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Purposes of the Society

The purposes of the Society are to promote the preservation, understanding and appreciation of the natural environment and special historical and cultural features of Cypress Provincial Park for the enjoyment of all as a public trust.

FCPP works to ensure that both park and ski area management plans will protect the natural environment to the greatest degree possible and will provide a fair balance among forms of recreation appropriate to the park and allow year-round public access to and within the park. FCPP members participate in many park improvement and enhancement projects including:

  • Hiking trail maintenance and upgrades

  • Invasive plants monitoring and control

  • Habitat protection and restoration

  • Production of park information material (hiking map, brochures and interpretive signage)

Trail Watch Program

FCPP volunteers undertake minor trail maintenance and report on trail needs during the summer months through the Trail Watch program. FCPP also works with BC Parks staff to determine trail improvement priorities and a schedule for undertaking future trail projects.

Habitat Protection and Restoration

FCPP works to protect and restore the natural environment in the park. FCPP’s long-standing interest in protecting the park’s natural environment goes back to 1990 when the organization was formed to protect Hollyburn Mountain from downhill ski development. FCPP has continued to participate in park and ski area planning processes over the years to help ensure habitat protection. FCPP volunteers work with BC Parks on trail improvements to reduce braiding and protect adjacent habitat. This work has included bog bridge installation on Black and Hollyburn Mountain trails and post/rope replacements along Blue Gentian Lake boardwalks.

In 2011-2013, FCPP members assisted North Shore Wetland Partners on its Cypress Creek Wetlands Restoration Project. FCPP has worked with BC Parks for almost ten years on invasive plants control. FCPP has also produced numerous interpretive signs and information brochures to bring public attention to the park’s natural features and the need to protect them.

Friends of Cypress has also funded and helped design five major interpretive signs for the park.