Opponents of proposed changes to the provincial parks act will be demonstrating in front of the office of Prince George-Mackenzie MLA Mike Morris on Saturday and Sunday afternoon.
Charissa Callahan said she fears the legislation currently being debated at the provincial legislature will open the door for mining and other resource extraction to take place within park boundaries.
"I feel that these parks are no longer going to be provided these protections through this act," Callahan said. "There's a place for mining and there's a place for the oil industry and I feel outside of the parks would be the best place, [natural resource companies] are still going to be able to fully operate outside of the park boundaries and turn a profit."
Callahan is concerned that the new bill would allow for "feasibility studies" around mineral deposits in parks, which she said could open the door to future development.
"I feel if resources are found, it would not only allow for development but in this act it states it could be developed without limitation," she said. "So it would be pipelines, roads, highways, transmissions lines or any other project the government would approve."
When the bill was first introduced in February, Environment Minister Mary Polak said it aimed to clarify the rules for what economic activities are allowed in parks.
"The province remains committed to protecting our natural resources, while at the same time expanding our economic activities," Polak said in a news release. "Strong economic growth and strong environmental stewardship can co-exist in British Columbia. However, these economic activities will not be at the cost of our environment."
The act would allow for new research permits, but the government said they would only be considered in the context of existing protected values and conservation plans in parks.
Callahan said the weekend events have a dual purpose, first to raise awareness about the concerns the group has regarding the bill and to have peaceful demonstrations.
"I'm hoping people are going to walk away from this and do research into it," she said.
Organizers are hoping to have upwards of 100 people out between the two demonstrations this weekend. The start time on both Saturday and Sunday is noon.
