted with the Ministry of Justice who have agreed that in light of the current litigation process it is not possible to proceed further and therefore we have jointly reached the conclusion that I must resign and I have done so, effective May 30, 2013.

I sincerely regret the events that have necessitated my reaching this decision however once litigation has been chosen, I cannot see a path that allows me to fulfil the role that I was asked to undertake.

Sincerely,

Steven Point

]]> Enforcement officers on patrol over May long weekend tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.6003 2013-05-15T18:00:00Z 2013-05-15T20:56:26Z British Columbia's natural resource officers, park rangers and conservation officers will be busy over the Victoria Day long weekend helping residents and visitors enjoy a safe and peaceful holiday. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - British Columbia's natural resource officers, park rangers and conservation officers will be busy over the Victoria Day long weekend helping residents and visitors enjoy a safe and peaceful holiday.

Provincial officials step up their patrols in May every year, especially on holiday long weekends.

  • Natural resource officers, conservation officers and the RCMP will be patrolling Crown land, waterways and recreation sites to ensure public safety and protect the environment. Natural resource officers also enforce the forest recreation regulation.
  • Park rangers will be patrolling BC Parks and enforcing the park, conservancy and recreation area regulation to enhance public safety and protect sensitive ecosystems.
  • Conservation officers will be checking permits to protect public safety and enforcing environment, fish and wildlife regulations. They also will be patrolling recreation sites.

Most provincial parks and recreation sites are open for the May long weekend. Up-to-date information is available on the BC Parks website and the Recreation Sites and Trails BC website.

BC Parks: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/

Recreation Sites and Trails BC: http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/

Here is some important information to bear in mind over the long weekend:

Camping

  • Many campgrounds have specified rules and guidelines. Visitors are asked to comply with the posted rules.
  • Gates in provincial parks and some recreation sites are closed at 11 p.m., unless otherwise stated. Only registered campers are allowed in campsites after 11 p.m.
  • Excessive noise is not permitted. Please remember that sound can travel far in the open air, especially music and loud talking.
  • Liquor consumption is prohibited in parks, with the exception of your own campsite.
  • Barbecues must be used on the ground unless barbecue attachments are provided on picnic tables.
  • To avoid problems with bears, lock your food in your vehicle at night. Use the garbage containers that are provided and maintain a clean campsite. Never feed or approach bears.
  • Designated swimming areas within marker buoys are intended to protect swimmers. All watercraft and waterskiers must stay outside the markers. Lifeguards are not on duty in BC Parks or recreation sites.
  • Visitors can use trails to travel safely through the most interesting and beautiful parts of BC Parks or recreation sites, without damaging sensitive and unique plant and wildlife habitat. Please stay on the trails.

Campfire safety

  • Always check the Wildfire Management Branch website - www.bcwildfire.ca - before heading into the backcountry to find out if any open burning prohibitions are in effect.
  • If campfires are allowed in your area, bring a shovel or keep at least eight litres of water nearby to properly extinguish your campfire.
  • Make sure the campfire is completely extinguished and the ashes are cold to the touch before you leave it unattended for any period of time. Ensure that cigarette butts are properly extinguished in an ashtray and are not tossed away carelessly.
  • Campfires cannot be larger than 0.5 metres in height and 0.5 metres in diameter (roughly 11/2 feet by 11/2 feet).
  • You must maintain a one-metre fireguard around the campfire. This is a fuel-free area where all flammable materials (grass, kindling, etc.) have been removed.
  • You may be held accountable for damages and fire suppression costs if your negligence results in a wildfire.
  • Members of the public can report wildfires or unattended campfires by calling *5555 on a cellphone or by calling 1 800 663-5555 toll-free.

Off-road vehicles

  • Respect the environment when riding off-road vehicles. Use trails designated for motorized use.
  • Most provincial parks are closed to off-road vehicle use unless posted as open.
  • Operators of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are reminded that these vehicles must be insured while being driven on forest service roads.
  • Keep vehicles out of sensitive sites that are easily damaged, such as wetlands, grasslands, alpine areas and subalpine environments.
  • Failure to comply with regulations could result in a fine of $575 or (in more serious cases involving damage) up to $100,000 and a year in jail.

Fishing

  • Make sure you have a valid angling licence (April 1, 2013 to March 31, 2014) and are aware of angling regulations for the waters in your area, including gear and bait restrictions.
  • If you are operating a small vessel, ensure that you have your operator's licence with you and be aware of safety regulations for operating small vessels.

