Residents of Vancouver Island and nearby islands are currently engaged in a heated discussion regarding a request by an American non-profit organization to utilize British Columbia Crown land for camping during kayak expeditions. The National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), known for organizing outdoor adventures globally, is seeking to renew and broaden a license it has reportedly held since 2006. The application aims to allow NOLS to establish campsites at 77 locations while guiding an eight to ten-person kayak journey from Washington to Alaska next summer, predominantly on and around Vancouver Island.
The proposal has sparked numerous conversations within Vancouver Island-based social media groups, such as Facebook and Reddit, with hundreds of comments expressing concerns about granting an American entity access to Canadian territory. Karen McCarthy, a resident of Esquimalt near Victoria, shared her apprehension after coming across a community post about the application. McCarthy highlighted her unease regarding the quantity of locations and the perceived lack of consultation with local communities and First Nations in proximity to the sites.
While some voiced worries about specific sites on the list, others defended NOLS, citing the organization’s reputable history in British Columbia and its commitment to environmentally conscious practices like “leave no trace.” Amidst the discussions, there were fears expressed regarding potential military use and permanent construction on the sites covered by the license. However, a spokesperson clarified that NOLS’ upcoming kayak trip would not involve military training and that no structures would be erected.
Rich Majerus, NOLS’ vice president of expeditions, emphasized the company’s longstanding presence in the region, dating back to the mid-1990s. The application states that all 77 campsites may not be utilized, with licenses obtained as a precaution for unforeseen circumstances like adverse weather conditions. The Ministry of Water, Land, and Resource Stewardship explained that the licenses grant commercial use rights on Crown land without exclusive access, ensuring public access remains available.
Outdoor and adventure tourism play a significant role in British Columbia’s economy, with the government encouraging sustainable eco-tourism investments that benefit both the economy and the environment. However, some, like Mike Willie, a hereditary chief of the Kwikwasut’inuxw Nation, believe priority should be given to local interests before external ventures. Willie emphasized the importance of preserving sites for local communities, both non-native and First Nations, before catering to outside entities.
As the public comment period on the application continues until October 5, the ministry is conducting early engagements with First Nations and plans to assess potential risks like wildfires and pollution. The discussions around the NOLS application for camping on Crown land in British Columbia remain ongoing, with various viewpoints shaping the dialogue.