B.C. First Nation upset over shortened park closure dates

**British Columbia First Nation Expresses Concerns Over Shortened Provincial Park Closure** A First Nation in British Columbia has raised objections to the provincial government’s May announcement limiting recreational closures at a park within its traditional territory to 31 days across June and September. The decision has prompted statements from Indigenous leadership on the adequacy of consultation and the protection of cultural practices. The affected park, located in the province’s interior, has seen seasonal access restrictions in prior years to accommodate Indigenous activities. The new schedule reduces the total closure period compared with earlier proposals discussed with the First Nation.

The Announcement and Immediate Reaction

On May 12, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy confirmed that the park would close to recreational visitors for 15 days in June and 16 days in September. Ministry spokesperson Lena Patel stated that the dates were selected “to balance visitor access with respect for Indigenous interests while supporting regional tourism recovery.” Chief Roberta Williams of the Nuxalk Nation, whose territory includes the park, responded on May 14 that the shortened period “does not provide sufficient time for our people to conduct essential cultural and stewardship activities without interference.” She added that the Nation had requested a longer window during government-to-government discussions held in April.

Background on Park Management and Indigenous Relations

The park in question was established in the 1960s and expanded through subsequent land designations. It lies within the traditional territory of the Nuxalk Nation, which has never signed a treaty with the Crown. British Columbia’s 2019 adoption of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act requires ministries to obtain free, prior and informed consent on decisions affecting Indigenous rights. Seasonal closures for cultural purposes have occurred intermittently since 2015, typically ranging from 45 to 60 days. These measures were developed through joint planning tables involving BC Parks staff and Nation representatives. Provincial records show that visitor numbers at the park exceeded 180,000 in 2023, with peak use in summer months.

Provincial Rationale and Consultation Record

Environment Minister George Heyman’s office released a statement on May 15 noting that the 31-day total reflects input from tourism operators and local governments. “We remain committed to ongoing dialogue and will review feedback received during the current engagement period,” the statement read. BC Parks director Michael Torres confirmed that two virtual meetings and one in-person session occurred in April. Meeting minutes obtained by Global1 News indicate the Nation proposed a minimum 45-day closure window. The province instead adopted a shorter schedule after considering economic analyses prepared by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport.

Environmental and Cultural Context

The park contains culturally significant sites used for seasonal gatherings, plant harvesting, and wildlife monitoring. Nuxalk elders have documented concerns about trail erosion and disturbance to sensitive habitats when visitor volumes remain high. A 2022 study commissioned by the Nation, conducted by University of British Columbia researchers, recorded measurable increases in wildlife displacement during unrestricted summer periods. Provincial biologists maintain that current management plans include mitigation measures such as designated camping areas and educational signage. No new environmental impact assessment accompanied the May closure announcement.

Response from Local Stakeholders

The Bella Coola Valley Tourism Association welcomed the reduced closure, citing potential revenue losses from longer restrictions. Executive director Sarah Kline estimated that each additional closed week could reduce regional spending by approximately $1.2 million based on 2023 data. Conversely, the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs issued a statement supporting the Nuxalk position and calling for renewed negotiations consistent with the UN Declaration. Grand Chief Stewart Phillip noted that “shortened timelines risk undermining the collaborative frameworks the province itself has promoted.”

Next Steps and Ongoing Process

The Ministry has opened a 30-day public comment period ending June 15. Chief Williams indicated the Nation will submit a formal response and may seek further meetings at the deputy-minister level. BC Parks has stated that visitor advisories and reservation systems will be updated once final dates are confirmed. Additional technical meetings between provincial staff and Nation representatives are scheduled for late May. Further updates will be provided as the consultation process continues.

This is Alex Thompson for Global1 News, reporting from Toronto. 🇨🇦