TABLE OF CONTENTS. Spearhead Huts Project Description. Table of Contents... i. 1 Summary Introduction... 3

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2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Table of Contents... i 1 Summary Introduction Spearhead Ski Traverse Description Spearhead Huts System Objectives and Benefits Spearhead Huts Committee Spearhead Huts Legal Entity Spearhead Huts Project History Relationship to Previously Submitted Spearhead Proposal First Nations Benefits Other Stakeholder Engagement Project Overview Hut Locations Overview Russet Hut Location Pattison Hut Location Macbeth Hut Location New Campsites New Trails Hut Site Hazards Assessment Environmental Assessment Development Schedule Impact if the Spearhead Huts System is Not COmpleted Huts Design and Construction The Design Process Adherence to BEES Principles in SPearhead Huts Design Huts Position on Comfort/Quality Scale Huts Usage and Programme HUts mechanical and electrical systems Huts Schematic Designs and Construction The Concept for the Russet Hut The Concept for the Pattison Hut The Concept for the Macbeth Hut Construction Methods and Materials Hut Construction Safety and Emergency Response One-time Huts Related Costs Risk Management One-time, Start-up Risks Operations management Plan Operations Management Overview Huts Availability, Reservations, Quotas, and Fee Structure Forecast Hut Utilization and Fee Revenue Huts Operational Costs Marketing Plan Operations Safety Plan Risk Management On-going Hut Operations Appendix 1 ACC Huts Inventory Spearhead Huts Project Description i

3 Figures Figure 1 - Spearhead Huts System Overview... 1 Figure 2 - Russet Hut Site... 8 Figure 3 - Pattison Hut Location... 9 Figure 4 - Macbeth Hut Location Figure 5 Relocated Russet Campsite Figure 6 Spearhead Huts and Trail System Development Schedule Figure 7 Backcountry Huts Comfort/Quality Scale Comparison Figure 8 Pattison Hut Looking South Towards Mt. Overlord Figure 9 Macbeth Hut Looking West From Macbeth Glacier Figure 10 - Hut Occupancy by Year of Operation Figure 11 - Hut Fee Revenues by Year of Operation Tables Table 1 Environmental Assessment Summary of Valued Components Table 2 Huts Programme Table 3 - Mechanical and Electrical Systems Table 4 Approximate One-time Huts Related Costs Table 5 One-time, Start-up Risk Management Table 6 Hut Occupancy and Fee Revenue Forecast Table 7 - Annual Huts Operating/Maintenance Costs Table 8 On-going Operations Risk Management Spearhead Huts Project Description ii

4 1 SUMMARY The proposed Spearhead Huts System project has two important objectives: 1. Provide high quality, low cost, year-round recreation opportunities in Garibaldi Provincial Park for BC residents and visitors. 2. Reduce adverse environmental impacts to Garibaldi Provincial Park caused by people recreating there. These objectives will be achieved through the creation of three mountain huts (Russet, Macbeth, and Pattison) strategically placed along the Spearhead Ski Traverse route. These are shown in Figure 1. These huts will be: Figure 1 - Spearhead Huts System Overview Designed to comfortably accommodate approximately 35 people each in small, bunk-style rooms with a separate private room for a custodian. Designed and built to quality standards consistent with the world-class nature of the Spearhead area. Each hut will be custom designed to take maximum advantage of the hut site s characteristics. Open and accessible in winter from the to support people travelling on the popular Spearhead Ski Traverse route or wanting to recreate in the areas around each hut. Open in summer. One hut (Russet) is accessible in summer from the popular Russet Lake Trail. Available to the general public at low cost, e.g., $25-40 per night. Spearhead Huts Project Description 1

5 Available by reservation with restrictions on how many spaces can be reserved by commercial guided groups and large private groups. Built and operated using best practices standards in the industry. Provide safety related information to people traveling to the huts along with safety/rescue equipment stationed at the huts. Built and operated in a manner which minimizes environmental impacts. Provide significant economic and cultural benefits to the Whistler area and southwest BC. The all-volunteer Spearhead Huts Committee which is proposing this project is comprised of representatives from the following non-profit organizations: The Alpine Club of Canada Whistler Section. The Alpine Club of Canada Vancouver Section. The British Columbia Mountaineering Club. Kees and Claire Memorial Hut Society. Brett Carlson Memorial Foundation. The Alpine Club of Canada (ACC) will be the legal entity holding the park use permit and owning the huts. The ACC has a long and extensive history of building and managing successful mountain huts. It currently operates 30 huts, 23 of which are in national or BC provincial parks. The ACC s oldest hut was built in 1922 and is a Canadian national historic site. It is also the second highest habitable structure in Canada with the highest being another ACC hut. The Alpine Club of Canada Whistler and Vancouver Sections will operate the huts. These two ACC sections built and currently operate three huts in the Sea to Sky area. The first of those huts was built in 1961 and is as well used and in as good condition today as when it was first built. The proposed huts will cost approximately $2,545,000 to build. This includes $860,000 in volunteer labour and donated materials and services which are valued at market rates. Some of the remaining $1,685,000 will be contributed by the members of the Spearhead Huts Committee. Most of the funds will have to be acquired by fundraising. Construction of any one hut will only begin once all the funds required to complete the hut are secured. This will ensure that there are no partially completed huts due to fundraising difficulties. Once the huts are built they will be financially self-sustaining with on-going costs covered by fees charged. Total annual occupancy is expected to be about 7,000 bed nights generating fee revenues of about $240,000. Annual costs are expected to be about $220,000. The environmental assessment shows negative environmental impacts will be limited to soil and vegetation disturbance in the immediate areas of the huts. Spearhead Huts Project Description 2

6 2 INTRODUCTION This Spearhead Huts Project Description document serves two purposes: 1. Support the formal application for a Park Use Permit by the Spearhead Huts Committee (SHC) to BC Parks. 2. Provide detailed project information to stakeholders and potential donors. This document has the following major sections: 1. Overall Summary. 2. Introduction describing the area, history, and SHC organizations 3. Project Overview describing the huts locations, development schedule, and environmental impact. 4. Huts Designs and Construction describing the huts and how they will be built. 5. Operations Management Plan describing how the huts will be managed after they are built. 6. Supporting Appendices. 2.1 SPEARHEAD SKI TRAVERSE DESCRIPTION The Spearhead Ski Traverse was first done on skis in 1964 by a group which included Karl Ricker, well known Whistler resident. This was well before the first ski lifts appeared on Whistler Mountain and long before Blackcomb Mountain was developed. The Spearhead Ski Traverse follows the Fitzsimmons Range from the Whistler Mountain /Garibaldi Provincial Park boundary at Flute Mountain around to the Spearhead Range at the edge of the Blackcomb Mountain / Garibaldi Provincial Park Boundary at the East Col. The traverse is done in both directions with Blackcomb to Whistler being most popular. The Spearhead Ski Traverse is an excellent route. The standard, longer version is 35 kilometers and crosses 13 glaciers. The two ends are accessible from ski lifts on Whistler and Blackcomb. The traverse is typically done in 2-3 days although many people go slower to take advantage of the many downhill ski opportunities and mountaineering objectives along the way. There is one hut on the traverse, the Himmelsbach Hut at Russet Lake. (This hut was named after Werner Himmelsbach, another Whistler resident who assisted in the construction of the hut.) There is no summer trail equivalent to the Spearhead Ski Traverse. People can travel the winter route by crossing glaciers or they can go cross country over talus, steep meadows, and through woods. No statistics are available regarding the numbers of people recreating in the area. 2.2 SPEARHEAD HUTS SYSTEM OBJECTIVES AND BENEFITS The proposed Spearhead Huts System project has two important objectives: 1. Provide high quality, low cost, year-round recreation opportunities in Garibaldi Park for BC residents and visitors. The heavily used Elfin Shelter in the Diamond Head area is the only significant overnight accommodation available now available in Garibaldi Provincial Park. In many people s opinion there is a need for more facilities like this. 2. Reduce adverse environmental impacts to Garibaldi Park caused by people recreating there. There is already an adverse environmental impact on the Spearhead Range caused by the many people who backcountry ski in the area. People camping there dig temporary outhouses which turn into scattered piles of excrement when the snow melts. Both objectives and other benefits will be achieved with the development of a system of three mountain huts along the ski traverse route. Spearhead Huts Project Description 3

7 The huts will enable people to enjoy the area without having to bring a full complement of camping equipment. The popularity of the Elfin Shelter is clear evidence of how a low cost, comfortable mountain hut provides major recreational benefits to many people. Each of the three proposed huts will accommodate about the same number of people as the Elfin Shelter. The Spearhead Huts System will transform the Spearhead Ski Traverse from being an excellent trip to one which is truly world class. People will come from afar to the Whistler area specifically to do the traverse. These will be new customers for Whistler area business; ones who would not have come there without the Spearhead Huts System. Mountain huts tend to concentrate people. They either stay in the hut or camp near it. Either way the proper outhouses get used. This dramatically reduces the environmental impact on the surrounding area. 2.3 SPEARHEAD HUTS COMMITTEE The Spearhead Huts Committee was formed in 2009 for the specific purpose of developing the hut system described in this document. The committee is comprised of volunteer representatives from the following non-profit organizations: 1. The Alpine Club of Canada Whistler Section. The Whistler Alpine Club was formed in 1990 and joined the Alpine Club of Canada as the Whistler Section in The Whistler Section has 125 members. It built and operates the Wendy Thompson Hut located in Marriott Basin between Mt. Currie and Lillooet. 2. The Alpine Club of Canada Vancouver Section. The Vancouver Section was formed in 1918 and has 720 members. The Vancouver Section built and operates the Tantalus Hut at Lake Lovely Water and the Jim Haberl Hut, both located in the Tantalus Range near Squamish. The popular Tantalus Hut celebrated its 50th anniversary in The British Columbia Mountaineering Club (BCMC). The BCMC was formed in 1907 and has 900 members. The club was instrumental in obtaining parks status for Garibaldi Provincial Park in the 1920 s. The BCMC built and operates three huts: the Mountain Lake Hut near Britannia Beach, the North Creek Hut in the Lillooet Valley, and the Plummer Hut in the Mt. Waddington area. The club also built two huts at Russet Lake (the Himmelsbach Hut) and at Wedgemont Lake both in Garibaldi Park. These two huts were donated to Garibaldi Park. 4. Brett Carlson Memorial Foundation. This foundation was formed to commemorate Brett Carlson, a well known Whistler resident who died in a ski accident in Brett was an accomplished ski mountaineer, with experience throughout the Rockies and the Coast Range. Since his passing, a substantial amount of money has been raised with the objectives of assisting a youth program, and ultimately the building of a backcountry hut for the public to enjoy. 5. Kees and Claire Memorial Hut Society. This society was formed to commemorate Cornelius 'Kees' Brenninkmeyer and Claire Dixon. The two died in 2007 while on a month long ski trip on the Wapta Traverse in Banff National Park, volunteering as hut custodians along the way. The society is made up of a small group of their close friends who are devoted to building a lasting memorial legacy to honour them. 2.4 SPEARHEAD HUTS LEGAL ENTITY The legal entity responsible for the proposed Spearhead Huts System is the Alpine Club of Canada (ACC). The ACC will hold the Park Use Permit and will own the huts. The ACC was formed in 1906 and has approximately 9,000 members in 20 geographic sections. Five of the sections and 2,600 members are in British Columbia. The ACC is a Canadian registered charity. Spearhead Huts Project Description 4

