Provincial posted May 1, 2018 @ 10:30am by Josh Duncan

B.C.’s popular Joffre Lakes Provincial Park will no longer allow pets

One of the most popular Provincial Parks in British Columbia has implemented a rule that will surely upset a number of people.

As of May 15, domestic animals of any kind will no longer be permitted to enter Joffre Lakes Provincial Park.

A post shared by S t e p h F i e l d (@stephfield_____) on Apr 28, 2018 at 7:27pm PDT

The park, which is located just northeast of Whistler and Pemberton, “has seen a huge increase in visitation” over recent years, which includes an increased number of dogs.

“While we love these furry friends, this has unfortunately led to issues with visitor experience, public health concerns and conservation efforts,” said a release from the park.

“Dogs on and off leash impact wildlife in the park - even the sounds or scents of dogs can cause birds and other animals like pikas to look for different habitat!”

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The park says this new restriction will help protect the park, its wildlife and the people who visit it.

After a major spike in visitation numbers over the last few years, it will be interesting to see what effect this new rule has on the park’s popularity.

What do you think about this decision? Let us know in the comments below!