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Parliamentary portraits

  • GR-4184
  • Series
  • 1991-2022

The series consists of large format photographic prints known as "Parliamentary portraits", taken between 1991 and 2022. The portraits are generally taken once per Parliament and show the members of the Legislative Assembly in the Legislative Chamber, at the Parliament Buildings in Victoria, B.C. Dates and Parliamentary sessions are noted and some photographs are accompanied by legends, naming each person in the photograph. Each photograph is taken from the entrance to the chamber and typically shows the Premier, the Leader of the Opposition, the Speaker and other members of the Speaker's and Clerk's office in the centre by the Speaker's chair. The MLA's are at their desks, the government members traditionally sit on the Speaker's right and the opposition on the Speaker's left.
The photographs are as follows:
1 col. photograph from session 34-5, 1991
1 col. photograph from session 35-2, ca. 1995
1 col. photograph from session 36-3, July 22, 1998
1 col. photograph from session 36-4, ca. 2000
1 col. photograph + legend from session 37-2, May 8, 2002
1 col. photograph + legend from session 38-1, November 2, 2005
1 col. photograph + legend from session 39-1, 2009
1 col. photograph from session 39-4, 2012
1 b&w photograph + legend from session 40-3, November 19, 2014
1 col. photograph + legend from session 41-40, 2017
1 b&w photograph + legend from session 42-3, October 3, 2022.

British Columbia. Legislative Assembly

Condolence books for the death of Queen Elizabeth II

  • GR-4155
  • Series
  • 2022

The series consists of six bound condolence books created following the death of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8, 2022. The books contain written comments of citizens providing condolences and memories of Queen Elizabeth II.

Box one consists of two books that members of the public signed at Government House. Box two consists of four volumes that were created by the Vancouver Police Department and then submitted to Government House.

British Columbia. Government House

Archaeological violation case files

  • GR-4055
  • Series
  • 1977-2019

This series consists of violation and complaint files related to archaeological sites across the province. The files were created by the Archaeology Branch and its predecessors from 1977-2019. Records relate to the receipt of and response to complaints and violations under the Heritage Conservation Act. Complaints usually originate from the public and may lead to investigations of alleged violations. This can include investigating Heritage Conservation Act offences, preservation intervention, recommendations, final decisions or charges for convicted offences.

Offences under the Act include damage, desecration, excavation, removal or other alteration of archaeological sites, artifacts, petroglyphs, burial sites, human remains, culturally modified trees (CMTs) and other heritage objects without a valid permit. Many files relate to site damage or artifact removal during industrial activities, such as logging or construction. Some files relate to the discovery of potential sites or artifacts during the course of this work. Other files relate to relic hunters or people posing as archaeologists and the theft of artifacts.

Records include correspondence, memoranda, site inventory forms, maps, photos, police records, court records, legal opinions, archaeological impact assessments, reports, field notes, incident reports, injunctions and stop work orders.

Records are arranged alphabetically by the name of the relevant geographic location. File titles may include the Borden number identifying the site location. File dates are approximate. Many files contain records with earlier dates and very few files contain records up to 2019. 2019 was the year all files were closed.

Classified as 11100-30 in the Archaeology Operational Records Classification System (ORCS).

British Columbia. Heritage Conservation Branch

Archaeology Branch Indigenous liaison case files

  • GR-4054
  • Series
  • 1975-2019

This series consists of Indigenous or Aboriginal relations case files created by the Archeology Branch and its predecessors from 1975-2019. The records relate to fostering and maintaining relationships with First Nations bands, tribal councils and treaty groups in order to facilitate the delivery of provincial archaeological services. This includes participation in the treaty process or interim measures agreements (IMAs) when archaeological sites may be involved and advice for groups participating in treaty or interim measures negotiations. Interim measures agreements provide for the protection, management or use of land and resources before treaties are concluded. Records address a variety of issues, requests or inquiries and provide evidence of the interaction between the government and First Nations on archaeological issues. Most records regard consultation related to attaining approval for archaeological permits.

Each file relates to a particular group and can include information on multiple archaeological sites. The series includes files for almost every Nation, Band, or Tribal Council in BC, as well as several other community organizations working on their behalf. If an Indigenous group changes its name, the file titles were updated with the new name in order to maintain the continuity of the records. Most names are correct up to 2019 when the files were closed.

Record types include correspondence, memoranda, maps, cultural studies, reports and records related to treaties.

Files are arranged alphabetically by name of the Nation or other group. File dates are approximate. Many files contain records with earlier dates and very few files contain records up to 2019. 2019 was the year all files were closed.

Classified as 11050-20 in the Archaeology Operational Records Classification System (ORCS). Some files were reviewed as part of the Xeni Gwet’in First Nations Government v. Her Majesty the Queen et al.

British Columbia. Heritage Conservation Branch

Maynard research files

  • GR-3792
  • Series
  • 1975-2018

The series consists of research files created by the staff at the BC Archives, previously the Provincial Archives of British Columbia, between 1975 and 2018. The files contain research into the Maynard family, specifically their photographic work in British Columbia. The files contain original research notes compiled by BC Archives staff, contractors and independent researchers documenting the life of Richard and Hannah Maynard and their family. Includes photocopies or microfilm printouts from newspapers, books, periodical articles and archival records.

British Columbia Archives

Legal files relating to mining

  • GR-3604
  • Series
  • [ca. 2000]-2014

Series consists of legal issue files created by the Ministry of Energy and Mines. The majority of the files document the creation or revision and administration of legislation and regulations,

The majority of the files consist of legal opinions, reports, background research, notes, draft documents, copies of existing legislation and regulations from BC and other jurisdictions, committee minutes, briefing notes to ministers and ministry staff, and cabinet submissions. The legal opinions provide advice for administering current legislation and creating new legislation. The research files include photocopies of records dating back to 1873.

The 19 CD-ROMS and DVD contain copies of research notes, most of which has been printed and placed in the files.

The records are arranged numerically by file number.

The records were classified as 140-03 (Legislation, Ministry or Agency – Legislative Program) in the BC Government’s Administrative Classification Schedule.

