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A few years ago, on a Sunday morning, I set out with a few friends on a hike to Nicomen Falls in the Thompson Nicola region, not far from my home in Merritt.
It was not the kind of outing where you simply park, stroll five minutes, and arrive. Getting there required intention. A winding drive down gravel forestry roads through thick stands of trees, the kind of narrow, bumpy roads that remind you to slow down and pay attention. Eventually, we parked and continued on foot, following the sound of rushing water until the forest opened up and there it was.
Nicomen Falls does not disappoint. Standing close to that kind of natural power and beauty is both humbling and energizing at the same time. The reward was absolutely worth every dusty kilometre.
At the time, I did not give much thought to the gravel roads that got us there. I grew up in northern BC and have spent much of my adult life in the interior. In both regions, forestry roads were simply part of life. They were how you accessed places. In my world, they led to hiking trails, huckleberry patches, camping spots tucked off the beaten path in the summer, and to Christmas tree “hunting” expeditions and cross country ski tracks in the winter.
They were not infrastructure. They were just roads. And they were part of the culture of rural BC.
However, the more I reflect on that hike, the more I realize that those forestry roads are far more than dusty pathways to waterfalls.
In a province as vast as BC, forestry roads are integral to accessibility across large swaths of our geography. Their core function has always been to support the forest industry, connecting harvesting areas to mills and communities. But over time, their role has expanded well beyond that original purpose.
These roads connect communities that might otherwise feel isolated. They provide critical emergency access routes in and out of remote areas, particularly during wildfire season or extreme weather events. They allow first responders, search and rescue teams, and utility crews to reach places that would otherwise be inaccessible.
In fact, forestry roads are an integral part of provincial infrastructure, winding an estimated 500,000 kilometres across BC. That number is staggering. It is a network that quietly underpins not only resource development, but community resilience and recreational access.
While the BC Ministry of Forests has overall responsibility for forestry roads, it is largely the forest industry that builds and maintains them. When these roads are no longer required for industrial purposes, it is typically industry’s responsibility to deactivate them. In some cases, deactivation occurs because maintaining remote road networks is simply too expensive.
For many years, that model seemed reasonable. Industry built the roads, used them, maintained them, and eventually decommissioned them. But the landscape has shifted dramatically.
Since 2017, more than 35 sawmills have permanently shut down across BC. The economic impact on communities dependent on forestry has been profound. Tens of thousands of jobs have been affected directly and indirectly. Mills that once anchored towns and supported families for generations have gone quiet.The ripple effects extend beyond employment.
With mill closures and reduced harvesting activity, fewer industrial users remain to maintain the extensive forestry road network. Early estimates indicate that more than 125,000 kilometres, roughly a quarter of the total network, are now at risk. Without ongoing maintenance, these roads deteriorate quickly.
Add climate-related damage from floods and wildfires into the equation and the scale of the challenge becomes staggering.
When forestry roads deteriorate or are deactivated, the consequences extend well beyond timber transport. In rural and remote areas, these roads are lifelines. They support emergency response, enable community movement, and provide access to the landscapes that power BC’s recreation and tourism economy.
Forestry roads are the gateways to trailheads, fishing lakes, snowmobiling routes, mountain biking terrain, backcountry lodges, and waterfalls like Nicomen. When those roads become impassable or unstable, operators lose access to product, visitors lose access to experience, and communities lose visitor spending. Investment becomes hesitant when access is uncertain.
Tourism in BC depends not only on natural beauty, but on reliable access and maintained infrastructure. The model that once relied primarily on forestry to build and maintain these roads no longer reflects their broader role. Today, this network supports not just industry, but tourism, emergency management, community resilience, and regional economic development.
If the function has evolved, then the approach must evolve as well.
New ways of building, funding, and maintaining this critical infrastructure must be brought to the table. Cross-sector collaboration will be required. Creative solutions will be necessary. Ignoring the issue is not an option.
Because at the end of that gravel road, past the bumps and the bends, there is often something remarkable waiting.
A waterfall. A trail. A moment of connection with the land.
