37 local governments across southern BC back old-growth protection

Representatives from 37 southern interior local governments voted last week to support protections for old-growth ecosystems across the province, including the Rainbow-Jordan Wilderness outside Revelstoke.

Meeting in Revelstoke for the Southern Interior Local Government Association (SILGA) convention, delegates passed a resolution calling on the Province of British Columbia to work with First Nations and communities to protect endangered old-growth forests and the biodiversity, climate resilience and cultural values they provide.

The resolution has now been supported by the City of Revelstoke, the Columbia Shuswap Regional District, and local governments throughout the region, from Lillooet to Osoyoos, Clinton and Blue River.

Located just north of Revelstoke, the Rainbow-Jordan Wilderness contains one of the rarest ecosystems on Earth: ancient Inland Temperate Rainforest. The area is home to western red cedars more than 1,000 years old and provides critical habitat for many rare and at-risk species.

Beyond the Rainbow-Jordan, the resolution reflects growing concern from communities across B.C.’s southern interior about the ongoing loss of old-growth forests and the need for stronger protections.

“We’re really encouraged to see this level of support from local governments in the southern interior,” says Reanne Harvey, North Columbia Conservation Campaigner for Wildsight.

“Communities understand the immense ecological and cultural value of old-growth forests, and they want to see these ecosystems protected for future generations. Now it’s time for the province to work with First Nations and communities to make that happen.”

Wildsight also acknowledges the leadership of Revelstoke City councillors in listening to community concerns about old-growth protection and advancing the resolution to SILGA.

“I applaud Wildsight’s diligent work over the past year to protect the Rainbow-Jordan’s ancient forest, and other endangered ecosystems across British Columbia,” says City of Revelstoke Councillor Tim Palmer.

“This kind of proactive grassroots leadership gives me hope for a stronger, more sustainable future for our community and province.”

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For additional quotes or interviews, please contact:

Reanne Harvey, North Columbia Conversation Coordinator, Wildsight: reanne@wildsight.ca / 780.452.8417

Amelia Caddy, Communications & Philanthropy Lead, Wildsight: amelia@wildsight.ca / 250.427.9325 ex. 16

Images for media use:

Image 1 — Frisbee Creek in the Rainbow-Jordan Wilderness. Photo: Reanne Harvey / Wildsight

Image 2 — Measuring ancient cedars in the Rainbow-Jordan Wilderness. Photo: Eddie Petryshen / Wildsight