The following ministries were responsible for creating these records:
2000-2005 British Columbia. Ministry of Energy and Mines
2005-2010 British Columbia. Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources
2010-2011 British Columbia. Ministry of Forests, Mines and Lands
2011-2012 British Columbia. Ministry of Energy and Mines
2012-2013 British Columbia. Ministry of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas
2013-2014 British Columbia. Ministry of Energy and Mines

British Columbia. Ministry of Energy and Mines (1998-2005)

Land use planning and management records

  • GR-3647
  • Series
  • 1950 - 2014

The series consists of records regarding the review and approval by the minister of bylaws concerning land use and planning, amendments to official community plans and their related amending bylaws and changes of zoning. These include case files for individual localities, in particular regional districts. The records were used for legal purposes, research and reference.

The records include a coded subseries, known as the "36 series," which documents planning bylaw review and approval, planning grant review and approval, and ministerial authorizations related to land use planning and management bylaws.

Planning bylaw review and approval involves planning bylaws that require ministerial approval (e.g., regional district, the Islands Trust, and the Resort Municipality of Whistler planning bylaws). Planning staff reviewed those bylaws in order to ensure that they did not conflict with provincial government interests.

Record types include correspondence, forms, briefing notes, bylaws, minutes, studies and reports, official community plans and their supporting documents, records regarding local committee meetings (agendas etc.) public hearings and workshops (public posting of notices, minutes from public hearings), responses from referral agencies (comments on bylaws by government agencies), documents regarding rezoning applications, petitions from the public and news clippings. Intermingled in the predominantly textual records are maps and engineering plans and some photographs. Records also include bylaw submission forms submitted with bylaws requiring approval of the minister.

The creator of the records used a coding system that assigned a code to each local government. For example, the regional district codes consisted of the two-digit alphabetic prefix “RD” for regional district followed by the alphanumeric coding system in use in the ministry responsible for municipal affairs at the time. In many cases the files would be labeled in such a way as to abbreviate the code. While the filing systems initially appear to be aimed at an alphabetical order, by locality, that order is often broken. Local government codes used in this record series can be found in Appendix D of the Administrative Records Classification System 1993 Edition. Some of the codes on files are extended with dashes or decimal numbers which represent subject categories.

The records were created by several ministries which carried out the functions and activities of provincial responsibility for local governments; in addition to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs (the name used at different times), the creators included: the Department of Municipal Affairs; the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing; the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Transit; the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, Recreation and Culture; and the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, Recreation and Housing.

British Columbia. Ministry of Municipal Affairs (1993-1996)

Northern Interior resource management plans and aboriginal liaison files

  • GR-4003
  • Series
  • 1990-2014; predominantly 1999-2010

This series consists of resource management plans (RMPs) and aboriginal liaison files from the Northern Interior and surrounding region. Most records date from 1999 to 2010. These records document the creation of various kinds of land and resource management plans, as well as the government’s related consultation and relations with Indigenous groups. Many files relate to Old Growth Management Areas (OGMAs) and other forestry resources.

This series includes a wide variety of types of records and subjects. Each records type has been assigned an ORCS number from the Resource Management ORCS (schedule 144100). This number is included at the beginning of each file code in the finding aid. These are the file numbers used by the creator. In order to search for a particular file type, try searching for all or part of the ORCS number in the finding aid. The following types of files are included in the series:

Aboriginal liaison case files document the government’s resource management involvement with First Nations groups and consultation with respect to resource management plans. Each file documents consultation and communication with a particular First Nation, Tribal Council or other Indigenous group regarding a variety of issues and practices related to resource management and use. Many files document the creation and finalization of various kinds of agreements between the Ministry and First Nations groups. Files also include the planning and execution of joint projects, workshops and meetings to consult First Nations about the creation of resource management plans or to address specific resource management issues. Classified under ORCS number 17020-20.

Resource management plan referral case files relate to the review of plans submitted by organizations outside government, such as industry, First Nations, non-profit groups, and other government bodies. Classified under ORCS number 17490-20.

Land and Resource Management Plans (LRMPs) are sub-regional integrated RMPs. They are large scale and cover a number of resource sectors (a discrete natural or social resource such as tourism, forestry or mining). Regions are divided into smaller management areas called sub-regions. Records may relate to the development, including research, consultation with interested parties and creating terms of reference; implementation; monitoring to determined if the plans objectives are being met; and amendment of LRMPs over time. Similar steps are used for all RMPs in this series. Includes LRMP files for Mackenzie, Prince George, Fort St. James, Vanderhoof, and Kalum. Classified under ORCS numbers 17550-02, 17550-25, 17550-50 and 17550-60.

Landscape unit plants relate to the development, implementation, monitoring and amendment of landscape unit RMPs. Landscape unit plans often result in a set of legally binding resource management goals called 'landscape unit objectives'. These objectives are measurable goals defined by a geographic area, a specific timeframe and an individual resource or use of a resource. Classified under ORCS numbers 17580-55, 17580-25 and 17580-03.

Sustainable resource management plans (SRMPs) cover a relatively small area (usually under 100,000 hectares), referred to as a landscape unit, and address multiple resource management issues in the area. An SRMP is divided into chapters, with each chapter providing the planning for a specific resource value. Records relate to the development, implementation, monitoring and amendment of sustainable resource management plans (SRMPs). This series includes records related to the Fort St. James, Mackenzie, South Trench, Prince George Timber Supply Area, Interior Cedar Hemlock Biodiversity Project, McBride Valemount, Robson Valley and Slim/Dome SRMPs. Classified under ORCS numbers 17730-02, 17730-20, 17730-25 and 17730-30.

