The Okanagan Similkameen Stewardship (OSS) is celebrating the success of its 2024 fall planting season, during which 200 volunteers joined forces to plant over 3,400 native trees, shrubs, grasses and wildflowers. These efforts spanned both community spaces and private lands stewarded by Wildlife Habitat Stewards—landowners who enhance wildlife habitats on their properties while continuing sustainable land-use practices such as farming.
This year’s planting season included eight diverse projects in Cawston, Oliver, Kelowna, Vernon, and Lumby, targeting riparian zones, grasslands, and even hedgerow corridors. A highlight was the creation of a riparian area at Kelowna’s Thomson Marsh Park, where 380 native plants were introduced to support bird, amphibian, and reptile populations. These projects also strengthened partnerships with Wildlife Habitat Stewards, who play a key role in conservation by integrating habitat restoration with agricultural or urban land use.
“Community involvement and collaboration with our Wildlife Habitat Stewards are at the heart of our success,” said Alyson Skinner, OSS Executive Director. “These projects not only restore critical ecosystems but also demonstrate that it is possible to maintain sustainable land-use practices while enhancing biodiversity. Together, we’re building a more resilient environment for wildlife and people alike.”
Riparian areas—a priority focus for OSS—are critical to over 80% of Okanagan wildlife but have faced significant losses due to development. By planting native vegetation, OSS helps restore these vital ecosystems, which reduce erosion, filter pollutants, provide shade, and serve as essential habitats for pollinators and other wildlife.
OSS extends its heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, funders, and community partners who supported this planting season.
Funders for this planting season included:
Environment and Climate Change Canada
RDNO's North Okanagan Conservation Fund
Community Foundation of the North Okanagan
BC Community Gaming Grant
City of Vernon Sustainability Grant
TD Friends of the Environment
City of Kelowna
Better World Club of Kelowna
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