In 2012, BC Parks received an extra $3 million for the 2012/13 operating year,

representing a 27 per cent increase over the previous year.

Seventy per cent of B.C.'s caribou herds are in decline and identified as threatened

under the federal Species at Risk Act.

The Ministry of Environment approved Metro Vancouver's Solid Waste Management

Plan in July 2011 which includes goals for diverting 70 per cent of regional waste

through recycling, composting and other programs by 2015.

The B.C. government accepts the recommendations included in the Office of the AuditorGeneral's report, "An Audit of Carbon Neutral Government", but rejects its conclusion that government has not met its objective of achieving a carbon neutral public sector.

The Ministry of Environment issued a draft permit to South Island Aggregates/Cobble

Hill Holdings Ltd., on March 19th, regarding treatment and discharge of contaminated

soil at a facility in the Cowichan Valley.

The B.C. government and the federal government are working in conjunction with local

governments, First Nations, and the volunteer sector, as members of a Tsunami Debris

Coordinating Committee.

A $60,000 Community Gaming Grant provided to the Senior Citizens Club of Fernie and District will help the club upgrade and buy much-needed equipment for their facility.

A $20,000 Community Gaming Grant provided to the Sand Creek Community Club will go toward a feasibility study to determine whether a new arena and curling rink will be built in the South Country area.

A $25,000 Community Gaming Grant will help the Fernie Nordic Society begin the process of mapping and designing new trails in the Elk Valley.

Since its inception in 1980, the Vernon Farmers' Market has been a staple for families and lovers of fresh and local foods.