Many files relate to a particular Indigenous group, mostly from the Northern Interior region of BC. These include (outdated names used in the records are listed in brackets): Carrier Sekani Tribal Council, Cheslatta Carrier Nation, Gitxsan, Iskut, Lake Babine Nation, Lheidli T’enneh, Lhoosk’uz Dene, Lhtako Dené (Red Bluff), Nadleh Whut’en, Nak’azdli, Nakawē (Saulteau), Nazko, Nisga’a, Saik’uz, Simpcw (North Thompson), Stellat’en, Takla Lake, Tl’azt’en, Tsay Keh Dene, Tse’khene (Kwadacha and McLeod), Tsq’escen (Canim Lake), Ulkatcho, Xat’sūll (Soda Creek), and Yekooche.

Record types include approved plans, terms of reference, objectives, consultation case files, First Nations consultation files, implementation files, planning team records, development case files, correspondence, memoranda, maps, photographs, data, and reports.

British Columbia. Ministry of Sustainable Resource Management

BC Parks plans, programs and publications

  • GR-3803
  • Series
  • 1950-2014

The series contains records related to the management of provincial parks and protected recreational areas in British Columbia.

The records provide extensive background information on Provincial Parks areas, notably Junction Sheep Range Provincial Park, Marble Range Provincial Park, Edge Hills Provincial Park, Churn Creek protected area, Big Creek Provincial Park, Hakai Recreation Area, Ten Mile Lake and other areas in the Cariboo district. There are many photographic prints mixed in with the records, as well as other media (copies of maps, floppy disks, ephemera). The records provide important evidence of the BC Parks Division’s functions and activities in relation to park identification, establishment, management, operation and control of parks and other protected areas.
The series also contains copies of recreation related management plans and conservation related management plans, as well as original maps and published histories of BC Parks. Management plans include feasibility studies, cost analyses, contract details and plan information.

The records are arranged according to the BC Parks Operation Records Classification System (ORCS schedule 113827) and its successor the Parks and Protectes Areas Records Classification System (schedule 186896). Some common primary and secondary numbers from this series are:

82800-10: Graphic Materials Collection.
The records in this series classified under this number relate to park-related graphic materials, including original copies of brochures and reports used for publication. This includes copies of the BC Parks Guide and related records concerning their development and publication.

83500-00: Interpretive, Information, and Education programs
The records classified under this number related to various visitor programs for adults, families, children and schools organized by BC Parks. The records include information concerning the program objectives, activities, learning outcomes, schedules and attendance data. There is also information about instructors, budget, requests from schools, and thank you letters.

84360-40: Land-Management Plans - Parks and Recreation areas
The records classified under this number relate to approved park and recreation area management plan files and document the history of individual British Columbia parks and recreation areas, as well as the land-use activities permitted in those areas.

The records comprise mainly of large folders of background information relating to specific parks. They contain various analytical reports, inventories and studies on soil, wildlife, landscape and flora. Other types of records found in these folders are land value appraisals, land referrals, leases and Resource Use Permits, meeting agendas, briefing notes and correspondence referrals, management plans and progress reports, workshops, correspondence and reports on land-use recommendations.

A limited number of files also contain extensive correspondence and related files dealing with park issues, notably possible violations of the Park Act. These include legal services requisitions.

British Columbia. Ministry of Environment (2005-2017)

South Coast land and resource management committee files

  • GR-3912
  • Series
  • 1991-2013

This series consists of committee files from the Environmental Stewardship Division (ESD) of the South Coast Region, 1991-2013. The records are those of Brian Clark, who worked as the Regional Manager of Fish, Wildlife & Habitat Protection, Ministry of Environment Lands and Parks; Regional Manager of the Environmental Stewardship Division, Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection; Regional Director of the Environmental Stewardship Division, Ministry of Environment; and Executive Director of the Resource Stewardship Division, Ministry of Forests, Lands & Natural Resource Operations. Clark also acted as Chair of Burrard Inlet Environmental Action Program (BIEAP) and Chair of Fraser River Estuary Management Program (FREMP); both of these programs ended in 2013.

The records in this series document the involvement of the environmental and resource stewardship south coast regional office in several interjurisdictional environmental advisory and planning committees, working groups, and initiatives. The committees address environmental issues relating to fish and wildlife habitat, air quality, climate change, water quality, aquatic ecology, vegetation, and terrain and soils in the Fraser Valley and Metro Vancouver area. The mandates and missions of the committees touch on the intergovernmental coordination of environmental issues, conserving agricultural and wildlife resources, and preventing the loss and degradation of coastal habitats.

Records include meeting minutes, correspondence, reports, studies, agreements, drafts, briefing notes, reference materials, financial records, agendas, presentations, annual reports, environmental assessment records and maps.

The series also includes a few files of legal materials from ESD, including correspondence, court records, briefing notes, reports, and records related to document discovery.

British Columbia. Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks

Home and Community Care Branch records

  • GR-3971
  • Series
  • 1988-2012

This series consists of committee files, executive records and publications related to home and community care programs conducted by the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Health Services in conjunction with the Provinces Health Authorities from 1988-2012. The Majority of these records were created by the Home and Community Care Branch which was succeeded by the Home, Community and Integrated Care Branch.

These records may have been created or received by several other predecessor bodies with similar functions, but all records were eventually transferred to the custody of and used by the Home and Community Care Branch. The Branch was part of the Health Authorities Division of the Ministry of Health from 2006-2013 and its predecessor, the Performance Management and Improvement Division from 2002-2006. Due to numerous reorganizations within the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Health Services, there is evidence that earlier records changed custody several times and may have been created or received by multiple groups over time.

The Home and Community Care Branch was responsible for the development and implementation of legislation, policy, guidelines and licencing to protect the health and safety of people receiving care in licensed residential care facilities. Files also regard end of life care or palliative care, assisted living, home care, dementia, building codes for care facilities, adult guardianship, and community care. Care may be provided for children, adults with disabilities, and the elderly. Records relate to all of these functions.

Records include committee files containing minutes, reference material, policy documents and correspondence; executive briefing notes; executive correspondence referral replies; executive issues records; completed publications; and approved agreement files.

These records are scheduled under Administrative Records Classification System (ARCS) numbers146-45, 200-20, 280-20, 280-30, 280-40, and 312-05.

