There has been a lot of discussion with both support and opposition to creating a National Park in the South Okanagan.   The provincial government has asked for feedback and October 12 is the deadline:

• Protected Areas Framework for BC’s South Okanagan

An overview map is provided:

A website in support of the South Okanagan National Park states that there is 3:1 support locally based on a poll.   The site makes a strong case and is worth visiting:

• South Okanagan – Similkameen National Park

A feasibility study has been done by Parks Canada:

• Proposed National Park Reserve for the South Okanagan – Similkameen

Opposition seems to reside with local ranchers, ATV riders, and hunters, but the proposal deals with grazing rights so ranchers concerns may be addressed now.   Local First Nations have supported the Park and British Columbians from outside the local area generally support the concept.   Yet, there a lot of local “No National Park” signs along the road corridors.   Is this a NIMBY situation?

• Globe and Mail article
• Wilderness Committee article
• Vancouver Sun article

Although this is a few hours drive from Kamloops, we can still take a stand on this issue and have our opinions heard.   Conserving lands under the National Parks banner is one of the great achievements of our country.   I will be attending meetings to support this cause.   I invite you to learn more about the proposal and get involved too.