Conservation through Recreation

Many of the articles that I have read in the last few weeks about conservation have been based on the opinions and efforts by recreationalists.   Conserving the natural environment, whether it be beach, forest, mountain or river is a top priority for most recreational groups.  Without the natural environment partaking in these activities would be impossible.  Surfers would be limited to crowded tourist beaches, climbers stuck in the gym and kayakers sitting on conveyor belts between surf sessions.

Because recreational groups form a bond and feeling of ownership of their playgrounds they are the perfect stewards to represent and protect the wilderness.  By spending so much time embedded in the wild, recreationalists are able to understand the true value of the wilderness.  Historically some of the biggest players in the battle for national parks have had strong ties to the wild through there own recreation.

I think that if these groups can show the economic value of the wilderness that they know so well, they will be able to save it from development.  If sport tourism can be used as an alternative to logging or mining then these places can remain wild.

Paddling down one of BC's 455 Endangered Creeks