ACCESS INITIATIVES
4WDABC Key Programs
4WDABC works with land managers and local governments to develop programs that allow responsible access to areas where gates or restrictions might otherwise prevent public entry. These programs help balance environmental protection, resource management, and recreational access to British Columbia’s backcountry.
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
Responsible Access Through Partnership
Key programs are built on cooperation between 4WDABC, local governments, and other stakeholders. Rather than closing an area entirely, these initiatives allow controlled access using tools such as keys, access codes, or digital lock systems.
Participants are typically required to be current members of the association, which helps ensure that those using the access program understand and follow responsible recreation practices.
Because 4WDABC has built a strong reputation for stewardship and volunteer work across British Columbia, the association is often trusted by land managers to help support these types of programs.
ACTIVE PROGRAMS
Managed Access in British Columbia
Eagle Mountain Key Program
For decades, Eagle Mountain (also known as Cypress Lake FSR) has been a popular off-road destination. In 2002, vehicle access was closed. 4WDABC helped negotiate a managed access program with the City of Coquitlam in 2009, allowing responsible drivers to obtain a gate key through a refundable deposit. This later evolved into a Bluetooth-controlled lock, allowing the city to manage access more effectively while supporting responsible recreation.
Norrish Creek Code Access Program
Norrish Creek FSR serves as part of the watershed supplying drinking water to the communities of Mission and Abbotsford. Because of its importance, the gate controlling access was eventually closed to the public. In 2019, 4WDABC successfully worked with local authorities to obtain a gate code that allows current members of the association to access the area while maintaining oversight of who enters the watershed.
Maintaining Responsible Access
Programs like these demonstrate how responsible recreation and environmental protection can work together.
Through volunteer efforts, trail maintenance, and ongoing stewardship projects, 4WDABC members help maintain areas that remain accessible through these programs. Their involvement also provides additional eyes and ears in remote areas, helping identify problems early and support responsible use of public lands.
As the association continues to grow, these partnerships create opportunities to restore access in areas that might otherwise remain closed.
Future Opportunities
Supporting Access Across the Province
With thousands of members across British Columbia and a long history of stewardship and volunteer work, 4WDABC continues to work with land managers to explore opportunities for responsible access in additional areas.
While not every location is suitable for a managed access program, the success of existing initiatives shows that cooperation and responsible recreation can help keep more of BC’s backcountry accessible for future generations.
Help Protect Access to BC’s Backcountry
Programs like these exist because of the support of members and volunteers who care about protecting access to public land.