Pets must be kept on a leash at all times within provincial parks and in some recreation sites. Pets are not allowed inside park buildings.

The B.C. Wildlife Federation offers a reward up to $2,000 for information leading to the conviction of anyone who breaks wildlife laws, vandalizes private property or contravenes other property laws.

Report suspicious activities and environmental damage to the Conservation Officer Service's toll-free, 24-hour Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at 1 877 952-RAPP (7277), or call *7277 from your cellphone.

More information:

BC Parks: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/

Discover Camping: www.discovercamping.ca

Recreation Sites and Trails BC: http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/

Wildfire Management Branch: http://bcwildfire.ca/

Fire restrictions and bans: http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/Bans.asp

Hunting and fishing regulations: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/

Media Contacts:

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261

Aly Couch
Provincial Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 312-3052

Media Relations
Ministry of Environment
250 953-3834

]]> Celebrate the long weekend in a BC Park tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5994 2013-05-13T18:49:00Z 2013-05-13T20:48:38Z The Victoria Day long weekend is a busy one for Discover Camping, the Province's camping reservation system, but many BC Parks still offer first-come, first-served campsites for visitors without reservations. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - The Victoria Day long weekend is a busy one for Discover Camping, the Province's camping reservation system, but many BC Parks still offer first-come, first-served campsites for visitors without reservations.

Reservations in BC Parks are up 10 per cent this year to date, at 36,038 reservations compared to 32, 729 reservations in 2012. The most popular parks are Haynes Point, Bear Creek, Cultus Lake, Rathtrevor Beach and Okanagan Lake South.

To check availability in BC Parks, the public is encouraged to visit the Discover Camping website at: www.discovercamping.ca

Those searching for long-weekend availability can do so by selecting the desired dates under quick dates in step two and then clicking on the "in a list" icon under find sites.

Many parks have seen upgrades directed at attracting young families, offering new recreation opportunities, improving accessibility and increasing attendance.

  • If you're on Vancouver Island be sure to check out Rathtrevor Provincial Park's newly reconstructed campground and improved day use areas, including new picnic shelters and tables.
  • The toilet and shower buildings at Cultus Lake Provincial Park have recently been enhanced to reflect green technology and improve accessibility. New picnic tables have also been installed.
  • Visitors to the Kettle River Recreation Area can now enjoy 28 new campsites, picnic tables and a new toilet and shower building, as well as more trails linking existing campground loops.
  • In the Kootenays, visitors can enjoy new picnic tables, signage and other improvements to the trail system at Kikomun Creek Provincial Park. The new Ponderosa campground also provides 37 campsites, two cabins and a shower building.
  • Those visiting the Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park can now enjoy a new deck and change houses around the hot spring pool. This has improved accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges.

To find out what's new in a park near you, visit: www.BCParks.ca

There are over 5,000 reservable sites in 95 provincial parks throughout British Columbia. Up to three reservations can be made online in one easy transaction through Discover Camping. Individual sites are available up to three months in advance, while group sites are available up to 12 months in advance.

Discover Camping is also accessible by mobile devices at: https://secure.camis.com/BCMobile This is an alternative way to book a campsite from any mobile device or computer.

Reservations can also be made through the call centre at 1 800 689-9025 for a surcharge of $5 (plus tax).

Don't forget to pick up a free BC Parks Passport at any visitor centre in B.C. and most provincial parks. The idea is to collect six stamps at provincial parks to earn a collectible pin and six stickers from a BC Visitor Centre to earn an environmentally-friendly water bottle. Passports also include advice on trip-planning and Visitor Centre coupons.

Media contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Environment
250 953-3834


]]> Spring run-off affects access to three recreation sites tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5988 2013-05-10T18:00:00Z 2013-05-10T22:31:31Z Recreational users are advised that effective immediately access to three local recreation sites has been affected due to recent spring run-off. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VANDERHOOF - Recreational users are advised that effective immediately access to three local recreation sites has been affected due to recent spring run-off.

In the Vanderhoof area, Grizzly Lake and Woodcock Lake recreation sites, located at 23 km and 25 km on Grizzly Forest Service Road, are closed until further notice due to overly saturated access roads, making both unusable.

In the Fort St. James area, Great Beaver Lake Recreation Site, located at 444 km on Teardrop Forest Service Road, is accessible only from the west (Fort St. James) due to a washout at 450 km. Access from Prince George is not available at this time.

