Oliver Mountain Off-road Vehicle Strategy
What was this engagement about?
Okanagan Valley residents were invited to suggest ways to help protect sensitive grassland ecosystems in the Oliver Mountain area while also considering the interests of recreational users, such as drivers of off-road vehicles (ORVs).
As part of an ongoing government planning process, Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations staff hosted two open houses in Osoyoos and Oliver in March 2015. The goal of those open houses was to provide background information and gather public input to explore different management options for minimizing the environmental impacts of recreational activities in the Oliver Mountain area.
The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations is also consulting directly with First Nations with aboriginal interests in the area.
ORV use has been expanding in the Okanagan Valley and the activity’s effects on 11 priority ecosystems and 17 federally listed species-at-risk in the region have also increased.
Some options that were discussed at the open houses in March included:
- encouraging ORV riders to use alternative sites (such as the well-established Bear Creek and Okanagan Falls ORV trail systems, located nearby)
- identifying other nearby sites on Crown land that contain less-sensitive habitat and might be suitable for ORV activities
How can my contribution make a difference?
The long-term goal of the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations is to find a solution that will enhance the protection of Oliver Mountain ecosystems, while allowing riders to continue enjoying their sport in the South Okanagan.
Anyone who wished to offer a suggestion or submit feedback on the project was invited to send an email.
Details of the Engagement:
Date: Closed September 17, 2015
Status: Closed
Location: Thompson/Okanagan
Category: Parks & Recreation
Types: Email