BRVCA Annual Report 2023

2023 BRVCA Annual Report
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Contents
Message from the Board of Directors 3
Purpose 4
Who We Are 4
Contact 4
What We Offer 5
Accomplishments 2023 5
Committee Accomplishments 2023 18
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Message from the Board of Directors
A Challenging End to the Year
The last few months of this year challenged us all beyond anything we could have imagined. The Downton Lake
Wildfire – and several other fires in the Bendor Range – swept through the Bridge River Valley causing trauma,
loss, and tremendous damage to the precious natural environment that has brought us all to this area. It disrupted
our tranquility, our productivity, our livelihood, and our safety.
While we have a huge task ahead of us in terms of recovering from this disaster, we are encouraged by the acts of
community, empathy, and kindness that we saw throughout the emergency and that we continue to see as people
come together to repair and rebuild what was lost.
BRVCA is committed to supporting our community through this difficult and lengthy process by serving as a hub
for groups, committees, and individuals to come together in empathy and action towards recovery. We will
facilitate this important work by supporting collaboration, administration, financial needs, and other cumbersome
tasks that can be a barrier to success.
We want to thank everyone for the patience and support they offered over the past few months, and we want to
acknowledge the tremendous determination and resilience that we see in this community and that we will need to
move forward.
BRVCA Board of Directors
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Purpose
BRVCA is an umbrella organization, driven by the interests of the community that encourages autonomous group
development and promotes the economic wellbeing of the Bridge River Valley.
We are:
• Giving voice to the unique people of the Bridge River Valley
• Balancing growth to ensure a viable future
• Protecting the natural beauty and resources of the Bridge River Valley
• Keeping the history of the valley alive
• Building a Sustainable Community in the Wilderness
Who We Are
Directors 2022-2023
Pat Dahle – President
Debbie Demare – Vice President
Michelle Nortje – Treasurer / Secretary
Benno Chapman
Norris Girling
Staff
Jenny James – Editor-Mountain Telegraph
Sandra Galbraith - Administrative Assistant
Emilie Larsen – Administrative Assistant, Summer
Supervision BRVCA/Haylmore
Cara DeMare – Financial Administrator, Special
Projects, Admin Support
Janis Irvine – Museum Assistant
Regan Dixon - Heritage Assistant - Haylmore
Laurie Reimer - Grant Writer
Kaitlin James - Bralorne Recreation Area Coordinator /
Trails Coordinator
Cole Krider - Community Assets Groundskeeper
Blake Rowsell - Bralorne Recreation Area
Annie Gaudette - Bralorne Recreation Area
Contractors
Susan Medville – Heritage Consultant
Contact
Bridge River Valley Community Association
104 Haylmore Ave, Gold Bridge, BC V0K 1P0
250-238-2534
bridgerivervalley@gmail.com
www.bridgerivervalley.ca
www.brvca.ca
www.liveplay.ca
www.isurvivedthehurley.com
Visit us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
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What We Offer
Support for committees, societies, and other groups as autonomous enterprises.
Pooled resources to improve efficiency and cost effectiveness so that more resources (time and money) can be
spent on tangible accomplishments.
Consolidation of legal and financial responsibilities and delegation of these responsibilities to the BRVCA board.
Protection from liability with group insurance.
Improved communication through a single point of contact and central repository for information in the Bridge
River Valley.
Facilitated access to resources with a “one shop stop” community services hub.
Strong advocate on community issues.
Benefits and Services
• Financial Management – pooled bookkeeping services
• Funding Support – facilitated access to funding through grant-writing support
• Insurance Coverage – group coverage at group rates
• Visitor Services – year-round promotion of local resources
• Research and Development – support to explore, develop, and implement new ideas
• Legal Structure – non-profit status and structure without the hassles
• Training Support – access to training and other resources
• Heritage Management – support for heritage-related initiatives
• Community Marketing
• Administration Support – shared office and operational costs
• Communication Resources - Shared toll-free teleconferencing and free on-line ZOOM meetings
Accomplishments 2023
Under the Umbrella
Continued strategic direction to develop the “umbrella” structure of BRVCA using the model of the Hornby Island
Residents & Ratepayers Association www.hirra.ca.
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Maintained
There were 12 different staff/contractors throughout the year.
Board Governance
There were 5 board members for the 2022-2023 term.
