THE SOUTHERN CHILCOTIN MOUNTAINS RECOMMENDATION FOR RECREATION AREA Draft Presentation to Environment and Land Use Committee June 20, 1989 Sponsored

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1 THE SOUTHERN CHILCOTIN MOUNTAINS RECOMMENDATION FOR RECREATION AREA Draft Presentation to Environment and Land Use Committee June 20, 1989 Sponsored by: Federation of B.C. Naturalists Southern Chilcotin Mountains Wilderness Society Location The Southern Chilcotin Mountains area (Map 1) is a superb recreational region located only 215 km north of Vancouver. Located on the eastern side of the Coast Mountains, the Chilcotin Mountains are bounded by Chilko Lake to the west, the Chilcotin River of the Fraser Plateau to the north and the Yalakom River to the east. The Bridge River and Carpenter Lake form the southern boundary. Numerous mountain peaks rise above the broad plateau, including Mt. Tatlow (3,076 m), Taseko Mountain (3,064 m), Big Dog Mountain (2,864 m), Shulaps Peak (2,882 m) and Mt. Warner (2,835 m). Most recreational use of the Southern Chilcotin Mountains takes place within the area shown on Map 2. This region, also known as the Charlie Cunnignham area, includes most of the Spruce Lake Integrated Resource Planning Area in the Lillooet Forest District, and also the headwaters of Big Creek and Taseko River in the Williams Lake Forest District. We recommend to ELUC that the unique combination of wilderness, recreational, aesthetic, historical, and non-exploitive commercial values be maintained by designating the Charlie Cunningham area as a Recreation Area. The boundary proposed in this submissin has been drawn carefully to allow logging in most areas planned in the 1981 Integrated Resource Management Plan, while ensuring that wilderness values are retained.

2 Background of Wilderness Proposals for Southern Chilcotin Mountains Since 1937, the Vancouver Natural History Society (VNHS), has advocated the designation of a Provincial Park in the Southern Chilcotin Mountains. The first VNHS presentation to the Government of British Columbia supported the boundary recommended by Charles Cunningham of Bralorne; in later years the area that he suggested for park or park reserve came to be known as the "Charlie Cunningham Wilderness." There are many factors that support special recreational designation in this area. The Southern Chilcotin Mountains represent unique bio-physical types presently not in our Provincial Parks system. It is a region of outstanding recreational potential, capable of accommodating virtually the entire spectrum of winter and summer recreational pursuits. Its broad U-shaped valleys make it a benign wilderness, suitable for family enjoyment. Its relatively low snowfall results in an early melt, thereby opening the area for recreational use early in summer. Because of these significant characteristics of the region, the Outdoor Recreation Council of B.C. completed a public inventory of potential preservation sites in the Charlie Cunningham, Tchaikazan and Chilko Study Areas during the summer of This inventory was requested by the Parks Branch as part of an inter-governmental committee preparing a Chilcotin Park Study. The Council submitted its inventory to Parks Branch in December 1976, with a specific recommendation to "establish a wilderness core and zone at the head of Tyaughton, Big and Relay creeks." Soaring gold prices in the late 1970s quickened the rate of mineral exploration throughout the region, with record numbers of Free Miner's Licenses being filed in British Columbia. Simultaneous timber depletion close to regional mill sites heightened the forest industry's interest in logging

3 3 million m of mature timber allocated within the Yalakom Public Sustained Yield Unit, located primarily among the watersheds of Gun, Tyaughton, and Relay Creeks. Faced with these extractive uses, 14 B.C. outdoors groups created the Coalition to Protect the Southern Chilcotin Mountains in The Coalition's request to preserve the core Charlie Cunningham Area was rejected by the Environment and Land Use Committee in 1980, which recommended that the area continue to be managed for multiple use because of timber, mineral and grazing values. The Ministry of Forests formed the Spruce Lake Integrated Resource Management Planning Committee in 1981 to develop criteria for compatible resource and recreation use within the area. Failure of Integrated Management The Spruce Lake Integrated Resource Management Plan designated 3 zones of resource extraction based upon potential conflicts with other resource uses, including wilderness and aesthetic quality. In reality, however, this management plan tacitly condoned the eventual elimination of wilderness in the Southern Chilcotin Mountains, as all merchantable timber was earmarked for logging. Clearcut logging continued unabated in Zone 1, including Mud Creek West, Lower Tyaughton Creek, Lower Gun Creek, Relay Creek West, and portions of both Slim and Leckie Creeks. A new logging road was constructed on the west side of Gun Creek in Moreover, despite assurances by the Ministry of Forests that no logging would be visible from the primary access trail on the east side of Gun Creek, particularly near Jewel Creek Bridge, virtually all trees adjacent to Gun Creek were logged. Because of this activity, which violated the spirit of the Integrated Resource Management Plan, one of the guide-outfitters lost several clients who no longer perceived a true wilderness experience. -3-

