Land Use Planning (Have Your Say by June 23): 

The shíshálh and BC Land Use Planning team is asking for input from all residents of the swiya (territory) by June 23, 2025. This is a critical opportunity for the public to weigh in on how land in the region will be managed going forward - a process that will impact access, use, and conservation of public lands. 

We strongly encourage residents to fill out the online questionnaire or send a letter to your MLA and landuseplanning@gov.bc.ca. Visit the official engagement site here. 

The province has released an interactive map which outlines proposed land use zones and highlights sensitive habitat areas. The WPC has been coordinating with several organizations on how to best respond on behalf of dock and waterfront owners. We will be submitting a letter requesting further mapping of parks, marine parks, public docks / anchorage locations, and access to these areas.  

There are several other land use planning initiatives underway across B.C. that could affect public land and are currently open for input. Learn more here. 

Our recommendation:

The government must ensure that public land, including bodies of water, remain accessible to all coastal residents, and that privately owned land is not affected by any new zoning or planning outcomes.

DMP & Long-Term Tenures:

An update on the Dock Management Plan and long-term tenures is expected soon, including a letter from the province addressing key concerns highlighted by the WPC and its members. The government has reaffirmed that docks and boathouses in place as of July 1, 2024, remain grandfathered. We have asked the government to issue tenures promptly. 

Coalition Updates:

Council of BC Yacht Clubs (CBCYC) update: 

The CBCYC has outlined several key issues for recreational boaters, including information on their efforts with the Gambier Island Official Community Plan Regulations and the new anchoring restrictions in Cowichan Bay. Click here to learn more.  

Swiya Lakes Stewardship Alliance (sLSA) Update:

The Swiya Lakes Stewardship Alliance (sLSA) has been actively participating in the Lakes Advisory Group, collaborating with the shíshálh Nation, the B.C. government, and other stakeholders on the future of freshwater dock management. For a detailed overview please refer to the full June update on the sLSA website.