FORT ST. JOHN – Widespread opposition from landowners in the Peace has nixed a bid by four First Nations to initiate a treaty land sharing arrangement in the region similar to one that exists in Saskatchewan. Doig River, Halfway River, Prophet River and West Moberly First Nations – all signatories to Treaty 8 – had …
trespass
Douglas Lake challenge dismissed
Private property that encloses Crown property will remain closed to the public, following the Supreme Court of Canada’s refusal last week to hear an appeal of a ruling that protects Douglas Lake Ranch from trespassers. Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club members hoped the country’s highest court would hear an appeal of a BC Court …
No right to roam
VANCOUVER – The BC Court of Appeal has sided with Douglas Lake Cattle Co., overturning an earlier ruling granting recreational fishers access to Minnie and Stoney Lakes. The new judgment also firmly rejects claims of any public right to cross private lands to access Crown property in BC, often termed “right to roam.” This case …
Douglas Lake wins appeal
The BC Court of Appeal has sided with Douglas Lake Cattle Co., overturning an earlier ruling granting fishers access to Minnie and Stoney Lakes. The new judgment also firmly rejects claims of any public right to cross private lands to access Crown property in BC, often termed “right to roam.” BC Supreme Court Justice Joel …
Province consults on trails
Growing demand for access to the wilds of BC has prompted the province to seek public input on the province’s seven-year-old trails strategy. “The intent of the review is to ensure the continued relevance and importance of the trail strategy to First Nations, recreationists, communities, tourism proponents and the province as a whole,” the BC …
RCMP investigate dead sheep
RCMP in Pitt Meadows are investigating two incidents in which sheep have been found shot to death. The first incident happened December 25 when two pet sheep were killed while their owners were away enjoying Christmas dinner. “We found them when we got home,” says Jessica Marando. “Our sheep are Shetlands so their wounds were …