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British Columbia Wildlife Federation


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British Columbia - The Best Place On Earth
The BCWF would like to acknowlege the on-going support of the
BC Government.


Wilderness Watch




Wilderness Watch Program

The Wilderness Watch program is designed to assist federal and provincial resource enforcement agencies in their protection of our natural environment and its inhabitants.

Under the auspices of these enforcement agencies, volunteer wilderness watch participants patrol rural problem areas within their region to "Observe, Record infractions of environmental legislation (fish and wildlife poaching, pollution, vandalism etc.) and Report their observations to the proper authorities.

Wilderness Watch members have no power to confront or apprehend violators beyond that of any other citizen. Rather they are the eyes and ears so desperately needed by understaffed and under-funded resource agencies.


How does the program work?

Under the supervision of a Wilderness Watch co-ordinator who is selected by participants, a minimum of two members conduct periodic patrols of designated areas in, or close proximity to, their community. In response to a specific request by one or more enforcement agencies or in a pre-arranged pattern determined by the co-ordinators in co-operation with agency representatives.

While on patrol, Wilderness Watch members visit areas used for hunting, fishing, hiking and other outdoor recreational activities. All motor vehicles within these areas are approached and, if a vehicle is occupied, assistance is offered, specific information is provided if requested. The purpose of the Wilderness Watch Program is explained and the occupants are encouraged to report any unusual activities to the appropriate authorities through the Toll FREE Report All Poachers & Polluters hotline (RAPP Line 1-877-952-7277) or the Crimestoppers tips line. If the vehicle is unoccupied, the Wilderness Watch member leaves a contact slip on it's windshield. It requests that the occupant of the vehicle report any unethical or unlawful act against wildlife, livestock and public or private property. A copy of the contact slip is kept on permanent file and made available to enforcement agencies for potential follow-up.

THE WILDERNESS WATCH PROGRAM...

...Provides an opportunity for direct and supervised involvement by concerned individuals in the protection of our natural environment.

...Helps to ensure continued access for the pursuit of hunting, fishing, camping and other outdoor activities, particularly on private lands.

...Demonstrates to the community at large a personal commitment to the natural environment and the need for individual citizens to become involved in protecting our natural resources.

...Serves notice to governments that the public is prepared to take positive and direct action to protect Crown Lands from abuse and to retain them in the public domain.





GET INVOLVED!
We need you to get involved!

To start a Wilderness Watch Program in your area contact:
Provincial Co-Ordinator
Jim Helsden: 604-533-7922
jhelsdon@shaw.ca

The Wilderness Watch program is designed to assist federal and provincial resource enforcement agencies in their protection of our natural environment and its inhabitants.

Under the auspices of these enforcement agencies, volunteer wilderness watch participants patrol rural problem areas within their region to "Observe, Record infractions of environmental legislation (fish and wildlife poaching, pollution, vandalism etc.) and Report their observations to the proper authorities.

BCWF Programs Overview
CORE Hunter Education
A really great program for anyone interested in outdoor recreation. more »
Wetlands Education Program
Learn how to increase community health by assessing your wetland assets. more »
Becoming an Outdoors Woman
A unique weekend program offering an all inclusive outdoor skills workshop for women. more »
Wilderness Watch
Protect our environment by patrolling and reporting observations to authorities. more »
Fishing Forever
Many could benefit greatly from a day out fishing, if they could only get there... more »
Artist of the Year
Become a select Artist whose work exhibits the beauty of BC's fish, wildlife and habitats. here »
Archery in the Schools
The National Archery in Schools Program promotes student education, physical education and participation in the life long sport of Archery... more »
The Angling Ambassador
The BC Wildlife Federation and the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC have partnered together to offer the Angling Ambassador program...
more »

604-291-9990   -::-   1-888-881-2293