Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC) is a branch of the
Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. It is tasked with managing over 1,350 recreation sites and 800 trails across the province of
British Columbia
British Columbia (commonly abbreviated as BC) is the westernmost province of Canada, situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Rocky Mountains. It has a diverse geography, with rugged landscapes that include rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, ...
,
Canada
Canada is a country in North America. Its ten provinces and three territories extend from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean and northward into the Arctic Ocean, covering over , making it the world's second-largest country by tot ...
. These sites and trails are part of a unique network offering safe and enjoyable public recreation opportunities for both residents and visitors from around the world.
History
The history of RSTBC can be traced back to 1939 when the British Columbia Forest Service established a Parks Division to manage public recreation on
Crown land
Crown land (sometimes spelled crownland), also known as royal domain, is a territorial area belonging to the monarch, who personifies the Crown. It is the equivalent of an entailed estate and passes with the monarchy, being inseparable from it. ...
. After several transformations and the involvement of various ministries, the responsibility for these recreation sites and trails was assigned to the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations.
Mission and Operations
RSTBC's mission is to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities and experiences by managing a sustainable network of recreation sites and trails. The management of these sites includes promoting environmental stewardship, public safety, and the educational values of outdoor recreation.
RSTBC delivers its programs through a headquarters in Victoria, four regional offices, and 19 district offices across the province. A significant portion of the management is handled through partnerships with local communities, First Nations, non-governmental organizations, and private enterprises.
Economic and Social Impact
RSTBC's activities have a profound economic and social impact, particularly in rural communities. The sites and trails not only support local economies by attracting tourism but also contribute to health and wellness by promoting physical activities. Partnerships created through these programs help foster community pride and conservation efforts.
Environmental and Educational Benefits
The sites and trails managed by RSTBC are not only recreational resources but also serve as platforms for environmental education and stewardship. They help in conserving biodiversity and teaching the public about sustainable practices.
See also
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BC Parks
BC Parks is an agency of the British Columbia Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy that manages all of the, as of 2020, 1,035 provincial parks and other conservation and historical properties of various title designations within t ...
References
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British Columbia government departments and agencies
British Columbia
British Columbia (commonly abbreviated as BC) is the westernmost province of Canada, situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Rocky Mountains. It has a diverse geography, with rugged landscapes that include rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, ...
Environmental protection agencies
British Columbia
British Columbia (commonly abbreviated as BC) is the westernmost province of Canada, situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Rocky Mountains. It has a diverse geography, with rugged landscapes that include rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, ...