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Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis on Bowen Island

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

​​Phase two engagement summary

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback during the second phase of public engagement! The engagement summary report is now available. ​​

No public access

At this time, the land is not open to the public for day or overnight use (no camping).​


Metro Vancouver is planning to preserve a piece of forested and waterfront property at Cape Roger Curtis on Bowen Island as a regional park. The proposed regional park presents a unique opportunity to protect valuable habitat and connect with nature.​

On this webpage, you will find information about public engagement, the vision for the proposed regional park, project updates (including technical reports), the municipal rezoning process, and contact information.

Public enga​gement

Metro Vancouver is committed to engaging with the public and incorporating their feedback at each step in the proposed park development process and the Bowen Island Municipality rezoning process. The park planning process includes background research, inventory, and analysis. Each project phase will include engagement with First N​ations, the public, stakeholders, and ​ Bowen Island Municipality.​​​​

Engagement will take place in three phases​.

​​​Phase One
Listen and Learn
Phas​​e Two
Draft Concept
​​​Phase Three
​Final Concept Plan

In this phase, we listened and learned from the community to understand your priorities, concerns, and vision for the project.

We deepened our understanding of this unique landscape.

Your input informed the development of guiding principles and concept options.

In the next phase, we shared guiding principles, technical studies, and draft park concepts for your feedback.​​

In the final phase, we will share the final concept plan and next steps so you know what to anticipate in the future.​​​​



 

 

