With B.C. Day around the corner, everyone has a role to play in helping to prevent wildfires and having a safe, healthy long weekend.

With the arrival of rising temperatures and drier conditions, wildfire danger ratings are climbing in many parts of British Columbia.

The speech from the throne is an important moment in history – it reflects both the priorities British Columbians articulated in the recent election, and the ability to invest in programs and services that British Columbians depend on, thanks to years of sound fiscal management and building Canada’s leading economy.

Over the May long weekend, access to the parking lot at Sombrio Beach will be temporarily restricted for safety measures, as in previous years, to discourage illegal activities such as parties and vandalism.

The B.C. government has proclaimed May 2017 as “Invasive Species Action Month” to help raise awareness of invasive plants and animals in British Columbia and to highlight the environmental and economic damage they can cause.

With the 2017 camping season just around the corner, more than 49,000 reservations have already been booked through the Discover Camping Reservation Service.

The B.C. government is providing more than $1 million in grants to six Habitat for Humanity B.C. affiliates that will be used to build new affordable homes in Campbell River, Mission, Nanaimo, Richmond, Sechelt and Vernon.

An innovative partnership between the Province, the BC Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA) and the Directorate of Agencies for School Health (DASH BC) means previously announced government funding for 1,000 before- and after-school arts and recreation spaces will go further thanks to those organizations’ existing partnerships and corporate sponsors.