Whether it is the long weekend or any time of the year, for that matter, our beautiful and pristine backcountry deserves everyone's utmost respect to keep it pristine. Fish and Wildlife Officer, Mark Hoskin and his fellow officers were readying themselves for the August long weekend and the onslaught of visitors to the backcountry. He says that the year of COVID 19 has definitely seen an increase in, "Individuals coming out and recreating in the backcountry especially in our mountains and along our streams and in the forest.” 

Fish and Wildlife are on duty year-round ensuring that the natural playground that we have the privilege to use is kept safe and that wildlife is respected. In most cases, it is the use of common sense that makes the world of difference. Hoskin says it is vitally important individuals planning a trip, "Know before they go, they research where they are going and they know the rules and regulations that apply to the area and just use common sense that is relative to the resource.” 

 Officer Hoskin says when you are visiting to remember, "Not to be quading up and down the streams, making sure if they are in one of our public land use zones like Ghost Pluz commonly called Waiparous, that they make sure they're on the designated trail system while they quading there and not going through the streams. You need to make sure that you find a map, and there's many maps that are posted out in our west country."  

When it comes to wildlife, Hoskin says, "In our west country we are very fortunate to have many different species of wildlife, especially our two species of bears the black and grizzly bears. They can be unpredictable so it's important before you go be sure you are carrying your safety equipment such as an air horn and bear spray. While you are out there make sure you are making lots of noise." 

One of the most crucial factors when it comes to wildlife is taking care of your food storage. Officer Hoskin says, “Never have any food or personal items which carry a scent in your tent. Even something like gum, you don't want those type of items in your tent.” Such things must be stored in a secure place or up high at least a 100 metres away from your tent so the bears don’t associate you with the food.  

The other key factor Fish and Wildlife officers want you to remember is, “If you bring it in, pack it out.” Whatever you bring into the backcountry make sure you are packing it back out. 

Hoskin says, “If you are travelling in the backcountry and they have a dangerous encounter with wildlife or they see an infraction, then you can call our “Report a Poacher” hotline at 1-800-642-3800.” 

To re-cap Officer Hoskin’s advice: 

  • Know before you go,do your homework as to where you are going in the backcountry 

  • Learn about bears and make sure you take your personal safety equipment  

  • Make sure you are familiar with the rules and regulations of the area 

  • DO NOT LEAVE YOUR GARBAGE BEHIND pack out what you pack in  

The west backcountry is beautiful place to visit and Fish and Wildlife want people to enjoy what the area has to offer. Just remember, use common sense, and treat it as you would want visitors to treat your backyard and pets, with respect.