First phase of engagement (complete)First phase of engagement (complete)<div class="ExternalClass76FCC7EBAFB84686AB47ABEE1FC30EF6"><p>From February 10 to March 20, 2023, Metro Vancouver invited the public to share their feedback on the first phase of engagement for the proposed regional park at Cape Roger Curtis on Bowen Island. During this engagement period, 2,364 participants submitted 25,158 responses and comments through the online feedback form.</p><p>The feedback, suggestions, and additional analysis and research in this phase of the engagement will inform the development of guiding principles and draft concepts, which will be shared in the second phase of public engagement for the proposed regional park. It will also inform and support decision making by the Metro Vancouver Board of Directors, and was provided to the Bowen Island Municipality for consideration as part of the rezoning and official community plan amendment process.​<br></p><p>Materials from the first phase of engagement:</p><ul class="fa-ul"><li> <span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span><a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/final-engagement-summary-print-version-2023-04-12.pdf" target="_blank" title="Read the Engagement Summary Report">Read the Engagement Summary Report</a>​​</li><li> <span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-light fa-video"></i></span><a href="https://vimeo.com/801044658" target="_blank" title="Watch a video presentation">Watch a video presentation</a>​​​​</li><li> <span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span><a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/regional-parks-phase-1-engagement-boards.pdf" target="_blank" title="View the public engagement boards">View the public engagement boards</a>​​​​</li><li> <span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span><a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/proposed-regional-park-cape-roger-curtis-bowen-island-phase-1-engagement.pdf" target="_blank" title="View the public engagement presentation">View the public engagement presentation</a>​​​​</li><li> <span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span><a href="https://view.publitas.com/metro-vancouver/cape-roger-curtis-discussion-guide-feedback-form-02-23/page/1" target="_blank" title="Discussion Guide and Feedback Form: Phase One Engagement: Listen and Learn (Interactive version)">Discussion Guide and Feedback Form: Phase One Engagement: Listen and Learn (Interactive version)</a>​​​​</li><li> <span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span><a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/metro-vancouver-cape-roger-curtis-discussion-guide.pdf" target="_blank" title="Discussion Guide and Feedback Form: Phase One Engagement: Listen and Learn (Interactive version)">Discussion Guide and Feedback Form: Phase One Engagement: Listen and Learn (PDF​ version)</a>​​​​​​​<br></li></ul> <br> <p>What we heard:</p><p>The below table provides a high level overview of the common themes that were heard throughout the first phase of engagement. Additionally, we have provided a column of the work we are undertaking or will undertake to try to address what we heard. This work will continue as the project progresses, and additional studies, conversations, and engagement will inform how we respond.<br></p><h3>Transportation<br></h3> ​ ​ <table class="uk-table uk-table-small uk-table-divider uk-table-hover mv-border-green mv-table-heading-green mv-table-border uk-table-striped"><thead><tr><th>​What we heard:​<br></th><th>​​How we're responding:</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><ul><li>​Concerns regarding ferry capa​​city, especially during summer and peak hours: <ul><li>Vehicle and pedestrian/cyclist capacity</li><li>Vehicle impacts at Snug Cove and Horseshoe Bay</li></ul></li><li>Comments tha​t Bowen Island residents rely on the ferry system for medical appointments, school, and work: "The ferry system is our lifeline."</li><li>Support for implementing the cross-island multi-use pathway (MUP). Concerns about cycling safety on the current route to the park, including the route, elevation, and impacts on existing travel patterns. </li><li>Support for improving public transportation for the park as this would benefit the whole Island's transportation network; requests to see Transit On-Demand Pilot service reinstated.</li><li>Requests to explore a passenger-only ferry or water taxi service. </li><li>Request for a comprehensive transportation plan to be presented.</li></ul>​ </td><td><ul><li>Plans for the park will prioritize non-vehicular access. Integrated and sustainable transportation options to the park include a park shuttle, multi-use pathway, and other means of regional connections.</li><li>Metro Vancouver will continue to engage with BC Ferries, TransLink, ​​and other t​ransportation service providers to understand the issues and potential for utilizing existing capacity and adding service where feasible.</li><li>Metro Vancouver will work with Bowen Island Municipality to implement the cross-island multi-use path (MUP). </li><li>Metro Vancouver completed a traffic trip generation analysis during the first phase of engagement, and confirmed that road traffic associated with the overnight camping program is less than what would be expected from potential development associated with the existing approved land use.</li><li>A detailed traffic study is underway, which will provide specific recommendations for implementation of the park shuttle service, and demand management tools.</li></ul>​</td></tr></tbody></table>​​ <h3>Project process and engagement​​​</h3><table class="uk-table uk-table-small uk-table-divider uk-table-hover mv-border-green mv-table-heading-green mv-table-border uk-table-striped"><thead><tr><th>What we heard:</th><th>​​How we're responding:</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><ul><li>Concerns regarding engagement, especially failure to engage Bowen Island Residents earlier and before making commitments to the camping.</li><li>Requests for more transparency.</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Metro Vancouver remains committed to an open and transparent engagement process. </li><li>Future phases of engagement will build upon lessons learned and provide opportunities for on-island community workshops and regional-scale engagement tactics.</li></ul>​​</td></tr></tbody></table> ​ <h3>Park access​​​</h3><table class="uk-table uk-table-small uk-table-divider uk-table-hover mv-border-green mv-table-heading-green mv-table-border uk-table-striped"><thead><tr><th>What we heard:</th><th>​​How we're responding:</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><ul><li>Concerns about local traffic impact (Whitesails Drive). </li><li>Requests to explore alternative access and connections to the proposed regional park.</li><li>Concerns that visitors will not use alternative transportation modes, especially if they are camping.</li><li>Support for kayak and marine access to the park.</li><li>Caution on the nature of the water (can be rough) on the marine access side of the park. </li><li>Support for Bowen Island residents to have vehicle access and requests to limit the impact of non-residents driving to the proposed park</li><li>Requests for some parking provision primarily for seniors, young families, or people with mobility challenges. Concerns are that if parking is reduced, people will park on neighbouring streets.</li><li>Concerns that accessing parkland without a personal vehicle is challenging for people: <ul><li>To bring pet/s;</li><li>To bring equipment (i.e. kayak, tents); or</li><li>Experiencing mobility challenges.</li></ul></li><li>Comments that a park shuttle service from Snug Cove limits on-island residents accessing the park easily.