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Province stops museum plan, will consult public on museum’s future

June 22, 2022 12:45 PM
Royal BC Museum project is stopped
The Province is halting plans announced last month to rebuild the Royal British Columbia Museum.
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Vancouver named FIFA World Cup 2026 official host city

June 16, 2022 2:37 PM
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Expanded physical therapy program coming to Surrey

June 23, 2022 10:15 AM
Expanded physical therapy program coming to Surrey
More people in Surrey and the Fraser Valley will be able to pursue careers in physical therapy at a new training space coming to Surrey.
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Investing in biomedical engineering will bolster British Columbians’ health

June 13, 2022 11:15 AM
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B.C. ramps up support for agritech

June 24, 2022 8:30 AM
Two Vancouver-based agritech businesses are paving the way for stronger food security through B.C.’s Agritech Ramp-Up Pilot Program (Ramp-Up) with robotics and technology to support B.C.’s agriculture sector.
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Agriculture advisory group to help create more resilient food supply

June 14, 2022 8:30 AM
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Anti-racism data legislation becomes law

June 3, 2022 8:00 AM
Anti-racism data legislation becomes law
Indigenous and Black people, and people of colour, are another step closer to having better access to government programs and services as the historic Anti-Racism Data Act is enshrined in B.C. law.
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Province seeks people to join anti-racism committee, help dismantle systemic racism

June 24, 2022 10:00 AM
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Province seeks public input on supports for children, youth

April 20, 2022 11:15 AM
A survey about B.C’s new service approach for children and youth with support needs is now open to the public.
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Process begins to select family connections centres

May 10, 2022 4:08 PM
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More Cariboo communities connected to high-speed internet

June 23, 2022 9:00 AM
More than 1,200 households in 15 communities, including four First Nations communities, have access to high-speed internet services in the Cariboo, thanks to the installation of new fibre to the home.
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Province seeks people to join anti-racism committee, help dismantle systemic racism

June 24, 2022 10:00 AM
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Expansion of $10 a day child care to benefit thousands more B.C. families

June 20, 2022 12:02 PM
Expansion of $10 a day child care to benefit thousands more B.C. families
Applications are being accepted from child care providers to join the $10 a Day ChildCareBC program this year, which will enable them to offer low-cost child care, making life more affordable for thousands more families in B.C.
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Nisga’a students will benefit from new gymnasium

June 20, 2022 2:30 PM
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British Columbians can access more in EV charger rebates

May 18, 2022 10:05 AM
Better rebates for EV chargers
The Province and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) are making it more affordable for people to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in their homes, businesses and communities.
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B.C. supports EV adoption from purchase through repair

June 1, 2022 12:55 PM
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B.C. strengthens actions to prepare for climate change with new strategy

June 20, 2022 1:15 PM
B.C. strengthens actions to prepare for climate change with new strategy
People in British Columbia will be better protected from the impacts of wildfires, flooding and extreme heat through the actions included in the new Climate Preparedness and Adaptation Strategy.
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Tahltan Central Government, B.C. make history under Declaration Act

June 6, 2022 10:38 AM
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Heat pump demand heats up in northern B.C.

June 20, 2022 11:52 AM
Heat pumps are more affordable than ever in B.C. with a provincial sales tax (PST) exemption and the launch of a new incentive to help people switch to the cleaner, energy-efficient technology that works in warm and cold climates.
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Rating agencies validate B.C.’s financial plan to support people, businesses

June 10, 2022 11:23 AM
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Historic investments help B.C. prepare for wildfire season

June 3, 2022 9:15 AM
Historic investments help B.C. prepare for wildfire season
British Columbians can expect cooler and wetter conditions in June, which means the fire hazard is anticipated to remain low through the early summer, as shown in the BC Wildfire Service’s latest seasonal outlook.
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Province launches public engagement on strengthening Great Bear Rainforest

June 9, 2022 9:00 AM
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Construction begins on redeveloped Burnaby Hospital

May 30, 2022 11:10 AM
Construction begins on redeveloped Burnaby Hospital
People in one of the fastest-growing communities in B.C. are one step closer to expanded patient care as construction begins on the redevelopment of Burnaby Hospital.
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BC Cancer launches lung-screening program

May 25, 2022 11:15 AM
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Tahltan Central Government, B.C. make history under Declaration Act

June 6, 2022 10:38 AM
Tahltan Central Government, B.C. make history under Declaration Act
Tahltan Central Government and the Province have entered into the first consent-based decision-making agreement under the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Declaration Act).
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B.C. invests in First Nations language, arts, culture and heritage revitalization

June 14, 2022 1:15 PM
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Nominate an exceptional citizen for Province’s highest honour

January 20, 2022 8:00 AM
Nominate an exceptional citizen for Province’s highest honour
Nominations are being accepted for the Order of British Columbia, the Province’s highest honour.
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Outstanding people recognized for service during the pandemic

March 22, 2022 2:30 PM
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Significant partnership with Japan to better support transportation infrastructure

June 16, 2022 1:30 PM
Significant partnership with Japan to better support transportation infrastructure
A new agreement signed between the Province of B.C. and the group Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development (JOIN) will help deliver innovative and clean solutions for future transportation projects and priorities.
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Tŝilhqot’in Nation will benefit from forest-to-frame project

June 22, 2022 10:46 AM
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B.C. minimum wage increases June 1 for lowest paid workers

May 31, 2022 8:30 AM
B.C. minimum wage increases June 1 for lowest paid workers
As of June 1, 2022, B.C.’s lowest paid workers will get a pay boost as the minimum wage increases from $15.20 to $15.65 per hour, which is the highest of any province.
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B.C. expands cancer coverage for firefighters

April 22, 2022 12:30 PM
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Watershed restoration creates a healthier future for B.C.

