RDEK Area A & Tourism Fernie Sustainable Tourism Project
ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY
ENGAGEMENT PROCESS
The engagement segment of this project was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic which required all engagement to be conducted virtually. Four online surveys were developed using Survey Monkey. The four surveys were directed to unique stakeholder groups: Area A / Elk Valley Residents, Area A / Elk Valley Non- Profit Organizations, Area A / Elk Valley Businesses and Area B Residents. Area B was included in the engagement process since there are key natural assets within Area B visited by local recreationalists and visitors associated with Area A and Fernie, such as Silver Springs and Koocanusa.
DRAFT
The engagement process has also involved meetings with various experts and stakeholders, such as the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations & Rural Development, along with the role of the project committee to review the results of all engagement and information and to create a strategy with sustainable goals, focus areas and recommended solutions associated with key values.
The surveys and meetings took place primarily in April and May of 2021. Below provides a summary of the results which the project committee are working with to inform the development of the RDEK Area A Sustainable Tourism Strategy and its priority and immediate actions.
Highlights from a Few Key Stakeholders
“ The Elk River’ s access points are very limited and not user friendly. Flood control rip rap further limits access and creates a hazard for people and wildlife.” Canyon Rafting Company
“ More people, summer has exploded, we require a long-term definition for sustainability. Silver Springs requires action and Heiko’ s Trail needs to be managed.” Wildsight
“ Trail usage overall has increased substantially with a shorter transition from Winter to Summer. There is a lack of parking space, toilets and garbage cans.” Parastone Developments
“ We are inviting guests into our living room, define the rules for their visit. We need to invest in local people.” Ktunaxa
13