</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>​​Metro Vanco​​uver would establish a park shuttle service. In addition to service from Snug Cove to the prop​osed regional park, consideration will be given to connections and stops in the Metro Vancouver region.</li><li>Metro Vancouver has completed an access analysis that identifies options for alternative access to the park. Preferred routing will be confirmed with further feasibility testing and engagement with Bowen Island Municipality, First Nations, impacted and affected parties, and the public.</li><li>Some parking would be developed at the proposed park primarily for accessibility and local day-use access. Parking capacity would be designed as part of a holistic transportation and visitor management program. </li><li>Metro Vancouver is considering implementing visitor dema​nd strategies such as a reservation system to manage traffic and park visitation. Any day-use reservation system would be developed in consultation with the community. </li><li>Metro Vancouver has considerable experience managing parking across jurisdictions in complex situations.</li></ul>​​</td></tr></tbody></table><h3>Park capacity and visitor management​​​</h3><table class="uk-table uk-table-small uk-table-divider uk-table-hover mv-border-green mv-table-heading-green mv-table-border uk-table-striped"><thead><tr><th>What we heard:</th><th>​​How we're responding:</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><ul><li>Questions on the projected day-use and overnight-use visitation.</li><li>Questions on how overnight uses will be made available. </li><li>Concerns that Bowen Island residents will be excluded from the park if a day-use reservation system is implemented.</li><li>Concern that park visitors will attend local beaches, which are already at capacity and subject to peak season over-crowding.</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Metro Vancouver has produced a park visitation estimate to better understand estimated levels of vi​sitation. The estimation will be publicly available.</li><li>Metro Vancouver would implement a reservation system for all types of overnight use. No first-come-first-served campsites are proposed. Existing reservation systems used by Metro Vancouver allow the public to book facilities by phone or online. </li><li>Metro Vancouver is exploring strategies to manage day use so that visitor numbers aren’t too high. One tool is a day-use reservation system. Similar systems require people using a vehicle to make a simple online reservation. Reservation systems could be used when demand is high (summer weekends).</li><li>Metro Vancouver will work with Bowen Island Municipality to understand existing capacity and issues at municipal beaches and ensure that this impact is considered as part of broader park planning and management.​</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table>​ <h3>Land-use/regional park creation</h3><table class="uk-table uk-table-small uk-table-divider uk-table-hover mv-border-green mv-table-heading-green mv-table-border uk-table-striped"><thead><tr><th>What we heard:</th><th>​​How we're responding:</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><ul><li>Comments that people are already visiting the area to rock climb, hike, and dog walk. </li><li>Support for the​ protection of the area. </li><li>Suggestions that the land should "stay the same as it currently is." </li><li>Comments in support of sharing this unique area and making it public permanently for future generations.</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Metro Vancouver would create a regional park out of what is curr​ently private property this would protect 97 hectares of land in perpetuity. </li><li>Metro Vancouver proposes changing the land use from rural residential to park, with a variance to allow for supervised tent camping.</li><li>Only 16% of the site area is currently protected through conservation covenants—monitored and enforced by the Municipality. The remaining area can be logged and developed. Dedication as a regional park would allow for enhanced protection and management of the whole area.<br></li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table><h3>Overnight use</h3><table class="uk-table uk-table-small uk-table-divider uk-table-hover mv-border-green mv-table-heading-green mv-table-border uk-table-striped"><thead><tr><th>What we heard:</th><th>​​​How we're responding:</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><ul><li>Concerns about over​night use and potential impacts such as noise, transportation, safety, and methods of management.</li><li>Suggestions for a lower-impact camping program include: <ul><li>Reduced quantity of campsites</li><li>Reduced provision of vehicle-accessible campsites</li><li>Marine access campsites, bike/walk-in campsites only</li></ul></li><li>Request to phase in camping use. </li><li>Support for affordable options for people to visit and stay on Bowen Island.</li><li>Support for camping for young families and opportunity for youth to experience nature. </li><li>Concern about how walk-in/bike-in/paddle-in sites would be enforced to prevent people from driving in and then accessing these sites.</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>If approved, park development will occur in two to three distinct phases, each taking two to three years. Full park development would happen over seven years. </li><li>Metro Vancouver will take an adaptive approach to detailed planning, design, implementation, and operation, learning and evaluating before adjusting and proceeding with the next phase. Programs such as the park shuttle and visitor reservation system will also take an adaptive approach.</li><li>Overnight uses would be supervised, additional information on potential impacts such as transportation, noise, and safety will be mitigated through planning, design and operational programs.</li><li>Camping fees would be affordable and in line with existing regional and provincial camping options. In other regional park campgrounds, discounts are available for youth groups, people with disabilities and seniors.</li><li>Metro Vancouver would undertake monitoring and ensure that overnight facilities are being used as intended, through a continuous approach of adjustment and adaptation.​</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table><h3>Day-use</h3><table class="uk-table uk-table-small uk-table-divider uk-table-hover mv-border-green mv-table-heading-green mv-table-border uk-table-striped"><thead><tr><th>​What we heard:</th><th>​​How we're responding:</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><ul><li>Specific requests for activities and programs include: <ul><li>Educational and stewardship programming</li><li>Trails (including suggestions on design and location)</li><li>Ocean watching, solitude, wildlife viewing</li><li>"More trails to enjoy the land"</li></ul></li><li>Comments that waterfront and beach access is unsafe and not desired.</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>​​A day-use program is planned. Input from engagement will inform a program including conservation areas, hiking trails, viewpoints, and picnic areas.</li><li>Detailed suggestions from engagement will be considered during the concept development phase. </li><li>During the subsequent planning phases, issues around waterfront access and management will be explored. </li></ul>​​​</td></tr></tbody></table><h3>Wildfire risk</h3><table class="uk-table uk-table-small uk-table-divider uk-table-hover mv-border-green mv-table-heading-green mv-table-border uk-table-striped"><thead><tr><th>What we heard:</th><th>​​How we're responding:</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><ul><li>Concerns that the ​dry coastal landscape makes the area particularly vulnerable to wildfires.</li><li>Concerns that overnight uses encourage fire use (even if prohibited).