Time to be Bear Smart
The early spring has Kootenay bears waking up. They are hungry after their long winter nap and looking for any available food source, including human garbage and food waste. Every year, hundreds of bears are destroyed as a result of conflicts between people and bears. Conflicts can occasionally lead to scary close encounters, and on […]
Outdoor Recreation Council of BC Launches New Grant Program to Support Outdoor Initiatives Across the Province
There’s a significant milestone for outdoor enthusiasts across British Columbia as the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) unveils the launch of the Outdoor Recreation Fund of BC grant program. This initiative is designed to empower communities and volunteer organizations in their efforts to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities and stewardship across the province. As a leading advocate for […]
Historic water bomber, Hawaii Martin Mars, to be displayed in BC museum
The Province is supporting the preservation of a historic piece of B.C.’s aviation history to ensure its story can be shared with residents and visitors for generations to come. “The Hawaii Martin Mars water bomber is a proud symbol of B.C.’s ingenuity and innovation, representing cutting-edge technology in aviation firefighting of its time,” said Lana […]
Province approves use of Taser 7
The Province has approved the use of Taser 7 as an intermediate weapon for all police agencies in British Columbia. The approval process for Taser 7 included convening a multi-disciplinary panel to provide advice to the director of Police Services with consideration of a range of expertise and perspectives. The panel had representatives from various organizations, such […]
Beware of speeding ticket text scam — RCMP
RCMP is advising the public of a speeding ticket text scam is making its way through the BC Interior and Vancouver Island, including Nanaimo. RCMP said people have been a text message urging drivers to deal with a speeding ticket of face court action. On Monday March 25, 2024, the Nanaimo RCMP switchboard received numerous […]
Cats, kittens from single property expected to drain BC SPCA resources
The BC SPCA is preparing to take more than 200 cats and kittens into its care from a single home in Houston, B.C. Despite the Society’s extensive experience and unique position within the province to be able to support large animal intakes, one of this size and nature is exceptional and will draw extensively on […]
Impaired crashing into 'Report Impaired Drivers' sign caught by police
On Thursday, March 21 2024, at approximately 9:55 p.m., the West Shore RCMP on Vancouver Island said in a media release that officers responded to a report of a Dodge Ram pick up truck crashing into a street sign near Craigflower Road and Admirals Road in View Royal. RCMP said that a witness advised police […]
Two harm reduction programs not effectively implemented, audits find
B.C.’s auditor general has found that two provincial harm reduction programs that work to reduce toxic drug-related deaths and injuries weren’t effectively implemented by the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, and the Ministry of Health. The two ministries lead B.C.’s response to the toxic drug emergency, focusing on prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery. […]
Province takes early action to prepare for wildfire, drought season
The Province is taking several early steps to prepare for the wildfire and drought season, including working proactively with local governments and First Nations to help keep people and communities safe and informed. “We’re taking action earlier than ever and preparations for this year’s wildfire season are already well underway,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of […]
Holding the line on gas rates for customers
FortisBC Energy Inc. (FortisBC) reviews the cost of gas rate every three months with the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC). The company has received approval from the BCUC to maintain the cost of gas rate for all of its customers at $2.230 per gigajoule (GJ) as of April 1. This is unchanged from the last review in […]