Funding for community-led projects still available in some Regions!

The Park Enhancement Fund (PEF) is a dedicated special account created to enhance provincial parks and support community partners and volunteers alike. Revenue from the sale of BC Parks Licence Plates goes into PEF and supports programs such as Community PEF. 

Each spring, BC Parks welcomes applications from community groups, volunteers and Indigenous partners to support parks projects. For 2023/24, $360,000 is available across the province. Learn more below about how to apply! 

Community PEF supports community-led conservation and recreation projects in parks across the province. From volunteers to local scientists, Community PEF funding is a wonderful way for BC Parks to support our local parks partners.

Check-in with your local park contact on fund availability in your Region and then, click here for the application form  

Eligibility Requirements   

• Funding requests must not exceed $5,000 per project.  
• Projects must be completed by March 31, 2024.   
• Projects must be led by volunteers, Indigenous groups or community partner(s).   
• Projects must take place in or be related to BC Parks.  
• Applicants must have support for the project from local BC Parks staff prior to applying for funding.   
• Projects must align with a relevant park management plan.  
• Projects must fit within one of the following categories:   

• Conservation – research, invasive species removal, monitoring, restoration, etc.   
• Recreation – trail and facility enhancements, interpretation/education, diversity and inclusion, community engagement and events, visitor experience, etc.    

Who can apply?   

• Indigenous partners and community groups   
• BC Parks volunteers   
• Academic researchers   
• Non-profit organizations    
• Park operators   

There has been a wide range of Community PEF projects funded in previous years that greatly enhance BC Parks and enrich the public’s enjoyment of parks while protecting cultural and conservation values.  

Previously funded projects include:  

• Horne Lake Caves Impact Monitoring Plan, Canadian Cave Conservancy 
• Interpretive signs, Friends of Morden Mine  
• Wetland Wildlife Assessment, Friends of Churn Creek Protected Area Society  
• Summer Cultural Camp, Simpcw First Nation   
• Western Toad Monitoring, Squamish Environmental Society  
• Frog Alley Boardwalk Replacement, Qathet Regional Cycling Assoc. 
• Introducing Conservation to Newcommers, South Okanagan Immigrant and Community Services 
• Invasive Species Outreach Booths, East Kootenay Invasive Species Council 
• Junior Parks Explorer Camps, Skeena Wild  
• Trail Maintenance and Upgrades, Ozalenka Alpine Club 

Questions on your application this year?  Contact your local BC Parks employee or email BCParks.Volunteers@gov.bc.ca