</li><li>Concerns that Bowen Island has limited capacity to deal with wildfires. </li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Metro Vancouver would prohibit open campfires a​t the proposed regional park.</li><li>A proposed regional park would provide increased surveillance, stewardship, and maintenance of the area through dedicated onsite staff and full-time site supervision for the overnight program.<br></li><li>Metro Vancouver will develop a park-specific response to wildfire management grounded in an understanding of the unique wildfire risk of the land and location.</li><li>Responsibility for wildfire preparedness and response would not be placed exclusively with Bowen Island Fire Rescue. Metro Vancouver manages wildfire risk in regional parks through the <a href="/services/regional-parks/wildfire-preparedness-response" target="_blank">Wildfire Preparedness and Response Program</a>: <ul><li>Every regional park has a Fire Preparedness and Response Plan and wildfire suppression equipment.</li><li>Metro Vancouver's bylaw is enforced, and risk is actively managed throughout the wildfire season.</li><li>Metro Vancouver staff are trained in fire suppression and supported by our watershed fire protection program. Together these teams include some of the most skilled crews in the Province.<br></li></ul></li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table><h3>Ecosystem protection</h3><table class="uk-table uk-table-small uk-table-divider uk-table-hover mv-border-green mv-table-heading-green mv-table-border uk-table-striped"><thead><tr><th>What we heard:</th><th>​​How we're responding:</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><ul><li>Protect the land for future generations. "I support the park's conservation, preservation, and ecological management."</li><li>Queries related to how Metro Vancouver will manage potential environmental damage caused by significant increases in the number of visitors (i.e. trampling of vegetation).</li><li>Concerns about damage to the bluffs, and the moss/lichen on the bluffs.</li><li>Concern that visitors won't follow the rules put in place to protect the environment (i.e. staying on trails).</li><li>Concern about the environmental impact of other elements of human activities on wildlife (noise, light pollution, dogs).</li><li>Concerns about impact on the riparian areas connected to the site including Fairy Fen, Huszar Creek, and the Huszar Creek watershed.v </li><li>Concern about the environmental impact of roads, driving, and parking.</li><li>Concern about impact of developing park amenities such as roads and washrooms.</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Metro Vancouver will protect the site's most sensitive ecosystems and resources. Careful planning will e​nsure that people and facilities are directed away from fragile ecosystems. Designed and engineered solutions such as viewpoints or boardwalks give visitors an experience, but limit the disturbed footprint. Enforcement of the Regional Parks Bylaw, which states that people should remain on trails, will be supported through education and signage.</li><li>Metro Vancouver will ensure that vegetated buffers are retained between the proposed park and the existing surrounding land-uses. Trails and roads will not be lit, any lighting that may be associated with a key park facility such as a washroom will be minimal and designed in accordance with best practices related to maintaining dark skies. Additionally, Metro Vancouver will ensure that the park bylaw in relation to quiet times and noise is enforced.</li><li>Creation of the regional park will protect a significant portion of the Huszar Creek watershed that could be cleared. </li><li>Approximately 15% of the total area has been cleared and prepared for residential subdivision. Park development would focus on the cleared area with other areas being restored. Unused logging grades present an opportunity for creating a trail network. Across the whole regional park's system 1% of 13,500 Ha is developed. </li></ul>​​</td></tr></tbody></table> ​ <h3>Potential impacts on island services and resources</h3><table class="uk-table uk-table-small uk-table-divider uk-table-hover mv-border-green mv-table-heading-green mv-table-border uk-table-striped"><thead><tr><th>What we heard:</th><th>​​How we're responding:</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><ul><li>Concerns about impacts on water supply on Bowen Island.</li><li>Concerns about potential effects on Bowen Island's emergency response services, including: <ul><li>RCMP (policing)</li><li>BC Ambulance Service</li></ul></li><li>Consideration should be given to evacuation planning. </li></ul></td><td><ul><li>The proposed park has over 20 drilled and regis​​tered wells. A study is underway on water supply and demands anticipated with the proposed park program. </li><li>Metro Vancouver will engage with RCMP, Bowen Fire Department, and BC Ambulance Service. </li><li>Metro Vancouver will work with Bowen Island Municipality to review, amend, and enhance the Bowen Island Municipality Evacuation Plan (2020) to provide information on how the proposed park can be evacuated.</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table>​​ ​​<br></div>
Second phase of engagement (complete)Second phase of engagement (complete)<div class="ExternalClass18FC346A72DF4BFA92C08AFFFA6C6680"><p>From July 29 to August 16, Metro Vancouver invited the public to provide feedback on the draft park vision, guiding principles, and park concept. During this engagement period, Metro Vancouver heard feedback via two online webinars (60 attendees), two in-person open houses (140 attendees), and an online engagement form (1,100+ responses).</p><p>Overall, participants shared support for the proposed park’s draft vision and guiding principles. However, feedback on the draft park concept was mixed, with the level of support for the proposed regional park concept varying between Bowen Island residents (25% in support) and residents from the rest of the region (68% in support).</p><p>Key themes respondents noted through the second phase of engagement included:</p><ul><li><strong>Overnight use</strong> –suggestions for the approach to overnight uses including particular support for group camping</li><li><strong>Planning process</strong> – interest in community engagement, First Nations collaboration, and plan feasibility and implementation.</li><li><strong>Transportation</strong> – concerns about the impact of park visitors on the ferry system and traffic, as well as opportunities and challenges related to sustainable transportation options.</li><li><strong>Infrastructure and services</strong> – concerns and questions about the impact and plans for emergency services, water, and waste management.</li><li><strong>Environmental stewardship</strong>​ – its importance and ideas for protecting biodiversity, building climate resilience, and establishing a conserved area.</li></ul><p>Materials from the second phase of engagement:</p><ul class="fa-ul"><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> ​ <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/phase-II-engagement-summary-proposed-regional-park-cape-roger-curtis.pdf" target="_blank" title="Read the Engagement Summary Report">Read the Engagement Summary Report</a>​​<br></li><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> ​ <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/draft-concept-plan-and-guiding-principles-crc-zones-concept%20package-low-res.pdf" target="_blank" title="Read the Draft Concept and Program plan">Read the Draft Concept and Program plan</a><br></li><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/crc-public-engagement-phase2-display-panels.pdf" target="_blank" title="View the public engagement boards">View the public engagement boards</a>​<br></li></ul> ​ </div>

