Healthy Ecosystems

Surrounded by high mountain ranges with abundant water, ample hydro-electric power and arable land, the Okanagan Valley is a uniquely beautiful and resilient region.  But it is by no means immune to the challenges of rapid growth and global climate change.

Healthy, functioning ecosystems are natural capital.  They are essential to our quality of life.  These ecosystems provide us with valuable services:  the pure water we drink, the clean air we breathe, the fish and healthy foods we eat, the recreational opportunities we enjoy.  Wetlands and protect us from floods.  Healthy forests protect us from fires.  

But if we over-exploit these resources and exceed their carrying capacity, they will no longer be able to support us.  How can we incorporate best management practices, state-of-the-art technologies and indigenous knowledge to protect and restore our natural ecosystems?

This initiative aims to protect the remaining critical eco-systems (forests, grasslands, wildlife corridors, lakes and streams), and identify and implement projects to restore critical areas damaged by human development.  Scientific evidence tells us that maintaining habitat connectivity is one of the most significant strategies for maximizing adaptivity and resilience to climate change.  

Adopting this watershed approach ensures property will be protected, real estate values will be improved, quality of life will be enhanced, and recreational opportunities expanded.  Public policies that encourage these goals are urgently needed.  So is citizen engagement.  We welcome your participation in this critical initiative.