Expect A Green Christmas On Vancouver Island

As the holiday season approaches, Vancouver Island is expected to experience several rounds of precipitation. However, unless you’re heading to the mountains, a white Christmas is unlikely.

Matt Loney, a meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, explained that the likelihood of snow is “very low to minimal, or even zero.”

Meteorologists have run models consistently over the past few days, and the results have remained unchanged. “The models are showing a consistent response, which reinforces the idea that low-level snow is unlikely for Vancouver Island,” Loney said. “It’s very unlikely we’ll see any Arctic air before Christmas.”

So, whether you’re celebrating a winter holiday or not, it seems Vancouver Island will be snow-free this Christmas.

Rain, however, is expected around several key dates: the Winter Solstice on December 21, Christmas Day, the start of Hanukkah on December 25, and Kwanzaa starting on December 26.

For those planning to visit higher elevations, such as Mount Washington or Mount Cain, snow conditions should be favorable. “The snow and freezing levels will be enough to create a good snowpack at Mount Washington for Christmas,” Loney noted.

While snow is unlikely for most of Vancouver Island, heavy rainfall is much more probable. Forecast models show incoming disturbances, with the mid-Island region likely to see the heaviest rainfall.

“There’s still some uncertainty in the models,” Loney said, “but stormy weather is definitely on the way.”

Island Wind Farm Firm Assures Quality Care Despite Absence of Formal Assessment

A proposed wind farm for the Strathcona Regional District is one of nine renewable energy projects that received approval earlier this week.

To expedite these projects, the province announced it is waiving environmental assessments (EA).

Energy and Climate Solutions Minister Adrian Dix announced this exemption at a press conference on December 9. He confirmed that the wind power projects, which will be co-owned by First Nations, will receive 30-year production contracts with BC Hydro.

“We urgently need these new energy generation projects to meet the growing demand for power and to accelerate our efforts to build a prosperous and inclusive clean economy,” Dix said. “We’re going to work together with BC Hydro, First Nations, and project proponents to get these projects built quickly, responsibly, and efficiently, and get those turbines spinning.”

Named the Brewster Wind Project, the plan includes a capacity of up to 200 megawatts with around 30 wind turbines. According to current provincial regulations, wind projects exceeding 50 megawatts or more than 15 turbines typically require an EA.

Megan Hunter from Capstone Infrastructure, the Toronto-based company behind the project, expressed surprise at the EA exemption but said it is too early to discuss changes in the construction timeline.

“B.C. has strong environmental protections, and we plan to complete robust consultation and engagement with Indigenous groups and the local community, as their input will improve the project,” Hunter stated in an email. “Wildlife, environmental, noise, and cultural impact studies will still be conducted.”

Chief Chris Roberts of Wei Wai Kum First Nation, partnering with Capstone, emphasized the nation’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. He expressed confidence in Capstone’s capability as a seasoned developer, owner, and operator of renewable energy facilities.

“We understand there is an enhanced permitting process being developed to reduce duplication and inefficiencies in the current EA process,” Roberts wrote. “Our goal is to minimize and mitigate potential negative impacts on wildlife and the environment, regardless of the permitting process.”

The province reiterated its commitment to “robust environmental standards” in a December 9 media release, mentioning a “one window” permitting approach to streamline regulatory processes.

The decision to waive environmental assessments has been met with some surprise.

UBC professor emeritus Michael Healey highlighted the challenges associated with wind farms, such as potential harm to birds, significant land use, and noise concerns.

“I personally don’t think it’s wise to start any large industrial project without thorough environmental analysis, regardless of who is involved,” Healey wrote in an email. “Assuming that First Nations’ involvement means all environmental issues will be fully considered is misguided. The government often incentivizes Indigenous governments to accept projects they might otherwise reject.”

Dissatisfaction with the EA process among First Nations in B.C. has been growing for years. A significant portion of EA litigation in the province has been initiated by First Nations, encompassing broader concerns such as strategic planning, land use, and assessment procedures, according to a 2010 report by UVic’s Environmental Law Centre.