British Columbia. Health Authorities division

Approved performance standards and background reports

  • GR-3516
  • Series
  • 1969-2012

The series consists of correspondence, reports, briefing notes, and meeting minutes and agendas created between 1969 and 2012 by the Health Authorities division and its successors, the Health Services division and the Health Services Policy and Quality Assurance division. The series documents the level of performance expected of health authorities in the delivery of patient care and health services, and provides rationale behind the standards. The series includes records on acute care policies, spinal cord injury strategies, the redesign and redevelopment of Riverview Hospital, as well as overviews and strategic plans. The series is arranged by topic.

The records are covered by ORCS schedule 122352 (Health Authority Performance Management), secondary 25360-02. Records from this series were heavily interfiled with those of related health care series upon transferal to the Archives. The series has been developed according to the original BC Government ORCS classification scheme and except in cases where records were clearly misclassified, the series have been based on the ORCS number. Researchers are advised to consult the finding aids for the following related series in order to better and more fully understand the records : GR-3512, GR-3513, GR-3514, and GR-3515.

British Columbia. Health Authorities division

Order of British Columbia records

  • GR-3629
  • Series
  • 1989 - 2012

The series consists of records related to the Order of British Columbia (OBC); these include files regarding recipients of the award and files concerning the Order of British Columbia Advisory Council.

The records document the administration of the Order of British Columbia program, established under the Provincial Symbols and Honours Act (RSBC 1996, c. 380).

Records relating to recipients of the OBC include recipient biographies, information and correspondence to recipients, support letters, and letters to and from nominators and supporters.

Records also include the following types, and relate to the following subjects: advisory council meetings, records regarding investiture and dinners, scripts and speeches and news clippings.

The series corresponds to the Protocol and Events ORCS (schedule 881036), 1994. The records are classified as : Order of British Columbia - general (50840-01), Order of British Columbia advisory council (50840-02), presentation ceremonies (50840-03), and Order of British Columbia case files (50840-20),

British Columbia. Office of Protocol

Library program and service case files

  • GR-3465
  • Series
  • 1978-2012

The series consists of correspondence, population estimates, briefing notes, press releases, presentation notes, budget estimates and student files created between 1950 and 2012 by the Library Services branch and its predecessors the Public Library Commission and the Library Development Commission. The series is divided into two subseries. The first subseries consists of Community Librarian training program (CLTP) records and the second subseries consists of records relating to grants and public library programming.

The first subseries (accession 96-6091) consists of student files for the Community Librarian training program. The CLTP was a distance education program that was open to public library staff, volunteers and board members. The program was discontinued in 2014. Student files typically include certificates of completion, grades, correspondence and related documentation. The subseries is arranged chronologically by year of enrollment and then alphabetically by student surname. In many cases, files were re-opened at a later date.

The second subseries (accessions 90-2812, 91-2611, 91-3650, 92-9822, 93-6954, and 96-1146) consists of files documenting the relationship between public libraries and the Library Services branch. Many files document discontinued programs, including Current Contents, Your Choice, Books-by-Mail, and Internet Access for Public Libraries. Records also relate to grant funding, the provincial audiobook program, the Writers in Libraries program, small library automation, union catalog development, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation mobile computing program, and the delivery of books to rural areas and remote school libraries. Records include statistics and formulas for grant calculation, as well as correspondence, press releases, program policies, and funding applications. The subseries also includes copies of the Ministry newsletter “BC Public Libraries in the News,” which featured articles on events, initiatives, and programming in public libraries across the province before publication ceased in 2001. The subseries consists of a number of files related to the National Film Board’s film “Journey from Zero,” which focused on the work of librarian Howard Overend as he traveled along the Alaska Highway to the Yukon border delivering books to remote school libraries. The film premiered in Dawson Creek in May 1962.

British Columbia. Library Services Branch

Conservation Officer Service policy records

  • GR-4004
  • Series
  • 1980-2012

This series consists of policy records developed by the Conservation Officer Service to support its core operational functions and activities: compliance and enforcement of federal and provincial natural resource law and human wildlife conflict management. The records were created by the Conservation Officer Service, part of the Enforcement program of the Ministry of Environment and its predecessors under the Environmental Management Act (SBC 2003, c. 53) between 1980-2012. They consist of final/approved policies, procedures, standards, and guidelines relating to environmental protection, fish and wildlife management, and public safety in the province of BC.
The records are arranged by category, then by policy name/section. They consist of correspondence, memoranda, final policy documents, reports, copies of occurrence reports, investigations, and copies of legislation. These records are classified as final policy documents (31000-00) under the Conservation Officer Service ORCS (schedule 201311), 2017. They are also assigned an internal filing code.

British Columbia. Ministry of Environment (2005-2017)

Conservation Officer Service wildlife attack final reports

  • GR-4005
  • Series
  • 1991-2012

The series consists of final reports summarizing wildlife attacks on humans created by the Conservation Officer Service, part of the Enforcement program of the Ministry of Environment and its predecessors under the Environmental Management Act (SBC 2003, c. 53) between 1991--2012. The final reports cover the response and related activities of the Conservation Officer Service (COS) to human-wildlife conflicts that pose a threat to public safety (e.g., wildlife attacks, repeated dangerous wildlife encounters at or near public locations, situations where dangerous wildlife has become habituated or food conditioned and now represents a risk to public safety, and livestock-large predator conflicts) in BC. COS also responds to certain cases of injured or dead wildlife (e.g., large carnivores or ungulates). The records document the investigation and outcome of wildlife attacks that threaten human safety and may result in human fatality or serious injury. They illustrate the evolution of wildlife attack investigative technique, causes of wildlife attacks, and methods used to dispatch wildlife. They may be used to inform wildlife conflict reduction strategies, policies and procedures, and educational materials developed by COS.

The records are arranged by geographic area and type of animal attack. They consist of memoranda and reports containing copies of photos, news clippings, memoranda, correspondence, case summaries, and exhibit materials. The records are classified by an internal filing code and ORCS classification 31040-14 (wildlife attack final reports) under the Conservation Officer Service ORCS (schedule 201311).