April 21, 2022 11:15 AM
Watershed restoration creates a healthier future for B.C.
An ongoing effort to restore watersheds and wetlands in the province is creating a healthier future for British Columbians by mitigating the impacts of climate change on communities, strengthening ecosystems and securing quality drinking water.
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Minister’s and parliamentary secretary’s statement on federal decision about salmon farms

June 22, 2022 4:20 PM
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B.C. receives exemption to decriminalize possession of some illegal drugs for personal use

May 31, 2022 11:15 AM
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Text reads: Helping reduce drug stigma through decriminalization
British Columbia is taking a critical step toward reducing the shame and fear associated with substance use as the federal Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health announced the granting of a three-year exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) to remove criminal penalties for people who possess a small amount of certain illicit substances for personal use.
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New Foundry will provide services to youth in northeastern B.C.

June 14, 2022 12:30 PM
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Ukrainians fleeing violence get immediate MSP coverage

April 25, 2022 1:30 PM
Ukrainians fleeing violence get immediate MSP coverage
Displaced Ukrainians arriving in B.C. with visas issued under the federal Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) will now have access to date-of-arrival Medical Services Plan (MSP) coverage.
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Summer Reading Club will keep kids and families reading

June 27, 2022 12:15 PM
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New funding helps prepare for Lytton rebuild

June 23, 2022 1:30 PM
The Province is committing $21 million to help re-establish essential infrastructure and services, and sustain ongoing municipal and community-led recovery efforts.
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Toxic drug supply continues to devastate communities throughout B.C.

June 9, 2022 10:00 AM
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Funding helps immigrants fight food insecurity, get connected

June 8, 2022 1:15 PM
People facing food insecurity in B.C. will benefit from new government funding for community-based programs.
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Network helps people with disabilities focus on mental, physical wellness

June 3, 2022 8:30 AM
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Vancouver named FIFA World Cup 2026 official host city

June 16, 2022 2:37 PM
Vancouver named FIFA World Cup 2026 official host city
FIFA has confirmed that Vancouver has been chosen as an official host city for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
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Grants help youth in and from government care get in the game

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Permanent repairs begin soon to Coquihalla and Highway 1

June 16, 2022 8:00 AM
Permanent repairs begin soon to Coquihalla and Highway 1
Permanent repairs to flood-damaged sections of the Coquihalla (Highway 5) and Highway 1 will soon be underway, protecting the safe movement of people and goods in British Columbia.
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Major progress on Kicking Horse Canyon Project in first year of construction

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Environment and Climate Change Strategy

Exemplary conservation officers recognized

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Honourable George Heyman

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Environment and Climate Change Strategy

British Columbia News

Exemplary conservation officers recognized

https://news.gov.bc.ca/06127

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News Release

Victoria
Friday, May 2, 2014 11:45 AM

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News Release

Victoria

Friday, May 2, 2014 11:45 AM

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Eleven members of the Conservation Officer Service are being recognized for going above and beyond to protect British Columbia’s residents and natural resources.

Environment Minister Mary Polak joined the Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, as she presented the Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal to several conservation officers during their annual recertification training today.

As peace officers, conservation officers with 20 years of outstanding service may receive an exemplary service medal. The following ten members are receiving this honour for their many contributions to the province:

  • Chris Doyle, inspector
  • Adam Christie, retired sergeant
  • Len Butler, sergeant
  • Steve Jacobi, sergeant
  • Greg Kondas, sergeant
  • Tobe Sprado, sergeant
  • Gord Gudbranson, conservation officer
  • Peter Pauwels, conservation officer
  • Don Stahl, conservation officer
  • Kevin Van Damme, conservation officer

Conservation officer Simon Gravel is also being recognized today with the North American Wildlife Enforcement Officers Association 2013 Lifesaving Award for rescuing a woman who fell off her paddleboard in Howe Sound. Without a personal flotation device, the woman could barely keep her head above water when Gravel found her. The conservation officer pulled her from the water and immediately began treatment for hypothermia, saving her life.

British Columbia’s Conservation Officer Service is the Province’s primary responder to human-wildlife conflicts where there is a risk to public safety, conservation concerns or where significant property damage has occurred.

In addition to regular uniformed members, the Conservation Officer Service’s Provincial Investigations Branch conducts large-scale industrial or commercial crime investigations.

Quotes:

Mary Polak, Environment Minister -

“I am extremely proud of all our conservation officers, and the dedication they show in protecting both public safety and the environment. These officers serve the province with great integrity and courage. Congratulations to those members of the Conservation Officer Service awarded with this great honour.”

Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia -

“The Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal is a tangible way to honour dedicated conservation officers for their years of outstanding public service. It is an honour to congratulate them on this achievement and thank them for their dedication and courage.”

Doug Forsdick, acting chief conservation officer -

“I would like to congratulate the officers that are receiving their Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medals. They have all dedicated at least 20 years to protecting the environment and the citizens that work and play in B.C.’s outdoors. I would also like to congratulate CO Gravel on receiving the North American Wildlife Enforcement Officers Association’s lifesaving award.  ”

Learn More:

For more information on Exemplary Service Medals, visit: www.gg.ca/document.aspx?id=14992&lan=eng

For more information about B.C.’s Conservation Officer Service, visit: www.env.gov.bc.ca/cos/

A backgrounder follows.

Media Contacts:

Media Relations
Ministry of Environment
250 953-3834

BACKGROUNDER

Exemplary conservation officers honoured

Chris Doyle

A former park ranger and warden, Chris Doyle is the current inspector of south coast operations. With over 21 years in the service, Doyle worked as an officer in Sechelt and Squamish before taking on the inspector role. Doyle organizes wildlife conflict prevention and response programs, and has helped three communities achieve Bear Smart status. Doyle coaches youth sports and enjoys spending time with his wife of 22 years, Kelly, and their children Madison, Oliver and Rhea.

Len Butler

Len Butler is the current sergeant for the Cariboo-Chilcotin Zone. With over 30 years of service as a peace officer, Butler was honoured with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal and has also been recognized with an award of merit from the City of Nelson. Butler enjoys fishing, hunting, and woodworking. He has been married to his wife Charlene for 33 years, and they have four sons: Tyler, Matthew, Daniel and Warren.

Adam Christie

Retired sergeant Adam Christie started with the Conservation Officer Service in 1993. As a field conservation officer, Christie served in Nelson, Fort Nelson and Revelstoke. Christie retired from his position as sergeant from the Conservation Officer Service in December 2013.  

Steve Jacobi

Sergeant Steve Jacobi has worked in the Chilliwack area for the past 14 years. Previously, Jacobi was an officer in Squamish. He enjoys spending time with his wife and three children.

Tobe Sprado

Currently the sergeant for the West Kootenay Zone, Tobe Sprado’s 23 years with the Conservation Officer Service has led him throughout the province. The first conservation officer in Houston, Sprado has also served in New Hazleton, Smithers, Atlin, Castlegar, Surrey and Kamloops. He has also been recognized with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal. Sprado enjoys angling, hunting, hockey and spending time with his wife of nine years, Teresa, their daughter Tiana and stepsons Anthony and Frankie.

Greg Kondas

Greg Kondas is the sergeant of training and professional development for B.C.’s Conservation Officer Service in Victoria. With over 24 years of peace officer work, Kondas’ career is quite diverse. Since 1997, he has been leading specialized training programs in use-of-force operations. Before he moved to B.C., Kondas was selected officer of the year in 2008 by his Alberta colleagues from Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Field Services. Kondas enjoys fishing, hunting, golfing and spending time with his wife of 24 years, Karin, and their two daughters Kassandra and Janine.

Gord Gudbranson

Gord Gudbranson, a conservation officer for 22 years, has shown great leadership within the service, mentoring several officers on the North Island. He is a founding member of the COS Ceremonial Troop and an integral member of two other teams. Gudbranson spent the first few years of his career in Lillooet and is now based out of the Campbell River office. In 2010, he was selected conservation officer of the year. Gudbranson enjoys spending time outdoors camping, fishing and hunting. He loves cooking and spending time with his wife of 20 years, Cathy, and their three teenagers Brooke, Adam and Bryden.

Peter Pauwels

Peter Pauwels has dedicated 20 years to the Conservation Officer Service. Originally posted to Squamish in the early 1990s, Conservation Officer Pauwels currently works in the Victoria area. Pauwels enjoys salmon fishing, landscaping, gardening and spending time with his 11-year-old son Wyatt and wife of 12 years, Charlene, who also works for the COS.

Don Stahl

Don Stahl has served to the public in many different forms. A conservation officer for 17 years in the Chilliwack area, Stahl also spent three years as a fisheries officer, and four seasons as a park ranger. Stahl enjoys fishing, jogging, traveling and spending time with his son, Andrew.

Kevin Van Damme

An expert in predator attack investigations, Kevin Van Damme enjoys sharing his experiences and knowledge amongst his colleagues and the communities he serves. A former fisheries officer in Quesnel, Van Damme has spent 22 years as a conservation officer in Surrey, Clearwater and presently Kamloops. Van Damme enjoys spending time with his wife of 22 years, Coleen, and their three teenaged sons: Brock, Cole and Reid. An avid sports enthusiast, Van Damme enjoys hunting and fishing. He has coached several teams in the BC Summer Games, as well as provincial and western Canadian championships. 

Media Contacts:

Media Relations
Ministry of Environment
250 953-3834

https://news.gov.bc.ca/06127

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