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Campfire Prohibition Takes Effect July 10: Let’s Work Together to Protect Sicamous

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce encourages all residents, visitors, campers, and businesses to be aware of an important wildfire prevention measure taking effect this week.

Effective at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026, Category 1 campfires will be prohibited throughout Sicamous and the entire Kamloops Fire Centre. The prohibition will remain in place until October 9, 2026, or until it is rescinded by the BC Wildfire Service.

This seasonal prohibition is an important step in helping reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires during periods of elevated fire danger. As we continue through the busy summer tourism season, protecting our forests, communities, and recreational areas is a shared responsibility.

Why This Matters

Sicamous is known for its incredible outdoor lifestyle, drawing thousands of visitors each year to enjoy our lakes, campgrounds, trails, and surrounding wilderness. These natural assets are not only part of what makes our community special—they are also essential to our local economy.

Wildfires can have significant impacts on residents, businesses, tourism operators, and visitors alike. Taking preventative measures now helps protect our homes, local businesses, critical infrastructure, and the natural landscapes that support our tourism industry.

What is a Category 1 Campfire?

A Category 1 campfire is generally a campfire no larger than 0.5 metres high by 0.5 metres wide. Although these small campfires are commonly used at campsites and recreational areas, they will not be permitted while the prohibition is in effect.

Visitors and residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with current fire restrictions before heading outdoors, as additional prohibitions may also be implemented if conditions change.

By working together, we can help protect our community, support our local businesses, and preserve the beautiful landscapes that make Sicamous one of British Columbia’s premier outdoor destinations.

Thank you for doing your part to help keep Sicamous and British Columbia safe this wildfire season. For most up-to-date information go to BC Wildfire Service Fire Prohibitions and Restrictions.

Staying Safe from Wildfire Smoke and Heat

Summer is one of the most beautiful times of year in Sicamous, bringing visitors from near and far to enjoy our lakes, trails, parks, and vibrant local businesses. However, summer can also bring periods of wildfire smoke and extreme heat, making it important for all of us to take steps to protect our health while continuing to support our community safely.

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce encourages residents, visitors, and businesses to stay informed about current air quality conditions and heat advisories throughout the season. Wildfire smoke and high temperatures can affect everyone, but some people are at greater risk, including older adults, infants and young children, pregnant individuals, people with heart or lung conditions, and those who work outdoors.

Simple Steps to Protect Yourself

When wildfire smoke or extreme heat affects our area, there are several practical ways to reduce your risk:

  • Stay indoors when smoke levels are high, especially during periods of strenuous outdoor activity.
  • Keep windows and doors closed when possible to reduce smoke entering your home or workplace.
  • Use a portable air purifier or a high-quality air filter in your ventilation system to improve indoor air quality.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
  • If you must be outdoors, reduce strenuous activity and consider wearing a well-fitting N95 or equivalent respirator to help reduce exposure to fine smoke particles.
  • Check in regularly on family members, neighbours, friends, and others who may be more vulnerable to the effects of smoke or extreme heat.

For Local Businesses

Periods of smoke and heat can also impact local businesses, particularly those in hospitality, tourism, construction, landscaping, and outdoor recreation.

Business owners are encouraged to monitor air quality forecasts, adjust outdoor work schedules where possible, ensure employees have access to water and shaded or cooled rest areas, and communicate any operational changes with customers. Creating a comfortable indoor environment can also help reassure visitors and encourage them to continue supporting local businesses during smoky conditions.

Stay Informed

Air quality conditions can change quickly depending on weather patterns and wildfire activity. Monitoring current advisories can help you make informed decisions for yourself, your family, employees, and customers.

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce encourages everyone to stay informed, look out for one another, and continue supporting our local businesses safely throughout the summer. By taking a few simple precautions, we can all do our part to protect our health while enjoying everything our beautiful community has to offer.

For the latest provincial air quality warnings and wildfire smoke advisories, visit the BC Air Quality Warnings website.

Sicamous Chamber Applauds Province on Liquor Policy Modernization

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce is pleased to see the Province of British Columbia introduce practical changes to the province’s liquor policies that will provide greater flexibility for hospitality businesses, private liquor retailers, and BC liquor manufacturers.

These changes reflect policy recommendations developed through the BC Chamber of Commerce network and championed by the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce. The policy received endorsement from Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade across British Columbia—including the Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce—demonstrating broad support from the business community for a more modern, responsive, and competitive liquor system.