8 The ACC has a long and extensive history of building and managing high quality backcountry mountain huts. The first ACC hut (Abbott Pass) was built in Aside from regular maintenance and minor upgrades, this very popular hut is unchanged since it was first built. It is a Canadian national historic site and, at 2,925 meters, is the second highest inhabited structure in Canada. (The ACC s Neil Colgan hut at 2,956 meters is the highest.) The ACC operates and manages 30 backcountry huts. 17 of these are in national parks and 6 are in BC provincial parks. One of the national park huts and three of the provincial park huts were originally built and are owned by the respective parks organizations. Total capacity of the huts is 477 bunks. Huts range in size from 4 to 40 bunks. Total occupancy per year is approximately 35,000 bed-nights with the three Whistler area huts totalling approximately 5,000 bed-nights per year. Appendix 1 ACC Huts Inventory has the list with brief descriptions of huts managed by the ACC. The Spearhead Huts will be managed by the ACC Whistler and Vancouver Sections who will be responsible for setting fee rates, managing day-to-day operations and maintenance as well as performing periodic upgrades and renovations. The ACC Whistler and Vancouver Sections already manage three ACC huts in the Sea to Sky area. 2.5 SPEARHEAD HUTS PROJECT HISTORY When the Himmelsbach Hut was built in 1964 it was planned to be the first of a series of huts around the Spearhead Ski Traverse. The concept of a series of huts around the Spearhead has been alive in many people s minds ever since. The SHC was formed in 2009 for the specific purpose of developing a Spearhead Huts System. The next two years were taken up in developing the concept, selecting/surveying the hut sites, conducting low key fundraising, communicating with stakeholders, and developing preliminary designs for two of the huts (Pattison and Macbeth). On May 31, 2012 the SHC delivered a Spearhead Huts System Proposal to BC Parks. While this proposal was unsolicited, it was expected since the SHC held regular discussions with BC Parks staff and other stakeholders almost from the day it was formed. The SHC knew full well when it delivered the proposal that BC Parks could not simply accept it. A few steps would be required before that could be done. In late fall 2012 BC Parks started a process to amend the Spearhead component of the 1991 Garibaldi Parks Management Plan. The management plan amendment was issued in February One of the changes was an endorsement of a Spearhead Huts System concept. In early April 2014 BC Parks issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) looking for organizations which might be qualified and interested in developing a Spearhead Huts System. The SHC (ACC) was the only respondent to the RFQ and was therefore selected by BC Parks to be the sole proponent. On October 10, 2014 BC Parks issued a letter to the SHC describing the requirements to apply for a Park Use Permit which would include all three huts. In December 2014 the SHC submitted the park use permit application of which this Project Description document is a part. 2.6 RELATIONSHIP TO PREVIOUSLY SUBMITTED SPEARHEAD PROPOSAL This Spearhead Huts Project Description supersedes the May 2012 Spearhead Huts System Proposal. The most significant changes are: 1. The hut construction order is now Russet, Pattison, and Macbeth instead of Pattison, Macbeth, and Russet. 2. All trails have been removed from the scope except for a very short (approximately100 meter) connector trail to the Russet Hut and perhaps a short interpretive trail near the Russet Hut. The new Spearhead Loop Trail described in the 2012 proposal is still in the overall SHC vision for this project and may be built at some Spearhead Huts Project Description 5

9 point in the future. All huts will be designed with the expectation that they will someday be connected by summer trails. 3. The Russet hut site is slightly different from what is in the 2012 proposal. The hut will be located about 100 meters south of the Russet Lake Trail at the high point where the trail passes around the south end of Cowboy Ridge before descending to Russet Lake This is about 700 meters away from the current hut. 4. BC Parks has expressed their desire to move camping away from Russet Lake. One possible location for a new campsite is on the meadow benches about 200 meters south of the new hut. BC Parks will be responsible for building the new campsite including an outhouse and day use shelter. The ACC may be responsible for managing the campsite. 5. The project will exclude campsites at Pattison and Macbeth. This will likely be revisited when the new loop trail is considered. 2.7 FIRST NATIONS BENEFITS BC Parks has asked the SHC to refrain from formally communicating with the affected First Nations regarding the proposed project. BC Parks will lead that consultation process. The SHC has previously contacted the Stawamus Lil'wat Cultural Centre management who have expressed interest in the project. The SHC believes the Spearhead Huts System can provide significant benefits to First Nations: 1. The new Russet Hut will replace the current Himmelsbach Hut at Russet Lake which is known to be in an area of archaeological significance. The new hut site is about 700 meters away from the current hut and any known archaeological sites. The current campsite adjacent to the Himmelsbach Hut could also be relocated to an area close to the new hut. 2. The Spearhead Huts System and ski traverse route could become an extension of the Sea to Sky Cultural Journey, as developed for the Sea to Sky Highway in This may include signage and the naming of geographic features and the huts. 3. The Spearhead Huts could provide accommodation for participants in the First Nations Backcountry Guide program and other educational and cultural attachment programs for First Nations youth. 4. The Spearhead Huts could be designed to incorporate First Nations art, displays, and motifs. One well known First Nations artist has already expressed interest in creating art works specifically for the huts. 2.8 OTHER STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT The SHC has worked hard since 2009 to reach out to the community of mountain enthusiasts, regional governments, three provincial government MLAs (including a minister), the Whistler Blackcomb corporation, and other groups to inform and engage this project. The Committee has received support from the Resort Municipality of Whistler, Tourism Whistler, the Whistler Chamber of Commerce, the MLAs as well as many other groups. The hut system is an additional and badly needed amenity to the tourism experience of the Whistler Resort. This is an under-developed tourism opportunity that provides diversification to the existing tourism amenities. Spearhead Huts Project Description 6

10 3 PROJECT OVERVIEW This section describes the project scope: huts, trails, and campsites. Also included in this section are a hazards assessment, an environmental impact assessment, and development schedule for the hut sites. 3.1 HUT LOCATIONS OVERVIEW Three huts are proposed for the Spearhead Huts System, all of which will be open year-round: On the meadow ridge southwest of Russet Lake. High on the south ridge of Mount Pattison. Half way up the southwest ridge of Mount Macbeth. The locations were carefully chosen considering the following criteria: 1. Are close to the standard Spearhead Ski Traverse route. 2. Are accessible via current or possible future summer trails without having to cross glaciers or significant permanent snowfields. 3. Are roughly equally spaced along the winter and summer routes. Consideration was given to travel times between huts for the average experienced backcountry user. 4. Are attractive as end destinations. I.e., visitors will travel to a particular hut and recreate in the local area without doing the entire traverse. 5. Are protected from risk of avalanche danger at the site and on approach routes. 6. Are scoured by wind, providing effective snow management. 7. Are located in areas of stable geology suitable for construction. 8. Are located and oriented to capture the sun s energy to the highest degree. 9. Have sufficient room to accommodate the hut, outside gatherings, and helicopter landings. 10. Mitigate and minimize environmental degradation, either to plant life, soils, or the geologic strata. 11. Offer a wide range of access and surrounding terrain for varying levels of skills and abilities (Russet - beginner, Pattison - intermediate, Macbeth expert). 12. Offer perspective and fascinating views over the Spearhead area and other features of Garibaldi Park; 13. Reside in unique landscapes. 3.2 RUSSET HUT LOCATION The ideal location for the Russet Hut was hard to determine given the large number of options. The simple choice would be to locate the new hut on the site of the current Himmelsbach Hut which may be removed. The current site has the significant advantage of being very close to water. However the current site receives relatively little sun, particularly in winter, and is exposed to katabatic winds off Fissile Peak. It is a cold, dark place. The current site also impacts local archaeological sites The selected site shown in Figure 2 (Latitude 50 1'19"N, Longitude '23"W, and 1,970 meters altitude) is close to the high point on the Russet Trail about 700 meters from the current hut. This site was selected because the south-facing aspect has excellent sun-exposure and wonderful views of peaks directly south to the Garibaldi Lake area and southeast deep into the park. It also has the same magnificent north facing views of the Spearhead Range as the current hut. The proposed hut site is well away from both the Mountain Goat winter ranges and local archaeological sites. The Russet Hut will draw water from Russet Lake which is about 400 meters away and 90 meters below the hut site. Spearhead Huts Project Description 7

11 3.3 PATTISON HUT LOCATION Figure 2 - Russet Hut Site The Pattison Hut location was the most challenging one to set. The location has to be close enough to the Blackcomb ski lifts to be accessible in a reasonable day s travel in less than ideal conditions by a group of average fitness. It has to be distant enough to be useable for people doing the full traverse and staying at the huts. These two criteria resulted in the hut having to be located somewhere between Mounts Trorey and Tremor. The south ridge just below the peak of Mt. Pattison is the only location in that general area on which a hut could realistically be built. The low pass just east of Mt. Pattison was also considered. However a geotechnical engineer deemed to be completely unsuitable for a hut site. Figure 3 shows the proposed Pattison Hut site at Latitude 50 03'30"N, Longitude '36"W. This is above and south of the standard Spearhead Ski Traverse route but it is right on the southern, high route variation. At 2,440 meters elevation 250 meters higher than the peak of Whistler the Pattison Hut will be the Spearhead Huts System highest hut. It will have excellent exposure to the sun along with extensive and dramatic views. It will also be subject to severe winter weather. The Pattison Hut site is about 500 meters from and out of sight of the nearest Mountain Goat winter range. The Pattison Hut will be accessible by a possible future summer trail without having to cross glaciers or significant permanent snowfields. Spearhead Huts Project Description 8

12 3.4 MACBETH HUT LOCATION Figure 3 - Pattison Hut Location The Macbeth Hut site was the easiest to determine. This is the middle hut and should be located about halfway along the Spearhead Ski Traverse, in the Macbeth-Iago area. The only reasonable place is at 2,170 meters on the southwest ridge of Macbeth at Latitude 50 01'51"N, Longitude '08"W as shown in Figure 4. Even though the Macbeth Hut will be at almost the same elevation as the peak of Whistler, it is well down the Macbeth ridge in a glaciated alpine valley. There are magnificent views of the north side of Overlord and west side of Fitzsimmons and Diavolo peaks. The hut site is about half a kilometer from the standard Spearhead Ski Traverse route via an easy, descending traverse. From the hut there is an easy escape route in case of prolonged bad weather downhill to Fitzsimmons Creek then up to Russet Lake. The hut site is well located for groups leaving the Spearhead Range to travel into the upper Cheakamus Valley and the more remote McBride Range. The Macbeth Hut will be accessible by a possible future summer trail without having to cross glaciers or significant permanent snowfields. Spearhead Huts Project Description 9

