Rathtrevor Provincial Park is one of more than 600 provincial parks to shut down until further notice. (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

parks closed

All B.C. provincial parks shut down until further notice

Apr 8, 2020 | 11:59 AM

NANAIMO — All provincial parks are closed indefinitely in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy said on Wednesday, April 8, the decision was made following feedback from multiple sources, including local governments, RCMP and search and rescue teams.

“While many people are observing the physical distancing requirements set by the provincial health officer, some continue to ignore the order, making enforcement in a wilderness setting challenging,” the Ministry said.

In the mid-island area, this includes Rathtrevor Beach, Cathedral Grove, Englishman River Falls, Newcastle Island, Modern Colliery Historic Park and Gabriola Sands, among others.

A ban on camping at all provincial parks is extended until May 31, 2020.

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Reduced access and services at provincial parks over the past three weeks were implemented in phases, including a ban on camping, the use of washrooms and day use facilities.

All Parks Canada facilities are closed.

Many local governments opted to leave parks open, but sports courts and playgrounds are closed in many mid island communities, including Nanaimo.

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