The BCHBC Vancouver Island Chapters began in 1996 with one chapter growing in membership to four chapters in 2020. The North Vancouver Island (NVI) Chapter works with communities from Parksville north to Port Hardy, assisting members to form partnerships with provincial and local governments, First Nations, resource sectors and other interested agencies with the objective of providing educational opportunities, advocating for shared trail use, developing and maintaining trails, trailheads, and facilities to support a growing interest of the outdoors.
NVI chapter has a Partnership Agreement with Recreation Sites and Trails BC to maintain and operate the approximate 40-km Salmon Brewster Trail Corridor as well as the Memekay, Brewster, and Pine Marten horse camp recreation sites. Since the 2013 grand opening the Memekay horse camp receives an average of 700 visits each year, primarily recreational equine riders from across Vancouver Island. Visitor guest books provide some insight into the year-long use of the horse camp recreation sites. With the equine camping and riding season between May and October, hunters from September to December, fishers sharing the camp between January and April, as well as other users including cavers and hikers. The Memekay horse camp has seen visitors from the local Sayward area as well as from many areas throughout BC.
The NVI chapter works closely with the Comox Valley Regional District, whether it be through providing information and advice on equine trails in local parks, the design of horse trailer parking, or contributing volunteer labour to improve trail footing and infrastructure. Our volunteers are ready to help in any way.
We welcome new members. Whether you are an active rider or maintain an interest in other outdoor activities or advocate for shared trails – you are welcome to join our chapter. Having you as a member means we can engage with policymakers, grant providers, or local and provincial government as a group, representing the interests of many.
Beadnell Island Loop Trail – North Vancouver Island chapter of BCH is pleased to be in our 5th year partnership with BC Parks and we had our 3rd successful trail project completed. We are very pleased to thank, BC horse council and Provincial BCH for funding this project.