13 Figure 4 - Macbeth Hut Location 3.5 NEW CAMPSITES The project excludes, for now, any campsites near the Pattison and Macbeth Huts. Campsites at those huts may be developed if a Spearhead Loop Trail is developed in the future. BC Parks has expressed a desire to relocate the current campsite next to the Himmelsbach Hut at Russet Lake. BC Parks is considering constructing a new campsite with sites. This would include a new outhouse and day shelter. It may be possible to have the Russet Hut and campsite share a common water system. A potential location for the new campsite is on benches about 200 meters south of the new Russet Hut site as shown in Figure 5. The SHC (ACC) is able and willing to manage the campsite once it is constructed by BC Parks. The ACC already manages campsites adjacent to some of its huts. Spearhead Huts Project Description 10

14 Figure 5 Relocated Russet Campsite 3.6 NEW TRAILS This project excludes for now any new trails development except a short trail connecting the current Russet Lake Trail with the new Russet Hut (~100 meters) and then on to the proposed new campsite (a further ~200 meters). Building this trail could be a joint SHC BC Parks project. There are also opportunities for the SHC and BC Parks to jointly develop a short interpretive trail in the vicinity of the new Russet Hut. The proposed new Spearhead Loop Trail described in the original May 2012 proposal is still an important part of the long term vision for this project. That trail would connect all three huts enabling visitors to hike to each hut without crossing glaciers or significant snowfields. The trail was removed from this project in order to simplify the approval process. The trail can be added later with no impact to the huts. The proposed Spearhead Huts System is completely viable with or without a Spearhead Loop Trail. Spearhead Huts Project Description 11

15 3.7 HUT SITE HAZARDS ASSESSMENT Two geotechnical engineers reviewed the three hut sites. All hut sites are stable with minimal or no danger from the slopes above the huts. The only geotechnical hazard is a cliff at the Pattison Hut site. The engineers recommend placing the hut at least 5-10 meters away from the cliff edge. An avalanche assessment expert determined that all three huts have negligible or no danger from snow avalanches. At 2,440 and 2,170 meters respectively the Pattison and Macbeth Hut sites are well above tree line and are literally kilometers from the nearest tree. Those huts will pose zero forest wildfire risk. The Russet Hut site at 1,970 meters is approximately 100 meters above tree line. There are only three groups of trees within 150 meters of the hut site. Each group of trees contains about 5-10 trees. The nearest edge of continuous forest is approximately 700 meters from and 200 meters below the hut. The Russet Hut will pose negligible risk of forest wildfires. All three huts will be provisioned with smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. 3.8 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT An Environmental Assessment (EA) document was included in the original 2012 proposal. That document was reviewed by BC Parks which provided detailed comments on June 25, A revised version of the EA document is included in the park use permit application package. Table 1 contains a summary of the key part of the EA, the assessment of the valued components. Table 1 Environmental Assessment Summary of Valued Components Subject Area Valued Components Assessment Biophysical Value Components Soil Soil stability and erosion. Geohazards. Soil landscape profiles are elevation dependent, ranging from hard, acidic rock in the alpine to moderately well drained, ferro-humic podzolic mineral soil in the valleys. Careful selection of sites for huts and use of best construction practices will minimize soil erosion and other adverse impacts. The extent and magnitude is expected to be very small and confined to the construction sites. All non-natural construction waste will be removed. Human waste from on-going hut operations will be removed or properly disposed of. Hut sites were selected to avoid any risk of avalanches, rock fall, and landslides. Spearhead Huts Project Description 12

16 Subject Area Valued Components Assessment Vegetation Plants and plant communities. Species at Risk Act (SARA) listed Schedule 1 plants and Conservation Data Centre (CDC) listed plant communities. Vegetation characteristics are elevation dependent. The biogeoclimatic zone in the tree line and alpine elevations (above 1,400 meters) is characterized as Coastal-mountain heather while below tree line areas is characterized as Moist Maritime Mountain Hemlock. There are no known vegetation species-at-risk in the Whistler area. There is minimal vegetation at the Pattison and Macbeth hut sites. Impacts on vegetation are expected to be minimal and confined to hut sites. Terrestrial wildlife Large and small mammals. SARA listed Schedule 1 wildlife. Mountain goats, wolverines, and hoary marmots all inhabit parts of the area. Goats and marmots are considered to be secure while wolverines are listed as special concern. Goat winter habitats are not expected to be affected as goats prefer exposed south facing slopes, the very types of slopes that skiers prefer to avoid. Impacts on goats, wolverines, and marmots are expected to be limited to sensory disturbance during construction, limited in extent to the site, and low in magnitude because of the availability of suitable habitat surrounding the site. Water Water quality. Hut sites are distant from any stream, wetland or floodplain. Russet and Macbeth Huts will likely draw water from a nearby lake and tarn but not enough to affect water levels or quality. Social Value Components Visual resources Enclosure and focal experiences. The visual resources of Garibaldi Provincial Park are primarily represented by three types of visual experiences: Panoramas: uninterrupted views of mountain ranges and valleys. Enclosures: large-scale features such as u-shaped valleys. Focals: focussed views of a particular feature such as a glacier. Huts have the potential to affect enclosure and focal experiences and will be designed to minimize visual impacts. They will have low profiles with colours matching the local landscape. Spearhead Huts Project Description 13

17 Subject Area Valued Components Assessment Recreation Recreational values. The proposed hut system will have both positive and negative effects on recreational values. Key positive effects include: Improved access and accessibility for summer and winter users. Reduced unsightly multiple and unmaintained campsites and trails. The one significant negative effect will be the increased number of people in the area. Archaeology Identified archaeological sites. All hut sites avoid known archaeological sites. The proposed Russet Hut replaces the current Himmelsbach Hut (about 700 meters away) which impacts local archaeological sites. Human health and safety Workforce health and safety. Public health and safety. BC Parks Health and Safety plans will be followed for workers constructing the huts in Garibaldi Provincial Park. Hut construction will be supervised by a professional construction supervisor who will manage all site work and ensure safe construction practices are followed. 3.9 DEVELOPMENT SCHEDULE Figure 6 shows the overall development schedule which is one hut per year with the first one opening around January This schedule is dependent on the park use permit being issued early 2015 and sufficient funds and volunteers being available. The Russet Hut will be built first since that is where the greatest need exists. The Pattison Hut will be built next since that hut will provide the most new recreation opportunities. The Macbeth Hut completes the project. Spearhead Huts Project Description 14

18 Spearhead Huts Development Schedule Overall Huts Project Develop Park Use Permit Application Russet Hut Park Use Permit Issued Spearhead Huts Fundraising $ $ $ Russet Hut Pattison Hut Macbeth Hut Construction Construction Construction Funding Raised Funding Raised Funding Raised Design Architectural Detailing Prefabrication Pattison Hut Construction Finish Interior Build New Campsite Foundations Design Architectural Detailing Russet Hut Opens 2016/17 Ski Season Prefabrication Rehabilitate Old Site BC Parks is responsible for building any new campsite. Interior Finish Macbeth Hut Construction for each hut will only begin when all the funds required to complete the hut are raised. Design Architectural Detailing Pattison Hut Opens 2017/18 Ski Season Prefabrication Foundations Construction Foundations Construction Interior Finish Summer Alpine Construction Season Macbeth Hut Opens 2018/19 Ski Season M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D The overall schedule is: Figure 6 Spearhead Huts and Trail System Development Schedule 1. Dec Submitted the formal Park Use Permit (PUP) application. 2. Feb Start designing the Russet Hut. This needs to start early in 2015, likely well before the PUP is awarded, if there is to be any construction during the 2015 summer season. 3. Spring Sign the PUP with BC Parks. 4. Spring Begin serious fundraising. Fundraising will be most effective once the PUP has been signed. All the funds for the Russet Hut must be raised before any on-site work starts. 5. Summer Construct the Russet Hut foundations. 6. Fall 2015 Spring Complete construction details, prefabricate the framing, and assemble all materials for the Russet Hut. Begin designing the Pattison Hut. 7. Summer Construct the Russet Hut. Likely construct the new Russet campsite (BC Parks responsibility). Construct the Pattison Hut foundations assuming all funds for the Pattison Hut have been raised by then. 8. Fall 2016 Spring Complete the Russet Hut and start operations in time for the 2016/17 ski season. Complete construction details, prefabricate the framing, and assemble all materials for the Pattison Hut. Begin designing the Macbeth Hut. Spearhead Huts Project Description 15

19 9. Summer Likely remove the current hut and other facilities at Russet Lake. Start operations at the new Russet campsite. Construct the Pattison Hut. Construct the Macbeth Hut foundations assuming all funds for the Macbeth Hut have been raised by then. 10. Fall 2017 Spring Complete the Pattison Hut and start operations in time for the 2017/18 ski season. Complete construction details, prefabricate the framing, and assemble all materials for the Macbeth Hut. 11. Summer Winter Construct and complete the Macbeth Hut. Start operations in time for the 2018/19 ski season IMPACT IF THE SPEARHEAD HUTS SYSTEM IS NOT COMPLETED The SHC is comprised entirely of volunteers and all capital costs for the Spearhead Huts System must be fundraised. There is a risk that the huts system will not be completed due to insufficient fundraising or volunteer fatigue. The SHC has committed to BC Parks that on-site work for any hut will only begin once all funds to complete the hut have been fundraised. The required funds must be either in the bank or firmly committed to by reliable organizations or individuals. There is no risk to BC Parks that a hut will be abandoned before it is finished. Once a hut is completed its on-going costs will be covered by fee revenues. The Russet Lake area of Garibaldi Park will be significantly improved even if the project stops after only the Russet Hut is built. The same is true if the project stops after the Pattison Hut is built, Garibaldi Park will be improved. The Spearhead-Russet area will be significantly enhanced if one, two, or all three proposed huts are built. Spearhead Huts Project Description 16

