Park Management
The Canada National Parks Act
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve (PRNPR) was formally proclaimed under the Canada National Parks Act (CNPA) on February 19th, 2001.
What does proclamation mean for Pacific Rim National Park Reserve?
Proclamation protects Pacific Rim under the legislation of the Canada National Parks Act (CNPA) and allows the use of the CNPA Regulations. The Act and the Regulations are tools that Parks Canada staff can use to help protect the park's natural and cultural heritage for the understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of present and future generations.
Why is Pacific Rim National Park a reserve?
A "national park reserve" is a specific provision under the Canada National Parks Act acknowledging that in those parks designated as "park reserves", there may be outstanding rights or interest in the area by First Nations. Pending the settlement of any such rights or interests through treaty or other negotiations, the park "reserve" status allows the area to be managed with the protection afforded all national parks under the Act.
For more information on park management, please visit:
2009 State of the Park Report
2010 Park Management Plan
Park Protection and You
Over 700,000 visitors come to Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands, and the West Coast Trail each year. Unless we all share in the stewardship of these areas, we stand to lose the very things that attract us to these special places.
For this reason, visitors are asked to comply with some simple rules established under the Canada National Parks Act.
For example, under the Act it is illegal to:
- collect and remove natural or cultural objects;
- feed, harass or hunt wildlife;
- cut vegetation (e.g. for fires);
- camp outside designated camping areas;
- camp without a permit.
Commercial Operators
Under the Canada National Parks Act, businesses conducting any part of their operation within the national park require a National Park Business License. Operating standards for commercial activities within the park have been developed in consultation with park stakeholders and are near completion. These operating standards include environmental best practices and accepted safety standards. Compliance with operating standards is necessary to obtain a National Park Business License.
Completed Commercial Operator Standards:
- Marine Wildlife Viewing
- Marine Transportation
- Dive Charters
- Kayaking
- Surf Kayaking
- Surf Schools
- Backpacking
Standards Under Development:
Please contact us for a copy of the standards or to apply for a National Park Business License.
Failure to obtain a National Park Business License is in direct contravention of the Canada National Parks Act.
Safety Standards for Youth Groups
Parks Canada is developing safety standards for custodial (youth) group activities in Pacific Rim. Our goal is to encourage youth to experience their national parks, while planning for their safety through appropriate leadership for the variety of activities in which they participate.
Ocean Kayaking and/ or Canoeing
Interim restrictions have been implemented for custodial groups kayaking and/or canoeing in Pacific Rim's marine waters. Interim restrictions are needed due to the inherent risks involved in these activities, and practices of concern observed in the field. Custodial groups taking part in these activities must obtain a permit in advance to arriving at the park, and adhere to the following interim standards.
Recommended safety standards are also available for all other activities. Please contact the park for further information.
Input from teachers, parents, and youth group leaders
Custodial group standards in the national park are in initial stages of development. An important aspect of developing these standards will be input from parents, teachers, and other custodial group leaders. Please contact the park to get involved in the process.