Provided
Local newsletter - BRVCA has been publishing the Mountain Telegraph since March 2016. The paper is published
monthly with a regular paid subscription base and a growing number of digital subscriptions as well. It is delivered
at no charge into 135 local mailboxes monthly. Residents rely on the monthly publication for information on
upcoming events and important community notices.
Ongoing staff and volunteer support for the Bralorne Community Advisory Committee, the Heritage Committee, the
Trails Committee, the Economic Development Committee, the Resource Management/Land Use Committee, Gun
Lake Boat Launch Committee, Marshall Valley Community Association, LaJoie Lake Residents Association, Bralorne
TV Committee and the Bear Working Group.
Delivered the systematic outdoor Community Maintenance Program: Gold Bridge sign, Cemetery, Community
Resource Office, Bralorne Community Hall, Boultbee Memorial Church, Bralorne Ball Diamond, Haylmore Heritage
Site and Gateway Entry Kiosks.
Business Services: phone, fax, Internet, photocopying, printing, flyer development etc
Affordable teleconferencing for community organizations and shared free Zoom meeting account
Equipment service including high quality LCD projector and screen
Office space/other services to Minto Communications
Technology & Websites
Maintained a very active social media presence with 5 Facebook pages, a Twitter Account and 4 Instagram
accounts.
Maintained an extensive internal community website www.brvca.ca & continued Community Advisory emails to
residents and regular visitors updated in accordance with the Canadian anti-spam legislation.
Continued to refine our ability to supply financial reports to each committee, event, and group.
Maintained the website www.bridgerivervalley.ca . This site had 11,914 unique visitors during the year and 21,070
visits in total.
Maintained the website www.liveplay.ca with 5,529 unique visitors and 12,110 visits during the year.
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Maintained the website www.isurvivedthehurley.com with 24,548 unique visitors during the year and 46,175
visits in total.
Grant Writing
The Grant Writer position is a shared service with SLRD Electoral Area A and Electoral Area B, with employment
and supervision for the position provided through the Bridge River Valley Community Association.
The Grant Writer provides funding research, grant development, project support, and capacity building to nonprofit
societies, community groups, and committees within the Bridge River Valley Electoral Area A and Electoral
Area B.
January 1- October 15, 2023
65 applications to date have been submitted totaling: $ 1,134,896
30 – Electoral Area A ($601,144)
33 – Electoral Area B ($533,753)
51 approved totaling: $504,729
23 – Electoral Area A ($302,622)
24 – Electoral Area B ($202,107)
6 Declined
3 – Electoral Area A
3 – Electoral Area B
8 Pending
3 – Electoral Area A
5 – Electoral Area B
26 Community Groups Assisted
13 – Electoral Area A
13 – Electoral Area B
706 hours and 30 minutes in Grant Writing Hours completed
317:05 – Electoral Area A
389:25 – Electoral Area B
Emergency Response and Recovery Assistance
United Way Emergency Response for Wildfires
Thanks to the BRVCA relationship with the Vancouver Foundation, we were connected to the United Way
Emergency Response program for Wildfires. Laurie Reimer, the area's grant writer, dropped everything and got an
application in and the BRVCA was awarded $43,000 which along with $2,500 from the BRV Preservation and
Conservation Fund, has provided a source of funds to support charitable and recovery needs of people in the
community.
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To date the program has provided:
●
●
Food Replacement Support for Fridges/Freezers lost during the power outages of the Downton Lake
Wildfire. Total funds dispensed thus far: $7,800 with 62 served.
Fuel, Food and Incidental Support for Full Time Residents in Financial Strain in the Upper Bridge River
Valley: Total funds dispensed thus far: $ 2,975 with 17 community members served.
In addition to these two supports, a Wildfires Counselling Program is being offered free of charge, with 3 different
therapists to property owners and immediate families who lost structures, and to volunteer firefighters in formal
organizations or who were assisting informally.
There is time available to help people complete forms, applications as well as assisting people who lost structures.
Housing supports are also available if someone is in need as a result of the Downton Lake Wildfire.
BRV Preservation and Conservation Fund
The Bridge River Valley is in an unprecedented emergency situation as a result of the Downton Lake Fire. Not only
is it a devastating situation today, but it will be long into the future before we are fully recovered. The impacts of
this fire will be felt in every part of the area and in every community sector for years to come.
