September 2025: To Our American Neighbours

Dear WTA Community,

BC’s visitor economy remains a pillar of its economy and community vitality, underscoring why smart, sustainable policy matters. In my dual WTA/TIABC role, we’ve pushed federal budget recommendations to unlock private investment and protect tourism, and we’re engaging the Province on consultation processes to deliver faster, clearer outcomes for operators that translate to a stronger visitor experience.

As we head into fall, a special welcome to our American neighbours; your visits keep many small and seasonal operators thriving. The U.S. remains BC’s largest source of international entries by a wide margin, with Washington and California representing roughly 45% of U.S. visitor spending in BC. Recent reporting shows international visits through BC entry points have softened in 2025, making an extra-warm welcome and shoulder-season value more important than ever.

Thank you for your continued support of wilderness tourism. Your involvement is crucial to the success of this sector. Please get in touch to learn more about how you can contribute to and benefit from this vibrant community. Together, we can ensure that wilderness tourism remains a cornerstone of BC’s economy, and a source of unforgettable experiences for all.
 
Cassandra Zerebeski
Executive Director, WTA

A recent visit to Ottawa representing the WTA and TIABC with the Tourism Industry Association of Canada.

Update on the Old Growth Strategic Review

Mosaic Earth Travel

It’s been five years since the Old Growth Strategic Review (OGSR) Report was released by the Old Growth Review Panel. The project brought local governments, First Nations, tourism and forestry businesses, NGOs, members of the public, and other stakeholders together to provide recommendations on managing BC’s old growth forests. The report included a section on the tourism industry, and old growth forests’ significance to wilderness tourism.
 
Now in 2025, the Union of BC Indian Chiefs and other groups have sent a letter calling the Minister of Water, Land, and Resource Stewardship to deliver on their commitments, particularly in preserving ecosystems and biodiversity in government decisions. A full news release with more information can be found here.

Help Protect Prideaux Haven

Knight Inlet Lodge

The BC Parks Foundation (BCPF) is raising $2.5 million to obtain and protect Prideaux Haven in Desolation Sound, and it needs your help!

Prideaux Haven is a treasured 100-acre coastal area known for striking views and rare biodiversity. Members of the public, the Tla’amin First Nation, and the Wilson 5 Foundation, who are matching every dollar raised, are all supporting BCPF’s purchase and conservation.

With the Wilson 5 Foundation’s commitment, to reach its goal BCPF needs $1.25 million by September 29 2025- only days away!

BCPF’s long-term goal is to add Prideaux Haven to the adjacent Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park, so it can be protected forever.

Win a Trip to Nimmo Bay Resort

Nimmo Bay Resort

Nimmo Bay Resort offers customized luxury wellness, culinary, and wilderness experiences, including kayaking, hiking, guided boat trips, and more in BC’s Great Bear Rainforest.

From September 04 to October 15, you have a chance to win a trip to Nimmo Bay Resort valued at $30,000 when you purchase a $10 Big Jackpot Pack or $22 More rewards Pack in Lotto Express lanes. Scan your More Rewards card and automatically be entered for a chance to win!

Explore Nimmo Bay Resort’s sustainability practices, story, team, and book your stay here.