And it would be a shame if the only thing standing between people and that experience was a road we forgot to maintain
Amber Papou, B.Ed, MBA, ICD.D
CEO, TIABC
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Stay updated on the latest news and developments by checking out this week's compilation of important matters impacting and influencing our industry.
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YOU’RE INVITED: TIABC Roundtable Series
Connecting with Members and Tourism Collaborators in the Kootenays
Help shape TIABC’s advocacy priorities by joining TIABC CEO Amber Papou at one of the final roundtables in this series. These sessions will focus on tourism policy, current challenges, and the opportunities affecting your business or organization.
Fernie
Date: Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Location: College of the Rockies
REGISTER HERE
Invermere - To be combined with the Columbia Valley Tourism AGM
Date: Thursday, May 28, 2026
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Location: Copper Point Resort
REGISTER HERE
We are looking forward to meeting with you later this month!
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Emergency Preparedness Week in B.C.
May 3 to 9, 2026 marks Emergency Preparedness Week in B.C. and serves as an important reminder for individuals, businesses, and communities to be ready for unexpected events.
This year’s theme, “In it Together,” highlights the vital role that social connection plays in strengthening preparedness and resilience. By working together and staying informed, we can better support one another in times of need.
PreparedBC are reminding everyone to help in raising awareness and take advantage of the available resources to help spread the word and build a more prepared and connected community and province.
- To learn more about Emergency Preparedness Week in B.C., VISIT HERE
- To learn more about how to prepare for emergencies, VISIT HERE
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Here in British Columbia, a dedicated network of tourism and government partners that include TIABC, known as the Tourism Emergency Management Committee (TEMC), works collaboratively to support visitor safety, the resilience of tourism businesses, and the province’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination.
This coordinated approach is especially critical during provincial or multi-regional emergencies. Through this partnership, TEMC has developed a comprehensive BC Tourism Emergency Management Framework, providing guidance and resources across the four pillars of emergency management: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.
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Campfire and Open Burning Restrictions
Now in Effect
New campfire and open burning restrictions are now in effect across B.C.’s Coastal Fire Centre. The BC Wildfire Service is prohibiting most open burning activities throughout the region, citing increased wildfire risk.
Category 1, 2, and 3 fires will be prohibited across the region, with a partial exception for Haida Gwaii, where Category 1 campfires will still be permitted while larger fires remain restricted. The prohibition is expected to remain in place until October 31, or until conditions allow it to be lifted.
Category 2 and 3 open fires are also prohibited throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety. This open fire prohibition will remain in effect until 12:00 noon Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) on Oct. 19, 2026, or until the orders are rescinded.
Learn more and receive up to date information from the BC Wildfire Service HERE.
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ITBC Launching First Welcome Trail
Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) is launching The First Welcome Trail, a landmark, place-based initiative developed in close partnership with Indigenous communities, community destination management organizations, and industry partners.
Rooted in traditional protocols of welcome, the Trail reimagines how visitors engage with First Nations lands, languages, histories, and cultures, offering a respectful, Nation-led approach to tourism.
Launching as a regional pilot across Vancouver Coast & Mountains and Vancouver Island, the Trail connects visitors to Nation-approved welcome poles, carvings, and cultural markers through both physical sites and a digital storytelling experience. Designed as a cultural invitation rather than a tourism product, it centres Indigenous voices and teachings, creating meaningful opportunities for visitors to learn through authentic, community-guided pathways while establishing a model for future expansion across the province.
Learn more about the First Welcome Trail HERE.
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FIFA World Cup 26 Vancouver Host Committee Launch "Know Before You Go" Campaign
The FIFA World Cup 26 Vancouver Host Committee has launched a “Know Before You Go” campaign to help residents, businesses, and visitors prepare for the excitement of upcoming World Cup matchdays.
Serving as a comprehensive, one-stop resource, the campaign covers key information including transportation planning, security measures, road closures, and what to expect at the FIFA Fan Festival. It also provides practical tips to help fans and locals alike plan ahead, avoid disruptions, and make the most of the World Cup experience. By encouraging early preparation and awareness, the initiative plays an important role in delivering a safe, seamless, and memorable event for all.
