BC Parks Foundation Supports Expansion of Rosebud Lake Regional Park to Protect Western Painted Turtles
By BC Parks Foundation
BC Parks Foundation is proud to be part of the largest expansion of Rosebud Lake Regional Park in its 30-year history, expanding the park from 16 hectares to more than 80. That’s five times its current size.
This expansion brings much of the lake’s shoreline into the regional park. The shoreline and the upland leading into it are crucial for Western Painted Turtles which make their home in this part of British Columbia and are the only native freshwater turtle species in BC.
These charming creatures stand out with their unique red and yellow stripes and can often be found sunbathing in the spring. According to the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada, the Western Painted Turtles are of special concern. They are especially vulnerable and under threat at their nesting stage. Predators and humans can damage their eggs. As a result, only one in five hatchlings make it to adulthood.
“We purchased this land and protected these vulnerable nesting sites to give the turtles a better chance of hatching and surviving to adulthood,” says BC Parks Foundation CEO Andy Day. “We also recognize it’s a popular recreational area. We are supported by British Columbians and this announcement reflects our community’s commitment to provide opportunities for people to enjoy BC while conserving the incredible diversity of life that also lives here.”
Rosebud Lake is unique because it is fed by underground springs, further emphasizing the importance of protecting these lands. In 2002, Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) established “The Rosebud Lake Park Plan” which identified the need to expand the park to provide refuge for the wildlife and the ability to control the water levels that are critical for the park’s environment. Today’s announcement builds on parks being part of the climate solution and reducing the carbon pollution that is driving climate change.
“We have worked hard to secure the protection of the Western Painted Turtle and are happy to now have both the water and land protection to ensure the survival of the painted turtles,” says Hans Cunningham, RDCK Electoral Area G Director. “This day wouldn’t have been possible without BC Parks Foundation working with Regional Parks staff to expand Rosebud Lake Regional Park. We are excited for the public to continue to access the Park as an outdoor recreation area.”
This park expansion demonstrates the strength of the Foundation’s partnerships with Environment and Climate Change Canada and The Wilson 5 Foundation.“Expanding Rosebud Lake Regional Park not only safeguards critical habitat for Western Painted Turtles but also creates a space where people can stay active, explore, and connect with nature,” say Summer and Chip Wilson. “This expansion ensures the heart of what makes BC extraordinary is protected forever.”
“Through collaboration with partners like the BC Parks Foundation and the support of generous foundations, we are working to expand Rosebud Lake Regional Park, bringing much of the lake’s shoreline into the regional park,” says Minister of Environment and Climate Change Steven Guilbeault. “The Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund is playing a key role in helping combat climate change and biodiversity loss, getting us closer to our national goal of conserving 30% of land and water in Canada by 2030.”
The RDCK will continue to operate Rosebud Lake Regional Park, including the additional land acquired, and will be taking over the rights and obligations of the water license to protect the painted turtles.
Park visitors must stay on existing roads and trails, but please note that these roads and trails are not routinely maintained. Basic amenities and upgrades to the park will be done through RDCK Park’s planning efforts and in the future will work towards a Management Plan that will include public consultation.
“This project is a great example of British Columbians coming together to protect this beautiful land, water, and wildlife. It’s a real tribute to everyone involved and we are very grateful on behalf of the generations of people, turtles and other wildlife that will benefit,” says Day.