20 4 HUTS DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION This section describes the huts designs and how they will be constructed. 4.1 THE DESIGN PROCESS In the practice of architecture, a typical design process follows these stages: 1. Programme. 2. Site analysis. 3. Schematic design. 4. Design development. 5. Working drawings. 6. Permitting. 7. Tendering. 8. Construction. 9. Post construction. The first two stages, programme and site analysis, have been completed for all the huts and schematic designs have been developed for the Pattison Hut and the Macbeth Hut. The design for the Russet Hut has yet to be fully explored since the Russet Hut site was only confirmed in October The Design and Construction Subcommittee: The Design and Construction Subcommittee was struck in 2011 to guide the overall design process and complete the Huts Programme and Site Analysis. The subcommittee met weekly from February to April 2012 to develop the schematic designs for the Pattison and Macbeth huts which formed part of the May 2012 Spearhead Huts System Proposal. Minimal design work has been done since then since the SHC has been waiting for project approval by BC Parks. The Design and Construction Subcommittee consists of numerous professionals, including an architectural technologist, a contractor, and engineer, an architectural intern, and other volunteers. Structural, mechanical and electrical engineers, and other specialized tradespersons and manufacturers representatives will be added to the subcommittee as needed for future stages of the project. Huts Programme: A detailed programme has been developed, which includes a thorough understanding of who will use the huts, what their activities will be, and thus their needs. This translates into spaces, features and fittings to be included in the huts. See Section 4.4 Huts Usage and Programme. Site Analysis: A thorough study has been made of each hut site through site visits and first-hand observations, surveying and mapping. (The sites were professionally surveyed in October 2011 and again in September/October 2014.) Further input has been gathered from professionals in weather, avalanche hazard and geotechnical engineering. The following features were studied: Terrain (fractured rock, bedrock, hardened soils, or soft meadow). Topography (flat versus sloped site). Sun exposure. Wind exposure and snow deposition. Views. Approach routes on ski and on foot. Safety from snow avalanches and rock fall. Available snow and/or water. Spearhead Huts Project Description 17

21 4.2 ADHERENCE TO BEES PRINCIPLES IN SPEARHEAD HUTS DESIGN The ACC is a North American and perhaps world leader in environmentally responsible backcountry hut design. In 2005 the ACC s highly regarded Energy, Water, and Waste Management Committee was turned into a separate organization: Backcountry Energy and Environmental Solutions (BEES). BEES continues to be an ACC led initiative working in partnership with Parks Canada, the Backcountry Lodges of BC Association, and several other organizations. One of the BEES goals is to Facilitate research and develop solutions for energy, potable water and wastewater management systems in the backcountry. More information about BEES can be found on their website: The design for each new ACC hut improves on the designs of previous huts. 21 of the ACC huts currently in operation were designed and built by the ACC. The ACC s newest hut, Mont des Poilus in Yoho National Park, is currently under development. The Mont des Poilus Hut will be located in a high alpine, glaciated environment similar to the Spearhead. The hut design follows BEES principles for modern, sustainable hut design. Mont des Poilus Hut features may include: Extensive use of prefabricated structural insulated panels (SIP) or similar prefabrication methods to reduce onsite construction times and waste, minimize site disturbance, and provide superior insulation. Electrical power to be generated by solar panels and/or wind turbines. LED lighting in the hut. Indoor environmental and air quality monitoring. Fly out barrel system for human waste. (This system has been a standard for new ACC huts for about 30 years.) Possible remote monitoring of internal environment and systems. The Spearhead Huts will be designed following the BEES principles of sustainability. The designs will meet all requirements and standards of the BC Building Code and other applicable regulatory agencies. Building permits will be obtained from the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District. 4.3 HUTS POSITION ON COMFORT/QUALITY SCALE Backcountry huts can be thought of as being in three broad categories of comfort and quality: Rustic. A rustic hut is one that people stay in because the hut is at a desirable location and the hut provides emergency shelter in inclement weather. People typically stay in the hut only as long as they have to. Many prefer to camp. Comfortable. These are attractive huts with more features and services that people enjoy staying in. The hut is a major factor in choosing to go to a particular area as opposed to a similar area without a hut. Luxurious. These huts are actually lodges with a high level of features and services which accommodate people on backcountry vacations. The hut is the destination. Figure 7 compares the three categories and shows where various backcountry huts reside on the comfort/quality scale. The Spearhead Huts will all be in the Comfortable category and will have the characteristics described in the figure. Spearhead Huts Project Description 18

22 Backcountry Huts Comfort/Quality Scale Luxurious Building: same as for Comfortable huts plus: separate lounge area, gear drying room, pantry, workshop, and other rooms. Kitchen: same as for Comfortable huts plus: propane oven, full plumbing, designed for cooking for large groups. Sleeping: bunks or beds 2-4 to a room, blankets & linen provided. Outhouse: indoor bathroom with septic system. Amenities: same as for Comfortable huts plus: gas/diesel generator, micro-hydro, internet access, hot showers. Various commercial heli-ski & cat ski lodges Callaghan Lodge (private), Purcell Lodge (private), Snowcap Lodge (private) Kokanee Glacier (BC Parks) Comfortable Building: designed for site, many large windows, sleeping rooms separated from common areas, separate vestibule for coat & boot removal & gear storage, roomy, seating for everyone on a mixture of benches and chairs. Kitchen: stainless steel counters, propane cook-tops, sinks with grey water disposal, mouse proof food storage areas, kitchen accommodates small groups cooking, equipped with pots, pans, utensils, etc. Sleeping: raised platforms or bunks with 6-8 people per room separated by doors. Outhouse: composting outhouse or fly-out barrel system. Amenities: propane or wood space heater, electric lighting, sauna for destination huts below treeline. Rustic Building: simple design, few & small windows, 1-2 rooms only with no interior doors, cramped, limited seating for occupants, bench seating only. Kitchen: plywood counter only. Sleeping: occupants sleep on the floor or platform in one room open to common area. Outhouse: pit outhouse. Amenities: none. Back Country Huts Comfort Scale Fairy Meadows (ACC) Spearhead Huts Jim Haberl Hut (ACC) Elfin Shelter (BC Parks) Tantalus (Lake Lovely Water) Hut (ACC) Wendy Thompson Hut (ACC) Burton Hut (VOC), Himmelsbach Hut (BC Parks), Plummer Hut (BCMC), Wedgemont Hut (BC Parks) Hut Owners ACC Alpine Club of Canada BCMC BC Mountaineering Club VOC Varsity Outdoors Club Figure 7 Backcountry Huts Comfort/Quality Scale Comparison 4.4 HUTS USAGE AND PROGRAMME The huts will be used by a wide range of people with varying needs. With this in mind, the huts will be designed and programmed for: Winter and spring backcountry skiers, snowshoers, and snowboarders. Spearhead Huts Project Description 19

23 Summer and fall hikers and mountaineers. The experienced and less-experienced. Young and old. Day-users and overnighters. Individuals plus small and large groups. Guided groups and instructional courses. On-site custodians. Maintenance workers. The programme lists all of the functions and features required by hut users. It guides the design of the huts. The three huts will have very similar programmes, with minor variations due to the users they attract and their geographic location. The Russet Hut has the least technical approach in both summer and winter and therefore will appeal to a broader range of people. Therefore the Russet Hut, the only hut with existing trail access, will have more summer use, more use by less-experienced people, and perhaps more use overall. Being close to Whistler Mountain, it may also have considerable day-use. The Pattison Hut is surrounded by excellent ski terrain and therefore will get high winter and spring use. Being close to Blackcomb, it may have considerable day-use, especially during the longer days of March through May. The Macbeth Hut will also see moderate to high use during the backcountry ski season. Being farther east, it will see lower day-use. The Pattison and Macbeth Huts have no trail access now, and will therefore have low summer use initially. Nevertheless, the huts need to be designed for a higher level of summer use, in anticipation of future trails. The huts are currently designed to accommodate approximately 35 overnight visitors in bunks. The most suitable size is still being assessed. Each hut will be approximately square meters not including crawlspaces. This equates to 5-6 square meters per person. Size is determined on an assessment of the existing and future demand, the number of visitors that can be comfortably housed together, and the impact that they will have on the immediate terrain. Table 2 is a space by space description of the huts programme. The table describes each space, the functions that occur in the space and the features that are required for those functions. Table 2 Huts Programme Space Function Features Entry deck Arrival area providing access to the front door and storage area for skis; sized to allow for group gatherings. Decking, guardrails, bench seating. Entry vestibule Serves as an air lock in winter; always unlocked and available for emergency use. Shelving for emergency equipment; signage. Storage area Serves as a general mudroom; place to remove boots, store packs, gear that is dry, and food. Benches, cubbies, hooks, storage shelves, signage. Spearhead Huts Project Description 20

24 Space Function Features Drying area Place to dry wet clothing and gear. Dedicated propane heater, hanging racks and shelves. Kitchen Provides multiple work triangles for multiple parties to prepare and cook food, storage for cooking equipment and utensils, and systems to supply water. Sinks with hand pumps, propane cooktops, upper and lower open and closed storage cabinets, stainless steel countertops, wood chopping blocks, water buckets. Dining area Space for people to eat, read, socialize, relax; provide seating for all hut occupants; provide large windows for viewing the landscape. Direct connection to the exterior in summertime. Multiple reconfigurable tables and chairs, good natural and artificial light. Library/lounge Place in or near the dining room to read, research and reflect; place for guestbook, guidebooks and maps; memorial displays to honour Kees Brenninkmeyer, Claire Dixon and Brett Carlson. Seating, shelving, books, maps, displays. Bunkrooms Multiple sleeping rooms with some level of visual and sound separation; in a variety of configurations and sizes. Raised sleeping platform or bunks, shelving and hooks, fabric-covered foam mattresses, emergency egress window. Washrooms Space to wash and use the toilet. Toilet, urinal, sink, shelving, hooks. Custodian room Small private sleeping room for a volunteer or paid custodian; locked to protect storage of personal gear and specialized maintenance equipment. Bunks, desk, locked shelving. Storage Cupboard for the storage of general cleaning supplies and tools. Shelving. Electrical/mechanical space Cupboard to house electrical and mechanical equipment. Batteries for solar system. Crawlspace Storage for left-over construction materials and water tanks; area for maintenance tasks. Storage racks, work bench, water tanks. Spearhead Huts Project Description 21