For businesses throughout our region, including restaurants, pubs, bars, private liquor retailers, and local producers, liquor policy plays an important role in daily operations. It impacts product availability, customer experience, tourism, supply chain efficiency, and the ability of businesses to respond quickly to changing demand. These latest changes are a welcome step toward reducing unnecessary barriers and supporting economic growth.

Greater Flexibility Through Licensee-to-Licensee Sales

The Province has launched a three-year pilot program allowing eligible hospitality businesses—including restaurants, pubs, and bars—to purchase liquor directly from private liquor retailers, in addition to the existing BC Liquor Distribution Branch system.

This common-sense change gives businesses more flexibility when they need to replenish inventory quickly or source specialty products. For example, if a restaurant unexpectedly runs out of a popular beverage during a busy weekend or special event, it can now purchase the product from a nearby licensed retailer rather than turning customers away or removing the item from its menu.

The pilot program runs from May 29, 2026, through June 1, 2029, and automatically applies to eligible licence holders without the need for an application. Existing safeguards remain in place, including wholesale pricing requirements and transaction recordkeeping, ensuring the program operates fairly while improving business efficiency.

Expanded Direct Delivery for BC Producers

The Province has also expanded direct delivery privileges for eligible BC liquor manufacturers.

Previously, wineries, craft breweries, cideries, and craft distilleries could deliver products directly to wholesale customers. The updated policy now includes packaged refreshment beverages such as coolers and hard seltzers, giving BC manufacturers additional flexibility in how they distribute their products.

This change strengthens BC’s manufacturing sector by improving supply chain efficiency, supporting local producers, and helping the province remain competitive with other jurisdictions while maintaining existing pricing and regulatory standards.

Supporting Local Business and Economic Growth

Regulatory modernization may not always make headlines, but changes like these have meaningful impacts on local businesses and communities like Sicamous. Providing hospitality operators and manufacturers with greater flexibility helps businesses operate more efficiently, better serve customers, and remain competitive in an evolving marketplace.

As a tourism-driven community, Sicamous benefits when our restaurants, pubs, retailers, and local producers have the tools they need to respond quickly to customer demand and deliver exceptional visitor experiences. These improvements support not only individual businesses but also strengthen our local economy and the overall visitor experience that keeps people returning to our region.

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce applauds the Province for listening to the concerns of BC’s business community and implementing practical, targeted reforms. We remain committed to supporting policy initiatives through the BC Chamber of Commerce network that reduce unnecessary barriers, encourage entrepreneurship, and foster a strong and resilient business environment across British Columbia.

Rail Trail Expansion Continues to Build Momentum for Sicamous and the Region

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce is excited to celebrate another major milestone in the development of the Splatsin te Secwépemc / Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail—a project that is already bringing new opportunities for tourism, recreation, and economic growth to our region.

A newly completed 14-kilometre section of trail between the Rosemond Lake Bridge and Grindrod is now open to the public, along with a new parking area in Mara. This latest addition brings the total completed and accessible trail to approximately 32 kilometres, providing even more opportunities for residents and visitors to experience the incredible natural beauty of the Shuswap and North Okanagan.

The Rail Trail is much more than a recreational amenity—it is an economic driver. Across North America, rail trails have become destinations that attract cyclists, walkers, runners, families, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore communities at a slower pace. These visitors often stay longer, dine in local restaurants, shop at local businesses, fuel up, book accommodations, and discover experiences they may not have otherwise found.

For Sicamous, this represents an exciting opportunity to welcome a growing outdoor recreation market. As the trail network expands, we can expect to see an increasing number of visitors choosing Sicamous as a place to stop, stay, and explore. This creates new opportunities for businesses of every kind—from accommodations, restaurants, cafés, and retailers to tour operators, outfitters, service providers, and local attractions.

The Rail Trail also introduces a new culture of visitors to our community—people who value active transportation, outdoor adventure, local experiences, and supporting small businesses. This growing demographic aligns perfectly with everything Sicamous has to offer, from our beautiful lakes and trails to our welcoming business community and vibrant downtown.

As construction continues, we encourage local businesses to think about how they can connect with this emerging visitor market. Whether it’s providing bike-friendly amenities, offering trail maps, creating grab-and-go food options, or simply extending a warm welcome, every interaction helps build Sicamous’ reputation as a must-visit destination along the Rail Trail.

Please note that the section between Grindrod and Enderby remains closed while construction continues. We appreciate everyone’s patience as this important regional project moves toward completion.