Learn more HERE.
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Science World Transforming its Dome into FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Match Ball
Work is now underway to transform Science World into a striking replica of the official FIFA World Cup 2026 match ball. The iconic geodesic dome is being wrapped with up to 131 custom-designed panels, reimagining one of Vancouver’s most recognizable landmarks as a bold, global football-inspired installation.
The transformation is expected to take approximately four weeks, with completion anticipated in early June. Once finished, the structure will mirror the Adidas Trionda, creating one of the most visually compelling FIFA-themed installations in Canada.
In addition, Science World will host the “Soccer & Technology from FIFA” exhibition from May 15 to September 7. This immersive experience will showcase the intersection of innovation, sport, and culture, offering visitors a unique way to engage with the spirit of the game.
Learn more through the full announcement from the Province HERE.
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Help Advance Agritourism Across Canada
The Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) has partnered with Tourism HR Canada and Food Processing Skills Canada to launch the first annual Agritourism Survey.
This important initiative is funded for the next five years and aims to build a clearer picture of workforce realities in the agritourism sector. CAHRC is seeking to better understand the workforce challenges agritourism operators are facing so they can strengthen advocacy efforts and develop targeted programming that reflects real industry needs.
You are encouraged to share the survey widely with your networks, members, and stakeholders to help ensure strong regional and national representation in the data.
In addition, you are invited you to share the National Culinary & Agritourism Action Plan with your networks. This plan provides a strategic framework for strengthening Canada’s culinary and agritourism sectors.
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RFP | Kootenay Rockies Regional Transportation Study
The Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association in partnership with Destination BC invites qualified consulting teams to submit proposals to undertake a Regional Transportation Study and Targeted Experience Assessment, that explores the connection between transportation connectivity and experience development opportunities across the region to help overcome challenges outlined in the Birthplace of Adventure Destination Development Strategy. Requests for Proposals are due June 30, 2026
Learn more HERE.
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Aligning for Impact
This week’s work positions tourism as core economic infrastructure while advancing a more coordinated, proactive approach to advocacy across BC.
Investment & Competitiveness
Engagement continues to improve BC’s investment climate for tourism, including input on the BC Small Business Venture Capital Program (SBVCP) and infrastructure alignment to support project certainty and capital attraction.
Events as Economic Infrastructure
A key focus remains the long-term sustainability of events and festivals, increasingly challenged by rising costs, permitting complexity, and capacity constraints across BC.
TIABC continues to work with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport (MTACS) to advance a BC Events Strategy ensuring it translates into timely, coordinated action and that major opportunities deliver lasting economic and community benefit across the province.
This includes advocating for clearer provincial coordination, streamlined approvals, and stronger support for host communities to manage opportunity and risk while keeping BC competitive on the global stage. TIABC contributed to a recent article from CBC News (see below).
Emergency Preparedness Week
This week highlights the importance of tourism readiness and resilience. Through Destination BC and the Tourism Emergency Management Committee, industry partners continue advancing tools and “Know Before You Go” resources to support safe, informed travel across the province.
Sustainability & Stewardship
Policy alignment continues to elevate climate readiness, stewardship, and responsible access as core to long-term competitiveness across destinations and sectors.
MRDT Modernization
In partnership with BCDMOA, work is underway to refine the Municipal and Regional District Tax framework protecting its tourism focus while improving administration and exploring opportunities to strengthen the revenue base.
Looking Ahead
TIABC’s Policy Committee is advancing a clearer framework to move from reactive issues to proactive leadership, with emerging pillars to guide advocacy and improve transparency for members. TIABC continues to advance a coordinated, industry-led policy approach grounded in strong committee governance and sector alignment.
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TIABC Responds to Community Impacts from Event Cancellations
In an interview this week with CBC regarding the impact of event cancellations across the province, TIABC Policy Director Cassandra Zerebeski emphasized that the loss of events extends well beyond the event itself, affecting hotel occupancy, restaurant activity, and overall economic contributions to local communities. She also pointed to opportunities for stronger support, including more predictable multi-year funding, as well as increased collaboration at the municipal level through shared resources, reduced fees, and more streamlined permitting processes.
