BC – The provincial government is seeking input into a new rural development strategy, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development Doug Donaldson announced.
“Coming from a rural community, I know first-hand the challenges facing rural BC,” said Donaldson. “I look forward to people’s ideas and input, as we build a long-term rural development strategy that will work for all rural British Columbians by building resilient Indigenous and rural communities.”
The strategy’s foundation will be based on community economic development which is sustainable, participatory, asset-based, self-reliant, and community-based. The goal is a broader and more inclusive approach to rural development.
British Columbians are invited to share their comments and ideas on rural development through a website until 4 p.m. on Feb. 28.
Government will also be holding a number of targeted face-to-face sessions with community partners around the province. All feedback gathered will help define the framework for the rural development strategy, which will support ongoing dialogue between rural British Columbians and government.
After the public feedback process, government will analyze the results and make a summary report available to the public.