Task Force presents report on Species at Risk
By Contributor
Public comments are now being sought on a new report that recommends short- and long-term actions to protect B.C.’s species at risk.
Developed by an independent, 10-member task force announced in the August, 2009 speech from the throne, members were chosen for their experience or expertise in a wide range of sectors, including environmental protection, mining, ranching, academia, resource management and partnerships with First Nations to create a small but balanced group of well-respected individuals.
One of the task force members is Daryll Hebert, president of Encompass Strategic Resources in Creston. Hebert he develops system, research and management plans for natural resource companies. He also worked as a regional wildlife biologist for 19 years.
The report makes 16 recommendations addressing legislation, environmental management, First Nations engagement and public engagement (see backgrounder for a complete list). Many build on actions and directions already underway.
For example, the “one window, one process” approach coordinated by the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations provides an opportunity to more consistently consider species at risk in natural resource decision-making.
Similarly, recent resource sector shifts to integrated, area-based management align with task force recommendations for ecosystem-based management, and recommendations relating to First Nations are consistent with the principles in the Province’s New Relationship document.
The Province will study the report in detail over the next several months before delivering a formal response. In the meantime, British Columbians are encouraged to read and comment on the task force report through the Ministry of Environment website.
As government formulates its plan, all feedback received will be valued and the implications on all interests will be fully considered.
Learn more
- Read and comment on the task force report and recommendations at: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/sartaskforce/
Species at Risk Task Force Recommendations
Approach
Take an ecosystem-based approach to species at risk.
Legislation
- Strengthen existing legislation.
- Implement the Wildlife Amendment Act.
- Update the Canada-British Columbia Agreement on Species at Risk (2005).
Management
- Support the Conservation Data Centre.
- Support and enhance the Conservation Framework.
- Implement conservation priorities through the resource management coordination process.
- Enable the resource management system to adapt to changing circumstances.
- Establish consistent funding mechanisms.
First Nations Engagement
- Engage First Nations on the basis of the principles of recognition and reconciliation as stated in the New Relationship document.
- Engage First Nations directly in area-based conservation decision-making.
- Encourage First Nations trust in the effectiveness of conservation initiatives undertaken to protect ecosystems and species at risk.
Public Engagement
- Engage private land owners to participate effectively in conservation efforts.
- Engage stakeholders and partners directly in area-based conservation decision-making.
- Encourage public trust in the effectiveness of conservation initiatives undertaken to protect ecosystems and species at risk.
- Launch a wider consultation process.
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