Recreational users, particularly users pulling large trailers, should be aware that turnaround space may be limited at the closure locations.

There are numerous recreation sites in these areas where access has not been affected, including Graveyard Lake and Tory Lake recreation sites in the vicinity of the Grizzly and Cobb forest service roads and Teardrop Lake and Tureen Lake recreation sites on the Prince George side of the washout on Teardrop Lake Forest Service Road.

For more information and updates, call 250 567-6416 or check the Recreation Sites and Trails BC website at: www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca

Contact:

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261

]]> B.C. crews head to Alberta to assist with prescribed burns tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5985 2013-05-09T22:45:00Z 2013-05-09T23:23:39Z The Wildfire Management Branch is sending 13 personnel to Alberta to assist Parks Canada in carrying out prescribed burns. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ KAMLOOPS - The Wildfire Management Branch is sending 13 personnel to Alberta to assist Parks Canada in carrying out prescribed burns.

Four, three-person initial attack crews and one agency representative are departing today for Waterton and Banff, Alberta.

The request for assistance was made through the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, which co-ordinates the mutual sharing of firefighting resources between B.C. and other jurisdictions.

Considering the current and forecasted provincial fire situation, sufficient personnel and resources remain in B.C. to respond appropriately to any within-province fire activities. Crews can be deployed for up to 19 days but can be recalled at any time.

Costs associated with deployment will be covered by the receiving jurisdictions under the Mutual Aid Resources Sharing Agreement, which allows for the movement of firefighting resources throughout Canada.

Quick Facts:

  • Initial attack crew: These wildland firefighters are usually assigned to newer and smaller fires.
  • Agency representative: Acts as the link between the deployed crews and the Wildfire Management Branch.
  • Prescribed fire can be used to safely reintroduce fire into the landscape to restore natural ecosystems, enhance habitat and reduce fuel loads. Wildfire Management Branch staff are often called upon to supply equipment and resources for these planned burns.

Learn More:

For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions in B.C., visit: www.bcwildfire.ca

You can also follow the latest B.C. wildfire news:

On Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
On Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Media Contact:

Kevin Skrepnek
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
250 312-3075 (office)

]]> Dry conditions lead to open fire ban in Peace region tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5981 2013-05-07T19:20:00Z 2013-05-07T22:42:02Z Effective noon on Thursday, May 9, 2013, Category 2 open fires and the use of fireworks will be prohibited in the Fort St. John and Dawson Creek fire zones. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ PRINCE GEORGE - As a result of dry conditions and an increasing wildfire risk, effective noon on Thursday, May 9, 2013, Category 2 open fires and the use of fireworks will be prohibited in the Fort St. John and Dawson Creek fire zones.

This prohibition will be in place until June 15, or until the public is otherwise notified.

Hot and dry weather over the past week have led to a spike in human-caused wildfires in the Peace region and elsewhere in B.C. Low humidity and high temperatures are expected to continue, so anyone working outdoors should be extremely diligent when operating equipment. All-terrain vehicle riders should be cautious in the backcountry, since any spark could ignite a wildfire.

Specifically, this prohibition on Category 2 open fires applies to:

  • The burning of any material, piled or unpiled, smaller than two metres in height and three metres in width, including burning barrels.
  • Fireworks.
  • Stubble or grass fires over an area less than 2,000 square metres.

This order does not prohibit campfires that are a half-metre high by a half-metre wide or smaller, or apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes. Anyone lighting a campfire must maintain a fireguard by removing flammable debris from the campfire area, and they must have a hand tool or at least eight litres of water available nearby to properly extinguish the fire before leaving the area for any length of time.

Any person lighting larger fires or more than two fires of any size must comply with burning regulations and must first obtain a burn registration number by calling 1 888 797-1717.

This prohibition covers all BC Parks and Crown and private lands, but does not apply within the boundaries of local governments that have forest fire prevention bylaws and are serviced by a fire department. Please check with civic authorities for any restrictions before lighting a fire.