As a response to requests by donors, we have set up the BRV Preservation and Conservation Fund to allow donors
to contribute in a way that will directly benefit the community in as simple a fashion as possible. We understand
that many will not be able to donate due to pressures brought on by the Downton Lake Wildfire including
evacuation, loss or work, and other factors. If you can afford to give, please consider helping our community by
donating now at:
https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/bralorne-pioneer-museum-society/campaign/brv-preservation-andconservation-fund
Current Status of the Fund
As at October 25, $49,101 has been donated with a goal of $100,000. Our immediate goal was to provide evacuee
financial support for those needing it. We provided $500 cash to 21 different evacuees for a total of $10,500.
The fund also provided:
1) $2500 in "leverage funding" to support our United Way Emergency Relief for Wildfires application, which was
successful. With the United Way funding, we are in the beginning stages of distributing a total of $45,000 in direct
support to community members including food, fuel, incidentals, housing supports, counselling supports, and staff
to assist people with applications and various other needs.
2) $14,000 to 2024 Gun Lake Water Testing to Drinking Water Level. Provincial or local govt. will not commit to do
this and as yet alternate funding sources has not been found. SLRD Area A Select Funds of $10,000 was committed
in 2023 and the intention is for Select Funds Area A to support a further $14,000 in 2024.
Purpose of Funding:
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Purpose: To preserve and conserve in all sectors of the Bridge River Valley. Focus for 2023/2024: To focus on
recovery from the Downton Lake Wildfire.
Funding Priorities:
The BRV Preservation and Conservation Fund will endeavor to provide funding when:
• Funding is not available through other sources (i.e. a funder of last resort);
• Immediate response is critical; and
• Leverage funds are required for other funding requests.
In 2023 and 2024, priority will be given to immediate needs resulting from the Downton Lake Wildfire. Overall
disbursements will aim to support all sectors and all areas of the Valley.
Examples of Potential Funding in 2023/24:
Charitable needs remaining after full disbursement of the United Way Emergency Relief for Wildfire funds.
Gun Lake recovery needs including:
• Drinking Water Testing
• Fire Loss (group needs) offsetting costs associated with tree removal, hazardous material testing, and
removal of debris
Technical expertise (environmental, soil remediation, hydrology, etc.) *
Gun Creek Road
• Water System Repairs
• Fire Societies
• Immediate needs resulting from fire
• Medium term needs to prepare for a potential 2024 response
• Needs of each society and informal group
Trail recovery and Rebuilding
Environmental and Wildlife
• Camera Study of Grizzly Bears (Camera Losses)
Non-Profit Recovery
• Rod & Gun Club – future site burned + Minto Communications – emergency repairs
• Gold Bridge Community Club – future Evacuation needs - revenue loss
• Haylmore Heritage Club – revenue loss
• Bralorne Pioneer Museum – revenue lost
Fund Administration: The BRV Preservation and Conservation Fund is run through the Bralorne Pioneer Museum
Society with support from BRVCA and will be in full compliance with the rules and regulations of the Canada
Revenue Agency. Reports will be provided to stakeholders as per these guidelines. Canada Helps will be used as the
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vehicle for donations, which are tax deductible. Donors will receive tax receipts promptly. To make a donation, go
to: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/bralorne-pioneer-museum-society/campaign/brv-preservationand-conservation-fund
If you wish to make a large donation, please contact us directly and we can provide either e-
transfer or EFT details.
Significant Advancements or Completions
Bralorne Pioneer Mines Office Building - October 20, 2023
The Bralorne Pioneer Mines Ltd. Office (BPMO), built in 1938-1939 by Bralorne Mines Ltd. is a key structure that
contributes to Bralorne’s heritage character. From 1939-1971 the building served as the center of administration
for the Bralorne and Pioneer Mines as well as the organizational operations of the community. In the fall of 2021, the
SLRD included the building on its Heritage Register, recognizing the heritage value of the structure locally and
regionally.
The BRVCA purchased the building in 2017 with the goals to move the Bralorne Pioneer Museum into the space for
its permanent home and to ensure that the building would stand and be usable for generations to come. After much
planning work and effort in securing grants on the local, provincial and federal levels work began on the building in
the summer of 2022. The end goal of the work being done is housing the museum at the BPMO the building, creating
a flexible space that will be used for meetings and gatherings, space to display local art, a small theater room, a
renovated caretakers suite, studio apartment, office space, an accessible washroom, an upgrade of the public laundry
facility and improvements to the back courtyard.
