The beautiful Chilliwack River Valley is said to be THE most ‘under-pressure valley’ in the Province of BC. It is unfortunately one of the very few areas of the province that does not enjoy the protections of a Land Use Plan.
Increasing pressures from industry in the form of gravel mines, 
forestry clear cutting (although the term “clear cut” is no longer used, we see a dramatic escalation of deforestation) and potentially independent power projects, are impacting the environment, the wildlife, the aesthetics, the river flow, the over 1 million visitors each year – kayakers, rafters, canoeists, fishers, and the burgeoning tourism industry. A large increase in motorized traffic from campers, QUAD’s, ATV’s and motorcyclists is also impacting non-motorized designated hiking trails. This all demands that we take a more active role, looking out for this valley’s welfare.
Just across the border at Chilliwack Lake, the southern end of CRV, for many years Washington State has wisely protected their irreplaceable area by designating those headwaters as a pristine North Cascades Park, complete with forest rangers who patrol and look out for its welfare. In stark contrast however, with the exception of Chilliwack Lake Park, the BC powers-that-be have allowed the Chilliwack River Valley to be dominated by commercial interests with only volunteer feet-on-the-ground looking out for its welfare. Sadly, almost every square inch is under a commercial claim for either forest, mineral or future power project development.
The Chilliwack River Valley Ratepayers Association, a registered BC society, represents the concerns and wishes of the majority of valley residents and our challenging mandate is to work to preserve and protect this beautiful valley for future generations. We are becoming a more active participant in our valley’s welfare, working “hand-in hand” with civic, corporate and political leaders, local groups and the public at-large.
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