Hornby Island’s Tribune Bay Provincial Park is set to grow by 23.7 acres after the provincial government acquired two pieces of land nearby.
The park, known for its unique rock formations, sprawling white sandy beach and warm, shallow bay, will now be connected to Tribune Bay Campground, according to a release from the province.
“Tribune Bay Provincial Park is a jewel in our province, making it a popular destination for people to visit and connect with nature,” said George Heyman, minister of environment and climate change strategy. “Acquiring this land ensures the ecological and recreation values that make the park special are preserved for our children and grandchildren.”
The two properties, purchased for $11.2 million, include the last remaining beachfront on Tribune Bay and adjoining forest land in addition to the existing private campground, the release said.
The province said it will operate the campground as it is until it develops long-term plans to improve visitor experience at Tribune Bay Park. Future improvements on the newly acquired lands could include walk-in sites catering to active transportation, like cycle touring, hiking or kayaking, according to the province.
Future plans will be informed through consultation with First Nations and stakeholders on topics such as:
-ecological health, including seasonal water scarcity;
-providing inclusive and family-oriented outdoor recreation opportunities;
-respect for the history of the island, including Indigenous history; and
-contribution to sustainable tourism and economic opportunities on the island, while respecting transportation and community impacts.
“Camping is more popular than ever, which is why we are expanding opportunities for people to get outside and enjoy the outdoors,” said Kelly Greene, parliamentary secretary for environment. “These acquisitions will help support diverse recreation opportunities and family-friendly camping in the area and ensure British Columbians have access to public camping on Hornby Island.”
The provincial government said it regularly adds land to the parks and protected areas system through private land purchases.
B.C. has 1,036 provincial parks, recreation areas, conservancies, ecological reserves and protected areas covering more than 14 million hectares (35 million acres) or approximately 14.4 per cent of the provincial land base, according to the province.
