Vancouver, BC — BC Parks Foundation is celebrating the Regional District of Central Kootenay’s purchase of a beautiful 4.4-acre riverfront property along the Goat River, an important step toward creating a new regional park in the Creston Valley.
For years, local residents have dreamed of restoring long-term public access to this part of the river. The newly protected property sits in a peaceful, tree-lined stretch of the valley where people have gathered for generations.
Securing it ensures that the community can once again spend time in nature, whether relaxing by the water, listening to birdsong, or simply enjoying the calm that comes from being outdoors.
BC Parks Foundation was happy to contribute $200,000 toward this acquisition, recognizing how important parks and natural spaces are for the well-being of people and wildlife. This support was made possible alongside contributions from Columbia Basin Trust and the RDCK.
“Adding this land to the public trust is a real win for the Creston Valley and we are happy to have played a role in making it happen," says Andy Day, CEO, BC Parks Foundation. "It sets the stage for a regional park where people will be able to swim, paddle, and spend time by the Goat River in a beautiful place. Parks like this improve people's mental and physical health, boost the local economy, and are good for nature.”
The site is expected to open in about a year, once RDCK completes site assessments and shapes a management plan to guide access, environmental protection, and safety considerations.
Residents will have opportunities to provide input as planning for the future of the park moves forward. The RDCK will share engagement details once they have been determined. The RDCK has also been in contact with with Yaqan Nuʔkiy throughout the acquisition and will continue their engagement as planning advances.
BC Parks Foundation is grateful to work alongside the RDCK, Columbia Basin Trust, and the Creston Valley community to help protect places that support ecological health, community well-being, and a strong future for the region.
For more information about RDCK planning and engagement on this project, visit www.rdck.ca.