About the proposed park

​Metro Vancouver is growing the regional parks system into a connected network of parks and greenways that protect regionally important natural areas and connect them to residents. The proposed park at Cape Roger Curtis presents a unique opportunity to protect valuable habitat, and connect with nature through trails, education, stewardship, ocean viewing, and the opportunity to spend the night in nature — an experience that is increasingly difficult for residents to get.

In May 2023, Metro Vancouver finalized the purchase of 24 parcels of land at Cape Roger Curtis on Bowen Island. At this time, there is no public access to the site, for either day or overnight use (no camping is permitted). Municipal trails remain open and available for public use. Metro Vancouver will continue to work closely with Bowen Island Municipality on the park planning and municipal rezoning process before opening the park to public access.

The proposed park would preserve a large area of ecologically important and sensitive dry coastal bluff ecosystem and provide opportunities for residents of the region and the Bowen Island community to connect with nature. A preliminary program for the proposed 97-hectare park consists of day-use and overnight uses with opportunities for tent camping, picnic areas, trails, viewpoints, and waterfront access.

Cape Roger Curtis is eight kilometres from Snug Cove on Bowen Island. The property encompasses a large ecologically diverse dry coastal bluff waterfront, a landscape rare in the Metro Vancouver region and makes up less than one per cent of BC’s land base. It contains 15 plant communities listed as provincially threatened or endangered. The land encompasses about 900 metres of waterfront ranging from high bluffs to low bank and access to water’s edge. Along the shore, the coastal bluff plant communities are dominated by arbutus, shore pine, Douglas fir, and some 400-year-old maritime juniper. Huszar Creek flows through the site. In recent years, there have been frequent sightings of both orcas and humpback whales from this site.

The park would be adjacent to Crown land that includes the headwaters of Huszar Creek and Fairy Fen Nature Reserve, and the Wild Coast Nature Refuge. The park lies within the Átl'ka7tsem/Howe Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve​​​​​

 

 

Regional Parks Land Acquisition at Cape Roger CurtisRegional Parks Land Acquisition at Cape Roger Curtis672134989

Vision for the proposed regional park

The proposed regional park at Cape Roger Curtis will​

 

 

Protect ecosystems and biodiversity at Cape Roger Curtis in perpetuityProtect ecosystems and biodiversity at Cape Roger Curtis in perpetuity<div class="ExternalClass010625D270774A81A4E9EFF2852DDD9D"><p>​​The park contains ecosystems which are regionally rare and sensitive. The natural systems have inherent value but also provide wide-ranging benefits including human health, biodiversity, carbon storage, and increased resilience to climate impacts. Currently only 16% of the land is protected, the proposed park will protect against future ecosystem change and loss.​<br></p></div>
Ensure people have a responsible and exceptional experience in nature Ensure people have a responsible and exceptional experience in nature <div class="ExternalClassB368A8F988964ABE89FD4C44DBEB8C37"><p>The proposed park promotes physical and mental health through facilities and programs that provide access to nature. From trails and lookouts to facilities that support low-impact overnight use, everyone can enjoy the benefits of being in nature. Inspiring educational programs, volunteer opportunities, and ecological stewardship foster diverse experiences, deepening people's connection to the ecosystems at the proposed park, encouraging appropriate and responsible visitation on Bowen Island, and nurturing future stewards.​<br></p></div>
Connect people with sustainable accessConnect people with sustainable access<div class="ExternalClassAF6CEB49C1554539A2B5176B39C3A19D"><p>​​Access to a vehicle is a barrier to many people accessing nature. Prioritizing access to the proposed regional park by transit/shuttle, walking, and cycling will reduce barriers to those without vehicles, reduce greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging fewer car trips, and avoid putting pressure on local infrastructure and ferry capacity.​<br></p></div>
Adapt to changes through learning and evaluationAdapt to changes through learning and evaluation<div class="ExternalClassEC22EC2C2A034A9EBA171EEE273731B3"><p>​​Metro Vancouver has a proven track record with over five decades of responsible regional park planning, natural resource management, and operation. Regional Parks foster adaptive management, constantly learning, innovating, evaluating and adjusting through continuous adaptation. As a regional federation, the measures of success are ecological and human factors with accountability to the Metro Vancouver Regional District Board.​<br></p></div>
Foster an active role in planning and stewardship for First NationsFoster an active role in planning and stewardship for First Nations<div class="ExternalClass53CAD0E7EE8A4594B7DB68E860D12D5D"><p>The proposed park is within the territories of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) Nation xʷməθkʷəýəm (Musqueam) Indian Band and sə́lílwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nation.</p><p>First Nations have lived on these lands since time immemorial and have stewarded land and species at Cape Roger Curtis as part of a reciprocal relations with nature. We respectfully acknowledge the significance of Bowen Island and the Howe Sound for all three Nations, particularly the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) Nation. Metro Vancouver is seeking to collaborate and incorporate indigenous knowledge and participation into planning and stewardship at the proposed park.​<br></p></div>