Tahsis Mayor Martin Davis, a regional district director and cave researcher, called the EA exemption decision “surprising.” He emphasized the need for some form of assessment from an economic standpoint.

When the wind project was proposed late in the summer, Davis highlighted the importance of consulting caving and paleontology experts to assess the area. He noted that some ridges in the area contain limestone, which would need to be avoided to ensure the turbines remain stable.

“From an economic perspective, placing wind turbines on limestone could lead to structural failures,” Davis told the Mirror.

Davis also mentioned that caves in the area could serve as critical habitats for bats.

Off Grid Homesteading Opportunity In Port Neville

Summary

We are looking for other like-minded, committed, hard working, energetic people to share our land and way of life with. We are hoping that by sharing our knowledge and skills, as well as our land, we will create a healthy, vibrant homesteading community. A collaborative, long-term arrangement is a possibility for the right person or family. Ultimately, we would like to see a land succession model that allows us to age in place on our homestead while providing an opportunity for new people interested in this type of lifestyle to access land more affordably.

About the Opportunity

We have retired and hope to live the remainder of our lives on our land while seeing the homestead develop with a successional plan in place. We feel that this property has the potential to support more than one family, and we would be happy to share our way of life with other like-minded, committed, hard working, energetic people. We are hoping that by sharing our knowledge and skills, as well as our land, we will create a healthy, vibrant homesteading community and provide an opportunity for new people interested in this type of lifestyle to access land more affordably. If you want more information about us, please go to our blog at Storytelling – The adventure goes on ….

In our current environment of unpredictable weather and rising costs of living, we are working towards developing a resilient, sustainable, subsidence homestead. Currently, we generate more than 80% of our own electricity using solar and picohydro systems and grow/forage approximately 60% of our own food. Our young orchard, once it reaches production, will further increase the amount of food we can harvest from the property. Adding small livestock (chickens, sheep, goats, pigs, rabbits) would bring our food sustainability close to 100%. We have lived on the property for 10 years, and during the floods, droughts, and COVID pandemic which have devastated British Columbia, we have been amazingly sheltered.

Our main reasons for seeking additional participants in our homesteading endeavor are companionship, development of a small “community” with enhanced self-reliance, safety, and livestock care when we must be away from the property. This is not a job offering or a money-making opportunity. This is a chance for the adventurous-at-heart to engage in an incredible nature-oriented, healthy, and fulfilling lifestyle.

We seek to manage the land for long-term sustainability, based on permaculture principles (see Permaculture Design Project for Port Neville) and other ecologically sound practices. We do not practice unsustainable harvesting of the land, and approximately 80% of the property is being retained as a wildlife habitat.

CLICK TO SEE ORIGINAL POST FOR MORE DETAILS

Mount Cain Team Hoping For Pre-Christmas Opening With Favorable Weather Forecast

As of December 12th, 2024, the lower weather station reports 32cm of snow, with the ridge run at 49cm. Unfortunately, conditions are not suitable for opening just yet. There is potential good news, though, as long as it stays cold. Snow is in the forecast starting this weekend and into next week, so while it’s not guaranteed, there’s a chance Mount Cain might open just before the holidays.

Stay tuned for another snow update on December 18th! The Cain Lodge Hostel calendar will be live for bookings on Wednesday, December 25th at 5 PM!

In the meantime, here are some classic snow rituals to keep the snow vibes going:

1. Wear your pajamas inside out.
2. Sleep with a spoon under your pillow.
3. Flush ice cubes down the toilet.
4. Place a white crayon on the windowsill.
5. Do a snow dance.
6. Put a spoon in the freezer.
7. Throw ice cubes out the window.
8. Eat a sardine while doing a headstand.
9. Leave a penny on the windowsill.
10. Place an ice cube in each corner of the house.
11. Wear a toque to bed.
12. Run around the dining table five times before eating.
13. Make a sacrifice to Ullr.
14. Buy your Cain membership online to save time at the ticket booth. (You’ll thank me when it’s snowing and you’re in the lift line!).

