Since the conception of Chilcotin Holidays, it has been important to Kevan Bracewell to operate a self-sustainable and conservation oriented business.
Kevan has always been involved with the stewardship of the land. For example, he played a significant role by representing the wilderness tourism industry in the establishment of the Lillooet Land and Resource Management Plan (LLRMP) which commenced in 1995. The plan’s aim was to manage land and resources properly on the Crown land of the Lillooet Timber Supply Area. As a result, the South Chilcotin Mountains Park was created in 2004 which is a biodiversity hotspot encompassing the Chilcotin Mountains. In order to create balance between industry and nature, the initial park boundaries were changed to provide areas of mining value to the mining industry. Kevan was present throughout the planning period and contributed greatly to the creation of both the park and the plan. As the plan was finalized, the presiding government changed and the incoming government failed to sign the final document. However, the plan is still used as a guideline for industries to aid them in the creation of their own stewardship plans.
In addition to the LLRMP, wilderness stewardship plays a significant role in everyday life at the ranch. Guests, staff and students are included in the responsibilities that come with living in a remote location close to nature. The ranch conducts projects such as woodlot management, predator management, invasive plant pulling, collecting Grizzly bear DNA and wildlife counts. These wildlife counts are executed using wildlife sighting forms that were specially designed by 30-year biology veteran Doug Jury. The forms are brought along on every trip outside the ranch including pack trips, hunt trips and hike trips.
Kevan’s philosophies regarding self-sustainable living form the crux of life at the ranch. All human needs at Chilcotin Holidays are met in a sustainable manner. The water comes from a natural source and is transported to the ranch via a gravity fed plumbing system. The ranch features a garden and a greenhouse, making it possible to farm fruits and vegetables. Everybody living on the ranch is encouraged to contribute to the self-sustainability which guarantees healthier living, new experiences and a hands-on approach to education.