British Columbia. Ministry of Environment (2005-2017)

Pharmacare research and evaluation files

  • GR-3593
  • Series
  • 1969-2012

The series consists of Pharmacare research and evaluation files created by the Pharmacare Division of the Ministry of Health from 1969-2012. This includes correspondence, reports, medical journal articles, statistical printouts, formularies, working papers, memoranda, surveys, project charters and briefing notes. The series documents the development, management review and analysis of policies and programs to evaluate Pharmacare program objectives and efficiency. The series contains records documenting similar programs in other provinces and jurisdictions, and it appears as if these were used as comparative material for planning programs and developing policies. The series consists of correspondence with, and reports from, researchers at the University of British Columbia, who worked with statistics and records provided by Pharmacare. Among the surveys and correspondence contained within the series, there are patient satisfaction surveys and further background material on the Home Oxygen program. The series also consists of pharmacy review questionnaires and other such surveys.

The series consists of statistical reports that were generated from the records of specific dispensing institutions and pharmacies. Many of the statistical reports contain several Pharmacare codes for which there is no apparent key. The series also contains drug cost calculations.

The series consists of copies of reports and articles from pharmaceutical and medical publications. These appear to have been used in order to determine whether or not a particular pharmaceutical would be suitable for coverage by Pharmacare, and whether there were more effective drugs available on the market. Frequently, researchers compiled studies and further reports to support the argument for a drug’s inclusion within the Pharmacare program. This may include evaluations on budgetary impacts for adding new drugs to the Pharmacare program or expanding uses for existing drugs, referred to as budget impact analysis.

The series includes a set of records on the DMAN project. However, supporting accession records include a note that, as of May 2001, the Ministry of Health were not aware of the meaning of the acronym.

The records in this series are covered by classifications 70450 and 70300 of the Pharmacare Services ORCS (schedule 123389).

British Columbia. Pharmacare division

Parks attendance statistical reports

  • GR-3831
  • Series
  • 1958-2012

This series contains statistical reports from BC Parks detailing parks attendance and use. The series contains four main types of forms: campground attendance sheets, marine park attendance sheets, automatic traffic counter sheet and day visit count sheets. These reports count the number of visitors renting campgrounds, docking their boats, or driving through the parks gate. The reports are also used to count revenues. Typically, reports include a section for explanations where Parks staff can add notes commenting on high/low attendance numbers due to factors such as weather and holidays.
One report discusses call center and website statistics, notably documenting how many interactions convert to sales.
Occasionally, there are reports submitted from companies operating businesses on BC Parks land (e.g. water rafting adventures) which includes attendance data.

Also within the series are files describing how the reporting system works. These records explain the use of different sheets, proper procedures for recording data (both by hand or using electronic systems), lists of parks per area and layouts of park services areas including locations of gates and counters. The records also contain instructions for using the Public Safety and Park Security Online System, though no actual security reports are included within the records.

The records are organized in different ways depending on the year. Most early records seem to divide reports into years, with reports covering all parks. Around 1970, the system changed to region-based reporting with files organized by region. Within these files, the records are further classified by park name. Finally, individual attendance sheet records are arranged by month and year. Some files include a summary of stats from all districts.

British Columbia. Ministry of Environment (2005-2017)

Emerging health care issues files

  • GR-3513
  • Series
  • 1996-2011

The series consists of correspondence, reports, agreements, guidelines, presentations, meeting minutes and agendas, briefing notes and communications strategies, and strategic planning documents created by the Ministry of Health’s Health Authorities division and its predecessors between 1996 and 2011. The records document the research and formulation of recommendations on emerging health issues, such as the emergence of new communicable diseases. The records cover a variety of topics, including redesign plans for various health authorities across British Columbia, risk assessments, wait time targets and the demand for acute care beds, as well as new medications and medical devices.

Correspondence is arranged chronologically by Health Authority. Other records are arranged by project or plan.

The records were frequently interfiled with records from other series, and this has led to significant cross-over between the series. In many accessions from the Ministry of Health/Ministry of Health Services, misclassification of records is evident. The records are arranged according to the original BC Government ORCS classification scheme, except in cases where misclassification is obvious. If there was any doubt, the classification code on the records was followed. Researchers are advised to consult finding aids for the following related series in order to better and more fully understand the records : GR-3512, GR-3514, GR-3515, and GR-3516.

British Columbia. Health Authorities division

Vet lab pathology reports

  • GR-3798
  • Series
  • 1956-2011

The series consists of reports, test results and related records created by the provincial veterinary laboratory from 1956-2011. The lab was operated by various branches of the Ministry and Agriculture over the years, including the Animal Health Branch, Animal Industry Branch and Animal Health Centre. Test results are used to monitor the prevalence and incidence of animal disease in the province and relate to a wide variety of animal species from livestock to pets to exotic or zoo animals.

Animal test specimens are sent to the Veterinary Laboratory from livestock producers, farmers, feed representatives, companion animal owners, veterinarians, animal shelters, wildlife centres, universities and other government agencies for disease analysis. The lab's examination generally includes a post mortem examination of the animal, and selection of tissues for further study and analysis. Tests may include toxicology, virology, histopathology or bacteriology.

The resulting reports are the end product of the Animal Health Centre's diagnostic investigation of the testing completed on the specimens. The format of the reports evolved over the years. Records from 1956-1985 are bound ledger books summarizing the results of the specimen submission. Later records include specimen reports, case reports and test results. These documents summarize which pathological tests were conducted by the veterinarians at the Centre.

The reports may contain information such as the name of submitter, owner of the animal, specimen(s) being tested, species, breed, age, sex, feed type, vaccinations and sometimes a diagnosis. Some reports also contain a summary of the animal’s history and symptoms. Lab results are often attached to the reports. Results and final comments may include recommendations for disease treatment, prevention and control.

The following ministries were responsible for the creation of these records:

Dept. of Agriculture (1956-1976)
Ministry of Agriculture (1976-1980)
Ministry of Agriculture and Food (1980-1986)
Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (1986/1991)
Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1991-1998)
Ministry of Agriculture and Food (1998-2000)
Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries (2000-2005)
Ministry of Agriculture and Lands (2005-2010)

These records are covered by 61010-10 in the Ministry of Agriculture ORCS (schedule 121300).

