Whereas the provincial government is responsible for managing wildlife through its Conservation Service, and the British Columbia Conservation Service has not been able to adequately address wildlife-human conflict; And whereas underfunding is having a negative impact on the ability of the BC Conservation Officer Service to meet the needs of the communities served; And whereas reduction in offices has reduced the number of conservation officers in the field, while expecting them to adequately monitor and enforce activities throughout large management units; And whereas the UBCM membership has consistently endorsed resolutions calling on the provincial government to increase numbers of conservation officers and resources to support wildlife management resolutions 2015-B26; 2013-B27; 2012-B22; 2012-B72; 2010-B25; 2003-B32; 1996-B27; 1996-B64; 1992-B35: Therefore be it resolved that the provincial government be requested to provide adequate funding, offices and staffing to fully support the BC Conservation Service to be more active and proactive in effectively managing wildlife-human conflicts.
Ministry of Environment Many communities across the Province are serviced by conservation officers through zone coverage practices, where officers respond to complaints and concerns anywhere in the zone. Conservation officer staffing levels remain on par with prior years at 148 officers. Enhancements to their equipment and use of technology have further enhanced their mobility and responsiveness. The Conservation Officer Service uses a zone deployment approach, responding to concerns throughout a geographic zone, regardless of an officers point of assembly. At times, officers from other geographic areas are deployed to assist in areas experiencing a higher call demand. Conservation officers are equipped with the latest mobile technology, which allows them to spend more time in the field than ever before.