Join the Celebration

The community is invited to celebrate this exciting milestone at the official ribbon-cutting ceremony:

Friday, July 17
3:00 PM
Mara Trailhead (across from Mara Hall on Coell-Jones Road)

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce congratulates the Splatsin te Secwépemc, project partners, local governments, and everyone involved in bringing this incredible vision to life. We look forward to seeing the Rail Trail continue to strengthen our regional economy, support local businesses, and showcase the beauty and hospitality that make Sicamous such a special place to visit.

Road Safety Basics for Small Business-Webinar

Road Safety is Smart Business

If your employees do any work-related driving, even if it’s only once in a while, you’re responsible for their safety. This all-new webinar will explain the legal requirements and the steps you need to take for compliance.

This webinar is complimentary and is designed for smaller organizations that have employees who drive either full time, part time, or occasionally — in company vehicles or their own.

Can’t attend? Register anyway and you will receive a link to the recording following the live event.

Register here

Funding Opportunity for Food & Beverage Processors

Funding Opportunity for Food & Beverage Processors: Processor Productivity Program 

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce is proud to support the growth and success of our local business community, including the food processing, beverage production, agricultural value-added, and manufacturing sectors. As businesses continue to navigate rising costs, labour challenges, and increasing competition, opportunities that help improve efficiency and productivity are more important than ever.

One program that may be of significant interest to local businesses is the Processor Productivity Program (PPP), delivered by Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) on behalf of the Province of British Columbia.

What is the Processor Productivity Program?

The Processor Productivity Program is designed to help B.C. food and beverage processors increase productivity, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen their competitiveness through structured Lean Manufacturing training and cost-shared funding opportunities. The program is specifically geared toward growth-ready processors committed to making meaningful operational improvements.

The program is delivered in two phases:

Phase 1: Assessment & Training

Participants receive:

  • Lean Maturity Assessment
  • Lean 101 Training
  • Lean Yellow Belt Training
  • On-site operational improvement sessions
  • Follow-up coaching and support

This phase helps businesses identify inefficiencies, reduce waste, improve workflows, and build internal capacity for continuous improvement.

Phase 2: Funding Support

Businesses that successfully complete Phase 1 may be invited to apply for funding support covering up to 75% of eligible project costs, with a maximum provincial contribution of $20,000. Eligible projects may include:

  • Process optimization initiatives
  • Workflow redesign
  • Productivity-enhancing equipment upgrades
  • Operational improvements aligned with Lean principles

Participation in Phase 2 is subject to eligibility requirements, funding availability, and project approval.

Who Should Apply?

The program is intended for B.C. food and beverage processors seeking to:

  • Increase production efficiency
  • Reduce waste and operational costs
  • Improve labour utilization
  • Strengthen competitiveness
  • Build long-term operational excellence

Eligible processors may include food manufacturers, beverage producers, certain nutraceutical processors, and licensed cannabis processors producing edible products or beverages that meet program requirements.

Why This Matters for Sicamous

Sicamous and the surrounding region continue to see growth in agriculture, food production, manufacturing, and value-added processing. Programs like the Processor Productivity Program provide local businesses with access to industry expertise, proven Lean methodologies, and financial support that can help strengthen operations and position businesses for future growth.

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce encourages eligible businesses to explore this opportunity and take advantage of resources that can help drive innovation, efficiency, and long-term success.

Learn More & Apply

For complete program details, eligibility requirements, and application information, visit:

Processor Productivity Program (PPP)

Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters – Processor Productivity Program

Contact Information

Mehdi Gohardehi
Senior Lean Facilitator & Director of Food Processor Training
Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME)

Email: mehdi.gohardehi@cme-mec.ca
Phone: 236-660-7838

Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, and program spaces are limited. Interested businesses are encouraged to apply early.

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce remains committed to connecting local businesses with valuable programs, funding opportunities, and resources that support economic growth and strengthen our business community.

Sicamous Represents at BC Chamber AGM

Sicamous Chamber Attends BC Chamber & CCEBC Conferences

Last week, the Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce was proud to participate in both the BC Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting and the Chamber of Commerce Executives of British Columbia (CCEBC) Conference in Fort St. John. The event brought together Chamber leaders, business advocates, and economic development professionals from across the province to discuss the issues that matter most to local businesses and communities.

As part of the policy process, the Sicamous & District Chamber supported several resolutions alongside neighbouring Chambers that directly impact businesses in our region. These included support for a sustainable approach to transit and major road funding in British Columbia, recognizing the importance of reliable transportation infrastructure for moving people, goods, and services throughout rural communities. The Chamber also supported a resolution calling on the Province to halt the expansion of Pay Transparency Reporting requirements to small and medium-sized employers, acknowledging the significant administrative burden additional reporting can place on already stretched businesses. Additionally, the Chamber supported efforts to stop the proposed expansion of Provincial Sales Tax (PST) to a range of professional services, including accounting, engineering, security services, and commercial real estate services. These added costs would ultimately affect businesses of all sizes and could have far-reaching impacts throughout the provincial economy.

