WHEREAS species at risk are found throughout the Province of British Columbia; AND WHEREAS it is imperative that species at risk are protected: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government amend the appropriate legislation to allow for the granting of property tax exemptions to landowners who conserve ecologically significant areas containing species at risk, as defined in the federal Species at Risk Act andor any future provincial Species at Risk Acts.
MINISTRY OF WATER, LAND AND AIR PROTECTION We cannot look at the needs of species at risk in isolation. There may be social and economic implications from denying communities access to resources and we need to study that carefully before making a decision. There are also jurisdictional and potential negative economic effects if British Columbia is perceived as not sustainably managing its natural resources, including species at risk. Those landowners willing to forgo economic opportunities on their land or who might also benefit through certification from demonstrating that they protect species at risk, should be encouraged in their stewardship initiatives. This Union of British Columbia Municipalities UBCM proposal will foster a ministry objective for shared stewardship and avoid the need for government intervention on behalf of species and ecosystems at risk.