A recent public opinion study carried out by McAllister Opinion Research (based in Vancouver) regarding the proposed South Okanagan-Similkameen National Park Reserve (SOS) has voiced the region’s desire for its establishment. The telephone survey between May 26 and May 31, 2010 interviewed 405 randomly selected adults aged 18+.

Here are the major findings of the survey:

– 95% said it was important to protect the natural ecosystem, plant and wildlife species in the South Okanagan in order to maintain their quality of life

– 63% were in favour of protecting a portion of South Okanagan-Similkameen in a National Park

– 17% were concerned about the environment and conservation issues

There have been, however, some concerns over the establishment of the SOSNational Park Reserve, mainly coming from ranchers who are afraid their grazing tenures would be forfeited and First Nations who voiced their opposition due to their exclusion from park consultations done by the government. “Parks Canada has been focused on refining the draft park proposal to respond to concerns raised by First Nations, the ranching community, and other stakeholders”, says Debbie Clarke, Parks Canada’s project manager for the feasibility study. She adds, “From Parks Canada’s perspective, therewould be tremendous opportunity to work together to develop and manage a national park reserve that integrates traditional knowledge and indigenous perspectives with science-informed management”.

We hope this park will be established in the near future as it becomes obvious that all are in favor! Write a letter in support of making South Okanagan-Similkameen Valleys in southern British Columbia a National Park Reserve.

Photos: Okanagan Vaseux Lake by GwenBarlee and Big Horn Sheep by Larry Halverson