Anyone found in contravention of an open fire prohibition may be fined $345 or, if convicted in court, be fined up to $100,000 and sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person may be subject to a penalty of up to $10,000 and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

The Dawson Creek and Fort St. John Fire zones are within and follow the Peace River Regional District boundaries. To see a map of the area affected, click here: http://ow.ly/kNupx

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, go to: http://www.bcwildfire.ca

You can also follow the latest wildfire news:

Media Contact:

Brent Bye
Senior Protection Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Prince George Fire Centre
250 565-6716
Brent.Bye@gov.bc.ca

]]> BC Coroners Service confirms identity of deceased teens tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5980 2013-05-06T23:00:00Z 2013-05-07T15:53:25Z The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of two teens whose bodies were recovered from Nicola Lake on May 6, 2013. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ KELOWNA - The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of two teens whose bodies were recovered from Nicola Lake on May 6, 2013.

They are Brendan Daniel Wilson and Austin Kurtis Kingsborough, both 17, and both from Langley.

The two were reported to police as missing on April 21 when they failed to return to Langley as planned after a weekend trip to a family cabin on Nicola Lake. The next day their canoe was found, half-submerged in the lake, and some personal belongings were also found. An official search was carried on for four days at that time, but the boys were not found.

On May 5, a private team from Idaho arrived in the area, equipped with sophisticated sonar equipment. On the morning of May 6, with the use of this equipment, the team was able to locate the site for the recovery operation, and the RCMP Underwater Recovery Team then completed the recoveries.

The BC Coroners Service and RCMP continue to investigate these deaths.

For further information, please contact:

Barb McLintock
Coroner, Strategic Programs
BC Coroners Service
250 356-9253


]]> BC Coroners Service confirms identity of deceased driver tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5975 2013-04-30T21:10:00Z 2013-05-02T16:40:35Z The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a male who died following a motor vehicle incident near Quesnel on April 27, 2013. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ PRINCE GEORGE - The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a male who died following a motor vehicle incident near Quesnel on April 27, 2013.

He was Christopher Richard Godwin, aged 57, of Quesnel.

Mr. Godwin was the driver and sole occupant of a pickup truck which left the road, struck a power pole and rolled down an embankment on Paradise Road in Quesnel in the early morning hours of April 27. Mr. Godwin was deceased at the scene.

The BC Coroners Service and RCMP continue to investigate this death.

The family of Mr. Godwin has been notified of his death. On behalf of family members, the BC Coroners Service asks that the media respect their privacy at this difficult time.

For further information, please contact:

Donita Kuzma
Regional Coroner, Northern Region
BC Coroners Service
250 565-6040

]]> BC Coroners Service confirms identity of deceased driver tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5972 2013-04-26T21:20:00Z 2013-04-29T17:48:34Z The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a male who died following a motor vehicle incident near Prince George on April 25, 2013. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ PRINCE GEORGE - The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a male who died following a motor vehicle incident near Prince George on April 25, 2013.

He was Logan John Roy Whitmer, aged 19, of Prince George.

Mr. Whitmer was the driver and sole occupant of a car which was involved in a single-vehicle rollover accident on Highway 16 about 15 km east of Prince George shortly after 1 p.m. on April 25. Mr. Whitmer was rushed to hospital in Prince George but succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival at hospital.

The Coroners Service and RCMP continue to investigate this death.

The family of Mr. Whitmer has been notified of his death. On behalf of family members, the Coroners Service asks that the media respect their privacy at this difficult time.

For further information, please contact:

Donita Kuzma
Regional Coroner, Northern Region
BC Coroners Service
250 565-6040

]]> Prince George Fire Centre urges caution with open burns tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5971 2013-04-26T17:55:00Z 2013-04-26T21:17:15Z The Prince George Fire Centre is asking the public to exercise caution with any outdoor burning activities this spring. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ PRINCE GEORGE - The Prince George Fire Centre is asking the public to exercise caution with any outdoor burning activities this spring.

As the snow melts, dried grass from last summer is uncovered and that material can be highly flammable. Almost all wildfires at this time of the year are caused by people and are therefore preventable.

Homeowners and industry personnel are encouraged to consult the B.C. FireSmart manual and take the following precautions:

  • Ensure that enough people, water and tools are on hand to control the fire and prevent it from escaping.
  • Do not burn during windy conditions. Weather conditions can change quickly and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material and start new fires.
  • Create a fireguard at least one metre around the planned fire site by clearing away twigs, grass, leaves and other combustible material.
  • If you are planning a large burn, consider conducting smaller burns around the perimeter beforehand to create a fuel break and help stop the fire from spreading beyond its intended size. Each of these fires should be kept small and must be completely extinguished before starting a new fire.
  • Never leave a fire unattended. Make sure that your fire is completely extinguished and the ashes are cold to the touch before you leave the area.