Metro V​ancouver Regional Parks

Metro Vancouver Regional Parks’ role is to protect natural areas and connect people to nature. Regional parks are sustainably managed ​​and well-maintained for the safety of visitors and integrity of ecosystems, and provide the opportunity for people to benefit from exceptional experiences in nature. (Watch Regional Parks videos.) Metro Vancouver has a proven track record of over five decades of responsible regional park planning, natural resource management, and operations, including Crippen Regional Park on Bowen Island. 

Regional parks protect natural areas and connect people to nature. Expanding the regional parks system is a priority identified in Metro Vancouver’s Metro Vancouver’s Board Strategic Plan, the Regional Parks Land Acquisition 2050 Strategy and the Regional Parks Plan.​​​​​

Municipa​l rezoning process

​Metro Vancouver has submitted a rezoning and Official Community Plan (OCP) amendment application to Bowen Island Municipality for the proposed regional park. The land use is currently rural residential with a minimum lot size of 4.0 hectares.

The rezoning and OCP amendment proposes a park, with a variance to allow for supervised tent camping.

This land use designation will allow for the creation of a regional park complete with conservation areas, day-use amenities such as trails, picnic areas, viewpoints, and tent camping.

Input from Bowen Island Residents will inform the Bowen Island Municipality rezoning and OCP amendment process.

Read more about the municipal rezoning process and timeline, and view Metro Vancouver’s rezoning application on Bowen Island Municipality’s website.​

Project documents​​

 

 