The Chamber also endorsed policy discussions focused on strengthening public safety and increasing capacity and reliability within British Columbia’s energy grid—both critical priorities for supporting economic growth, attracting investment, and ensuring communities like Sicamous remain vibrant places to live, work, and do business.

The conference was also a tremendous opportunity for learning, collaboration, and relationship-building. The Sicamous & District Chamber extends its sincere gratitude to the CCEBC for awarding Executive Director Jen Tirschman with a bursary to attend this year’s conference. The experience provided valuable resources, meaningful discussions, and connections with Chamber professionals from across British Columbia who continue to offer support, mentorship, and innovative ideas. We returned inspired, energized, and committed to continuing our advocacy efforts on behalf of the businesses and communities we serve.

R.W. Bruhn Bridge Summer Traffic Schedule Update

R.W. Bruhn Bridge Update: Summer Traffic Schedule Begins June 18

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce would like to share an important update regarding the R.W. Bruhn Bridge Project.

Daytime full closures of Highway 1 at the bridge have been extended through Wednesday, June 17, 2026, to allow crews to complete necessary rock scaling work near the west end of the bridge. While the additional work may cause short-term inconvenience, it is an important step toward improving safety and infrastructure for residents, visitors, and businesses in our community.

The good news is that the summer traffic schedule begins on Thursday, June 18, 2026, and there will be no daytime full highway closures. This is welcome news as Sicamous enters the busy summer tourism season and local businesses prepare to welcome visitors from across British Columbia and beyond.

The Chamber would like to thank everyone for their patience, understanding, and continued support throughout this major infrastructure project. We encourage motorists to continue driving carefully, planning ahead, and following all traffic control measures as the final stages of construction progress.

For the latest project updates and traffic information, please visit:
https://ow.ly/ClTR50Yyh5w

Province Releases New Transitional Rules for PST Expansion to Professional Services

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce would like to make members aware that the Province of British Columbia has now released additional transitional guidance regarding the upcoming expansion of Provincial Sales Tax (PST) to certain professional services beginning October 1, 2026.

The newly released rules provide further clarification on how PST will apply during the transition period immediately before and after implementation. This includes guidance surrounding:

  • Invoices issued before October 1 for services provided afterward
  • Services billed after October 1 where some work may have been completed earlier
  • Situations where clients may need to self-assess PST if tax is not collected at the time of sale

Members who may be impacted are encouraged to begin preparing now for potential registration, invoicing, collection, and remittance requirements associated with the changes.

The Chamber also encourages businesses to review the available provincial resources carefully and consult directly with their accounting or tax advisors to better understand how these new rules may apply to their operations.

Additional information and official provincial resources can be found here:

BC Government – Notice to Professional Services Providers

BC Government PST Information and Resources

R.W. Bruhn Bridge Update!

R.W. Bruhn Bridge Project Update – May Long Weekend

As we head into the May long weekend, the Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce would like to remind residents and visitors to continue driving safely and following posted speed limits throughout the construction zone during the ongoing R.W. Bruhn Bridge Project.

There has been some incredible progress made on this important infrastructure project, and while there may still be temporary inconveniences, it truly is short-term pain for long-term gain for the future of Sicamous and the Trans-Canada corridor.

Important May Long Weekend Updates:
• Highway 1 will remain OPEN from noon on Friday, May 15 until noon on Tuesday, May 19
• Pedestrian access to Sicamous Beach Park via the walkway under the bridge will reopen for the season on Friday, May 15 at noon
• There are currently no scheduled closures of the Sicamous Narrows until late fall 2026
• Short-term holds of approximately 10 minutes may still occur during working hours if required
• DriveBC remains the best source for real-time traffic updates, delays, and closures

The Chamber encourages everyone travelling through Sicamous to plan ahead, be patient, and continue supporting local businesses throughout the construction period.

To learn more about the project schedule and updates, visit:
R.W. Bruhn Bridge Project Updates

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Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce
Box 346
446 Main Street
Sicamous, BC V0E 2V0
www.sicamouschamber.bc.ca
250-836-0002

Sicamous Visitors Centre
Box 346
446 Main Street
Sicamous, BC V0E 2V0
www.visitsicamous.ca
250-836-3313

 

 

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