Written by Paul Kubik

Created: 17 March 2020

Hits: 2081

This issue regarding trail management on Crown land on Bowen Island came up at the March 2020 meeting of the southwest B.C. recreation and conservation committee meeting of the Federation of Mountain Clubs of B.C. The group Bowen Community and Nature (Bowen CAN), has posted the following information.

The Issue

There has been inadequate community consultation regarding the management of trails and the use of motorized vehicles on Crown Lands.

What you need to know

Bowen Island is treasured by community members, and by many visitors from throughout the Lower Mainland, as a “green oasis” where one finds peace and tranquility in the forests of Mt. Gardner.
New and proposed trails for motorized vehicles on the upper slopes and summit of Mount Gardner, and stated intentions to advertise these trails to off-island users, represent a fundamental change for Mount Gardner. To date, the mountain has been the primary domain of hikers and, to a lesser extent, mountain bikers. It is a quiet place and important habitat for birds and wildlife. Motorized vehicles, while not prohibited, have been minor users. However, significant expansion of motorized vehicles could transform the mountain into a very different environment and experience, bringing engine noise, the potential for conflict and safety issues between motorized and non-motorized users, and impacts on birds and wildlife.

Further reading, open the fact sheet at the link below.

Fact Sheet—Trail Management on Bowen Island Crown lands