British Columbia. Ministry of Agriculture and Lands

Forest Practices Board special investigation case files

  • GR-4010
  • Series
  • 2002-2011

This series consists of special investigation case files created by the Forest Practices Board from 2002-2011. Special investigations are initiated by the Forest Practices Board. The Board annually identifies issues of major public importance and of high significance for public confidence in the management of the province's public forests. Issues may relate to practices that have resulted in many complaints or for matters of larger public interest and concern. These issues may arise from prevailing environmental conditions such as major forest fires or insect infestations; from public concerns such as conserving endangered species or protecting community watersheds; or from technical issues such as the management of roads and bridges or riparian areas. The records document matters of significant public interest that may not be addressed through another complaint investigation or an audit.

Investigations may involve field investigations, research, and liaison with relevant Forest Districts and other stakeholders. Many records in this series are likely copies of records created by Ministry of Forests officials which were collected during the course of the investigation.

Investigations may relate to a specific area, or issues that are more widespread throughout the province. Subjects of special investigation include: free growing, biodiversity, terrain stability and landslides, post fire site rehabilitation, Forest Service Road (FSR) maintenance, compliance with section 86 of the Forest Planning and Practices Regulation, soil conservation, high retention harvesting, fish passage at stream crossings, Oil and Gas Commission ALR Agreement Audit, fire hazard assessment and abatement, compliance inspections and management data, species at risk on the Sunshine Coast, establishment of conservation areas for old growth and wildlife habitat in the Squamish and Chilliwack Forest Districts, effect of range practices on grasslands, and Little Lamb Creek.

Record types Include reports, statistics, correspondence, photographs, maps, plans, press releases, reference and research materials related to the creation of reports, briefing notes, and terms of reference outlining the scope of the investigation.

Files are arranged by subject. These records are covered by ORCS number 97325-20 in the Forest Practices Board schedule (number 131791).

British Columbia. Forest Practices Board

BC Ambulance Service and air evacuation major accident and investigation files

  • GR-4008
  • Series
  • 1992 - 2011

The series consists of BC Ambulance Service (BCAS) and air evacuation major accident and incident investigation files. The records may cover the investigation of complaints pertaining to the provision of emergency health services by the BCAS such as investigations of non-air evacuation major accidents and/or incidents that cause death or serious injury to a patient, paramedic or third party; responses to requests for patient information; handling of patient lost item reports; and responses to coroner’s recommendations to BCAS. These records document two accidents and subsequent investigations involving the death of paramedics: Sullivan Mine accident (2006) and Kennedy Lake (2010).

This series also includes air evacuation accident and incident investigations and reporting. These accident/incidents relate to any urgent or immediate safety concern and/or any accident or incident that requires immediate attention (e.g. emergency landing or crash); involves major equipment failure; and/or has the potential to cause and/or has caused injury to a crew member, patient or third party. This series documents the investigation and response to major equipment failures, threats to human life or limb, or violations of standard safe operating procedures. Final reports may also result in changes to protocols and training practices employed by the BCAS air ambulance program. These records were created by the BC Emergency Health Services Commission under the Emergency and Health Services Act (RSBC 1996, c. 182) between 1991-2011.

The records are arranged by accident/incident and then by topic. They include correspondence, reports such as the Occupational Safety & Health Reporting form [HLTH 1130A] and occurrence reports [HLTHEHSC 2403], briefing notes, investigation reports, incident reports, dispatch audio recordings, and other supporting documents. These records are classified as BC Ambulance Service major accidents and investigations (51020-20 ) and air evacuation major accident and incident investigations (51220-30) under the Emergency Health Services ORCS (schedule 123390), 2011. The records also use an internal file identification code

British Columbia. Emergency Health Services Commission

Health care program development files

  • GR-3503
  • Series
  • 1990-2011

The series consists of correspondence, discussion papers, reports, and agreements with health authorities and the federal and provincial governments. The records were created by the Ministry of Health's Health Authorities division and its predecessor, the Performance Management and Improvement division. Due to frequent restructuring within the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Health Services, accession 94-6163 was held for a time in the custody of the Health Services Policy and Quality Assurance division, a successor to the Health Authorities division.

The series documents the development of major province-wide programs designed to improve the health care system, and consists of records showing the rationale behind program development. Major programs that are covered include the BC Telehealth network, abortion services at the Elizabeth Bagshaw and Everywoman’s Healthcare clinics, and the Diabetes Surveillance System. The series also includes records on plastic surgery, macular degeneration treatments, SARS, Riverview, dental services, life support, surgery waiting lists, Canuck Place Children’s Hospital, patient safety, and cardiac revascularization.

The series is covered by ORCS 25100-30 of the Health Authority Performance Management schedule (schedule 122352) and is arranged by program. The records of the series were heavily interfiled with health authority records from other series. In many cases, the records appear to have been misclassified. Although the archivist has made every attempt to strike a balance between respecting the original classification system and arranging the records in a logical way, researchers are advised to consult the finding aids for related series. The majority of the CDs included in this series are commercially produced and do not contain original records. File directories with metadata have been printed to accompany CDs with original records.

British Columbia. Health Authorities division

Human blood, cell, tissue, and organ issues files

  • GR-3509
  • Series
  • 1991-2011

The series consists of correspondence, issue papers, copies of briefing notes, copies of memoranda of understanding, Canadian Blood Services reports, corporate plans, budgets, and financial statements created between 1991 and 2011. The records were created by two bodies within the Ministry of Health : the Health Authorities division (and its predecessor, the Performance Management and Improvement division), and branches within the Medical Services division. Due to frequent reorganization of the Ministry of Health, the records were in the custody of a substantial number of successor divisions and branches before transferal to the Archives. The series documents issues of national and provincial importance, such as the tainted blood incident of the 1980s, and provides evidence of the Province’s reaction and involvement with such issues. The series consists of a great deal of correspondence from affected patients to the Ministry of Health, as patients sought assistance, compensation, and recognition of their experiences.