If you are planning to do any large-scale industrial burning or conduct a grass burn over 0.2 hectares (Category 3 fires), you must obtain a burn registration number ahead of time by calling 1 888 797-1717. More information is available at: http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/Bans.asp

Venting conditions should always be checked before conducting an open burn. If conditions are rated "Poor" or "Fair", open burning is restricted. The venting index can be found at: http://www.bcairquality.ca/readings/ventilation-index.html

In British Columbia, the Wildfire Act specifies a person's legal obligations when using fire on or within one kilometre of forest land or grassland. If an outdoor burn escapes and causes a wildfire, the person responsible may be held accountable for damages and fire suppression costs.

Anyone found in contravention of an open fire prohibition may be issued a ticket for $345 or, if convicted in court, be fined up to $100,000 and sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person may be subject to a penalty of up to $10,000 and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

The Province thanks the public for its ongoing help in preventing wildfires. If you see flames or smoke, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or call *5555 on your cellphone.

To view the B.C. FireSmart manual, visit: http://bcwildfire.ca/FightingWildfire/safety/pamphlets/FireSmart-BC4.pdf

For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website: www.bcwildfire.ca

You can follow the latest wildfire news -

On Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo

On Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Media Contact:

Steve Matlashewski
Regional Wildfire Control Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Prince George Fire Centre
250 565-6114

]]> Leave newborn wildlife in the wild tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5970 2013-04-26T17:00:00Z 2013-04-26T21:15:30Z When it comes to newborn wild animals, mother always knows best, and so with fawning and calving season underway, provincial biologists are reminding people that newborn deer, elk or moose should not be touched or moved when encountered. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - When it comes to newborn wild animals, mother always knows best, and so with fawning and calving season underway, provincial biologists are reminding people that newborn deer, elk or moose should not be touched or moved when encountered.

People who find these newborns alone often mistakenly believe they have been abandoned, but usually they have only been left there temporarily by their mother, who will return. Intervening in these situations by "rescuing" the fawn or calf is rarely necessary and will usually do more harm than good.

It is normal for mother deer, elk and other ungulates to leave their young alone for long periods, returning a few times a day to nurse and relying on the newborn's lack of scent to protect them from predators. Returning mothers that find humans or pets nearby may leave or can become aggressive to defend their offspring from the perceived threat. The mother will return if the young is left alone.

Although these newborns may appear abandoned, it is rarely the case, and if they are removed they will be orphaned. While professional wildlife rehabilitation facilities in some areas of B.C. can successfully rear these newborns, there is no maternal care and their chances of survival are far less than if they had been raised by their true mother.

This is true not just for deer; many mammals leave their young alone for long periods of time, only to return to feed them at regular intervals. So, if you encounter a young deer or calf in the wild at this time of the year, appreciate the experience, but don't approach or intervene.

Quick Facts:

If you find a fawn or calf that you think may be orphaned, here's what you should do:

  • If it is lying quietly, leave it alone and leave the area. Your presence will discourage the mother from returning.
  • Keep all children and especially dogs away from the area.
  • If you think the fawn or calf is not being cared for by its mother, return the next day to check. If it is in the exact same spot, it may be injured or orphaned. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible, but do not touch or move the animal.
  • Do not touch or feed the animal.

Learn More:

To find a wildlife rehabilitator near you, visit the Wildlife Rehabilitators Network of British Columbia at: http://www.wrnbc.org/contact/find-a-local-rehabilitator/

Media Contact:

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261

]]> Whistler's Official Community Plan approved tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5960 2013-04-16T00:33:00Z 2013-04-16T01:05:26Z Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Bill Bennett says after three years of work on the part of the Resort Municipality of Whistler, he is approving its Official Community Plan. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Bill Bennett says after three years of work on the part of the Resort Municipality of Whistler, he is approving its Official Community Plan.

The community has worked hard to ensure that the Official Community Plan is consistent with the Whistler 2020 sustainability plan, reflects its community values, and ensures local growth is managed effectively and responsibly.

Since 1993, when the existing Official Community Plan was comprehensively reviewed, Whistler has changed significantly as its population has doubled from 5,000 to over 10,000. In 2009, Whistler approached the Province to advise that it would be reviewing its plan after the Olympics.

