Skip to content

Ski resorts permit review invites input

New policy to set out how ski hills and parks will coexist
parks
BC Parks has asked for public feedback on a draft policy for the management of three ski resorts within provincial parks: Cypress, Mount Seymour and Manning.

Like a cassette player evolving into an iPod, the provincial government's 1980s-era ski resort policy is getting an update.

Ski resorts nestled in public parks such as Cypress and Mount Seymour, as well as Manning Park, are in need of new permits that account for the burgeoning popularity of snowshoeing and mountain biking as well as the public appetite for year-round use, according to a release from the Ministry of Environment.

The province sold the resorts to private interests in 1984, and subsequently issued 50-year permits that failed to anticipate both changes in climate and the need for frequent infrastructure investments. Resort operators also can't apply to extend their permit until 40 years have elapsed, creating uncertainty about the chances of recouping investments in infrastructure, according to the ministry.

The new permits are intended help the ski resorts remain viable businesses while developing a land use policy that values both the environment and recreation.

The decision to approve a ski resort development plan will stay with BC Parks.

Skiers, snowshoers, and lovers of the outdoors are invited to offer their two cents on the new policy. The province is also looking for input from First Nations and tourism groups.

Comments to the Ministry of Environment should be made on or before June 29. To make your comments, visit env. gov.bc.ca/bcparks/permits/consultation/ski-hill-policy. html.

The new policy is slated to be unveiled before the end of 2014.