While progression of work on the building has suffered a few setbacks over the course of the past year including the
major wildfires in the area, change of general contractor and an unauthorized occupancy in the building, much work
has been accomplished on the rehabilitation over the past year.
The completed and partially completed work includes the following:
• Foundation stabilization and reinforcement. Complete.
• Excavation of sunken rear courtyard to allow for future stabilization of concrete retaining walls. Hazardous
materials removed. Complete.
• Drainage improved under building and in front with drywell gravel system installed. Complete.
• Plywood sub flooring laid throughout, marmoleum flooring installed in 40% of building. At the start of the
rehabilitation of the building the hope was that the original pine floors could be refinished. However other
flooring had been installed over them while the mining company still occupied the building and then during
subsequent renovations of the space by later owners. While much of the wood flooring is still intact
limitations of the budget did not allow for replacing sections of the wood floor where missing. In an effort
for cohesiveness throughout the building it was determined that marmoleum floor similar to that installed
in the buildings first renovation be installed.
• Installation of interior trim, base boards and doorway trims. 75% complete.
• Water main increased to accommodate contemporary requirements and support fire suppression system.
Complete.
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• Electrical system upgraded. Complete.
• Fixtures are currently being selected that will be stylistically appropriate to the 1939 building and will be
installed this fall. 5% complete.
• Plumbing system updated. Complete.
• Five deactivated bathrooms removed. Bathrooms removed allowed for reconfiguration of some space in
the building and accessibility. Plumbing added for a wheelchair accessible bathroom and public bathroom
adjacent to laundry facilities. New bathroom fixtures to be installed in five bathrooms. Studio suite and the
two-bedroom suite will each have refurbished cast iron bathtubs. 10% complete.
• Interior doorways widened to accommodate accessibility requirements, doors matching buildings original
interior doors installed. Every effort is being made to retain any functioning original door hardware, where
hardware needs to be replaced an effort is being made to do so in a style closely resembling the original
materials. 80 % complete.
• Exterior wheelchair ramp constructed. Complete.
• Kitchens are partially installed in both the studio suite and the two-bedroom suite. Appliances purchased
and cabinetry installed. Cabinetry purchased for coffee and workstation in the flex room in what was
historically used as the Engineering wing. 80% complete.
• Ventilation system added for public laundry facilities. Complete.
• Fire suppression system installed including mechanical room. 50% complete.
• Attic trusses reenforced to meet seismic requirements. Complete.
• Deteriorated concrete front stairs removed. Complete.
• Form for new stairs and ramp which reflect the original 1936 configuration. 25% complete.
• Windows repaired where possible with new glazing, new wood windows where repair was not possible, all
mechanisms in windows have been refurbished. Interior trim work around windows replaced. 80%
complete.
• Drywall, building has been re-drywalled including fire stopping sections. Remaining work is taping,
plastering, sanding and painting. 50% complete.
• Insulation completed.
In addition to completing the above percentages, prioritized work planned for completion this fall and winter
includes:
• Form work and pour concrete for front entry. Install railings.
• Fire suppression system complete installation and activate.
• Electrical install all fixtures inclusive of lights and baseboard heaters.
• Plumbing install all fixtures.
• Finish windows.
• Complete drywall work and paint.
• Installation of the remainder of the marmoleum flooring.
Summer of 2024 building’s exterior will be painted, and the Museum will move into the space.
The Bralorne Pioneer Mines Office is an ideal place for bringing together diverse cultures, abilities, and generations
of residents, visitors, and tourists for learning, teaching, as well as community and economic growth. The project is
viewed as an opportunity to solidify the community's past as a route to strengthen its future. The BRVCA would like
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to thank the following trades for their hard work on seeing the rehabilitation of this cornerstone building in the
community:
Black Tusk
Bridge River Valley Electrical
Jefford Mechanical
Schnarr Excavating Inc.
Tandem Builders Ltd.
We would also like to thank the many talented and skilled laborers who have drywalled, painted, cleaned up, done
carpentry. One of our goals was to hire local and we have been reasonably successful in doing that.
Cemetery
Bridge River Valley Cemetery Mapping Project
Late in 2022, BRVCA embarked on an important project honoring the rich history of the Bridge River Valley and its
people. The Cemetery Mapping Project aimed to address both the needs of the community – past, present, and
future – as well as the needs of Bridge River Valley Community Association in their operation of the Cemetery.
