MLA Linda Larson.
The future of a possible national park reserve in the South Okanagan still hangs in limbo as the B.C. Environment Ministry’s review of public feedback has been delayed.
The B.C. government issued an “Intentions Paper” last August that proposed establishment of a national park reserve in two geographically separate areas – south of Highway 3 and west of Vaseux Lake.
A large area between the two, containing Mount Kobau, would become a provincial conservancy, with less stringent protection.
The public was invited to submit comments and proposals to the province until Oct. 31.
MLA Linda Larson said in a recent bulletin that the delay was caused by a staffing turnover at the Ministry of Environment.
“It was the wish of the public to have ministry staff be responsible for completing the process, so we will all have to be patient a while longer,” Larson wrote.
Last fall Larson attempted to have an unnamed, handpicked committee review the submissions, but she disbanded the committee after it was revealed to include park opponents, but no supporters.
A ministry spokesperson declined to confirm that the delay is the result of a staffing turnover, saying the ministry doesn’t comment on personnel matters for privacy and confidentiality reasons.
“The review of feedback is still ongoing as staff continues to review submissions,” he said. “A summary report will be posted publicly in early 2016. The results of the consultation will inform recommendations on what, if any, new land protection measures should be undertaken in the South Okanagan.”
RICHARD McGUIRE
Osoyoos Times
