Officials representing Vancouver Island’s west coast communities are urging people to make a reservation at an authorized campground before arriving.
In a joint press release, representatives from the District of Tofino, District of Ucluelet, Alberni Clayoquot Regional District, and the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ Government (Ucluelet First Nation) say there has been an “unacceptably high” level of illegal and backroad camping over the past two years on the Island’s west coast.
They say all the backroad and illegal camping has had a negative impact on their communities, Indigenous Territorial lands, and highly sensitive surrounding ecological areas including local aquifers. They also say with some of the driest summers on record in recent years, illegal camping is increasing the risk of a wildfire and is placing first responders at risk.
“Backroad ‘living’ puts stress on the environment and local community members. We strongly encourage visitors to come prepared with accommodation when travelling to the west coast,” said Charles McCarthy, president of the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ Government.
“I am proud that the west coast communities have come together as a unified group to stop unauthorized and destructive backcountry behaviour. Our region’s natural amenities are a precious shared resource – misuse will no longer be tolerated,” adds Dan Law, District of Tofino’s mayor.
In an effort to crack down on illegal camping, there will be increased patrols and enforcement this summer throughout the areas of the Clayoquot Arm, along the Kennedy Lake Watershed, within Tla-o-qui-aht, Yuułuʔiłʔath, and Toquaht traditional territories. Enforcement targetting dispersed and unauthorized camping will also occur on municipal streets and within BC Parks and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Tickets will be issued to those caught, the release notes.
“The environmentally friendly and responsible way to camp in the region is to make a reservation at one of the many authorized campgrounds in the area,” says Daniel Sailland of the Alberni Clayoquot Regional District “There are no serviced camping sites on backroads along Kennedy Lake or highway pullouts and there is zero-tolerance for unauthorized camping and unauthorized overnight parking within all communities.”
Campers without reservations at authorized camping areas are asked to find alternative arrangements, such as a motel or hotel in the area, delaying or cancelling their trip entirely.
CHEK News
