Located 10 minutes north of Invermere, the 787-hectare Wilmer unit of the Columbia National Wildlife Area protects some of Canada’s most valuable natural habitat for migrating waterfowl, fish, plants and species at risk.

Established in 1978, the site has been enjoyed and appreciated by local residents for many years. Activities and access to the Columbia National Wildlife Area are regulated through the Wildlife Area Regulations under the authority of the Canada Wildlife Act. Access by motorized vehicle, horse or bicycle is not authorized in the Columbia National Wildlife. All other activities that are not consistent with conservation of the National Wildlife Area (NWA) are also prohibited.

Walking on established trails and wildlife viewing is welcomed. Dogs must be leashed and under control at all times.

To protect the natural values present in the NWA, the Canadian Wildlife Service, a part of Environment Canada, has contracted the construction of fencing and the decommissioning of several unlicensed access roads frequented by off-road vehicles. Several local contractors will be putting up fencing and signage along Westside Road and the western boundary of the federal land. Large one-tonne boulders and trenches have also been installed as a means to discourage continued access to decommissioned paths by off-road vehicles. The northern-most access point through the NWA to the Poplar Flats area has been left open.

Environment Canada wildlife enforcement officers frequent all federally protected lands. The Canada Wildlife Act specifies that individual offenders can be held liable for damages, and may be punishable by vehicle forfeiture, fines and/or imprisonment. Area residents are asked to report violations to 1-877-768-6904 or the local RCMP office.

For any questions or comments about conservation and management of the Columbia National Wildlife Area please contact:

Environment Canada – Pacific and Yukon Region

Canadian Wildlife Service

5421 Robertson Road

Delta, British Columbia

V4K 3N2

Toll Free: 1-800-668-6767 (in Canada only)

Email: [email protected]

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