BC Government seeks public feedback on province's First Coastal Marine Strategy

A chance to offer comment on the province's plans for a
Coastal Marine Strategy  is now underway through a consolation period
(Photo from MLA Cullen's FB page)

Today is opening day for public engagement towards the Province of British Columbia's plans to create the first Coastal Marine strategy.

The consultation process is being hosted by the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, making it a project of note for Stikine MLA and Cabinet Minister Nathan Cullen.

The minister offered up the invitation to participate this morning.

Towards their consultation, the province is developing the program in partnership with First Nations, noting of their historic knowledge and experience in coastal marine management.

British Columbians are being asked for feedback on an intentions paper that outlines the strategy’s goals and priorities. 

These include ensuring coastal areas remain healthy and resilient to climate change and can support community well-being and a sustainable ocean economy into the future. 

Once complete, the coastal marine strategy will be strengthened through integration with B.C.’s Wild Salmon Strategy and a watershed security strategy that is in development. 

Combined, these strategies can make a greater contribution to healthier marine and freshwater environments, which can better support protection and revitalization of wild salmon populations. 

British Columbians have a bit of time to put together their thoughts on the topic, the public input on the coastal marine strategy, will span at least 20 years.

The current public engagement process opened today and closes April 14, 2023.

Learn more about the Government announcement here.

A wider overview of the Coastal Marine Strategy planning and engagement process  is available here.

More notes on themes of interest from the Legislature can be explored from our archive page.