Regional Parks Strategic Plan Update

The Regional Parks and Trails Strategic Plan 2022-2032 was approved by the CRD Board on July 12, 2023.

• Regional Parks and Trails Strategic Plan 2022-2032 (PDF)

This updated 10-year strategic plan is an overarching document that provides long-term vision for regional parks and trails, and is founded on the belief that regional parks and trails provide immense benefits to the region.

In July 2022, the CRD Board approved the Regional Parks and Trails Strategic Plan on an interim basis for one year to continue engaging with First Nations. During this period, 15 First Nations contributed their insights and perspectives into the final plan, linked above.

The CRD Regional Parks and Trails Strategic Plan 2022-2032 received interim approval from the Board on July 13, 2022.The plan provides a renewed vision, mission, values, priorities and actions to guide regional parks and trails service delivery from 2022 to 2032.

• Regional Parks and Trails Strategic Plan 2022-2032 (PDF)

The plan was developed in consultation with agencies, stakeholders and the public, and with ongoing input from First Nations in the region.

• Public engagement report (PDF)
• First Nations engagement report (PDF)

The plan also reflects direction from the Board and recommendations made by the Transportation Committee and Regional Parks Committee to:

• apply a lens of conservation and protection of biodiversity to the plan and process
• change the name to “Regional Parks and Trails Strategic Plan”.
• include actions to improve service levels for regional trails and direct staff to develop a funding strategy
• add bike parking and e-bike charging stations as part of a priority action
• continue First Nations engagement

Interim approval of the plan for one year will provide additional engagement opportunities with First Nations to deepen an understanding of issues and interests and allow reconciliation efforts identified in the Strategic Plan to commence.

The Regional Parks and Trails Strategic Plan 2022-2032 (Strategic Plan) has been developed with input from First Nations, stakeholder groups and the public, and draws on corporate knowledge and linkages with other CRD strategies. The Strategic Plan is an overarching document that provides a long-term vision for regional parks and regional trails from 2022 to 2032. This updated 10-year Strategic Plan builds on the success of the Regional Parks Strategic Plan 2012-2021. It is founded on the belief that regional parks and regional trails provide immense benefits to the region and that it is necessary to plan today to protect those natural areas that are vital to the long-term health of the region’s natural environment, cultural heritage and the health of people and of our communities.

The highlights of the renewed Strategic Plan are: a commitment to build strong relationships with First Nations in the region and support Indigenous rights; increased efforts to conserve natural areas and cultural heritage; improvements to the visitor experience; preparations for and action on climate change; improved resiliency across the service; and enhanced access to and equity in regional parks and trails.

The renewed Strategic Plan was presented to the Transportation Committee and Regional Parks Committee in June 2022 and to the CRD Board in July. The meeting agendas can be viewed here: Meeting Schedule | CRD

• Stakeholder engagement: Stakeholder groups representing broad conservation, outdoor recreation and community interests were invited to participate in focus groups about the Regional Parks Strategic Plan update in February 2022. Here is a summary report of what we heard.
• Public engagement: A survey was available until April 4 for the public to offer feedback about the Regional Parks Strategic Plan update. Public information sessions were held:
  • March 11, 12pm-1pm (watch recording here)
  • March 16, 5pm-6pm (watch recording here)
  • April 1, 12pm-1pm (watch recording here)
• First Nations engagement: The CRD's boundaries span the traditional territories of 18 First Nations, whose ancestors have been taking care of the land since time immemorial. The CRD believes that a positive working relationship with First Nations is good for the whole region. Engagement with First Nations on the Regional Parks and Trails Strategic Plan update is ongoing.

We work cooperatively and respectfully to steward and expand an exceptional system of regional parks and trails that is rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, resilient to change, connects people to nature and provides healthy outdoor experiences for all.

• Ensure regional parks and trails are resilient by delivering a sustainable service that is adaptable and takes action on climate change
• Foster stewardship of ecological and cultural resources by informing, engaging and collaborating with the public, volunteers, partners, and First Nations
• Provide access to regional parks and trails that facilitates healthy, safe and enjoyable outdoor recreation experiences for all
• Secure a diverse and connected system of regional parks and trails that protect and restore the integrity of our region’s biodiversity and cultural landscapes
• Work with First Nations in taking care of the land and water

Accessibility – We provide access to nature for all ages and abilities

Conservation – We work together to protect, restore and celebrate the region’s natural and cultural landscapes

Equity – We work together to ensure regional parks and trails are inclusive and maintained as a common good

Reconciliation – We are committed to work towards reconciliation with First Nations

Recreation – We offer outdoor recreation experiences that improve our health and well-being

Resiliency – We take action on climate change by being adaptive and using resources sustainably with a view to benefiting future generations

Conservation & Recreation

• Conserve biodiversity
• Enable outdoor recreation
• Work with partners
• Foster stewardship

Access & Equity

• Enhance health & well-being
• Promote complete and connected communities
• Ensure economic fairness
• Accessibility & equity lens

Climate Action & Resiliency

• Align sustainable service delivery with climate action
• Advance regional active transportation
• Develop partnerships
• Acquire and manage natural areas

Reconciliation

• Incorporate First Nations reconciliation objectives
• Provide space for cultural use
• Strengthen engagement
• Support shared prosperity

A workshop of the Regional Parks Committee members was convened on January 26, 2022 to provide input on the proposed direction of the Regional Parks Strategic Plan update. The Committee considered a proposed vision, mission, values, priorities and targets to be included in the updated Regional Parks Strategic Plan. View the material and Committee workshop here:

• Regional Parks Committee workshop agenda and webcast

On February 9, 2022, the Board reviewed the outcomes of the Regional Parks Committee workshop and provided direction on a proposed vision, values, mission statement and priorities ahead of engagement with stakeholders, the public and First Nations.

• Regional Board meeting agenda and webcast
• Media release