Creating a space for Boaters with community pride and stability – Brentwood Bay Maritime Community Society (BBMCS)

Mar 22, 2018

The management of Brentwood Bay as a resource for all has long been contentious, largely due to the long absence of the Federal government in enforcing its own laws regarding moorage and derelict and abandoned vessels. In response to this the District of Central Saanich applied to the province for a license of occupation, to begin management of this area.

Unfortunately, it approached the complex issues in the Bay without proper contact and collaboration with the boaters of the Bay, requiring a large group of affected citizens to organize and form its own management plan under the aegis of the Brentwood Bay Maritime Community Society (BBMCS).

The BBMCS envisions a plan that takes into account all users of the water, balancing competing needs and engaging with the proper authorities when required to enforce existing laws regarding moorings, pollution, derelicts and abandoned vessels. All this is possible without imposing egregious costs on the marine community. The Society has just begun contact with local First Nations, community groups and businesses, which will continue throughout April.

The Society sees itself as a first line of contact with users of the Bay, including shoreline property owners. It has a direct liaison with the Coast Guard through one of its board members, and those society members living on the water are typically first to identify problems and have provided the fastest response.

BBMCS anticipates helping Central Saanich meet its goals without unduly disturbing the tranquil lives of the boaters of Brentwood Bay.

Sue Stroud
Brentwood Bay
250-857-8553