I was honoured to attend the press conference of the Okanagan Nation Alliance when they released the results of their feasibility study regarding the proposed national park. I was encouraged to hear that they believed the park would be positive for their people. This gives us the opportunity to work with our First Nations neighbours.
Building on First Nations support, now is the time for all of us who believe in the national park to write federal Environment Minister Peter Kent. Let him know that you support the national park, and urge Parks Canada to finalize negotiations with the province. Final negotiations would detail the final boundaries and resolve the outstanding issues with local businesses, ranchers and First Nations.
The national park reserve would bring positive economic benefits to the region — providing business and tourism opportunities, jobs and a tourism destination and product that is unique and unparalleled anywhere in B.C. or Canada. The proposed national park reserve will protect one of the most imperilled ecosystems in British Columbia and is of crucial conservation importance to all Canadians.
We can’t let this momentum be lost. Let the politicians know you support the park.
Harry Nielsen
Osoyoos