Read the full story from CBC HERE.
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New GeoCentre Opens in Tumbler Ridge
A new GeoCentre has officially opened in the Tumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark, creating a space for visitors and residents to explore the region’s geological heritage through interactive exhibits and educational experiences. Showcasing local landscapes, fossils, waterfalls, and cultural stories, the GeoCentre supports year-round tourism and sustainable destination development in Northeastern BC. Accessibility and sustainability were key priorities throughout the project, with the exhibit developed using the Canadian Museum for Human Rights’ Exhibit Design Standards for Access and Inclusivity.
Learn more HERE.
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Tourism Fernie Launches New Website
Tourism Fernie has officially launched a brand-new website - re-imagined to better inspire, inform, and connect with today’s travellers.
With streamlined navigation, fresh storytelling, and a more intuitive user experience, the new site brings Fernie’s adventurous spirit and unique mountain culture to life in a whole new way. This launch is an exciting step forward in how Tourism Fernie showcases their destination and supports local tourism industry.
View the Tourism Fernie website HERE.
| TOURISM HR SPOTLIGHT WITH go2HR | |
New & Free: Health & Safety Team Huddles
for Your Staff
Keeping safety top of mind in fast-paced Tourism & Hospitality workplaces is not always easy. Between busy shifts, changing priorities, and operational pressures, finding time for meaningful safety conversations can be a challenge.
That’s where go2HR’s new Team Huddles service comes in.
Delivered virtually by go2HR’s Health & Safety specialists, Team Huddles bring ready-to-go safety talks directly to your staff. These 15–30-minute sessions are designed to reinforce safe work practices, encourage open conversations about workplace safety, and help teams stay focused on working safely without creating extra work for employers.
The sessions fit easily into existing team meetings or pre-shift briefings and cover practical topics relevant to Tourism & Hospitality workplaces, including team roles in workplace safety, staying safe under pressure, and working safely in hot environments. For workplaces in select locations, in-person Team Huddles may also be available.
By making safety conversations more accessible and consistent, Team Huddles help build stronger awareness, shared accountability, and safer workplace cultures across the industry!
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CANTRAV SERVICES
Cantrav Services Inc. is a premier, award-winning Canadian destination management company (DMC) and event production firm. They specialize in planning and delivering corporate events, incentive programs, conferences, and team-building activities across Canada, with a focus on high-quality logistics, local experiences, and creative production.
Learn more about Cantrav HERE.
Photo Credit: Destination BC
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Let's Work Together on What Matters Most
To bolster industry advocacy efforts, membership in the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) is a good investment.
Becoming a member of TIABC offers many significant benefits that can enhance your business, elevate your voice on the issues that matter, and contribute to the success of BC’s visitor economy. As well, you will gain ease of access to a collaborative network of businesses, partners and allies that support the tourism industry, both nationally and provincially.
Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.
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Industry Webinar on Destination BC's FIFA Activities
Join Destination BC and guests for an virtual update on Destination BC's province-wide FIFA activities.
Date: May 14
Time: 10:00 am (PT)
Just 28 days before FIFA World Cup 26 kicks off in Vancouver, engage in an update on planning, upcoming activations, and consumer marketing initiatives. From engaging Australian visitors to Destination BC’s Home Pitch experience at the FIFA Fan Festival, this session will provide a look at what’s ahead as British Columbia prepares to welcome the world.
Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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ITBC Present | Practical Tools for a Changing Market
This 60-minute workshop is designed for Indigenous tourism operators seeking to adapt and grow. Through short presentations and open dialogue, participants will discuss current trends, emerging risks and opportunities related to sustainability and market positioning.
Grounded in Indigenous perspectives on sustainability and interconnectedness, the session offers practical approaches to market positioning—covering how to communicate sustainability, reach aligned visitors, and share what is inherent and sacred.
Attendees leave with actionable insights to support next steps, from attracting the right visitors to shaping how their work evolves.
