Premier John Horgan has announced restarting of the province will begin in mid-May, following restrictions on many businesses due to COVID-19.

In a press release the government says under its ‘Restart Plan’ it will ‘work closely with public health officials, businesses and labour organizations to lift restrictions in phases, gradually allowing for more social and economic activity, while closely monitoring health information to minimize the risk to the public’.

 

On May 14th most provincial parks will re-open for day use only. On June 1st, many remaining facilities – including campgrounds, will re-open. The Discover Camping reservation system will be back online on May 25th at 7 a.m. to accept camping reservations.

The public is being reminded that everyone is responsible for their own safety and to practice physical distancing by giving extra space when passing on trails and in parking lots and practicing appropriate hygiene. People are urged to only visit a park close to their home and avoid travelling to small communities.

The government says a small number of parks that attract large crowds, or where re-opening would pose a health risk to nearby communities, will remain closed.

Those parks that will remain closed (at least for the initial May 14th opening) includes most Sea to Sky parks;

  • Porteau Cove
  • Murrin Lake
  • Shannon Falls
  • Stawamus Chief
  • Brandywine Falls
  • Nairn Falls
  • Garibaldi
  • Joffre Lakes

Anyone found in a closed park will be evicted and could face a $115 fine. Alice Lake and Brackendale Eagles parks will be open for day use as of May 14th.

The Province says personal hygiene and physical distancing, as well as staying home if you are stick will be crucial for the success of every phase of their re-opening plan.

You can view the full ‘Restart Plan’ here.

 

Filed under: BC Parks, Parks, Pemberton, Sea to Sky, Squamish, Whistler