4 Zone 2, which is scheduled for logging beginning in the 1990s, includes Bonanza Creek, upper Relay Creek and portions of Paradise Creek. Although this zone is highly sensitive visually from a recreational perspective, the Ministry of Forests, when approving logging plans, is constrained only in Paradise Creek, where input from a landscape architect "may" be considered. Zone 3 is located primarily within high-value recreational categories, as identified by the Resource Management Planning Committee. Nonetheless, the plan maintains an option for logging Eldorado Creek/Taylor Creek, Upper Gun Creek/Warner Creek, Spruce Lake and Upper Tyaughton Creek beginning in the year 2,000. We believe that acceptance of Charlie Cunningham's 1937 recommendations must not be delayed. Our proposal is supported by the Ministry of Parks, which has assigned the Southern Chilcotin Mountains highest priority within its regional System Plan. Additionally, the Honourable Dave Parker, Minister of Forests, has been quoted that "Our (MoF) priority for future wilderness is definitely Spruce Lake". In recent years, recreational use of the area has grown rapidly, as accessibility and recognition has increased among residents and tourists throughout the world. We therefore petition ELUC to designate the Southern Chilcotin Mountains as a Recreation Area, in recognition of its outstanding recreational and natural attributes. Additional Support Support for our request is widespread throughout British Columbia. The Federation of B.C. Naturalists, led by the Vancouver, Kamloops, Williams Lake, and Vernon Natural History Societies supports preservation of wilderness values in the Southern Chilcotin Mountains. Moreover, most, and perhaps all of the groups comprising the Southern Chilcotin Mountains Wilderness Society (total -4-

5 membership approximately 100,000), and much of the knowledgeable public in Gold Bridge, Gun Lake and Lillooet also support our proposal. In 1985, Dr. J. P. Kimmins, a private forest consultant concluded that "Of the three recreation-resource use conflicts that I have had some contact with in the past three years, the South Chilcotin Mountains Park Proposal...(has)...the greatest merits for a resolution in favour of parks and recreation." Accessibility to Population Centres The nearest community, Gold Bridge, can be reached year-round through the Fraser Canyon via Lytton and Lillooet, or by the Sea to Sky Highway via Pemberton. Both alternatives require approximately equal driving time (5 hours) to the primary trail heads. This driving time will be reduced when the Duffey Lake Highway between Pemberton and Lillooet is upgraded, and when the proposed highway over the Hurley Pass between Pemberton and Gold Bridge is completed. Geology Geologically, the Southern Chilcotin Mountains provide an interesting diversity of formations, dominated by coastal granitics and interior basalts. Most peaks in the region, of which Castle Peak offers a spectacular and notable example, are erosional remnants of volcanic rock that poured in immense sheets over the Chilcotin Plateau million years ago during the Tertiary Period. Fossilized sedimentary deposits, consisting approximately 90% of ammonites and trilobites, are common throughout the region. Flowers Some of the mountain peaks remained above maximum ice level during the last glaciation, thereby offering refuge to local plant species. Investigations on these peaks located a poppy (Papaver lapponicum), fleabane (Erigeron purpuratus) and buttercup (Ranunculus gelidus), which occur between -5-

6 km from their nearest known botanical equivalents. Although none is currently considered endangered, all three species are classified as rare in British Columbia. The Southern Chilcotin Mountains lie in the lee of the Coast Mountains, which creates a climate substantially drier than normally associated with coastal regions or wet interior zones such as in Manning Park. The flora reflects this climate, and contains plant species characteristic of both coastal and continental vegetation. Moreover, because the mountain peaks rise above a broad central plateau, plant species representing both temperate vegetation to the south and boreal vegetation to the north commonly occur in proximity. The region is perhaps unique in British Columbia for its floristic diversity, representing ecological transitions along north/south and east/west transects. For example, on steep, south-facing slopes above Gun Creek, bluebunch wheatgrass (Agropyron spicatum) and spring sunflower (Balsamorhiza sagittata), two plants normally associated with sagebrush vegetation of Kamloops, grow luxuriantly at 1550 m. Yet only a few metres away, on more moist sites, Indian potato, (Claytonia lanceolata) and yellow avalanche lily (Erythronium grandiflorum), both of which are commonly found in alpine areas, carpet the slopes with snow-white and golden blossoms immediately following snowmelt. Historical Trails Before European settlement in British Columbia, native peoples penetrated the Southern Chilcotin Mountains along travel routes between Taseko Lake and Bridge River. One of the most active of these trading and hunting trails originated in the Nemaia Valley, west of Taseko Lake, climbed east over Warner Pass, then proceeded down Gun Creek to Bridge River. The present trail on the east side of Gun Creek overlaps this historical route, wandering through -6-

