The SFI posted a helpful update, which is shared below. As was posted earlier, we were advised by the Province that Phase 3 would not be considered until the PHO could assess the situation after 2 full cycles or 28 days from the start of Phase 2 (May 19). That means, doing the math, you are not likely to hear about decisions regarding Phase 3 until June 16, and possibly longer.
Guides should be taking steps today to plan and prepare for their business resumption by reading the Covid-19 Safety Protocols (see the link within the SFI Update). There is a Provincial Health Order, which orders businesses to have a Covid Safety Plan posted in their businesses, and available for customers to see. WorkSafe confirmed this requirement in a webinar 2 weeks ago. Each operator is responsible to consider their specific situation, and design a Safety Plan.
Yes, there are some guides who have started guiding. They are doing so in contravention of the Provincial Health Order
if they have not developed, posted and ensured their customers are aware and following the Safety Plan. The Guidelines contained in the link were developed cooperatively. The SFI worked closely with Lodges and Guides to gather input that informed development of these guidelines. We met last week asking the Province to approve their release ahead of the Phase 3 announcement because it was becoming evident some operators were proceeding with re-opening plans in the absence of Guidelines they could follow to develop their businesses Safety Plan.
Please also note that the proposed Covid timeline in the SFI update - it shows that after Phase 3 starts sometime in June if all goes well, that travel will still be restricted to BC residents in the first portion of Phase 3, then slowly loosen up to allow Canadian travel in later. No US or International travel until Phase 4, which appears from the chart to be October or later.
Obviously this is a highly fluid situation, things could change either way on relatively short notice. With that in mind, guide operators should closely examine their situation and design plans and share them with customers per the Provincial Health Order.
The other consideration should be that the Safety Plans and use of PPE's, cleaning, and social distancing should be designed in such a manner as to protect both the guide and their customers. Anyone who wants to be a cowboy on this is risking a LOT. Ask about the Covid Safety Plan and ensure everyone is safe.
May 29, 2020
As June approaches a decision regarding Chinook is still outstanding while reports are coming in that abundance is high and fishing is good in southern BC. The SFI has been constant in its
communication to DFO and support for the
SFAB proposals, presented in early April, and have emphasized that the approach is a balanced one that will address the conservation concerns for Fraser River Chinook yet will provide a minimum of all-important access and opportunity for the public fishery in 2020 and beyond.
BC's Restart plan continues to progress and while there is clear direction for fishing in BC, encouraging British Columbians to get out and enjoy the outdoors, there is uncertainty for many businesses wishing to resume operations safely and responsibly. The SFI has been working with the Province and WorksafeBC and make operational guidelines available today.
And Covid-19 has presented challenges for DFO in collecting adequate and all-important catch data for fisheries. Continuing in its efforts to improve information collected, the SFI has developed a plan with DFO that works with guides and Avid Anglers to record catch and sample particularly in areas where the creel survey will miss in 2020.
Fishing BC, the coop marketing program with Destination BC, seeks your feedback as how best to bring awareness to fishing in BC in 2020 and 2021.
This update includes:
OPERATION GUIDELINES FOR SPORT FISHING BUSINESSES WORKSAFEBC REVIEWED AND AVAILABLE
As noted in previous updates, the SFI developed and submitted operating and safety guidelines for sport fishing businesses to resume operation for phase 2 and 3 of
BC's Restart Plan.
WorksafeBC has now reviewed the draft
BC Tidal Waters Charter, Guide, and Lodge Operations – Covid19 Guidelines. The
May 2020 version provides guidelines and recommendations that may be modified due to changing conditions or additional review from the Provincial Health Office but is suitable for business operation locally now and in preparation for Phase 3 activities.
And, provided proper safety and behaviour guidelines are followed, consider getting out on the water locally now and plan for fishing activities in BC this summer.
FISHING IN BC DURING COVID PHASES
Guidelines for fishing outings are posted on the Province of BC:
Fishing and Hunting Covid-19 Updates.
TOURISM AND TIMELINES
This graphic, developed by Destination BC using regular updates and information from the Provincial Health Office and the Restart BC plan, is helpful to give a sense of timelines and expectations for business and travel locally, provincially and beyond. It should be noted that a start date for Phase 3 has not yet been announced.
COVID-19 PANDEMIC BUSINESS RESOURCES AND LINKS
The
SFI Covid-19 web page continues to be regularly updated and includes most recent guidance from the Province including recommendations and links for restaurant, food service and accommodation operations.