Following a tedious process of reviewing and updating all information pertaining to the operation of the cemetery,
BRVCA began updating the digital map that was initially developed in 2014. In the fall of 2022, BRVCA purchased
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the mapping software that would allow us to update the original digital map, which served as the launching point
for this project.
The project began in February 2023 and completed in May 2023 – on time and on budget. Here is what we
accomplished:
1. We created a numbering system that matches individuals to their personal information and their location
in the cemetery.
2. We created a database that could identify and link sharable information to the public map while blocking
private information from being shared publicly.
3. We developed a search function to allow web map users to enter a name, date, or place of birth or death to
locate and view information and photos associated with the search results.
4. We updated photos of each plot and headstone in the cemetery and created a photo database that would
allow us to match the photos to the web map plots and the personal information for each individual.
5. We took photos and logged names of individuals honoured on the FRIENDS of the BRV memorial
monument and the Cenotaph and added them to the map to ensure those names and photos could be
accessed via the web map as well.
6. We developed a basic instruction manual to help users navigate the web map and utilize its various
features.
We are excited to launch this web map and eager to build upon it in the future. Next steps will be to identify and
plot the space remaining in the cemetery as well as to create a site map and directory that are available at the
cemetery in Gold Bridge. This on-site map will allow visitors to search names and find the exact plot locations so
that they can navigate the cemetery grounds more easily.
We would like to thank those that have supported this project including the SLRD who provided partial funding;
Peak Geospatial for their technical expertise; Michelle Nortje for providing drone imagery of the cemetery; and Sal
Demare for his support with map development.
To view the new Bridge River Valley Cemetery Map go to https://brvca.ca/services/cemetery/.
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Other Cemetery Activities
In November 2022, a well attended Remembrance Day ceremony raised $65.10 for the Poppy Fund along with
wreath donations of $640 for the Royal Canadian Legion.
Tourism
Participated in an inaugural circle tour digital marketing program with Pemberton and Lillooet called Range
beyond Range. Designed and geared towards off-grid enthusiasts.
Maintained the externally focused website: www.bridgerivervalley.ca
Highly successful website on Hurley FSR conditions: www.isurvivedthehurley.com
Actively maintained Social Media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
Continued participation in the Sea to Sky Biking Consortium led by Mountain Biking BC: www.mountainbikingbc.ca
Continued membership in Mountain Biking BC — https://www.mountainbikingbc.ca/project/caribou-chilcotin/
4gateway/entry kiosks throughout the Bridge River Valley which provide key directional, tourism, and hospitality
information
Maintained gold panning at the Haylmore Heritage Site .
Haylmore Heritage Site - Tourism
The Haylmore Heritage Site operates as our Tourism Information Booth, a Heritage Site, a location for local
artisans to sell their products and a community venue. This year the season kicked off with a live music
performance by Bruce during a well-attended bear awareness weekend, which featured hands-on bear spray
training, booth and presentations by Lydia Koot from Hope Mountain, and the sale of native plants from Splitrock
Environmental.
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Unfortunately, the season was interrupted at its peak. The Haylmore Site provided wifi, camping opportunities and
storage facilities for evacuated residents until it was closed for evacuation in mid-August. The site remained closed
for the rest of the 2023 season.
During the 2023 season;
● 653 people visited the site. While the majority were BC residents, visitors from 8 different countries
stopped by the site during their visit in the valley
● 11 local artisans exhibited their products with total sales of $2,534.20
● Sales of books, hats, t-shirts, bear spray, gold panning etc. totaled $4,663.51
● Two social media channels were maintained with a mix of visual and informational content
Heritage
Haylmore Heritage Site – Heritage
In 2023, work was focused on maintaining the existing infrastructure at the site with a few new additions.
Two heavy wood bases were installed for new interpretive signs to be placed at the site. The content for these new
signs are in the final stage of approval.
The work on the Haylmore Heritage Garden continued with Cole Krider as the new groundskeeper and new
flowers were seeded throughout the site. Plans are made for further development of the garden for next year.
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Bralorne Church
In June of 2023, the Church provided the setting for an exciting event as the first wedding since 2008 was held in
the historical building.
Later in the summer, the downstairs Church hall was used to host a wilderness first aid course for the community
and bookings were made for further training sessions.
Due to the development of the Downton Lake Fire, the open houses planned for the summer at the Church did not
occur.
The Church and hall continue to be available for bookings year round, more details and information can be found at
the Church website: www.bralornechurch.ca .
