Pre-Conference Overnight Field Trip to the South Okanagan (May 25 – May 26, 2020)
Departure: May 25th @ 1:00pm from the Manteo Resort, Kelowna
Return: May 26th @ 4:00pm to the Manteo Resort, Kelowna
Note: All times are approximate and subject to confirmation.
Please join our host, James Littley of the Okanagan Basin Water Board and Chair of Environment Funders Canada’s 2020 Conference in Kelowna, and your fellow Environment Funders Canada members for a unique pre-conference field trip to the South Okanagan.
The South Okanagan, with the highest average annual daily temperatures in Canada, is recognized as one of the four most endangered ecosystems in Canada. Receiving only 12.7mm of precipitation annually, it is one of Canada’s only ‘semi-arid’ regions and is home to a unique ecosystem with at least 32 animal species of concern. Burrowing Owls, Western Screech-owls, California Bighorn Sheep, Tiger Salamanders, Gopher Snakes and White-headed Woodpeckers all survive in the wetlands, grasslands and forests of the South Okanagan.
Our field trip will focus on learning about the many land and water conservation and restoration efforts in the region, their challenges and opportunities, and will respect the rich Indigenous history and leadership in this area, with visits to a number of Indigenous-led projects and places.
We anticipate departing Kelowna early afternoon May 25th, travelling to Osoyoos for an overnight stay at the beautiful Spirit Ridge Resort, and returning to Kelowna on May 26th in time to freshen up and enjoy the EFC opening reception. While the specific itinerary is still being developed, we hope to visit the En’owkin Centre’s K’əmcənitkw Floodplain Re-engagement Project (formerly called the ECOmmunity Place Locatee Lands), Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, and several private and/or public conservation projects along the route. Of course, there will also be good food and plenty of time to enjoy the company of colleagues and friends.
Please indicate your interest in learning more about the field trip by selecting the Field Trip information option on the conference Eventbrite registration page. We will advise you about final agenda and cost details by the end of the year and will require that you confirm your participation once that information is available.