December 11, 2025
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is excited to share it has purchased 3823 Goat Canyon Road in Electoral Area B for $899,000. The 4.4-acre property will become a future regional park and re-open long-term public access to the Goat River, supporting the RDCK, Town of Creston and Electoral Areas A, B & C Parks and Recreation Master Plan’s goal of adding parkland for the community. Securing this land marks an important step in re-establishing a community gathering place cherished by generations.
“It’s exciting to see our efforts to acquire parkland for the community come to life,” said Roger Tierney, RDCK Electoral Area B Director. “This acquisition represents an important step toward improving parkland access in the region. As we move into planning, it is important that we hear from residents to help shape the future of this regional park, while also continuing our engagement with the Yaqan Nuʔkiy.”
While the land is now publicly owned, it is not yet open for public use. A full risk assessment must be completed, and any identified risks mitigated, before the public can safely enjoy the park. Over the next year, the RDCK will complete these site assessments and begin developing a management plan to guide access, safety, and environmental protection.
Residents will have opportunities to provide input as planning for the future of the park moves forward. The RDCK will share engagement details once they have been determined. The RDCK has also been in contact with Yaqan Nuʔkiy throughout the acquisition and will continue their engagement as planning advances.
“We’re grateful to our partners for their support in making this acquisition possible,” said Tierney. “Without their contributions, this purchase wouldn’t have been feasible.”
The land acquisition was made possible through contributions from Columbia Basin Trust ($540,000), BC Parks Foundation ($200,000), and the RDCK ($159,000).
“Restoring access to the Goat River has long been a community priority, and we’re pleased to help make this important step possible,” said Katie Kendall, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust. “We look forward to seeing the RDCK, Yaqan Nuʔkiy, and the community shape the future of this cherished place.”
“Adding this land to the public trust is a real win for the Creston Valley and we are happy to have played a role in making it happen,” says Andy Day, CEO of BC Parks Foundation. “It sets the stage for a future regional park where people will be able to swim, paddle, and spend time by the Goat River in a beautiful place. Parks like this improve people’s mental and physical health, boost the local economy, and are good for nature.”
For more information visit rdck.ca/parks.