Goldbridge Cemetery
Please see the Bridge River Valley Cemetery Mapping Project in the Cemetery section above.
There were no interments at the cemetery in 2023.
Events
Canada Day
This year’s Canada Day in the BRV was well attended with some creative parade participants featuring Gun Lake Fire and
BC Ambulance Services, a truck towing boat and boarder, a logging truck, horse and rider, and many ATVs.
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The parade and spectators made their way to the school soccer field where they were welcomed for a hot dog
barbecue, Canada Day cake, live music, and activities for the whole family. The bounce castle and waterslide were
favoured by the youngsters, and new jumbo games engaged older kids, youth, and the young-at-heart adults
Special thanks to Canadian Heritage for their event funding, to our volunteers and helpers, as well as to all participants
in this year’s celebration.
Winterfest
A well-attended Winterfest was held this year on Family Day weekend. Little Gun Lake ice conditions were dicey in
mid-January, and it wasn’t looking promising for the annual event. A dedicated and enthusiastic team of volunteer
community members quickly stepped up and re-imagined the event at the Gold Bridge Community Club. With new
winter events and a slate of local artisans and food vendors it was a successful day for everyone.
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Committee Accomplishments 2023
Training Committee
Between April and July 2023, the Training Committee put on a total of 7 courses with a combination of online and
in-person sessions:
● S100/S185 – Fire Training with 18 participants
● S100A Annual Refresher: online – 44 -certifications
● WSP 115 – Structural Protection Course – 2-day course with 22 participants
● Basic Chainsaw Safety – Gold Bridge - 1-day course with 8 participants
● Basic Chainsaw Safety – Marshall Lake - 1-day course with 7 participants
● Wilderness First Aid with Occupational First Aid Add-on - 1-day course with 7 participants
● Food Safe Level 1– Online - 5 participants completed the course in 2023.
Unfortunately, courses planned for August & September including Occupational First & Transportation
Endorsement, Introduction to GPS, Basic Chainsaw Safety and Backcountry Bear Safety were cancelled due to the
Downtown Lake Fire.
The Training Committee would like to thank this year’s training sponsors – BC Hydro, Blackcomb Helicopters,
Talisker Resources and the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District, whose support and contributions made the
training possible.
Also, a big thank you to the course instructors and to the community members who contributed to creating the
training plan for the year and to everyone who participated in the training this summer.
If you are interested in future training opportunities, please keep an eye out for the annual training survey which
will be distributed next spring.
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Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee had their plans for 2023 severely impacted by the Downton Lake Wildfire.
However, we did manage to accomplish some of our major tasks although much later than anticipated.
In late 2022, the committee applied to the Rural Economic Development & Infrastructure Fund - Economic
Capacity Stream. The committee was awarded $100,000 to hire a junior Community Economic Development
Officer over two years and provide them with training in this field.
The hope is to invest in someone that wants to build a future in the BRV and we are very fortunate that Andrew
DiCamillo has been hired to begin November 1.
While the major plan for this year was to initiate an economic development planning process, that got totally off
track and the plan is to come back to it next year.
To finish out the year, the committee and Andrew will be doing an economic recovery needs assessment and a
digital assets for recovery project, both of them geared to help recovery for the businesses in the community.
Heritage Committee
Bralorne Pioneer Museum - Management Agreement
The year 2023 has not been the best for the Museum as many tourists were apprehensive about coming into a
Wildfire Zone. Being closed from August 1 – September 15, 2023, proved to be hurtful to this area and the museum
as this is the best time for tourists and visitors to come and enjoy this beautiful area.
Regarding project 979.19.06.4 or 979.19.06.d this was a challenge for 5-6 years, and we now have been given some
very good information on the Esso Brexton Sign. The Canadian Conservation has now detailed the types of oil
modified alkyds used on this artifact as well as the type of oil modified alkyd varnish use. They can even pinpoint
the year of usage and the age of this artifact. This artifact should be back in our hands sometime in 2024.
The Great Canadian Giving Challenge from June 1 – June 30, 2023, proved to be a great success. I announced that if
anyone donated $50.00 or more, I would contribute one of Phil Branca’s books that I had purchased for this very
purchase. (My donation to the museum) 28 donors qualified and the donations raised were $3150.00 the cost of
mailing each book was $4.44. 26 books were mailed out at a cost of $4.44 each with a total income of $3034.56.
