As the seasons shift from summer into fall, September was a busy month of advocacy, planning, and community engagement for ATVBC. While the month was not without challenges, much progress was made in advancing key issues, supporting our members, and preparing for the months ahead.
Advocacy & Access
Access continues to be a top concern for ATVBC and our partners. This month, we met with stakeholders and prepared joint correspondence with the BC Wildlife Federation and the Four Wheel Drive Association of BC regarding the Incomappleux Valley. Residents and riders continue to raise concerns about the proposed deactivation of the Incomappleux Forest Service Road, and ATVBC is working to ensure that their voices are heard in government discussions.
Outreach was also undertaken with Castlegar partners and ministry contacts regarding the Columbia & Western / Christina Lake Corridor. This work reinforced the importance of maintaining access while providing updated reporting on local concerns.
In addition, ATVBC met with our consultants to review the current Trail Guidelines project and the data collected to date. This review ensured that the perspectives of off-road vehicle users are well represented as the Chapter 10 Trail Standards project moves forward.
Government & Partnerships
ATVBC continued its strong presence at the provincial level. We participated in the BC Powersports Coalition (BCPSC) meetings, contributing to coordinated messaging on trail funding and access.
We also maintained ongoing follow-up with community partners such as the Christina Lake Trail Alliance and other regional groups. These discussions helped align priorities and strengthen joint advocacy.
At the provincial level, ATVBC sent several communications to ministries and stakeholders, including requests for updates on closures and deactivations to Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC). These actions reinforced our commitment to safe and sustainable access for all riders.
Member Services & AGM Preparation
September was a month of preparation and delivery for our Annual General Meeting (AGM). Invitations and materials were finalized and shared with members, and year-end financial reporting was completed and distributed to ensure transparency.
Committee reports and financial updates were compiled and presented, and a final AGM script was prepared to ensure a smooth meeting experience. A special thanks goes out to the more than 60 members who attended the virtual AGM and helped us welcome in a new board of directors for the 2025–2026 year.
Alongside AGM planning, regular administrative work continued, including responding to member inquiries, managing documents, and supporting board processes to keep operations running smoothly.
Looking Ahead
October promises to be another active month for ATVBC. We will continue following up with ministries on the Incomappleux closure and consultation timelines, the Columbia & Western Rail Trail defunding concerns in the Boundary, and news of a new deactivation in the Bridal Falls area.
We will also follow up on AGM event requests for further details on the ATVBC Safety Program, and prepare a member briefing on the next steps of the Chapter 10 project. In addition, governance and board training sessions will be provided for our newly elected board members, and preparations will begin for the opening of our first grant intake on November 1st.
Thank you to all our members, clubs, and partners for your continued support. Together, we are ensuring that the voice of ATV riders is heard loud and clear across British Columbia.
Kristin Parsons