The series also consists of the interim reports from the Krever inquiry, as well as provincial and territorial responses to the report. The Krever inquiry, also known as the Royal Commission of Inquiry on the Blood System in Canada was established in 1993 to investigate allegations that contaminated blood and blood products had been supplied to patients. The inquiry recommended the foundation of Héma-Quebec and Canadian Blood Services and also made recommendations for compensation to affected patients.

The series also consists of records relating to various organ banks in British Columbia, including ear banks, cell transplants, and other human bone and tissue banks. Many of the records deal with allegations of contamination in both the medical equipment and the product supply chain itself. The series also consists of several volumes of annual and quarterly reports of Canadian Blood Services as well as the records of the Deputy Minister’s Policy Advisory committee. The records in the series deal with both blood-borne pathogens, such as West Nile virus, and contaminated blood and tissue products, as well as with medications and components of blood and tissue banks, such as buffy coat and Palivizumab,.

The series is covered by the Health Authority Performance Management ORCS schedule (schedule 122532, secondary 25600-20) and is arranged by issue

British Columbia. Health Authorities division

Forest practices investigation, complaint, and concern case files

  • GR-3674
  • Series
  • 1991 - 2011

The series consists of the case files of the Forest Practices Board with regard to its main function of acting as an independent watchdog to ensure compliance with sound forest and range practices. The case files involve the investigation of complaints and concerns relating to: forest practices; planning, including forest stewardship plans, site plans and woodlot licence plans; range plans and practices; protection of resources, including recreation; and industry compliance and government enforcement of the Forest and Range Practice Act and the Forest Practices Board Regulation.

Each case file consists of an investigation of a complaint from a member of the public, organization, etc. These investigations culminate in a report consisting of a discussion of the investigation background, its findings, conclusions and recommendations.

The files are arranged and titled according to the case involved, normally based on a geographic name.

Record types include correspondence, complaint notices, investigation summaries and final reports, "field reviews," auditors' field notes of observations, reports such as compliance audits, minutes of board panel meetings, on-site photographs, maps, and plans such as woodlot plans and forest development plans.

The records include a very large number of compact discs, and a small number of 3.5 inch floppy discs, VHS tapes and 8mm cassette video tapes. The contents of the compact discs includes digital files of letters, memos, emails, faxes, reports, power point presentations, photographs, mp3 recordings such as interviews, and video footage as mp4 files.

These records are scheduled as 97250-20 in the Forest Practices Board ORCS (schedule 131791).

British Columbia. Forest Practices Board

Tuberculosis patient case files

  • GR-3475
  • Series
  • 1921-2011

The series consists of patient files for tuberculosis patients treated at clinics across the province. Typical patient files include medical notes, and some files include correspondence and small x-rays. The series documents the admission, diagnosis, treatment and discharge of patients suffering from tuberculosis and related chest ailments.

The records contain admission and discharge dates, diagnosis, laboratory reports, chest consultation forms with patient medical history, hospitalization summaries, applications for medical examination, progress notes, x-ray reports, clinical notes, consent forms, doctors’ orders, anti-microbial therapy records, correspondence, and, in some cases, autopsy reports with photographs.

Records in accession 95-9233 include files that were used in drug studies. These patient records are generally identified by a participant number which is linked to a master name-and-number index.

The series is arranged numerically by patient number. The records are covered by Communicable Disease Control Services ORCS 23400-20. Not all records dating from this time frame are in BC Archives' custody, as some are still with the creating agency.

British Columbia. Division of Tuberculosis Control

Alternative Payments program files

  • GR-3487
  • Series
  • 1968-2011

The series consists of applications, reports, forms, correspondence, printouts from government databases, and budget information received, maintained and created by the Ministry of Health and its successors. The records were created between 1968 and 2011 for the Alternative Payments program. The series documents the provision and monitoring of Medical Services Plan (MSP) funding for physician and health care practitioner services through alternative payment agreements to regional health authorities. The functions of the Alternative Payment program were controlled by the Physicians’ Compensation branch.

The Alternative Payments program is a method of funding physician services by the Medical Services Plan through means other than the fee-for-service method. The program is designed to secure sufficient access to care in situations where fee-for-service arrangements may not guarantee physicians the financial support or stability to be able to provide needed care, such as in teaching hospitals or community-based services in rural areas. There are two models for alternative payments : service agreements and sessional arrangements. Service agreements consist of a contract between the Ministry of Health and a Health Authority which retains physicians under contract or direct employment. Sessional arrangements are based on contracts between a Health Authority and a physician.

Records consist of alternative payment agreement accountability records case files. Records regard reviewing applications from regional health authorities for funding for programs within their geographic areas of responsibility; developing and monitoring agreements with regional health authorities; monitoring programs funded by alternative payments methods; and processing payments to regional health authorities in accordance with approved agreements. The series also include some files with related policies, procedures and forms.

Ministries responsible for the creation of this series, and their dates of the responsibility, are:
British Columbia. Ministry of Health (1976-2001)
British Columbia. Ministry of Health Services (2001-2005)
British Columbia. Ministry of Health (2005-2008)
British Columbia. Ministry of Health Services (2008-2011)

The records are arranged in several groups of accessions by health region and then by agency or health authority. The records are covered by Medical Services Plan ORCS 40740-20, 40600-00 and 40700-02.

British Columbia. Ministry of Health (1976-2001)

Medical Services Plan strategic program and initiative records

  • GR-3970
  • Series
  • 1995-2011

This series consists of Medical Services Plan strategic program and initiative records and other health committee files created by various divisions of the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Health Services from 1995-2011. Many records may have been created or used by the Medical Services Commission.

Records relate to medical and health care issues, studies or strategies initiated by or affecting the Medical Services Plan (MSP) with respect to the provision of physicians’ and health care practitioners’ services. This includes the development, planning, implementation, and management or maintenance of strategic programs and initiatives to support and enable the provision of health services to all residents of the province. Strategic programs and initiatives include primary health care initiatives, rural health initiatives, physician workforce planning or physician human resource management, physician utilization, chronic disease management, acute care programs, and continuing care programs.

