Elk Valley Resources (EVR) and the Tourism Fernie Society today announced a $200,000 donation from EVR to support sustainable tourism and recreation initiatives in the Elk Valley.
Fernie and the Elk Valley continue to see growth in both tourism and outdoor recreation. This increased use of trails, lands, lakes, and rivers brings opportunities, challenges, and needs that require collaborative efforts to ensure long-term sustainability.
Funding from EVR will enhance sustainable access to the Elk River through the development of the Elko boat launch and will also support the continued success of the AmbassadorWILD Program—a program dedicated to preserving important nature-based locations while promoting safe and sustainable recreation in the Elk Valley.
“Tourism and recreation are important economic drivers for the Elk Valley, and EVR is proud to support Tourism Fernie and their many projects that create lasting benefits for the community,” said Mike Carrucan, CEO of EVR.
In 2021, Tourism Fernie partnered with the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) to develop the Area A Sustainable Tourism Strategy, which included public engagement. The strategy highlighted recommendations and projects such as Elk River access improvements, key trail amenities and safety upgrades, enhancements to locations like Silver Springs, new data collection and reporting programs, and the creation of the AmbassadorWILD Program.
Since 2021, more than $1 million has been invested through a variety of private and public partnerships to fund and deliver these initiatives. In 2023, Tourism Fernie received the Community Project Award from the BC Economic Development Association Summit for its AmbassadorWILD Sustainable Tourism Partnership Programs.
“We are so grateful for EVR’s continued support of these important initiatives that benefit both locals and visitors, as well as future generations in the valley,” said Jikke Gyorki, Executive Officer of Tourism Fernie. “With their support we’ve been able to complete many projects since 2021, and we’re excited to move forward with the next major Elk River project at Elko, while continuing key initiatives like data gathering, reporting, and AmbassadorWILD.”
Tourism and recreation remain cornerstones of the Elk Valley’s economy. Ensuring the long-term sustainability of these industries—and the land and waters on which they depend—is critical for residents, businesses, community groups, and local employment.
For more information about the Sustainable Tourism Strategy, the Tourism Master Plan for Fernie, AmbassadorWILD, or the Elk River Access Improvements project, please email: project@tourismfernie.com
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