And hey, if you’ve been holding onto some old pennies (since they’re not as useful these days), now’s the time to put them to work! Place one on your windowsill for some extra snow magic.

New Collaboration Connects Patients to More Suitable Care through UPCC and BC Emergency Health Services Partnership

Focused currently on South Vancouver Island, this innovative initiative has potential to expand if successful.

A transformative collaboration between Island Health and BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS), which manages the BC Ambulance Service, has established new pathways for patients who do not need emergency department (ED) care.

Link and Referral Units (LARUs) are specialized paramedics in minivans who assess and treat 911 patients with non-urgent conditions. These patients often benefit from care at Urgent and Primary Care Centres (UPCCs) rather than EDs. Currently, six UPCCs in Victoria are part of this partnership, with discussions ongoing for expansion into Nanaimo.

“The primary objective for LARU paramedics is to connect non-urgent 911 patients with the most suitable care, which could be a UPCC,” said Kayla Welwood, Manager, Low Acuity and Integrated Care at BC Emergency Health Services. “There are numerous exceptional services beyond emergency departments, and it’s logical to integrate them whenever possible.”

Launched from a single pilot unit in 2020, LARU has grown to 18 units across the province, including in Victoria and Nanaimo. The LARU/UPCC partnership within Island Health began in May 2024, optimizing care for lower acuity patients in the 911 system. This new UPCC referral partnership also extends to emergency ambulances when appropriate.

“Our traditional model was to transport patients directly to the ED. However, we recognized this approach often isn’t ideal for non-emergency patients,” explained Welwood. “Our revised response model integrates our services into the broader health care system, helping patients receive the right care in the right place. LARU paramedics ensure emergency ambulances remain available for the most urgent cases, while alternate care pathways cater to non-urgent patients. This marks a significant shift from the 911 response model of over 50 years ago.”

For South Island and Nanaimo patients dialing 911, the process begins with triage by Emergency Medical Call-Takers (EMCTs) in the BCEHS dispatch centre. If further evaluation is needed, Secondary Triage paramedics in the dispatch centre may contact the patient for additional information. If the case meets LARU guidelines, a LARU paramedic is dispatched to provide a comprehensive assessment and discuss care options with the patient, which may include making an appointment at a UPCC and providing transportation there.

“It’s gratifying to spend more time with patients, listen to their concerns, and utilize my skills for thorough assessments,” said Anthony Hayer, a LARU paramedic with 16 years of experience. “Collaborating with UPCCs enhances outcomes for lower acuity patients.”

“Innovations in health care are crucial. Supporting patients and emergency departments through resource optimization is excellent,” noted Antony Neale, a registered nurse at the Westshore UPCC. “I’m enthusiastic about further expanding this partnership.”

Dr. Kimberley Cameron, a physician at the Westshore UPCC, highlighted the benefits of this program for lower acuity patients. “This initiative provides patients with timely, appropriate care,” she said. “Over time, our collaboration with LARU teams can reduce the number of patients transported to emergency departments.”

Since its inception in May 2024, the partnership has transported 84 patients to UPCCs in Greater Victoria. One tourist, for instance, was treated at a UPCC for an injury instead of visiting a local ED. LARU paramedic Tamara Tulloch, with 14 years of experience, described the positive impact of this care pathway, emphasizing the reduced anxiety for patients avoiding hospital visits.

LARU paramedics consistently receive positive feedback from patients, who appreciate the personalized care. “Our goal is to improve the patient experience,” said LARU paramedic Derek Gytenbeek, with over 5 years of experience. “We value the open dialogues with UPCC staff, discussing improvements for the health care system.”