Date: May 28th, 2026
Time: 10:00-11:00 AM (PT) - Virtual
Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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Heritage BC Presents Living Threads | Practical Ways to Engage with Indigenous Intangible
This one hour webinar explores Intangible Cultural Heritage, also known as Living Heritage and its connection to Indigenous heritage in practical, meaningful ways. Participants will gain tools and approaches they can use right away to recognize, document and support Indigenous intangible heritage through respectful, community-driven practices.
Date: June 1
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (PT)
Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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BC Outdoor Recreation Conference 2026
The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC is celebrating 50 years of advocacy in 2026, and we’re marking the occasion in a big way! Join us at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, BC, for this milestone event.
Dates: May 20 - 22
Location: Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops
This conference will bring together outdoor recreation leaders, advocates, and enthusiasts from across British Columbia to reflect on our past, celebrate our achievements, and shape the future of public recreation. Look forward to engaging speakers, insightful panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and valuable networking with recreationists, land managers, and decision-makers. Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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BCAC 2026 Conference Kelowna: Soaring Above Challenges – Eyes on the Horizon
Registration is open for the BC Aviation Council spring conference!. (Pro Tip: Book your accommodation ASAP as the CHL Memorial Cup is also taking place in Kelowna in May.
When: May 25 - 27
Where: Kelowna
For updated event details, ticket prices as well as links for discounted hotel rooms at the lakeside Eldorado Hotel and Monteo Resort, VISIT HERE.
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74th Annual BC Chamber of Commerce AGM and Conference
Building What Matters: Clarity, Trust, and Partnership in Action
With new leadership at the BC Chamber of Commerce, this conference marks an important moment to look ahead, focusing on clear direction, trusted relationships, and meaningful collaboration across sectors and regions.
Date: June 1 - 3rd
Location: Fort St. John
Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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BC Trails Day
The Outdoor Council of BC wish to remind you that BC Trails Day is on June 6th!
It’s a day to celebrate the incredible trail networks across British Columbia while promoting responsible recreation, volunteering, environmental stewardship, and equitable access to the outdoors.
Learn more about the micro-grant program and how to register your event HERE.
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Culinary Tourism Alliance’s Taste of Place Summit
From Soil to Story
Hosted by the Culinary Tourism Alliance, the Taste of Place Summit is a national gathering bringing together destination leaders, chefs, producers and marketers from across Canada to celebrate and advance culinary and agritourism.
Dates: June 15 - 16
Location: Westin, Edmonton
Delegates can expect immersive learning journeys, thought-provoking discussions during main stage programming and plenty of networking along the way.
Early bird registration is now open until Dec. 31. Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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Save the Date | Wine Capital Weekend 2026
Wine Capital Weekend returns, welcoming visitors and locals alike to three days of wine, craft beverages, live music, food, and community celebration in Canada’s Wine Capital.
Dates: September 18 - 20 | Oliver
From the energy of the Kick-Off Party to the excitement of Cask & Keg and the iconic Festival of the Grape, the weekend showcases the very best of the South Okanagan during peak harvest season.
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2026 Tourism Congress
The Tourism Congress is Canada’s leading and only national-level event bringing together all sectors of the industry. The 2026 Tourism Congress is all about ACCESS: Unlocking Canada’s Tourism Advantage.
Dates: November 17 - 19, 2026
Location: Fredericton, NB
Early bird registration is now open! Learn more HERE.
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Learn More | The READI™ Program
The READI™ program is designed to support the growth and resilience of Canada’s tourism industry. Whether you’re an independent business or an organization looking to support your members, READI™ gives tourism operators practical tools, training, and support to handle challenges and take advantage of new opportunities.
Participants can choose from various designation categories based on their organizational focus and goals.
Learn more about the READI™ program HERE.
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TIABC recognizes that our members, stakeholders and staff occupy the ceded, unceded and traditional territories of Indigenous Nations across British Columbia. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to live, work and play on the lands that our Indigenous friends and First Nations ancestors honour and care for.
#970 - 1050 West Pender Street | Vancouver, BC | V6E 3S7 | 604.685.5956
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