Metro Vancouver Board highlightsMetro Vancouver Board highlights<div class="ExternalClassE19336FB9F6E433E85EEDB2CD2D1CEE7"><ul><li>​The Metro Vancouver Board approved the inclusion of the Cape Roger Curtis property in its land acquisition catalogue on April 29, 2022 (<a href="/boards/GVRD/RD_2022-Apr-29_RCL.pdf#search=RD_2022-Apr-29_RCL.pdf" target="_blank">Of​ficial Public Reference​​</a>)</li><li>The Metro Vancouver Board approved the initiation of rezoning process for a new regional park at Cape Roger Curtis, Bowen Island Municipality on Jul 29, 2022 (<a href="/boards/GVRD/RD_2022-Jul-29_RCL.pdf#search=RD_2022-Jul-29_RCL.pdf" target="_blank">Officia​l Public Reference​</a>)<br></li><li>Metro Vancouver presented to the Bowen Island Municipality Committee of the Whole on February 27, 2023 (<a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/proposed-regional-park-cape-roger-curtis-bowen-island-municipality-committee-presentation.pdf" target="_blank">download the presentation (PDF)</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thRwP-MzaiI" target="_blank">watch the meeting</a>)<br></li><li>The Metro Vancouver Board directed staff to proceed with the purchase of 97 hectares of land for a proposed regional park at Cape Roger Curtis on Bowen Island on April 21 2023 (<a href="/boards/GVRD/RD-SP_2023-Apr-21_RCL.pdf#search=RD-SP_2023-Apr-21_RCL.pdf" target="_blank" title="Rise and Report (Items Released from Closed Meeting) - MVRD Special Board Meeting - April 21, 2023">Official Public Reference</a>)​​<br></li></ul></div>
Media releasesMedia releases<div class="ExternalClassE19336FB9F6E433E85EEDB2CD2D1CEE7"><ul class="fa-ul"><li>​ <span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span>​<a href="/media-room/media-release/743" target="_blank">Metro Vancouver Proposal for New Regional Park on Bowen Island Includes Camping Opportunities</a> (Media Release, August 10, 2022)<br></li><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/media-room/media-release/781" target="_blank">Public Engagement Begins February 10 for Proposed Regional Park on Bowen Island</a> (Media Release, February 9, 2023)<br></li><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/media-room/media-release/809" target="_blank">Second Phase of Public Engagement for Proposed Regional Park on Bowen Island Begins July 29</a> (Media Release, July 29, 2023​)<br></li></ul></div>
Email newslettersEmail newsletters<div class="ExternalClassE19336FB9F6E433E85EEDB2CD2D1CEE7"><ul class="fa-ul"><li>​ <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> ​​<a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/proposed-regional-park-cape-roger-curtis-public-engagement-timeline.pdf" target="_blank">Public Engagement Timeline – Propos​ed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis</a> (September 28, 2022)<br></li><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> ​<a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/email-cape-rogers-metro-vancouver-work-bowen-island-engagement-process-proposed-park.pdf" target="_blank">Metro Vancouver Continues Work with Bowen Island Municipality on Transparent Eng​​agement Process for Proposed Park on Bowen Island​​​</a> (December 6, 2022)</li><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> ​<a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/email-cape-rogers-metro-vancouver-work-bowen-island-engagement-process-proposed-park.pdf" target="_blank">Have Your Say – Phase One Public Engagement for the Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis is Now Open</a> (February 10, 2023)</li><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/email-phase-1-public-engagement-regional-park-cape-roger-curtis-2023-03.pdf" target="_blank">Closing Soon + What We’ve Heard – Phase One Public Engagement for the Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis</a> (March 10, 2023)<br></li><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/email-phase-1-public-engagement-regional-park-cape-roger-curtis-2023-04.pdf" target="_blank">Phase One Engagement Summary – Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis</a> (April 14, 2023)<br></li><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/email-purchase-completion-update-proposed-regional-park-2023-05.pdf" target="_blank">Purchase Completion Update – Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis</a> ​(May 16, 2023)​​<br></li><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/advance-notification-of-phase-two-engagement-and-project-updates.pdf" target="_blank">Advance Notification of Phase Two Engagement and Project Updates – Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis</a> ​(July 19, 2023)​<br></li><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> ​ <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/email-phase-2-public-engagement-regional-park-cape-roger-curtis-2023-07.pdf" target="_blank">Now Open! Phase Two Public Engagement for the Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis</a> ​(July 29, 2023)​​<br></li><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> ​ <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/e-newsletter-wildfire-preparedness-response-09-07-2023.pdf" target="_blank">Wildfire Preparedness and Response – Crippen Regional Park and Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis</a> ​(September 7, 2023)​​<br></li><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> ​ <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/e-newsletter-phase-two-engagement-summary-proposed-regional-park-cape-roger-curtis-09-29-2023.pdf" target="_blank">Phase Two Engagement Summary – Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis</a> ​(September 29, 2023)​​<br></li></ul></div>
Technical reportsTechnical reports<div class="ExternalClass675D2E6971F44853AB6BA7C086D95D99"><p>​Metro Vancouver has produced technical reports as part of the planning and rezoning process for the proposed regional park at Cape Roger Curtis on Bowen Island. The reports are produced by professional consultants and experienced Metro Vancouver staff, including registered professional biologists, engineers, planners, and landscape architects​.</p><p>​Metro Vancouver is continuing to work closely with Bowen Island Municipality on the park planning and municipal rezoning process before opening the park to public access. We share a vision of connecting people to nature while protecting the sensitive ecological area. Using accurate, reliable, and transparent data in the planning process will help make this a reality.</p><p>Subscribe to the mailing list to receive project updates</p> <a class="uk-button mv-button" href="/services/regional-parks/mailing-list" target="_blank">Subscribe</a> <ul><li> <strong>Ecological Background</strong><br> Summar​​izes existing biophysical conditions of the site and provides proposals for management opportunities.<br> Date: March 2023 <br> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/ecological-background-crc-biophysical-background-2023-03-23.pdf" target="_blank" title="Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis – Ecological Background Information">Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis – Ecological Background Information​</a> </li><li> <strong>Emergency Management Overview</strong><br> Summarizes Metro Vancouver’s approach to emergency management in regional parks. The principles, approaches, and resources reflect Metro Vancouver’s experience in emergency preparedness and commitment to safety, collaboration, and readiness.<br> Date: June 2023 <br> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/emergency-management-overview-emergency-response-bim-2023-06-07.pdf" target="_blank" title="Emergency Management Overview – Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis, Bowen Island">Emergency Management Overview – Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis, Bowen Island​</a> </li><li> <strong>Summary of Approaches to Implementation, Visitation, Operations, and Access</strong><br> Provides estimations of overnight and day use visitation, park operation and implementation, phasing, and an overview of connections to the proposed park.<br> Date: March 2023 <br> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/summary-of-approaches-to-implementation-visitation-operations-report-2023-03-30.pdf" target="_blank" title="Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis – Summary of Approaches to Implementation, Visitation, Operations and Access">Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis – Summary of Approaches to Implementation, Visitation, Operations and Access​</a> </li><li> <strong>Phasing Summary</strong><br>Appends the phasing summary presented in the Implementation, Visitation, Operations and Access Report.<br>Date: March 2023 <br> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/phasing-summary-updated-phasing-summary.pdf" target="_blank" title="Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis, Bowen Island Addendum to Summary of Approaches to Implementation, Visitation, Operations and Access">Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis, Bowen Island Addendum to Summary of Approaches to Implementation, Visitation, Operations and Access</a> </li><li> <strong>Water Study Analysis Results</strong><br>Availability and quality of drinking water.<br>Date: June 2023 <br> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/water-study-analysis-results-361-cape-roger-curtis-water-study-2023-06-09.pdf" target="_blank" title="Technical Memorandum Water Study Analysis Results">Technical Memorandum Water Study Analysis Results</a> </li><li> <strong>Transportation Impact Assessment</strong><br>Estimates and forecasts for the anticipated traffic demand resulting from the proposed development and provides transportation demand management (TDM) strategies aimed at reducing travel demand by private vehicles. Includes updated census information in trip generation.<br>Date: July​ 2023 <br> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/incoming-tia-cape-roger-curtis-rpt.pdf" target="_blank" title="Cape Roger Curtis Transportation Impact Assessment">Cape Roger Curtis Transportation Impact Assessment</a></li><li> <strong>Trip Generation Review</strong><br>Estimates and compares the potential number of vehicle trips generated from the existing and proposed land use/s at Cape Roger Curtis.<br>Date: March 2023 <br> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/trip-generation-review-incoming-bunt-trip-generation-cape-roger-curtis-bowen-island-trip-signed-2022-03-28.pdf" target="_blank" title="Cape Roger Curtis Park / Campsite – Bowen Island: Trip Generation Review">Cape Roger Curtis Park / Campsite – Bowen Island: Trip Generation Review</a> </li><li> <strong>Visitor Use Management Plan</strong><br>Outlines management actions at the proposed park to guide visitor management and ensure park and community resources are protected and resilient over the long term.<br>Date: May 2023 <br> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/visitor-use-management-plan-crc-visitor-use-management-plan-2023-05.pdf" target="_blank" title="Visitor Use Management Plan Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis">Visitor Use Management Plan Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis</a> </li><li> <strong>Draft Concept Plan and Guiding Principles</strong><br>Provides details of draft guiding principles for park planning design and management, draft spatial concept, and program tables.<br>Date: June 2023 <br> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/draft-concept-plan-and-guiding-principles-crc-zones-concept%20package-low-res.pdf" target="_blank" title="Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis Draft Concept and Program">Proposed Regional Park at Cape Roger Curtis Draft Concept and Program​</a> </li></ul></div>
Draft concept planDraft concept plan<div class="ExternalClass004464621F474C68986C047027490833"><p>Find details of the draft concept plan below:</p><ul class="fa-ul"><li> <span class="fa-li"> <i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span> <a href="/services/regional-parks/Documents/draft-concept-plan-and-guiding-principles-crc-zones-concept%20package-low-res.pdf" target="_blank" title="Draft Concept and Program">(June 2023) Proposed Regional Park at Ca​​​pe Roger Curtis Draft Concept and Program</a>​<br></li></ul></div>