As well the next Donation Campaign will start in November, last one of the year, Giving Tuesday November 28,
2023.
Sal Demare has asked me to collect and document information on every or all farms that were once in the Bridge
River Valley. This project has begun but is well from being finished.
• Square Donations - $480.00
• Other Donations - $390.00
• Regular Donations - $3193.20
• Books Transferred to Haylmore - $644.85
• Visitors - 224 (The museum on average between Aug 1 – Sept 15 plus 2 bus tours would have brought our
total up to 481, or even more.
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• BRV Fund (Gross) $37,251.07
• Donations on Membership
• Square Sales - $419.94
• Online Book Oct/22-Oct/23 $762.56
Maintained Square, Facebook and Instagram
When time is not an issue, I continue to process anything not archived yet.
We have been promised some amazing items for our collection, but donors are waiting for the new museum to
open.
Past Perfect Museum Collections Software by the numbers to date:
• 4311 Photographs, there is at least 150 not processed yet
• 2062 Objects
• 821 Archival items accessioned and more to come
• 520 Items in the Library and still a few to be done
• 51 Archival Boxes to date, #52 before year end
Janis Irvine, Museum Assistant
Trails Committee
The Bridge River Valley Trail Committee had a productive year! We made many forward-moving steps, including
hiring a Trail Coordinator, Kaitlin James, to help tackle administrative tasks and keep projects moving. With her
help, the committee applied for Section 57 authorizations through Rec Sites and Trails BC for trails in the BRV. The
trails applied for registration include the following:
• Stelly’s Trail (Gun Lake)
• Lick Creek Trail (Tyaughton)
• Taylor Creek Trail (Tyaughton)
Applications were submitted to the Kamloops Front Counter BC office early this spring and we are hopeful to
receive feedback on our registration application early next spring. Registering trails allows us as a committee to
rehabilitate and maintain existing trails, as well as construct new structures along trails such as bridges, signs, and
wooden features.
To acknowledge the valuable contributions that volunteers make to maintaining trails in the BRV, the committee
also developed a Volunteer Recognition Program. This program will be based primarily on the cumulative hourly
contribution made by volunteers to trail maintenance in the BRV.
Our Coordinator met with Xwisten and began discussing the need for a Heritage assessment on the Gun Lake Rec
Trails. Once an assessment is complete and the findings presented, the Committee may have the opportunity to
begin restoration work on these multi use, all season trails. The committee and Xwisten both agreed to go forward
with the Heritage Assessment, however fire activity halted this work.
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The Committee continuously reached out to the public in 2023 via various social media platforms to build upon
their volunteer contact list, gaining a better understanding of the communities willingness to participate in trail
work bee days. In addition to this, the committee offered to sponsor 4 work bee events in the valley with a total of
$250 for each event. However, due to the wildfire activity this year, there was no participation in this offer.
Kaitlin was also busy this year engaging with forestry organizations to ensure the protection and rehabilitation of
trails in proposed cut blocks around Gun Lake. In 2024, the committee looks to continue a similar dialogue with
forestry regarding trail rehabilitation in areas where trails were destroyed by wildfire or disturbed by fire guard
construction this past summer.
Gun Lake Boat Launch Committee
Boat Launch
The Boat launch Committee reports no major change other than an increase in
users. Although this is clearly designated as a boat Launch, there are many
families and children with pets using this site as a beach area. There is a big
safety concern with motorboats launching amidst children on floaties and pets
swimming. Until we find or designate a proper beach area, it is unlikely to
change. In fact, with the growing popularity, it is likely to worsen.
The Boat Launch committee members have placed Wake Wise signs on both
sites. Despite our plans to use volunteers and fundraising dollars for a few
cosmetic projects, we do not have the go-ahead from Ministry of Transportation
to proceed with these projects. The SLRD Director has attempted to bring this
request forward, and we await a final decision. Due to this year’s wildfires,
there are more pressing issues for now, but we will continue to monitor this.
Fisheries
Fisheries: Go Fish B.C. has declined our request for a community fish dock due to low priority and dwindling funds.
We will reapply next year.
Regarding the Gun Lake watershed, we have seen a marked improvement on some of the Rainbow Trout that are
coming out of the lake now. We presume this is due to the new stocking program. Fisheries has conducted some
detailed testing for Bull Trout, which were once plentiful in the system, and are considering a restock program for
this species of concern.