25 4.5 HUTS MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS This section describes the various mechanical and electrical systems to be included in each hut. The configuration and design of each system described in Table 3 will be reviewed and further developed as the detailed design of each hut progresses. The demand on many systems will depend upon the final number of hut occupants, the hut size and configuration, and the selected building envelope, including the R-value of the building insulation. During final design, all systems will be sized and confirmed. Table 3 - Mechanical and Electrical Systems System Description Water Management Systems Non-Potable Water (Common to all huts) For all water supply systems, prominent signs will advise that the water is non potable and will require appropriate sterilization/treatment by individual visitors by boiling, filtration, chemical or UV treatment. It is not feasible to provide certified potable water to the huts. Non-Potable Water (Russet Hut) The primary source for the water supply to Russet Hut will likely be Russet Lake. A gasoline powered centrifugal fire pump will likely draw water from the lake on a seasonal basis to fill water storage tanks located in the lower level of the hut. The pump will likely be permanently installed at the lake in a small shed/box. Coarse screens will be installed on the pump suction to protect the pump from debris. Relatively finer replaceable filters will be installed on the discharge of the pump to reduce potential plugging of the supply line and filling tanks with silt. The pump will be winterized after the fall tank filling. The supply line will be 1½ inch collapsible pipe in 100 ft sections with cam-lock connections. It will be temporarily installed for each filling and then drained prior to storage at the hut. Six nominal 2,500 litre HDPE tanks (57 diameter by 71 high) will be located in the lower electrically heated and insulated level of the hut. The tanks would be filled in the late spring and fall and sized to last the eight months winter season. An alternative option will be to bury a permanent pipe. To inhibit algae growth in the tanks, some bleach will be added to the tanks when the tanks are filled. There will be no water purification in the system. Water from the tanks will be hand pumped to the sinks. An alternative water storage location may be on the hillside above the hut site. This would provide a gravity-feed system to the hut. The water infrastructure at the Russet Hut may be shared with a new campsite if one is built nearby. Summer campsite users would obtain water via a hand pump located near the hut. Spearhead Huts Project Description 22

26 System Description Non-Potable Water (Pattison Hut) The water supply for the Pattison Hut will likely rely on the collection and storage of rain water and melting snow from the hut roof. The collected water will be piped to large insulated and heated storage tanks located in the lower level of the hut. During the winter, ski tourers may need to rely on melting snow if there was insufficient rain in the fall and/or high demand such that the tanks were not adequately full at the start of the winter season. Alternatively, a local geotech fabric lined pond might be established to provide additional collection area for the storage tanks. Also, water could be periodically brought in by helicopter to fill the storage tanks in the late fall. Non-Potable Water (Macbeth Hut) The water supply for the Macbeth Hut will likely be similar in concept and operation to the Russet Hut system described above except that pumps are unlikely to be required. The water supply line may be permanently installed. There is a tarn located above the Macbeth Hut site which will be the source of water. This tarn is sufficiently above the hut that a gravity-feed system will likely be possible in the spring, summer, and fall. Grey Water Grey water will be disposed of in a dispersion field, either connected directly to the sinks or through a bucket system to disposal sites located outdoors. The disposal sites outdoors would utilize the ACC's proven approach of a network of perforated pipes, buried in a rock field. Sinks will be provided with a system of under-sink traps to filter out food particles. The dispersion fields will be located so that drainage is directed away from water sources and approach routes. At the Russet site drainage will be to the southwest, away from the lake. At both Pattison and Macbeth there may not be suitable terrain for dispersion fields. If that is the case, grey water and urine may be disposed of via heat traced and insulated gravity pipelines buried under loose rock and dispersed down adjacent slopes. At Pattison drainage will be to the northeast and at Macbeth to the west. Waste Management Systems Human Waste, Toilet Facilities Each hut will have two or more washrooms with waste treatment rooms beneath. Human waste will likely be treated with a vermicompost system by Toilet Tech Solutions. This system segregates solids and liquid streams. Solids will be treated on site using worms. Urine will be piped to an underground dispersion field potentially in combination with the grey water. The washrooms will be constructed with their own four walls sealed with air barriers but will be located immediately adjacent to the hut and reside under the same roof. Users will pass through an airlock onto an exterior balcony or deck to enter the washrooms. The washrooms will be designed so that if the performance of the vermicompost system is not satisfactory, a fly-out barrel system can be easily retrofitted. Spearhead Huts Project Description 23

27 System Description Black water The vermicompost toilets separate fluids from solids in order to reduce the volume of waste. Urinals may be provided to further separate fluids from solids. Urine will be diverted to a rock dispersal field. Solid waste Visitors will be required to take all garbage with them, following a pack it in / pack it out approach. A system of containers or bags may be provided to encourage compliance. Any remaining garbage will be collected and flown out twice a year during maintenance trips. Electrical Systems Power A solar power system will likely be installed to provide power (approximately 2,000W) for lighting, power outlets, heat trace, fans and controls. Each system will consist of vertically mounted solar panels (to avoid snow/ice accumulation), controllers, batteries, and DC/120VAC inverters. Outlets will be provided for the charging of personal GPS units, cell phones, and power tools (for maintenance). During final design the capacity of the power system will be optimized and may include automatic or remotely operated fuel cell modules or portable gasoline generators for peak demand/back up battery charging. The power system and hut status may be monitored remotely using cell phone technology. Lighting General lighting will be provided with LED lights, motion sensor switches, and associated wiring. Propane Fuel Systems and HVAC Propane Fuel System Multiple pound propane tanks will be installed in series in a separate shed or under a shed roof at the exterior wall of each hut. The tanks will be flown in once or twice per year. Heating One aesthetic propane direct vent fireplace on a thermostat or timer will heat the main kitchen/dining space. A supplemental direct vent propane heater will provide heat in the drying room. Ventilation Operable windows will provide good cross ventilation in summer. In winter, since the hut will be highly insulated with low air leakage, two Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRV's) will be installed to intermittently start/stop to control interior humidity due to people, cooking, and the drying of wet clothes. A stainless steel hood and fan (automatically started/stopped by a humidity sensor) will likely be installed to draw moist air from above the cooking area. Spearhead Huts Project Description 24

28 System Description Cooking The kitchens will include propane cooktops for cooking by individual groups. The food preparation and cooking areas will have stainless steel countertops for cleanliness and fire protection. 4.6 HUTS SCHEMATIC DESIGNS AND CONSTRUCTION Several design concepts were explored for the Pattison and Macbeth sites to determine the best fit. (A design concept is not offered for the Russet site, as the site was only selected in October 2014.) The submitted designs work on multiple levels. Each design provides a practical arrangement of spaces and functions to successfully meet the needs of hut visitors. Each design also guides visitors through their experience of the site. Ultimately each architectural form is an individual response to the unique nature of that site. While the three huts may take a different form, they will all be designed using the same architectural language and the same materials, methods and systems. This will result in a consistent image for the Spearhead Huts. This will also facilitate the on-going maintenance and operation of the huts. For all the huts, the entry has been placed where it is immediately viewed by an arriving visitor, and is oriented to stay reasonably clear of snow. The unlocked vestibule is sized to shelter 3-4 people in an emergency. Upon entry, the visitor passes into the mudroom. Storage areas and cabinetry here will be generous and carefully thought out to provide areas for drying wet gear and storing dry gear and food. The main kitchen and dining space is located to take best advantage of the sunlight and views. The kitchen will be configured to create multiple work triangles. This will enable several small groups to cook at the same time. In the dining room, ample windows and glazed doors will offer good natural lighting and provide a direct connection to the outdoors, especially in summer. Decks will be built off the dining space for gatherings and instruction, for summer dining and socializing. Clerestory windows may also be incorporated to provide additional natural lighting. Multiple bunkrooms will provide options and some level of privacy and sound separation for individuals and groups. Windows in the bunkrooms will be operable for emergency egress. A small custodian s room will provide a safe, lockable space for the custodian s personal gear and maintenance equipment. 4.7 THE CONCEPT FOR THE RUSSET HUT The Russet site allows park visitors temporary dwelling within a relatively softer and more forgiving landscape with respect to other alpine areas of the Spearhead Ski Traverse. Overburdened by rolling glacial till, the area supports a matrix of alpine meadows adjacent and nearby to the opalescent waters of Russet Lake. Starting in mid-summer and spanning until the first frosts, the south bench of the Russet area supports a beautiful showing of herbaceous and wild flower plumage. Come ski-season, snowfall drapes softly across these meadows and ridge-lines, and in spring, the receding of winter yields an ever-changing polychromatic mosaic of snow, meadow and till. The hut is sited atop a meadow ridge-crest between Russet Lake and a broad south-facing green bench. The sweeping 270 degree panorama extends from the Spearhead Range in the North to the Overlord group in the west to the Castle Towers and Black Tusk meadows areas to the south, extending views deep into undisturbed areas of the park. The shoulder of cowboy ridge and its tree-growth provide partial screening to the developments of Whistler/Blackcomb. Spearhead Huts Project Description 25

29 Given the site s stunning quality of distant views, locally unique topographical relief, and beautiful biological terrain, the concept of the Russet Hut will overture towards a sympathetic relationship with its context. While the design of the hut has yet to be completed, construction and final design will respect the delicacy of the site s botanics, both through careful planning and through remediation of disturbed areas. The design of the hut, including its outdoor eating areas and passageways to and from the extant trails around, should allow visitors close contact with the nearby meadow conditions, yet should retain passage and mitigate trampling. As with Macbeth and Pattison, the Russet Hut will harness the thermal qualities of the sun and mind the challenges wind and snow-loads. And like these others, the Russet Hut will generally aim towards an architectural sense of belonging within its site and the qualities of the surrounding park. 4.8 THE CONCEPT FOR THE PATTISON HUT The Mount Pattison site represents the peak condition as a part of the Spearhead Huts System. The site is located on the south summit ridge of Mount Pattison, a high alpine location that provides open panoramic views of the surrounding ranges. The preliminary architectural proposal for the site consists of two sloping shed pavilions, offset and opposing each other, abstractly resembling two mountain peaks. The resulting roofline mimics the rocky dentils nearby, just south of Mount Pattison. From a distance, it is hoped that the hut will appear as just another natural projection along the ridge. The shed structure of the hut runs east-west at 90 degrees to the ridge, as do the winds. Visitors walk the ridge crest and enter the hut at the midpoint of the south facade. After passing through the vestibule and storage area, they can choose to turn left (west) into the kitchen and dining room, or turn right (east) and go up a flight of stairs into the bunkrooms. The kitchen/dining room faces predominantly southwest to provide a warm bright public space. It opens in summer onto an exterior deck where people can enjoy the late afternoon and early evening sun. The bunkrooms face predominantly northeast where they will receive early morning light and enjoy views of Mount Wedge and Mount Tremor. The land under the bunkrooms forms the crawlspace for storage of water tanks and construction materials, and the location of mechanical equipment. For visitors, this is a place of great prospect and immense sky. Spearhead Huts Project Description 26