Cathy Edwards, Manager at Westshore UPCC, stressed the importance of these conversations. “We’ve developed strong relationships with LARU paramedics and BC Ambulance Service, united in providing the right care in the right place for our shared patients.”

As the program grows, health care providers view it as a vital component of Island Health and the broader BC health care system. “We’re excited to contribute to this legacy,” said Tulloch. “It represents the evolution of health care delivery, and we at BCEHS are proud to be part of the solution.”

Patients should continue scheduling appointments for non-urgent medical concerns directly with UPCCs and call 911 in medical emergencies.

Latest Expansion Of Trudeau’s Gun Ban Again Targets Law Abiding Owners, Fails To Address Skyrocketing Gang Violence

The Trudeau government has enacted another unexpected gun ban, immediately outlawing 324 types of firearms. Canadians who previously used these firearms for hunting or target shooting must now secure them or face severe penalties. The government also plans to seize these firearms through a buyback program and send some to Ukraine’s military.

As with previous bans targeting hundreds of firearms, this list raises questions about its alignment with public safety goals. It includes low-powered varmint rifles, rare antiques found only in museums, and firearms no more dangerous than many that remain legal. Contrary to Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc’s assertion, many of these guns are not designed for the battlefield.

While any bullet can be lethal, the .22 caliber is among the least powerful. It is commonly used in varmint hunting and youth-target practice. Including .22 caliber firearms on a list ostensibly targeting battlefield weapons seems questionable.

One example is the GSG-16, a .22-caliber target shooting rifle sometimes sold in pink. The list also bans several guns designed to mimic military rifles in appearance but with non-military functionality, firing .22 bullets one at a time. For instance, the newly prohibited Mauser StG44 resembles the iconic Sturmgewehr 44 but lacks assault rifle characteristics.

The government’s criteria for assault-style rifles continue to be inconsistent. True assault rifles—already illegal in Canada—are defined by automatic firing and large-capacity magazines, neither of which are permitted under Canadian law. Long before Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s tenure, rifles in Canada were limited to five rounds and semi-automatic firing (one shot per trigger pull).

The Trudeau government introduced the term assault-style in its Bill C-21, defining it as a semi-automatic rifle using centre-fire ammunition, designed post-2023, and originally intended to hold high-capacity magazines. Yet many banned firearms, including .22-caliber rimfire guns and pre-2023 models, do not fit this description.

The list also includes obscure historical weapons, such as the Browning M3 Aircraft machine gun from the 1930s, a mounted aircraft weapon already prohibited. Another example is the SaskSten, a WWII-era Sten gun modified for Canadian regulation, which sold for at least $4,000 before being banned. These weapons are rarely, if ever, involved in crimes.

The bans appear to target firearms based on appearance rather than functionality. For nearly every prohibited firearm, there are legal alternatives with similar power and firing rates. Notably, the SKS—a Soviet-era semi-automatic rifle—remains legal, likely because of its widespread use among Inuit and First Nations hunters.

The claim that banned firearms will aid Ukraine has been met with skepticism. Defense Minister Bill Blair suggested that some firearms on the list could be useful to Ukraine, but modern militaries prefer standardized equipment. Weapons chambered in .22 caliber or limited to five rounds are ill-suited for combat. Ukraine’s interest likely lies in a small subset of rifles chambered for high-powered cartridges like the .338 Lapua, suitable for sniping.

The timing of the ban coincides with the anniversary of the 1989 Montreal Massacre, in which a legally purchased Ruger Mini-14 was used to kill 14 women. The Mini-14 was included in a 2020 ban, yet firearms with comparable caliber and firing rates remain legal.

The ban also comes as police organizations criticize earlier gun control measures. In October, both the Toronto Police Association and Surrey Police Union denounced the government’s handgun freeze, noting that gun crime has surged since its implementation.

The reason is clear: most crime guns in Canada are illegally smuggled from the United States, making regulatory changes to legal gun ownership ineffective in curbing gun violence.