7 splendid grasslands clothing the south-facing shoulder of Mt. Sheba. Spring displays of floral colours match those found anywhere in southern B.C., including Garibaldi and Manning Parks. Graveyard Valley also provides historical interest, as local lore attributes the valley's name either to the site of smallpox deaths of native Indians in 1919, or in reference to a skirmish between Europeans and native people. Lakes and Fishing Five large lakes exist in the area, suitable for camping and fishing. Spruce Lake, in the heart of the wilderness, is the focal point for most pack trips and fly-in camps. Hummingbird, Trigger, and Warner Lake, accessed by the Gun Creek trail, provide outstanding destinations for hikes into the backcountry. Lorna Lake, at the western edge of the de-facto wilderness area, sits in a spectacular basin, flanked by cliffs. These large lakes, as well as numerous smaller lakes and streams throughout the region, provide excellent fishing for cutthroat, dolly varden, and rainbow trout. Wildlife and Hunting Despite the region's proximity to population centres of British Columbia, including Kamloops, Williams Lake and the Lower Mainland, the Southern Chilcotin Mountains still provide a wilderness setting. Wildlife is plentiful and easily seen, particularly mule deer, whose prime summer range exists within the area. Other wildlife includes black and grizzly bears, hoary marmots, silver and red foxes, bobcats, lynx, wolverines, wolves, moose, goats, and coyotes. Located on a major flyway, the Southern Chilcotin Mountains are a bird-watchers' paradise. Common species are grouse (spruce, blue, and ruffed), eagles, ospreys, hawks, loons, ptarmigans, peregrine falcons, and B.C.'s Provincial bird, the Steller's Jay. Songbirds also abound. -7-

8 The Southern Chilcotin Mountains also offer superb hunting opportunities for deer, moose, rocky mountain goat, black bear, grizzly bear, and California bighorn sheep. Guide-outfitting services are readily available for resident and non-resident hunters. Scenery In a 1968 letter, the Federation of B.C. Naturalists indicated that the scenic vistas of glacier-hung peaks rival that of the Grand Teton Mountains in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and many of the best Swiss settings. Because of the relatively gentle topography compared to the Coast or Rocky Mountains, however, even inexperienced wilderness visitors can follow trails for many kilometres, through open valleys and lush meadows rich with wildflowers, past pristine lakes toward the mountain passes. Accessibility to a Myriad of Recreational Values The proposed recreation area already has a well-developed trail system that interconnects valleys, alpine meadows, and mountain passes (Map 3). Access to the back country is gained along any of the 3 major watersheds drained by Gun, Tyaughton, and Relay Creeks. The area is ideally suited to both summer and winter recreation, including horse riding, hiking, mountaineering, camping, backpacking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, hunting, fishing, photography, snowmobiling, and nature study. This extensive trail system encourages recreational use to be widely dispersed, thereby minimizing concentration of campers, hunters hikers, anglers, and people on horseback. Beyond the trails, the extensive alpine zone allows easy route-finding above 2,000 m. The many alpine passes also permit various circle routes, which add to the quality of the wilderness experience. The comparatively gentle terrain of the high elevation trails is virtually unique in southern British Columbia, and provides an attainable wilderness -8-

9 experience for young families. Creation of the Southern Chilcotin Mountains Recreation Area would also complement Manning Park, and relieve some of the pressure that is reducing the value of Manning Park for wilderness recreation. Outdoor Classroom for Environmental Education The region is extremely well-suited for environmental education because of (1) its accessibility to the population centre of the Lower Mainland, (2) the well developed trail system that inter-connects all 3 major watersheds, and (3) its ecological transition between coastal/interior and temperate/boreal habitats. This ecological variety supports a combination of animal, plant, and bird life that is unique in British Columbia. Moreover, because of the low rainfall, mountain peaks are often exposed, easily revealing geologic formations and history. During the summer of 1988, the Vancouver Natural History Society held its annual 7-day camp in the Southern Chilcotin Mountains, and concluded that the area was unsurpassed in its potential for outdoor environmental education. Economic Value of Recreation The October 1986 Lillooet Timber Supply Area (TSA) Options Report indicates that the Spruce Lake Option, which removes the Spruce Lake Area from the Annual Allowable Cut, reduces long-run sustained yield by 15,000 m /year. This reduction equals only 3.4% of the total, and corresponds to stumpage revenues of only $43,000/year. Moreover, the annual loss in direct logging employment equals only 18 person-years, or 5.5% of the total. These relatively low employment levels are substantially exceeded by direct employment in wilderness tourism (more than 50 people/year) that would be jeopardized by logging the Spruce Lake area (Letter to the Editor; Vancouver Sun; April 19, 1988). Additionally, employment in tourism is permanent and -9-