30 Figure 8 Pattison Hut Looking South Towards Mt. Overlord 4.9 THE CONCEPT FOR THE MACBETH HUT The Macbeth site represents the alpine valley condition as a part of the Spearhead Huts System. The location, tucked onto a terrace on the southwest ridge of Mount Macbeth, is similar to being on a balcony. Straight south at eye level is the drama of the broken Fitzsimmons Glacier and the rugged grouping of Mounts Fitzsimmons, Diavolo and Overlord. Below and westward is the entire Fitzsimmons Valley, flowing to Whistler Village. The ridge site is narrow and gently slopes to a distinct promontory, perched over the valley. Strong consistent winds cross the ridge at 90 degrees. Given these distinct features, the preliminary architectural proposal extends a singular shed-hipped mass parallel with the narrow ridge. The resulting hut clings to the site with its back to the ridge, and the folded roof form deflects the wind over its structure. The roofline ties an aesthetic line between the promontory and the hillside above, blending the hut into the silhouette of the ridge. In plan, visitors enter the hut at the center of the east facade. After passing through the vestibule and storage area, they can choose to move forward and turn left (south) into the kitchen/dining room, or they can choose to turn right (north) and go upstairs into the bunkrooms. In section, the hut exists in a series of steps, following the contours of the ridge. The kitchen/dining room is located at the south and lowest level, where in summer visitors can walk out onto a deck and the natural rock terrace and promontory. The windows of the kitchen/dining room focus the visitor s gaze south to the looming icefalls of the Fitzsimmons Glacier. The mid level of the hut contains bunkrooms, the custodian s room and the washrooms. The highest level of the hut contains another bunkroom with views northeast back to the Naden-Macbeth Col. For visitors, there is a sense of being surrounded and dwarfed, immersed in a world of rock and snow. Spearhead Huts Project Description 27

31 Figure 9 Macbeth Hut Looking West From Macbeth Glacier 4.10 CONSTRUCTION METHODS AND MATERIALS As the design process unfolds, various construction methods and materials will be explored to find the best options for performance, affordability, durability, ease of transport, and efficient assembly in a remote setting. The huts will be designed in a modular fashion. The components, including floor, wall and roof panels, will be prefabricated and assembled, then disassembled and stacked for helicopter lifts to the sites. The foundations at Pattison and Macbeth will be spot footings at 8 to 12 feet on center, with anchors of reinforcing bar drilled and epoxied into bedrock. The foundations at Russet will require poured-in-place concrete strip or spot footings. Precise designs of the hut foundations will be determined by the structural engineer and the geotechnical engineer. The geotechnical engineer visited the sites in September All crawlspaces will be skirted in to create valuable storage area, plus increase insulation value and minimize wind uplift. The most likely construction assembly will be metal cladding and roofing on pre-fabricated insulated panels. The assembly will have superior energy efficiency, with high R-value and low air leakage. Other structural systems being considered are: engineered trusses, heavy timber, cross laminated timber (CLT) and structural insulated panels (SIPs). Doors and door hardware will be commercial grade. Windows will be thermally-broken vinyl with double glazing or better. The interior wall finish will most likely be prefinished veneer plywood with wood battens. Spearhead Huts Project Description 28

32 4.11 HUT CONSTRUCTION SAFETY AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE The SHC clearly understands that safety on backcountry hut construction sites is of paramount importance. Their isolated locations make it difficult or impossible to obtain a timely medical evacuation if there is an injury. Construction managers will work with professionals from the guiding and search and rescue community to develop a safety and emergency response plan for each hut site during the construction period. The construction managers will work with other agencies, such as Whistler Search and Rescue, Blackcomb Aviation, and Whistler-Blackcomb to establish all necessary communications and procedures. The construction period safety and emergency response plan will likely include: Marking the access route for volunteers walking to and from the site. Preparation of the site to provide safe camping while the hut is under construction. Zoning of the site for safe helicopter landings for both people and materials. Provision of satellite phone, cellular phone, and/or radio communications on-site. Coordination with Blackcomb Aviation and Whistler Search and Rescue. Site superintendent or other on-site person with Industrial First Aid qualifications. Appropriate first-aid and other safety equipment kept on-site. Liability coverage for all ACC volunteers. Consultation with WorkSafe BC regarding possible coverage for volunteer construction crew. Extension of ACC liability coverage for BC Parks. A site safety coordinator will be assigned to properly prepare and brief every volunteer and paid professional who travels and works at the site. An experienced site superintendent will be employed to oversee all construction activities and ensure a safe work environment. The ACC has not had a serious injury in any hut construction, renovation, or maintenance activity in recent memory. The Jim Haberl Hut was completed in 2006 with no incidents or injuries of any kind ONE-TIME HUTS RELATED COSTS Building and operating the proposed huts system will be a significant undertaking. High level one-time project cost approximations are shown in Table 4. These are essentially all costs leading up to the point when the huts are open to the public. Two categories of costs are presented: total, market value costs and donated labour. The net out-of-pocket costs are those for which a cheque has to be written. Some funds will be provided by the five organizations in the Spearhead Huts Committee but most will have to be fundraised. Projects like the one proposed here succeed because of the significant amount of materials and services donated by companies and the volunteer labour contributed by individuals. The market value of those items is approximated here. All construction related approximations were made by professionals with relevant experience in building mountain huts similar to the ones described here. More refined cost estimates will be made as design work progresses. Estimated costs are consistent with the actual costs to build the Jim Haberl Hut in That hut are approximately 1/3 the size of each of the proposed Spearhead huts and considerably simpler in terms of mechanical and electrical systems. Also, almost all labour for the Jim Haberl Hut was donated whereas a high proportion of labour for the Spearhead Huts will need to be paid for because of factory prefabrication. Out-of-pocket costs for the Jim Haberl Hut were $110,000. Fundraising related costs are excluded. Spearhead Huts Project Description 29

33 Table 4 Approximate One-time Huts Related Costs Spearhead Huts One-Time Costs Items Russet Pattison Macbeth Total Site Surveys + Assessments $ 25,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 65,000 Architectural Design $ 55,000 $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 155,000 Engineering + Consultants $ 45,000 $ 40,000 $ 40,000 $ 125,000 Site Supervisor (May-Sept) $ 25,000 $ 25,000 $ 25,000 $ 75,000 Permits $ 1,000 $ 1,000 $ 1,000 $ 3,000 Excavation + Site Preparation $ 30,000 $ 30,000 $ 15,000 $ 75,000 Foundations + Sub-Structure $ 15,000 $ 25,000 $ 15,000 $ 55,000 Framing Pre-fabricated Package $ 180,000 $ 180,000 $ 180,000 $ 540,000 Doors + Windows $ 30,000 $ 30,000 $ 30,000 $ 90,000 Siding + Roof $ 60,000 $ 60,000 $ 60,000 $ 180,000 Water System (including Russet campsite) $ 100,000 $ 10,000 $ 10,000 $ 120,000 Solar, Electrical + Lighting $ 10,000 $ 10,000 $ 10,000 $ 30,000 HRV + Propane Heating/Cooking $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 60,000 Toilet System $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 60,000 Grey Water System $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ 15,000 Flooring $ 6,000 $ 6,000 $ 6,000 $ 18,000 Interior Finishes + Misc Materials $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 60,000 Kitchen Millwork + Furnishings $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 60,000 Bunks + Mattresses $ 12,000 $ 12,000 $ 12,000 $ 36,000 Interior Trim $ 15,000 $ 15,000 $ 15,000 $ 45,000 Painting $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ 15,000 Accessories $ 10,000 $ 10,000 $ 10,000 $ 30,000 Communication + Safety Equipment $ 2,000 $ 2,000 $ 2,000 $ 2,000 Deck + Stairs $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ 15,000 Craning + Trucking $ 15,000 $ 15,000 $ 15,000 $ 45,000 Helicopter Transport $ 90,000 $ 90,000 $ 110,000 $ 290, % $ 83,000 $ 73,000 $ 73,000 $ 229,000 3 % $ 24,000 $ 24,000 $ 48,000 Total One-Time Cost $ 904,000 $ 823,000 $ 818,000 $ 2,545,000 Value of Volunteer Labour & In-Kind Donations Volunteer Professional Time (surveyor, avi, engineers) $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 50,000 $ 150,000 Donated ~20% $ 100,000 $ 100,000 $ 100,000 $ 300,000 Volunteer Construction Labour $ 100,000 $ 100,000 $ 100,000 $ 300,000 Donation for Heavy-lift $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 60,000 Water System Cost Sharing With BC Parks $ 50,000 $ - $ - $ 50,000 Total Value of Volunteer Labour + In-Kind Donations $ 320,000 $ 270,000 $ 270,000 $ 860,000 Total Out of Pocket Hut Costs $ 584,000 $ 553,000 $ 548,000 $ 1,685,000 Spearhead Huts Project Description 30

34 4.13 RISK MANAGEMENT ONE-TIME, START-UP RISKS Table 5 describes the project risks during the design/construction phase of the project. Table 5 One-time, Start-up Risk Management Risk Likelihood Mitigation/Discussion Lack of sufficient fundraising. The committee may not be able to raise enough funds to complete the project. High Construction of each hut will only commence once all the funding required to complete that hut has been raised. This will ensure that there will not be any partially completed huts. Lack of sufficient volunteers. The committee may not be able to find sufficient skilled volunteers to complete the project. Medium The Spearhead Huts Committee has established a database of people who are interested in volunteering with the project. This database already includes many people with skills ranging from carpentry to civil engineering to marketing. The level of interest in the project among the outdoor community and the construction industry is high. Environmental damage during construction. The soils and vegetation near a hut may be damaged as a result of construction activities. Medium (Russet Hut) Very Low (Pattison and Macbeth Huts) The Russet Hut is the only one with significant vegetation near the hut. Best practices construction techniques will be used to minimize impacts to soils and vegetation. Steps will be taken to re-establish vegetation after construction. Spearhead Huts Project Description 31

35 5 OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT PLAN This section describes how the huts will be managed once they are completed and open for business. 5.1 OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT OVERVIEW The huts will be owned by the ACC. They will be managed by the ACC Whistler and Vancouver Sections who will be responsible for setting fee rates, managing day-to-day operations and maintenance, and performing periodic upgrades and renovations. Nightly fee rates will be set to generate a small system-wide surplus to cover for years when occupancy is lower than expected. The ACC Whistler and Vancouver Sections will use any long term surplus to fund their local activities including the upgrading of existing locally managed huts and the building of new ones. The ACC Whistler and Vancouver Sections already manage three ACC huts in the Sea to Sky area: Tantalus Hut at Lake Lovely Water in Tantalus Provincial Park. Jim Haberl Hut in the Dionne-Serratus Col near Squamish. Wendy Thompson Hut in Marriot Basin near Mt. Currie. Those three local huts currently generate approximately 5,000 bed nights total per year. All local huts management activities are performed by volunteers: answering questions from potential visitors, taking reservations, managing leases/permits, replenishing propane, emptying outhouse barrels, performing maintenance and upgrades, etc. None of the local huts have on-site custodians. Custodians are people who stay at the huts for extended periods to perform on-site management activities such as collecting fees for visitors without reservations and switching outhouse barrels. Some popular ACC huts have volunteer custodians during peak periods. One ACC hut (Kokanee Glacier) has a paid custodian. The Spearhead Huts may have custodians during high seasons: Winter-spring (March-May) for all huts. Summer (July-September) for Russet. The new Spearhead Huts System is expected to have an annual total occupancy of approximately 7,000 bed nights. (See Section 5.3 Forecast Hut Utilization and Fee Revenue.) Volunteers will not be able to manage all six local huts. Paid staff will be required at least part time: Operations Manager to answer queries from potential visitors, manage reservations, manage finances, monitor hut conditions, and plan and manage maintenance. Maintenance persons to perform regular maintenance and light repairs. Possibly paid custodians instead of volunteer custodians for some huts at peak periods. The operational cost estimates shown in Section 5.4 Huts Operational Costs assumes no paid custodians. Helicopters will be used to access the huts for some maintenance activities. This is consistent with the ACC s maintenance activities for 22 of the 23 huts it operates in national and BC provincial parks. (The other hut is accessible by road.) The only other reason for helicopter usage will be emergency evacuations. Trails will continue to be maintained by BC Parks as part of their regular maintenance programme. The ACC may assume responsibility for managing and maintaining the campsite at Russet. Spearhead Huts Project Description 32

