Bella Coola, BC – As part of the Marine Planning Partnership (MaPP) initiative for the North Pacific Coast, public input is being sought on a draft Marine Plan for BC's Central Coast…

The MaPP initiative is being co-led by the provincial government and 18 member First Nations working to create plans for marine uses and long-term ocean health on the North Pacific Coast.  The Central Coast plan covers the main communities of Bella Coola, Bella Bella, Ocean Falls, Shearwater, Wuikinuxv, and Klemtu, along with hundreds of islands, exposed rocky headlands, and shelf waters of the Queen Charlotte Sound.

According to the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations, the draft was developed following extensive consultation with stakeholders with expertise in a range of marine sectors.  As well, a science advisory committee provided technical and scientific input.  However, the ministry says the plan "is not intended to address management of uses and activities that the Province considers to be federal government jurisdiction."

A public meeting to gather feedback on the draft is set for Monday, June 16th in Bella Coola, at the Legion, starting with an open house at 5:30pm.  A similar session is planned for Wednesday, June 18th in Shearwater on Denny Island, at Fishermen's Bar and Grill, starting at 5:30pm.

Final plans for all sub-regions of the North Coast – Haida Gwaii, North Coast, Central Coast, and North Vancouver Island – and a regional management framework are scheduled for completion by this summer.

For more information, click here.