10 I local, whereas logging jobs are more transitory, and are often contracted to people outside the ISA. In winter, deep powder snow offers superlative backcountry ski-touring. Multi-day traverses or cabin-based trips in this type of snow will attract ski-touring enthusiasts from throughout North America, with Whistler and Blackcomb ski resorts providing convenient access points. For all of these reasons, we are convinced that the economic values related to clearcut logging will be offset by maintaining the wilderness values of the Southern Chilcotin Mountains. Other regions in North American have documented the economic value of outdoor recreation. A Colorado study in 1980 revealed that the wilderness preservation system in that state had an economic present worth of U.S. $1.5 billion. In a 1985 report to the Provincial Cabinet Committee on Economic Development, the Okanagan Similkameen Parks Society reported that logging in the Podunk and Paradise Valleys north of Manning Park would realize a financial loss of $9.5 million over a 10-year period, compared to revenues of $1.0 million for tourism and recreation over a 5-year period. Indeed, tourism is already the second largest industry in British Columbia, with most of our international advertising extolling the "Super Natural" qualities of our formerly undisturbed landscape. Recreation Area vs Wilderness Area For the following reasons, the Southern Chilcotin Mountains should be managed as a Recreation Area under the B.C. Parks Act, rather than a Wilderness Area within the Ministry of Forests. There have been some jurisdictional problems within the Ministry of Forests in its treatment of the area, which is administered from different Forest Districts headquartered in Kamloops and Williams Lake. Only recently -10-

11 has there been any evidence for consideration of the area as a complete unit of natural features and recreational potential. The Ministry of Parks, however, recognizes the distinct recreational qualities of the area administered as a whole, which better serves the needs of recreational users. The Ministry of Parks also has a well-established tradition for environmental education and interpretation, qualities which are less developed within the Ministry of Forests. For example, the 1981 Spruce Lake Integrated Resource Management Plan recommended that the unique, south-facing grasslands above Gun Creek be protected as an Ecological Reserve. To date, however, the Ministry of Forests has not implemented this recommendation. Moreover, the Ministry of Parks has the personnel to administer the outstanding physical, biological, and historical features of the area, whereas the Ministry of Forests currently employs only one Recreation Officer in the Lillooet District. Although the Ministry of Forests has prepared a Spruce Lake Trails Area map, a recreation plan promised by the Ministry of Forests for 2 years remains in its infancy because of insufficient funding. Foreign investment in outdoor recreation, which is increasing rapidly in British Columbia, would, therefore, be better promoted in association with Recreation Area (Parks) rather than Wilderness Area (Forests) status. Mining interests in the area would also be well served by Recreation Area Status. Under this designation, mining exploration could proceed, and if a major discovery were made, suitable environmental safeguards exist in current legislation. Existing claims in the area, therefore, need not be "bought out." Although mining claims exist throughout the area, one geologist from the B.C. Mines Branch, and one from the University of Washington informed the Vancouver Natural History Society at their 1988 Summer Camp at Spruce Lake -11-

12 that mining potential is low. Conflicts between wilderness users and mining activity within the Recreation Area are, therefore, unlikely. Commercial Facilities and Recreational Resources We support existing commercial groups using the proposed Southern Chilcotin Mountains Recreation Area, assuming that such use is carefully managed to preserve wilderness values. Two guide-outfitters are active in the Southern Chilcotin Mountains, and hope to expand their operations. Heli-skiing and heli-hiking, based in Whistler, Blackcomb, and Gold Bridge, also depend upon preservation of wilderness values for their livelihood. Tyax Mountain Lake Resort, at Tyaughton Lake, has quickly gained an international reputation for outdoor adventures, which are now threatened by plans for clearcut logging in prime access corridors and high-use areas. As wilderness throughout the world becomes more scarce, its significance for British Columbia residents and world tourism will become even more valuable. Therefore, we support controlled, planned, commercial uses of the Southern Chilcotin Mountains, as long as high-quality, wilderness experiences are preserved for all users. Prepared by: Michael D. Pitt On behalf of: Federation of B.C. Naturalists, Southern Chilcotin Mountains Wilderness Society Appendices: Map 1. Location of Southern Chilcotin Mountains Map 2. Recreation Area Boundaries Map 3. Principal Trails in Southern Chilcotin Mountains -12-