Adventure tourism operators and snowmobilers : managing interactions

Abstract

Anecdotal information indicates that conflict exists between Adventure Tourism Operators (ATOs) and snowmobilers in the backcountry of British Columbia. Focusing on the Sea-to-Sky Corridor, a survey was conducted among winter ATOs to determine the extent of the conflict, the role of land management policies as well as the proposed Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Management Framework in managing such interactions. Initial conclusions suggest that: 1) conflict does exist; 2) existing structure for managing interactions is inadequate; 3) ATOs consider it the responsibility of the BC Government to manage interactions, and; 4) ATOs have a low level of confidence in the BC Government to effectively manage interactions. This study presents five recommendations for government regulators to consider if or when the ORV Management Framework moves forward.