Records include briefing notes, correspondence, committee minutes, contracts, budgets, reports, presentations, financial records and statistics. The series may also include related committee files and executive records.

This series is divided into the following subseries based on the program or group that created the records:

  1. Medical On-Call Availability Program (MOCAP), 2000-2009.
    MOCAP was created to provide unassigned or orphaned patients access to physicians and specialists for on-call emergency medical services. Records also include several other programs for doctor coverage and payment to improve medical care across the province by the Medical Services Plan (MSP). These records are related to physician resource planning or physician human resource management.

  2. Rural health records, 1995-2006.
    These records include those of the Joint Standing Committee on Rural Issues (JSCRI) and other committees related to healthcare in rural areas. The JSCRI was responsible for implementation of the subsidiary agreement for physicians in rural practice to enhance availability of stability of physician services in rural areas by addressing relevant unique and difficult circumstances. This subseries also includes committee files for the Mental Health Evaluation and Community Consultant Unit and Medical Services Commission Group Management.

  3. Blood and Laboratory Services, 2003-2009.
    Files address several issues related to blood and laboratory services, including BC Lab transformation, lab services reform, a telepathology project and studies of lab benchmarks.

  4. Chronic Disease Management and Primary Health Care Renewal, 2003-2011
    These records were primarily used by the Chronic Disease Management and Primary Health Care Renewal unit and its successor Primary Health Care. Most files are of committees related to General Practice doctors and managing chronic diseases, such as diabetes.

  5. Other files regarding a variety of topics, 2001-2009.
    These records include a variety of programs, services and committees, most related to health sector workforce and negotiating compensation for healthcare services. Some committees include Fee-for-Service-Transfers Review Team, Physician Strategic Services Advisory Committee, Emergency Medicine Committee, Electronic Medical Records Working Group, and Physician Information Technology Office Steering Committee. Prominent subjects include emergency room services and training, and electronic medical records. Records include committee files, Implementation reports, two Alternative payments agreement accountability records case files, and Subsidiary agreement dispute resolution.

The ministries responsible for these records and the years that they were responsible, are:
Ministry of Health (1976-2001)
Ministry of Health Services (2001-2005)
Ministry of Health (2005-2008)
Ministry of Health Services (2008-2011)

Records in this series are covered under ARCS 200-20, 280-20 and 280-30. Other records are covered under ORCS schedule 142798 (Medical Services Plan ORCS) numbers 40100-30, 40430-50, 40450-50, 40520-02, 40520-30, 40540-00, 40540-25, 40540-60, 40540-70 and 40560-20.

British Columbia. Ministry of Health Services (2008-2011)

Improvement district letters patent and bylaw register files

  • GR-3978
  • Series
  • 1922 - 2011

The series consists of improvement district letters patent and bylaw register files, 1922-2011. These records document the creation and dissolution of improvement districts, the approval and registration of their bylaws, and provincial government advice and support. Letters patent are the legal instruments for incorporating improvement districts in BC. They establish the name, boundary, services, voting procedures, and other fundamental aspects of each improvement district. Supplementary letters patent cover changes to improvement district boundaries, services, or the number of trustees. Improvement districts were initially created under the Water Act (SBC 1914, c. 81) to provide water and irrigation services to their residents. From 1914 to 1979, administrative responsibility for most improvement districts resided with the Office of the Comptroller of Water Rights (Water Rights Branch). In 1956, responsibility for improvement districts that provided fire protection came under the Dept. of Municipal Affairs, 1934-1976. The Ministry of Municipal Affairs (1978-1986) assumed administrative responsibility for all improvement districts in 1979 with the enactment of the Municipal Act (RSBC 1979, c. 290). This administrative responsibility continues under the Local Government Act (RSBC 2015, c. 1) with the following ministries: Municipal Affairs and Transit, 1986; Municipal Affairs, 1986-1988; Municipal Affairs, Recreation, and Culture, 1988-1991; Municipal Affairs, Recreation, and Housing, 1991-1993; Municipal Affairs, 1993-1996; Municipal Affairs and Housing,1996-1998; Municipal Affairs, 1998-2001; Community, Aboriginal, and Women’s Services, 2001-2005; Community Services, 2005-2008; and Community Development, 2008-2009. Regional districts, introduced in 1965, provide many of the services once provided by improvement districts so new improvement districts will not likely be created. All improvement district bylaws are filed with the ministry and some require registration with the Inspector of Municipalities before taking effect. Others do not require registration, taking effect upon adoption by the trustees of the improvement district.

The records include correspondence, indexes, letters patent and supplementary letters patent, orders in council, approval certificates, and maps. They are arranged alphabetically by improvement district name; some of the records also contain an improvement district number and code. The records were classified under 52000-40 (improvement district letters patent files) of the Local Government Services ORCS, 2006 (schedule 126379).

British Columbia. Water Rights Branch

Minister of Children and Family Development executive correspondence referral replies

  • GR-4038
  • Series
  • 2008 - 2011

The series consists of correspondence referrals created and received by the office of the Minister of Children and Family Development, 2008-2011. The correspondence was sent by members of the public to the minister’s office on a variety of topics related to children and families such as child protection, custody issues, Indigenous children and families, and youth and family services. The correspondence files include a referral/tracking slip from the ministry indicating to whom the letter was forwarded and the action that was taken. These records provide evidence of interaction between the public and the minister on issues of concern specifically related to ministry activities and operations regarding the care and treatment of children and youth in the province. The Minister of Children and Family Development during this time period was Mary Polak.

Records in this series are arranged alphabetically and chronologically. They consist of incoming and outgoing correspondence, referral/tracking slips, reports, and invitations. This series is covered by the Executive Records Schedule (102906) and ARCS 280-30 executive correspondence referral replies. A few files are classified as ARCS 155-08 invitations and greetings and 1580-05 staffing requirements planning files.

British Columbia. Ministry of Children and Family Development

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