Working together to Keep Nature in our Future.

South Okanagan-Similkameen
Conservation Program

Why is stewardship so important to this region?

Stewardship is the conservation of natural wildlife habitat by individual landowners and community groups. Conserving and restoring natural areas offers personal satisfaction and is a lasting legacy for future generations. The Okanagan Similkameen Stewardship Society can support you in your stewardship efforts. Check out their web site to learn more.

The Okanagan-Similkameen – a unique part of Canada that needs your help

The south Okanagan and lower Similkameen valleys have a rich diversity of habitats and wildlife, including some plant and animal species that are found nowhere else in Canada. Urban and agricultural development has reduced natural areas and fragmented habitats so private landowners now play a vital role in protecting wildlife habitat and biodiversity

Studies done by the BC Ministry of Environment show that habitat loss in the South Okanagan since the 1800s has been significant.
70% of grassland habitat has disappeared
90% of Okanagan River’s riparian (creek-side) habitat has been eliminated
85% of low-elevation wetlands are gone.

Since a large percentage of remaining valuable habitats occur on private land your voluntary stewardship activities can make a big difference.

Recent Comments

    The vision of SOSCP is to maintain a healthy environment that sustains the diversity of indigenous plants and animals while enriching people’s lives. The six broad strategic objectives that guide SOSCP activities are:

    Land use decisions, policies, and practices recognize the importance of ecological conservation. SOSCP and partners work to provide decision-makers, planners, and developers with information, tools and expertise needed to make sustainable planning choices.

    Promote Ecologically Sustainable Land-Use

    Supporting the acquisition of key habitats includes purchases, covenants or donations of private land, often in conjunction with enhanced protection of Crown lands. Securement activities include restoration, care, and management of these important areas.

    Securing Key Habitats

    SOSCP promotes stewardship activities and encourages landowners to protect biodiversity, enhance habitat for plants and wildlife, and manage lands sustainably.

    Enhancing Stewardship on Public and Private Land

    Involving communities in conservation is essential. SOSCP support professional development workshops, school programs, festivals and outdoor seminars that foster a love and understanding of our natural environment.

    Expanding Community Involvement

    SOSCP is committed to using a science-based approach to guide actions and decision-making, and to promote and facilitate further scientific research for species and ecosystems at risk.

    Applying a Science-Based Approach

    The En'owkin Centre continues its work to recover, revitalize and perpetuate Syilx Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) so it can be applied throughout traditional Syilx territory.

    Applying Traditional Ecological Knowledge