In response to public comments received on the draft Pender Harbour Dock Management Plan, the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations is undertaking further engagement to identify possible options for the foreshore lands before the plan is finalized.

The ministry has retained the services of Barry Penner, a lawyer and consultant, to lead this process. Penner will meet directly with community groups, shíshálh Nation and community stakeholders. He is also accepting email comments from dock owners and community members. This information will be considered as he prepares his advice and reports back to the Province by the end of October.

In support of the process, Penner is working with the Pender Harbour Dock Management Plan Working Group, a broad-based community organization that includes dock owners, members of the community, business owners, and representatives from the chamber of commerce, Pender Harbour Living Heritage Society, Pender Harbour Advisory Council, and the Egmont Community Association.

The proposed dock management plan would apply to an area within the territory of the shíshálh Nation. Government is working closely with shíshálh to ensure that their Aboriginal rights in the region are protected.

To ensure you’re invited to a meeting, email: penderharbourconsultations@gmail.com

Quick Facts:

• In British Columbia, the Province regulates construction and other activities that occur on the foreshore – the land between the high and low watermarks of a stream, rivers, lake or ocean.
• B.C.’s private moorage policy addresses regional environmental, wildlife, health, safety, heritage and other issues, as well as the requirement to consult with First Nations.
• Along with conforming to the rules set down by the Province, all private docks in the Province must comply with Canadian fisheries and navigation regulations and local government zoning regulations and building codes.

A backgrounder follows.