Bamfield East Dock
- Art Childs
- 17 hours ago
- 3 min read
Hello everyone,
I am sharing this note to provide some clarity about the East Dock, its ownership, and how it operates.
History of the East Dock
Before 1995, the federal government owned, operated, and subsidized hundreds of commercial, regional, and community docks across Canada, including the Bamfield East Dock.
At that time, the operation and maintenance of the East Dock were effectively subsidized by taxpayers as part of a broader service supporting coastal communities and commercial fisheries.
To reduce overcapacity and shift operating costs from general taxpayers to actual port users, the federal government introduced the Port Divestiture Program, under which local groups assumed ownership and responsibility for certain docks.
In April 2011, through the Port Divestiture Program, Transport Canada transferred ownership of the East Dock to HGB, the commercial arm of the Huu-ay-aht First Nation.
The transfer included funding to support the dock’s initial operations and maintenance. HGB was able to extend that support from five years to ten years, but those funds have now been fully used. As a result, all operating and maintenance costs now rest entirely with HGB.
As a business, HGB must be financially independent and self-sustaining. It does not receive subsidies from the federal, provincial, Huu-ay-aht governments, nor the regional district, to operate the East Dock.
Operations moving forward
To maintain the East Dock over time, it must become financially viable. We continue to operate the facility on a minimal budget to reduce costs for dock users, but the current operating and maintenance issues can only be addressed when dock revenues are sufficient to support the necessary upkeep.
It is also important to note that the visible maintenance work on the dock is only one part of the cost. HGB incurs less visible operating expenses such as insurance, power which must be covered every year, regardless of how much the dock is used.
We have heard concerns that the dock needs to be better managed, and we agree. However, improved management requires stronger revenue and more efficient use of the available moorage. Upgrades and better service can only be made through income generated by the dock itself.
The first step is to organize and manage existing moorage in a more productive and efficient way. Accordingly, we are implementing the following changes at the East Dock for the busy seasons of July, August, and September.
Dockspace Designation
Blue – Short-term tie-up
For brief stops only (for example, loading/unloading people or supplies, fuel, or quick visits to shore).
If this area is full, rafting is permitted to a maximum of three small boats under 20 feet wide.
There is currently no charge for short-term tie-up.
Please limit your stay to short durations and move as soon as your loading/unloading is complete so others can use the space.
Green – Reserved moorage
The three fingers and the inside of the main dock are reserved moorage for registered boats only.
Unregistered vessels should not tie up in the green area.
Yellow – Water taxi landing
The yellow section is dedicated to water taxi operations only.
Please keep this area clear at all times so water taxis can land and depart safely and predictably.
Red – No mooring
To keep navigable space open for vessels landing at the wharf head and the water taxi landing area marked by the yellow bull rail, this section marked by the red bull rail must not be occupied at any time.
Wharf head concerns
We are increasingly concerned about private vehicles driving on the wharf head. While no final decision has been made, we are considering restricting public vehicle access to the wharf for safety.
Future opportunities
Plans are being developed for a major expansion of Ostrom’s facility, including approximately 500 feet of additional moorage space. This may also include a building for laundry, showers, and washrooms. The main holdback at this stage is permitting approvals from the federal and provincial governments.
If demand for moorage continues to grow, we will consider further expansion and amenities to support Bamfield’s continued growth and natural appeal.
Closing
HGB recognizes that the East Dock is a vital link for the Bamfield community. We also recognize the challenge of operating and maintaining a community-serving facility as a private, unsubsidized business, especially one that was historically supported by federal funding.
With costs continuing to rise and demand for moorage increasing, HGB has spoken with the ACRD about this challenge and remains open to federal, provincial, or municipal support that could help relieve cost pressures for Bamfield residents.
Your patience and understanding are appreciated. We also welcome constructive community input and would propose that this becomes an agenda item of the Bamfield Community Affairs meeting to discuss ideas and find potential solutions together.
Art Childs
Marinas & Fuel Ops Manager
Mobile: 250-206-5144
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