 Photo gallery

 

 

Image arbutus tree and panorama from upland.https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/PublishingImages/_t/cape-roger-curtis-arbutus-upland-east-end-property_jpg.jpgImage arbutus tree and panorama from upland.
Huszar Waterfall.https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/PublishingImages/_t/cape-roger-curtis-huszar-waterfall_jpg.jpgHuszar Waterfall.
Cape Roger Curtis Lighthouse.https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/PublishingImages/_t/cape-roger-curtis-lighthouse_jpg.jpgCape Roger Curtis Lighthouse.
Logs on east end beach.https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/PublishingImages/_t/cape-roger-curtis-logs_jpg.jpgLogs on east end beach.
View from west uplands.https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/PublishingImages/_t/cape-roger-curtis-view-west-uplands_jpg.jpgView from west uplands.
Upland meadow.https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/PublishingImages/_t/cape-roger-curtis-southwest_jpg.jpgUpland meadow.
Upland meadow.https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/PublishingImages/_t/cape-roger-curtis-upland-meadow_jpg.jpgUpland meadow.
Natural bonsai.https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/PublishingImages/_t/cape-roger-curtis-natural-bonsai_jpg.jpgNatural bonsai.
CRC Engagement Infographichttps://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/PublishingImages/_t/crc-engagement-infographic_jpg.jpgCRC Engagement Infographic

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Help create a new regional p​ark


This project is being supported by the Metro Vancouver Regional Parks Foundation, a registered charity dedicated to the conservation and enhancement of Metro Vancouver’s regional parks.

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 Related Links

 

 

Regional Parks Natural Resource Management Frameworkhttps://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/Documents/regional-parks-natural-resource-management-framework-2020.pdf, Regional Parks Natural Resource Management FrameworkRegional Parks Natural Resource Management Framework
Regional Parks Planhttps://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/regional-parks-plan, Regional Parks PlanRegional Parks Plan
Regional Parks Land Acquisition 2050 Strategyhttps://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/land-acquisition-2050, Regional Parks Land Acquisition 2050 StrategyRegional Parks Land Acquisition 2050 Strategy
Community Engagement at Metro Vancouverhttps://metrovancouver.org/about-us/community-engagement, Community Engagement at Metro VancouverCommunity Engagement at Metro Vancouver
Crippen Regional Parkhttps://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/park/crippen-regional-park, Crippen Regional ParkCrippen Regional Park

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