Remember to keep only what you plan to eat and practice catch-release to help preserve these beauties. Bull trout
are 100% catch-release.
David Carchesio
BRVCA Boat Launch Chair
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BCAC
This year, BCAC was not very active. The annual ball tournament was held successfully. We had Tom Jefford step
down as the Chair of the Ball Diamond Committee and Andrew Hogarth step in.
We were in the midst of planning, gathering, and holding the annual Bralorne Day and Party in the Park when we
had to cancel due to an evacuation order. We will try again next year. We are selling the Bralorne Day t-shirts we
ordered through local business (On The Fly Country Market).
Teri Chapman - BCAC Treasurer
Bralorne Recreation Area – Sunshine Mountain
In 2023 the Bralorne Recreation Area Advisory Committee (BRAAC) focused on completing the final installments
of three professionally built mountain bike trails on Sunshine Mountain. This project was made possible by grants
and donations received in 2022 from the Northern Development and Initiative Trust, SLRD, RecSites and Trails BC,
Talisker Resources, and BRVCA/BRA.
The Annual BRA Fundraising Trail Event was held the weekend of June 24th. Volunteers gathered over the course
of two days to clear deadfall, rake, and maintain trails on Sunshine Mountain. On Saturday night of the event, the
BRAAC hosted a silent auction and provided a BBQ meal to volunteers at the cabin. The BRAAC also hosted an
online ticket raffle for one Specialized mountain bike. The silent auction and raffle raised a total amount of
$4,111.12 for the BRA. We recorded a total of 353.5 volunteer hours this season.
The BRA Membership currently consists of 44 Members. Fundraising memberships in 2023 raised $6,014.00.
We would like to formally thank the following organizations for their support this year:
• Howler Consulting for their professional trail work on Sunshine Mtn.
• Specialized Bikes for donating a 2022 Specialized Status 160 Mountain Bike for our online raffle.
• Norco, IXS, for sponsoring our Annual Fundraising Trail Weekend and providing giveaway riding gear, and
silent auction items!
• The Valley General Store for their generous donations and discounts towards food for our annual
fundraiser trail weekend.
In 2024, our goals include installing informational and directional signage within the Sunshine Tenure, and
increasing engagement with our members by hosting toonie rides, and more social events.
Kaitlin James
Coordinator | BRAAC
Bralorne Recreation Area | Sunshine Mountain
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Marshall Valley Community Association
Annual accomplishment report for Marshall valley - October 2023
Training
• Recently 2 residents have taken the S100 course, for a total of 10 completed so far.
• 8 residents have completed the chainsaw safety course.
• 2 residents have completed the Structural Protection Unit (SPU) course.
Fire migration
• Purchased more fire related equipment (sprinklers, hoses, etc.), which is stored in our community fire
building.
• In the process of buying protection clothing (fireproof coveralls) for the trained residents.
Equipment planning
• Have done some groundwork.
Vegetation debris
• A debris bin was dropped off at the Marshall Lake area in early August for all residents to use to remove
any combustible forest vegetation on their properties. This was a great success as the bin was filled within
a week. Plans to have the bin returned were cancelled due to the local wildfires. Would like to continue this
program next year and will continue to educate our residents of the importance of the Fire Smart program
for their properties.
LaJoie Lake Residents Association
Lajoie Lake Residents Association (LLRA) – 2023 Accomplishments
In April, the LLRA received permits from the BC Ministry of Forests to proceed with the planned aeration project
of Lajoie Lake. With a grant from the SLRD, the necessary operating equipment consisting of two 7.5 hp air
compressors and air hoses was ordered. The wildfire that started in July was an obvious setback to our plans, so it
appears the aeration of the lake will not commence until the spring of 2024. Thanks to a generous donation of
labour, a fine-looking shed has been built and wired, awaiting the equipment's arrival.
The planned aeration of Lajoie Lake came about as a result of scientific studies that concluded that the lake is
under serious stress due to the lack of dissolved oxygen. The supervisor of this project is Dr. Ken Ashley,
limnologist and chair of the Rivers Institute, BCIT.
Bralorne TV Committee
The Bralorne TV Committee continued to operate with a broadcasting TV signal in 2023.
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Natural Resources and Land Use Committee
The Committee includes representatives from all parts of the valley. This year assistance and support was provided
to the Gun Lake Ratepayers Assoc. Forestry Committee addressing lack of consultation on a cutting permit planned
on Mt. Zola.
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