36 5.2 HUTS AVAILABILITY, RESERVATIONS, QUOTAS, AND FEE STRUCTURE The Spearhead Huts will be available by reservation to ACC (SHC) members and non-members alike as is the case for all ACC huts. A reservation system helps guarantee that people will have a place to sleep when they arrive at the hut. The huts will be locked during periods when there are no custodians on site. People with reservations will be supplied with codes to open the combination lock to enter the hut. Each hut will have an unlocked vestibule which can serve as an emergency shelter for small groups who arrive at the locked hut with no reservation. Reservations will be on a first come, first served basis. An early booking window will be available to ACC (SHC) members. An early booking window may also be made available to guides since some guides publish trip schedules months in advance. Early booking windows will only apply to a limited number of bunks thereby ensuring that the general public always has access to the huts. An on-line reservation system will be developed for the huts and possibly the Russet campsite. People will be able to view bunk availability and make bookings for individual huts or the complete Spearhead Ski Traverse. The on-line reservation system will include an effective information exchange for our visitors to ensure they have a sufficient understanding of the terrain, facilities, and safety protocols before they come for their scheduled visit. Part of that information exchange may be a required acknowledgement by the visitor of their understanding. Any waiverlike wording will need to be approved by ACC lawyers since the ACC cannot take responsibility for visitors traveling to or from the huts. This reservation system will also be used to educate each user in advance of the special considerations and best practices expected when using the huts in summer or winter. There will be information on the avalanche conditions, wildlife, hut rules, weather, emergency numbers/procedures, etc. This information will be required reading before a reservation is accepted thereby ensuring that each guest is properly informed prior to travel. Quotas will be used if required to restrict the number of spaces taken up by commercial guided groups or large private groups. The first priority is always the public which should never perceive the huts to be dominated by commercial groups or large private groups. A lottery system will be used if required to determine who will be allowed to make reservations at peak periods. Three ACC huts currently use lottery systems for reservations at peak periods. The Spearhead Huts fee rates have yet to be determined. Fees for the Spearhead Huts will be charged on a nightly basis and will be consistent with other ACC hut fees. ACC hut fees are modest and are certainly not a barrier to the public. ACC members pay $25 per night for most ACC huts while non-members pay $36 per night. Park fees and taxes are additional. Some huts have a $5 per night surcharge for peak periods. Members of the clubs in the SHC will receive a member discount. Membership in the clubs is open to anyone and the annual fees are modest at about $50. Hut fees will be refunded or waived if trips are cancelled when avalanche ratings are High or Extreme. 5.3 FORECAST HUT UTILIZATION AND FEE REVENUE Table 6 is a forecast of huts utilization and fee revenue once they are in full operations. The charts in Figure 10 and Figure 11 shows forecast hut occupancy and fee revenues by year. Underlying assumptions are: 1. There will be no new Spearhead Loop Trail which means minimal summer use for the Pattison Hut and no summer use at all for the Macbeth Hut. A Spearhead Loop Trail would result in an expected additional 1,900 bed nights and $60,000 in fee revenue. Spearhead Huts Project Description 33

37 2. The Russet, Pattison, and Macbeth Huts will be built one per year and will be operational on January 1, 2017, 2018, and 2019 respectively. 3. There will be a five year, linear ramp-up to full forecast hut utilization and fee revenue once a hut opens. 4. Nightly fee rates shown on the table are the 2014 rates for ACC national huts and are assumed constant through the forecast period. Spearhead Huts rates have yet to be set and may be different. 5. Campsite occupancy and fee revenue are excluded from the forecast. 6. Park fees and taxes are additional and are excluded from the forecast. Nightly Fee Calculation Table 6 Hut Occupancy and Fee Revenue Forecast Russet Pattison Macbeth Member Fee $ 25 $ 25 $ 25 Non-Member Fee $ 36 $ 36 $ 36 % Member Occupancy 20% 20% 20% Average Nightly Fee $ 34 $ 34 $ 34 Park fees and taxes are additional Hut Capacity (# bunks) Occupancy and Fee Revenue Forecast Occupancy % - Peak Years Bed Nights Occupancy Russet Pattison Macbeth Total # Days Russet Pattison Macbeth Total January 20% 20% 10% 17% February 30% 30% 20% 27% March 50% 50% 40% 47% ,519 April 50% 50% 40% 47% ,470 May 40% 40% 30% 37% ,194 June 0% 0% 0% 0% July 30% 10% 5% 15% August 30% 10% 5% 15% September 20% 5% 0% 8% October 10% 5% 0% 5% November 0% 0% 0% 0% December 10% 10% 0% 7% Total 24% 19% 13% 19% 365 3,091 2,445 1,593 7,128 Annual Fee Revenue $ 104,459 $ 82,633 $ 53,827 $ 240,918 Spearhead Huts Project Description 34

38 Annual Hut Fee Revenue Annual Hut Bed Nights 8,000 Hut Occupancy by Year 7,000 6,000 5,000 Macbeth - Opens Jan Pattison - Opens Jan Russet - Opens Jan ,000 3,000 2,000 1, Calendar Year of Operation Figure 10 - Hut Occupancy by Year of Operation $300,000 Hut Fee Revenues by Year $250,000 $200,000 Macbeth - Opens Jan Pattison - Opens Jan Russet - Opens Jan $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $ Calendar Year of Operation Figure 11 - Hut Fee Revenues by Year of Operation Spearhead Huts Project Description 35

39 5.4 HUTS OPERATIONAL COSTS The ACC operates its huts using a simple financial model: one-time capital costs are covered by donations while operating/maintenance costs are covered by hut fees. This allows hut fees to be kept low. Hut revenues and costs are pooled to simplify the fee structure and to ensure that all huts receive appropriate maintenance regardless of the fees they generate. Table 7 shows expected annual operating and maintenance costs for the Spearhead Huts System. Annual operational costs will be very close to annual revenues. Costs and revenues will need to be carefully managed. Table 7 - Annual Huts Operating/Maintenance Costs Direct Hut Costs (Per Hut) Units Hut Usage, Cost Description Unit $ # Units Cost Notes Propane Propane Fuel Liters $ ,000 $ 1,800 1 litre per bed night cooking + heating Flights Round trip $ $ 3,600 2 tanks per flight. Outhouse Barrels Flights Round trip $ $ 18, bed nights/ barrel, 2 barrels per flight Disposal Barrels $ $ 7,500 Maintenance Flights Service trips $ 1,800 2 $ 3,600 Flight in + Flight out for maint crew Consumables TP, soap, etc. $ 1,000 1 $ 1,000 Equipment Replacement Pots, mugs, mattresses, radio, etc. $ 1,000 Minor Repair Items Locks, paint, etc. $ 1,000 Minor, regular maintenance Insurance $ 3,000 Total Direct Costs Per Hut $ 40,500 Total Direct Costs All Huts $ 121,500 Indirect Total Hut System Costs Operations Manager Pay Annual pay $ 60, $ 30,000 Maintenance Person Pay Annual Pay $ 40, $ 20,000 Allocation to Maintenance Fund % of cap cost $ 2,000, % $ 30,000 For major periodic maintenance/upgrades Marketing Expenses $ 2,000 Paid Hut Custodian Pay $ - No paid hut custodian Total Indirect Hut System Costs $ 82,000 Contingency on Direct and Indirect Costs 10% $ 20,400 Total Annual Hut System Costs $ 223, MARKETING PLAN The If you build it, they will come adage probably applies to the Spearhead Huts. However some attention paid to proactive marketing will further boost huts utilization. Four main channels are used for marketing ACC huts: 1. Word of mouth and repeat visitors. People who stay at ACC huts usually have a good time. They come back and they tell their friends. This is probably the most effective marketing channel. Spearhead Huts Project Description 36

40 2. Websites. The ACC national website, includes descriptions of all ACC huts. The Vancouver and Whistler sections also have their own websites with descriptions of the huts they manage: and 3. Advertisements. The ACC occasionally places hut related ads in North American magazines targeted to mountaineers, hikers, and backcountry skiers. 4. Direct marketing to the 10,000+ ACC members. ACC member newsletters (printed and electronic) often mention the huts, particularly if a popular hut has reservation openings. The same marketing channels will be used for the Spearhead Huts. There will be a special advertising campaign when the new huts are opened. Ads will go in outdoor magazines, ACC club newsletters, and local Whistler and Vancouver publications. Some individuals of the SHC have good contacts with the publishers of several outdoor magazines who have shown a strong interest in this project. Powder magazine, Explore magazine, Mountain Life magazine, and Coast Mountain Culture magazine are just a few of the publications that have already written articles about this project. Media interest is expected to increase substantially when the huts open. In-depth articles are far more effective than any paid advertisement. There will also be a start-up advertising campaign targeted at the 10,000+ members of the Mountaineers Club based in Seattle, the 10,000+ members of the American Alpine Club, and the very large European alpine/mountaineering clubs. 5.6 OPERATIONS SAFETY PLAN The new huts will result in more people travelling through and recreating in the rugged Spearhead area. Visitor safety is a concern. A Safety Committee comprised of senior members of Whistler Search and Rescue (WSAR), North Shore Rescue, and Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) certified guides specialized in safety related planning and assessment was assembled to develop a Safety Plan. A draft Safety Plan was submitted to BC Parks as part of the park use permit application package. That Safety Plan will continue to evolve and be reviewed with key stakeholders such as Whistler Search and Rescue, BC Parks, Whistler Blackcomb, the RCMP, and Emergency Management BC. The Safety Plan will then be turned into specific operational procedures in time for the first hut opening. The key elements of the Safety Plan include the following: 1. All websites, brochures, and other materials describing the Spearhead Huts System will include four key and clear messages: a. All huts are located in complex terrain that can be difficult to navigate, particularly in bad weather. Groups must have the appropriate navigational aids (maps, compass, GPS), communication aids (cell phones, satellite phones, and/or radios), and the skills to use them. b. The terrain surrounding each hut is subject to snow avalanches. Avalanche terrain must be crossed to get to each hut. Groups must have appropriate skills and equipment for traveling in avalanche country. c. Only the Russet Hut is accessible by summer trail. d. Outside rescue cannot be relied upon, particularly in bad weather. Rescues could be days away. All groups must be prepared for self rescue. All groups must be prepared to help other groups in need of assistance. 2. The ACC Spearhead Huts System website will contain comprehensive information about the area such as maps, route descriptions, downloadable GPS files with key coordinates, links to public resources such as avalanche bulletins, and links to third party providers of purchasable resources such as maps. Spearhead Huts Project Description 37

