BC Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health Framework (Declaration) Workshops
The Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship is collaborating with First Nations and engaging with multi-sector parties across British Columbia to develop a BC Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health Framework (previously called a declaration). As recommended in the Old Growth Strategic Review report (Recommendation #2), the framework intends to set biodiversity and ecosystem health as an overarching priority and signal a commitment to align all land-related provincial legislation, policies, and programs to that priority. It is intended to apply to all sectors and ecosystem types.
In January and February, the Province brought together more than 300 First Nations and multi-sector participants at two provincial forums to share ideas and better understand the current state, opportunities for improvements and the future management of our forests and ecosystems. The Province is now looking to further those conversations through a series of virtual sessions to hear additional insights on how a new framework could be created to sustainably manage land, water, and resources.
You are invited to attend a workshop of your choice to share your voice and hear directly from others. Your insights will help shape a collaborative framework that prioritizes biodiversity and ecosystem health.
VIRTUAL WORKSHOP DATES
The province is collaborating with First Nations through a series of virtual workshops. In addition, three virtual workshops are being offered to select multi-sector parties, that work with both the Province and other Nations, and First Nations to share ideas and hear from each other. Please choose from either when you register, should you wish to attend.
· Friday, April 18, 2023 – 9:00 a.m. – 4 p.m.
· Friday, April 28, 2023 – 9:00 a.m. – 4 p.m.
· Thursday, May 4, 2023 – 9:00 a.m. – 4 p.m.
All virtual sessions will be facilitated to allow for ideas to be shared and discussed between workshop participants and ministry staff in a respectful and collaborative way.
REGISTRATION
Please register through Eventbrite at BC-BEH-Framework.eventbrite.ca by April 11, 2023, 4 p.m. Registration is free, and your business information will be required to ensure participation. Once your registration has been collected, background information and a link to attend the session will be shared in advance of the workshop to support meaningful and informed participation.
If you have any questions regarding the virtual workshops, please email Celine.Davis@gov.bc.ca.
Thank you for your interest. We hope you or a designate from your organization will attend these workshops with us.