Is the U.S. Kayaking School's Use of B.C. Coastal Campsites Under Fire?

The opposition to the National Outdoor Leadership School's (NOLS) application for camping spots along the British Columbia (B.C.) coast has sparked a debate, questioning whether the concerns raised are valid or driven by rising anti-American sentiment. While some local residents express fears regarding environmental impacts and community consultation, others defend NOLS, citing its commitment to responsible outdoor practices and community engagement.

Last updated: 05 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• NOLS has operated in B.C. since 1988, focusing on outdoor education and minimal impact camping.
• Local opposition is based on diverse concerns, including environmental and community consultation issues.
• Supporters highlight NOLS's long-standing relationships with local communities and Indigenous groups.
• The application process for NOLS requires detailed mapping and site approval for each camping location.
• Concerns over anti-American sentiment may be influencing some of the opposition to NOLS's application.

Background on NOLS and its Operations

The National Outdoor Leadership School is a non-profit organisation based in Wyoming, USA, dedicated to teaching outdoor skills, leadership, and wilderness ethics. Since its inception in 1965, NOLS has promoted the philosophy of "Leave No Trace" (LNT), a set of guidelines designed to minimise human impact on the environment. NOLS has operated in British Columbia since 1988, offering programmes such as sea kayaking and wilderness expeditions.

In its current application, NOLS seeks to renew its licence of occupation over 77 separate Crown Land sites along the B.C. coast. This includes the addition of a new Inside Passage sea kayak trip scheduled for 2026, which aims to traverse the entire B.C. coastline over approximately 50 days. The organisation's existing offerings typically involve group sizes of 10 students and two instructors, with courses ranging from three to four weeks.

Community Concerns and Opposition

The application has garnered significant attention from residents of Texada and Lasqueti Islands, who have voiced a multitude of concerns. Critics argue that NOLS's presence contradicts the community's official land-use plans and lacks adequate consultation with local Indigenous groups and adjacent property owners. Kathleen McKinnell, a resident of Lasqueti Island, outlined several objections, including:

• Insufficient consultation with Indigenous communities.
• Fire risks associated with increased human activity.
• Potential conflicts with traditional activities like hunting.
• Inadequate review periods for the application.
• Concerns regarding the commercial use of Crown Land.
• Questions about local economic benefits from NOLS operations.

Some local voices have amplified these concerns by framing them within a broader context of anti-American sentiment. Comments on social media reflect a growing unease about foreign entities operating on Canadian Crown Land, with some individuals calling for stricter regulations against foreign applications.

Counterarguments and Support for NOLS

Despite the opposition, many supporters of NOLS argue that the organisation has consistently operated in a manner that respects the environment and local communities. Rich Majerus, NOLS's Vice President of Expeditions, stated that the organisation has been collaborating with B.C. government agencies and First Nations to ensure compliance with local regulations. He emphasised that NOLS has maintained a long-standing relationship with the area, highlighting the organisation's commitment to responsible outdoor practices.

Supporters, like Keenan Nowak, point out that many of the individuals associated with NOLS are not corporate entities but rather "regular folks" who have benefitted from the organisation's programmes. This perspective encourages a more nuanced view of NOLS's operations, suggesting that fears of corporate influence may be overstated.

Environmental Impact and Community Engagement

One of the primary concerns raised by opponents is the potential environmental impact of increased human activity in sensitive natural areas. Critics argue that even a handful of trips could disrupt local ecosystems. However, NOLS has outlined its commitment to LNT principles, which aim to mitigate such impacts through practices like minimum impact camping and education on environmental stewardship.

Additionally, NOLS has clarified its communication with B.C. Marine Trails, a non-profit organisation that promotes public access to the B.C. coast. Gina Gotch, a director with BC Marine Trails, expressed confidence in NOLS’s track record, noting that the organisation has been operating in the region for years and adheres to respectful and responsible recreation practices.

The Application Process and Future Implications

The application process for NOLS's licence renewal is rigorous. Each proposed campsite must be mapped and individually approved, ensuring a detailed review of potential impacts. This thorough approach aims to address concerns raised by local residents, although some critics argue that the review period itself has been inadequate.

As the deadline for public comments approaches on 5 October 2023, the situation remains dynamic. The discourse surrounding NOLS’s application reflects broader themes of nationalism, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. It raises critical questions about how Canada balances national interests with the benefits of international partnerships in outdoor education.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding NOLS's application illustrates the complexities of land use, community concerns, and the interplay of local and foreign interests in British Columbia. As public comments continue to be submitted, the outcome of this application could set a precedent for future foreign engagements in Canadian Crown Land. How will Canada navigate the balance between welcoming international expertise and protecting local interests?

#NOLS #BritishColumbia #OutdoorEducation

FAQs

What is NOLS and what do they do?

The National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) is a non-profit organisation based in Wyoming that teaches outdoor skills, leadership, and wilderness ethics, promoting a philosophy of responsible outdoor recreation.

Why is there opposition to NOLS's application in B.C.?

Opposition stems from concerns about environmental impact, lack of consultation with Indigenous communities, and fears related to foreign companies operating on Crown Land, amidst a backdrop of increasing anti-American sentiment.

What is the Leave No Trace (LNT) philosophy?

Leave No Trace (LNT) is a set of principles aimed at minimising human impact on the outdoors. It encourages individuals to plan ahead, travel and camp on durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly, and respect wildlife.

How long has NOLS operated in British Columbia?

NOLS has been operating in British Columbia since 1988, providing various outdoor education programmes, including sea kayaking courses.

What is the application process for NOLS's licence renewal?

The application process requires NOLS to map and seek approval for each campsite individually, ensuring a thorough review of potential environmental and community impacts.