PLUS and ATVBC Align to Protect Backcountry Access and Ensure Government Accountability in Land-Use Decisions
VANCOUVER, BC — May 02, 2026 — Public Land Use Society (PLUS) and Quad Riders ATV Association of British Columbia (ATVBC) have aligned on a shared principle affirming the importance of responsible public access to Crown land, and the need for transparent, accountable land-use decision-making in British Columbia.
This alignment reflects broader engagement by PLUS and ATVBC with provincial associations, recreational groups, and community organizations across the province. Across sectors, a consistent principle is emerging: Crown land belongs to all British Columbians, and access must be managed responsibly through clear, fair, and democratic processes.
“ATVBC members are on the ground across this province. We see firsthand how important access is for recreation, communities, stewardship, and local economies,” said Kristin Parsons, Executive Director of ATVBC. “Working with PLUS helps us bring those real-world perspectives forward and ensure decisions about public land reflect the needs of the people who use and care for it.”
As part of this collaboration, PLUS and ATVBC are supporting several active advocacy campaigns aimed at protecting key infrastructure across British Columbia, including:
- Save the KVR: Opposing the Province’s plan to decommission a 67-km section of the historic Kettle Valley Rail Trail that supports tourism, local businesses, and recreation.
- Restore CWRT Stewardship: Calling on government to keep its promise and maintain proper access to the Trans Canada Trail (Columbia and Western Rail Trail).
- Save the Incomappleux Access: Demanding the government not deactivate the Incomappleux Forest Service Road, relied on for emergency response, recreation, conservation, mineral exploration, and access to private property.
In each case, PLUS and ATVBC argue that the government is making consequential, often irreversible decisions about Crown Land without adequate public consultation, transparency, or regard for the communities that rely on these corridors.
“We are proud to have ATVBC standing with us,” said Warren Mirko, Executive Director of PLUS. “When access to public land is undermined and decisions are made without transparency, the impacts extend far beyond the backcountry. Partnerships like this strengthen our ability to ensure the public’s voice is heard.”
As pressure on Crown land continues to grow, PLUS and ATVBC will expand their joint efforts through public education, outreach to elected officials, and coordinated advocacy.
About Public Land Use Society (PLUS)
PLUS is a non-profit advocacy group dedicated to ensuring transparency in BC land-use decisions and protecting the rights of British Columbians to access public land and maintain secure property titles. Website: www.publiclanduse.ca
About ATVBC
The Quad Riders ATV Association of British Columbia (ATVBC) is a provincial non-profit representing ATV riders and clubs across BC. ATVBC promotes safe, responsible riding and advocates for sustainable access to trails and backcountry areas for current and future generations. Website: www.atvbc.ca
