National Park Study Released by Okanagan Nation

Okanagan Nation Commits to Exploring Partnership with Parks Canada

The four South Okanagan Bands are now seeking a common vision for a Syilx/Parks Canada protected area. For the past year, the bands have been engaged in collaborative discussions with Parks Canada. Chief Robert Edward, Lower Similkameen Indian Band, states “Our rights as Syilx people come with responsibilities and obligation to the natural world, just as they always have. Our work with Parks Canada may provide future partnerships and will assist us in determining what will be the best direction for taking care of our lands. The health of our land, community and future generations is of utmost importance. The lands of our ancestors are an issue always worthy of continued discussions. The Okanagan Nation and Parks Canada have found common interests and concerns, including water, biodiversity, and species at risk, and integrating economic opportunities such as ecotourism with ecological health. Download full report, Assessing-Feasibility-Syilx-Final-Report.