Conference to Explore the Future of Parks and Protected Areas
By 250 News
Friday, November 28, 2008 03:56 AM
Prince George, B.C.- "Putting Research into Action" is the theme of a conference that will be held at UNBC starting Monday. The event is expected to draw about 150 researchers and protected area managers/planners from BC, Alberta, Washington, and Alaska with the intent of applying research to the pressing issues affecting the future of parks and protected areas throughout British Columbia.
“The most pressing issues for our parks include forest management and restoration in the wake of the pine beetle, the effects of climate change, the encroachment of competing land uses, and understanding the changing expectations of park visitors,” says Pamela Wright, a UNBC professor in the Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Management program and Chair of the conference. “It’s especially gratifying to see UNBC’s emergence as a university that is paying attention to these issues. In fact, 15 of the research presentations during the conference will come from UNBC students, alumni, or faculty.”
The conference will be held at UNBC from December 1-3. A prominent Canadian adventurer will deliver the keynote address at the conference. Wade Davis, an “explorer in residence” for the National Geographic Society and the 2009 Massey Lecturer.
“I can’t think of anyone better to set the tone for this conference and the challenges facing BC’s wild spaces,” says Dr. Wright. “Wade is a British Columbian who has traveled around the world, but he maintains an intimate connection with the environment and aboriginal peoples of northern BC. He was the first park ranger in the Spatsizi Provincial Park in northwestern BC and he splits his time between the Spatsizi Plateau and Washington, DC. He is perhaps this region’s greatest champion for the environment and indigenous cultures.”
Davis was educated at Harvard University and is a noted author, photographer, and videographer passionate about the preservation of cultural and biological diversity. He will be speaking on Sunday, November 30, at 7pm in the Canfor Theatre. Tickets are available in advance at Stride and Glide Sports or at the door.
“The most pressing issues for our parks include forest management and restoration in the wake of the pine beetle, the effects of climate change, the encroachment of competing land uses, and understanding the changing expectations of park visitors,” says Pamela Wright, a UNBC professor in the Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Management program and Chair of the conference. “It’s especially gratifying to see UNBC’s emergence as a university that is paying attention to these issues. In fact, 15 of the research presentations during the conference will come from UNBC students, alumni, or faculty.”
The conference will be held at UNBC from December 1-3. A prominent Canadian adventurer will deliver the keynote address at the conference. Wade Davis, an “explorer in residence” for the National Geographic Society and the 2009 Massey Lecturer.
“I can’t think of anyone better to set the tone for this conference and the challenges facing BC’s wild spaces,” says Dr. Wright. “Wade is a British Columbian who has traveled around the world, but he maintains an intimate connection with the environment and aboriginal peoples of northern BC. He was the first park ranger in the Spatsizi Provincial Park in northwestern BC and he splits his time between the Spatsizi Plateau and Washington, DC. He is perhaps this region’s greatest champion for the environment and indigenous cultures.”
Davis was educated at Harvard University and is a noted author, photographer, and videographer passionate about the preservation of cultural and biological diversity. He will be speaking on Sunday, November 30, at 7pm in the Canfor Theatre. Tickets are available in advance at Stride and Glide Sports or at the door.
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Posted by: northman on November 28 2008 8:09 AM
The Kakwa Park attracted my attention because this same bunch wanted the government to stop snowmobiles going into the area. They claim that there are some small trees being culturally modified by snowmobiles.
This summer there was a huge group of the politically correct camping at Kakwa Lake. The impact is huge. $350,000 worth of new cabins, propane, fire wood, toilets, horses and lamas walking around the place really makes a stinking mess of things. They must have burned up lots of fire wood, aircraft fuel and government money putting that show in there. The UNBC faithful were there.
BC Parks is under lots of pressure to keep snowmobiles out of all parks, and keeping access open for snowmobiles in Kakwa is like waving a red flag in front of a bull. Not because we have no impact, but because this bunch just can't stand the thought of someone being in their park that is not from their club. They are special.
I'll be at UNBC, to take the usual abuse from the Puritans. And then will be taking trip into Kakwa for some relaxation.