The Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) has added 25 regional parks to the Canadian Protected and Conserved Areas Database.
The RDCO and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change announced the news today.
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According to the RDCO, this action will help protect unique habitats in the Okanagan Valley that support some of the most threatened species and biodiverse areas in the region.
“The Regional District of Central Okanagan, located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded land of the syilx/Okanagan people, is dedicated to preserving the biodiversity of our region for future generations,” says Loyal Wooldridge, Board Chair, Regional District of Central Okanagan.
“We continue to prioritize local conservation efforts to showcase our breathtaking landscapes and protect vital habitats for endangered species. This national recognition of the large expanse of our natural parks showcases our commitment to addressing climate change while creating opportunities for people to connect with nature.”
The combined area, with parks in West Kelowna, Lake Country, Peachland and Westbank First Nation, represents 2,114 hectares, which is equivalent to 21.1-square-kilometres. The total area is larger than the City of Victoria.
Environment and Climate Change Canada says that science shows that conserving and restoring nature is vital to halting and reversing biodiversity loss, protecting species at risk, and fighting climate change. Their goal is to protect 30% of land and water by 2030.
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