41 3. Visitors making reservations will need to acknowledge that they understand the four key messages above. 4. Hut fees will be refunded if a trip is cancelled when avalanche ratings are High or Extreme. 5. The huts will be equipped with safety/rescue related items such as a VHF radio, signage with emergency contact information and standard procedures for managing emergency situations, maps, rescue equipment, and a helipad. 6. The huts will be designed with visitor safety in mind. They will be equipped with smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, safety fence marking the cliff at the Pattison Hut, etc. 7. The huts will also be designed with visitor health in mind. They will be equipped with stainless steel counter tops, health care quality mattress covers, signage listing health/kitchen best practices, etc. 5.7 RISK MANAGEMENT ON-GOING HUT OPERATIONS Table 8 describes the on-going risks associated with the project once the huts are built. Table 8 On-going Operations Risk Management Risk Likelihood Mitigation/Discussion 1. The huts may fill quickly. The huts may be more popular than expected and will fill often. Medium The huts as designed are likely the maximum size for any single hut in the Spearhead. Any more than that will degrade the backcountry ski experiences for the people staying in the hut. New huts in other areas in the Spearhead Range may be built if popularity continues to increase. 2. Restricted access to huts. Summer or winter access could be restricted to the Spearhead area by Whistler Blackcomb. Medium Any such actions would affect many Garibaldi Park users and would have serious implications well beyond the huts. 3. Increasing accident rates. Accident rates due to avalanches, lost people, and other reasons will increase as more people, particularly novices, are attracted to the backcountry because of the huts. Medium Section 5.6 Operations Safety Plan addresses this risk. 4. Domination by guided groups. Commercial guided groups may dominate the huts to the detriment of public users. Very low The huts will be operated on a reservation system with quotas for guided groups. During peak periods the huts will be managed by on-site custodians. They will monitor the hut usage for abuse of reservation privileges. Spearhead Huts Project Description 38

42 Risk Likelihood Mitigation/Discussion 5. Long term huts system financial viability. The huts may not be financially viable long term resulting in a lack of maintenance. Very low The Alpine Club of Canada has been successfully building and operating huts for 90 years. The club currently operates 30 backcountry huts. The Spearhead Ski Traverse will be a world-class backcountry trip once the huts are built. The proposed huts are modest in size. There is no doubt that these will be well used and will generate sufficient funds to be financially self-supporting. 6. Long term ACC viability. The ACC may disband as a club nationally. The Whistler or Vancouver Sections may disband. Very low The ACC has been in existence since It is a strong, viable club. If either the Whistler or Vancouver section disbands, full responsibility for the huts will transfer to the other section. If the ACC disbands, responsibility for the huts will transfer to another local non-profit society to be determined. Spearhead Huts Project Description 39

43 APPENDIX 1 ACC HUTS INVENTORY The ACC currently operates and maintains 30 backcountry huts. Appendix 2 contains an inventory of all ACC huts. The following table lists the number of ACC huts by category: Category # ACC Huts Total ACC operated backcountry huts. 30 Operates year round. 23 Built by the ACC. 21 Located in the Sea to Sky area. 3 Located in BC provincial parks. 6 Operated by the ACC on behalf of BC Parks which owns the huts. 5 Located in national parks. 17 Operated by the ACC on behalf of Parks Canada which owns the huts. 3 Located in Ontario provincial parks. 1 Located in the United States. 1 Located in alpine environments at or above tree line. 18 Located in mountain forest environments close to tree line. 9 Not vehicle accessible at any time except by helicopter. 25 Vehicle (auto or boat) accessible year round. 3 Vehicle (auto or bus) accessible in summer only. 2 Only accessible by persons with glacier travel or rock climbing skills or by helicopter. 10 Total capacity of the backcountry huts is 487 bunks (summer) and 387 bunks (winter). Huts range in size from 4 to 35 bunks. The three Sea to Sky area huts have a total of 48 bunks (summer) and 28 bunks (winter). Total annual ACC huts occupancy is approximately 35,000 bed-nights. Excluded from the counts above is the Mont des Poilus Hut located in Yoho National Park, BC. This hut is under development. It will be a winter use only hut with 18 bunks. Also excluded from the counts above is the ACC Clubhouse with 54 bunks located at the ACC National Headquarters in Canmore, Alberta. Following is an inventory of all ACC backcountry huts and the ACC Clubhouse in an approximate west to east order. Jim Haberl Hut Capacity: 12 Location: Between Squamish and Whistler, BC Access: Mountaineering route (summer), helicopter (winter) Built, operated, and maintained by the ACC Vancouver Section Spearhead Huts Project Description 40

44 Tantalus Hut Capacity: 20 (summer use only) Location: Tantalus Provincial Park, BC Access: Trail Built, operated, and maintained by the ACC Vancouver Section Wendy Thompson Hut Capacity: 16 Location: Near Mt. Currie, BC. Access: Trail (summer), ski (winter) Built, operated, and maintained by the ACC Whistler Section Kokanee Glacier Cabin Capacity: 20 (summer), 12 (winter) Location: Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, BC Access: Trail (summer), helicopter (winter) Operated by the ACC on behalf of BC Parks. Silver Spray Cabin Capacity: 10 (summer only use) Location: Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, BC Access: Trail Operated by the ACC on behalf of BC Parks. Spearhead Huts Project Description 41

45 Woodbury Cabin Capacity: 8 (summer only use) Location: Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, BC Access: Trail Operated by the ACC on behalf of BC Parks. Bill Putnam (Fairy Meadows) Hut Capacity: 20 Location: Selkirk Mountains NW of Golden, BC Access: Trail (summer), helicopter (winter) Great Cairn Ben Ferris Hut Capacity: 6 Location: Selkirk Mountains NW of Golden Access: Mountaineering route (summer), helicopter (winter) Arthur O. Wheeler Hut Capacity: 30 (summer), 24 (winter) Location: Glacier National Park, BC Access: Road (summer), ski (winter) Spearhead Huts Project Description 42

46 Asulkan Cabin Capacity: 12 Location: Glacier National Park, BC Access: Trail (summer), ski (winter) Operated by the ACC on behalf of Parks Canada. Glacier Circle Cabin Capacity: 8 Location: Glacier National Park, BC Access: Mountaineering route Operated by the ACC on behalf of Parks Canada. Saphire Col Shelter Capacity: 4 (summer use only) Location: Glacier National Park, BC Access: Mountaineering route Basic bivouac shelter only. Operated by the ACC on behalf of Parks Canada. Conrad Kain Hut Capacity: 35 Location: Bugaboo Provincial Park, BC Access: Trail (summer), helicopter (winter) Operated by the ACC on behalf of BC Parks. Spearhead Huts Project Description 43

47 Elizabeth Parker Hut Capacity: 24 (summer), 20 (winter) Location: Yoho National Park, BC Access: Bus (summer), ski (winter) Abbot Pass Hut Capacity: 24 Location: Border of Yoho and Banff National Parks, BC/Alberta Access: Trail or mountaineering route (summer), ski (winter) The Abbot Pass Hut is the ACC s oldest hut. It was built in 1922 by the Canadian Pacific Railroad. It is a Canadian national historic site and, at 2,925 meters, is the second highest permanent habitable structure in Canada. Stanley Mitchell Hut Capacity: 26 (summer), 22 (winter) Location: Yoho National Park, BC Access: Trail (summer), ski (winter) Elk Lakes Cabin Capacity: 14 Location: Elk Lakes Provincial Park, BC Access: Trail (summer), ski (winter) Operated by the ACC on behalf of BC Parks. Spearhead Huts Project Description 44

48 Mont des Poilus Hut Capacity: 18 (winter use only) Location: Yoho National Park, BC Access: Ski Under development. Bow Hut Capacity: 30 Location: Banff National Park, Alberta Access: Trail (summer), ski (winter) Peter and Catharine Whyte (Peyto) Hut Capacity: 18 (summer), 16 (winter) Location: Banff National Park, Alberta Access: Mountaineering route (summer), ski (winter) R.J. Ritchie (Balfour) Hut Capacity: 18 (summer), 16 (winter) Location: Banff National Park, Alberta Access: Mountaineering route (summer), ski (winter) Spearhead Huts Project Description 45

49 Scott Duncan Hut Capacity: 12 Location: Banff National Park, Alberta Access: Mountaineering route (summer), ski (winter) Wates-Gibson Hut Capacity: 30 (summer), 24 (winter) Location: Jasper National Park, Alberta Access: Trail (summer), ski (winter) Mt. Collin Centennial Hut Capacity: 6 (summer use only) Location: Jasper National Park, Alberta Access: Mountaineering route Sydney Vallance (Fryatt) Hut Capacity: 12 Location: Jasper National Park, Alberta Access: Trail (summer), ski (winter) Spearhead Huts Project Description 46

50 Lloyd MacKay (Mt. Alberta) Hut Capacity: 6 Location: Jasper National Park, Alberta Access: Trail (summer), ski (winter) Neil Colgan Hut Capacity: 18 (summer), 16 (winter) Location: Banff National Park Access: Mountaineering route (summer), ski (winter) Highest permanent, habitable structure in Canada at 2,956 meters. Castle Mountain Hut Capacity: 6 (summer use only) Location: Banff National Park, Alberta Access: Technical rock climbing route ACC Clubhouse Capacity: 54 in three separate buildings Location: ACC National Headquarters in Canmore, Alberta Access: Road Spearhead Huts Project Description 47

51 Bon Echo Hut Capacity: Day use only for adjacent campsite Location: Bon Echo Provincial Park, Ontario Access: Boat Built, operated, and maintained by the ACC Toronto Section. Keene Farm Capacity: 32 Location: Adirondack Forest Reserve, New York State Access: Road Built, operated, and maintained by the ACC Montreal Section. Montagne d Argent Hut Capacity: 10 Location: Near Mont-Tremblant, Quebec Access: Road Built and outfitted almost completely using recycled materials. Built, operated, and maintained by the ACC Laurentian Section. Spearhead Huts Project Description 48