Results of the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC’s third annual poll, conducted by Ipsos, 56% of BC residents say access to trails and outdoor recreational amenities influenced their current choice of residence. UBCM members, through resolutions, have long advocated for increased funding for enhancement and maintenance of trails, parks and outdoor recreation amenities.
Another 89% of respondents indicated that increased government investment in outdoor recreation amenities will benefit them or their community. The top identified benefits included: improved physical and mental health (62%), protection of biodiversity and nature (50%), and support of the local economy, for example keeping residents spending locally rather than travelling (44%).