The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) is launching a new resource, a comprehensive toolkit.
The purpose of the toolkit was designed to facilitate and strengthen the gathering of data with local governments, First Nations and recreation groups to improve their capacity to apply the data when it comes to recreational users and visitors, according to a press release from ORCBC.
The toolkit was developed with the help of The Harbinger Consultancy, which is known for its expertise in outdoor recreation, community-based education and regional economic analysis. As one of the main functions of the toolkit is to help organizations with "practical tools to conduct meaningful research," the information gathered from the research will help recreation and tourism organizations make informed decisions, enhance advocacy and improve outdoor recreation experiences across British Columbia."
This research is important because it helps these institutions and organizations understand the needs, behaviours and preferences when it comes to recreation. Armed with this valuable information, communities are thus better equipped to address challenges and improve recreational experiences.
“This isn’t just a toolkit—it’s a game changer for recreation groups, local governments, and communities throughout BC,” said Louise Pedersen, Executive Director of ORCBC.
Since the toolkit is "specifically tailored to meet the needs of small and mid-sized outdoor recreation organizations, First Nations and local governments, the insights that are gathered are able to provide information that can steer "strategic decision-making, strengthen advocacy efforts, and contribute to the long-term success of outdoor recreation initiatives."
“For many communities and recreation groups, spending $10,000 or $30,000 or more on an economic study isn’t in the cards. Our aim is to help them build their own capacity to generate their own insights and put them to work,” said Michele Archie, principal of The Harbinger Consultancy.
The toolkit can be downloaded here.