A comprehensive update to the plan was started in April 2010 to ensure Whistler's future success as a world-class resort. The review included community events, open houses, working group sessions, advisory committee meetings, and youth participation that engaged 1,500 participants. Through this process, strong support was expressed for growth management to protect the many features that make Whistler a desirable destination resort.

The Resort Municipality also engaged both the Squamish First Nations and Lil'Wat First Nations. The Province is prepared to engage both the municipality and local First Nations in future discussions on land use and economic development opportunities.

The minister's approval is the last step in the process before Whistler's Council can adopt the bylaw which confirms the Official Community Plan. The bylaw can be amended periodically as changing circumstances and new opportunities are considered. In the absence of any major provincial concern, the ministry tries to approve bylaws as soon as possible so as not to hold up the community process and to ensure certainty for the local government.

Media Contact:

Matt Gordon
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 896-4923 (Cell)

]]> Premier Christy Clark's statement on Yom Ha'atzmaut tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5961 2013-04-16T00:30:00Z 2013-04-16T01:03:22Z Premier Christy Clark issued the following statement today celebrating the 65th anniversary of Israel's independence, Yom Ha'atzmaut: BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - Premier Christy Clark issued the following statement today celebrating the 65th anniversary of Israel's independence, Yom Ha'atzmaut:

"On behalf British Columbia, I want to congratulate and join Israelis everywhere in celebrating the 65th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel.

"Since its creation in 1948, Israel has faced many threats and overcome many challenges, yet its commitment to its people and the democracy in which they live has never wavered.

"Israel has emerged a strong and prosperous economy whose technology and innovation have helped change the world for the better.

"British Columbia is keen to continue to build its social and economic relations with Israel, based on shared values. My government will continue to show its long-lasting friendship with Israel through further collaboration in clean technology, health sciences and academia.

"Best wishes to Israel on Yom Ha'atzmaut, and British Columbia looks forward to the next 65 years."

Media Contact:

Intergovernmental Relations Secretariat Media Line
250 356-5963

]]> Times of India Film Awards generates economic benefits for B.C. tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5958 2013-04-15T22:30:00Z 2013-04-16T15:47:14Z The Province of British Columbia is providing the following preliminary estimates of immediate economic benefit to B.C. as a result of the Times of India Film Awards (TOIFA). BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ The Province of British Columbia is providing the following preliminary estimates of immediate economic benefit to B.C. as a result of the Times of India Film Awards (TOIFA).

The following preliminary breakdown of production impacts has been provided by The Times Group:

  • 6000 - direct and indirect employees hired in British Columbia to stage TOIFA events
  • 24 - number of local corporations contracted to provide services to the Times of India Group in British Columbia (including security, ground transportation, media relations, catering, technical support, logistics, printing)
  • 3000 - hotel room nights booked by the Times Group in Vancouver for TOIFA

The following preliminary value estimates of travel media coverage of B.C. in India between November through March were provided by the Canadian Tourism Commission:

  • $4.5 million in The Economic Times travel section
  • $1.6 million in non-Times Group newspapers
  • $725,500 from articles or mentions in various magazines
  • TOTAL: $6.8 million of travel media coverage of B.C. in Indian print publications

The Canadian Tourism Commission estimates that B.C. earned approximately $446,000 of media value in the Economic Times for two multi-page inserts prepared by the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training promoting investment and trade with British Columbia and which ran in December and March.

The Times Group estimates that at least twelve print news stories mentioning B.C. or Vancouver ran in Times Group newspapers across India during and immediately following TOIFA (this early estimate does not include news stories which ran in media outlets not owned by the Times Group and also does not include radio or television broadcasts from Times Group or any other media outlets).

  • A front page picture caption in The Times of India, the world's most-read English-language newspaper.
  • A feature article in The Economic Times, the world's second most-read financial daily behind the Wall Street Journal.

Upcoming activities will generate further exposure:

  • TV broadcast of TOIFA and rebroadcasts (total estimated viewership is 400 million)
  • One remaining insert in the Economic Times promoting trade with British Columbia in June (Canadian Tourism Commission estimated value: $223,000)
  • Continuing collaboration with travel agents in India to promote British Columbia as a tourist destination.

One more TOIFA activity is planned. It is a television travelogue focused on British Columbia attractions with a Bollywood celebrity. Filming will take place in B.C. in May and will air in India at a later date.

Media Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Responsible for Labour
250 387-2799

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