By Dan Walton
Oliver Chronicle
It’s time to brainstorm over what should be done with the prime parkland on Fairview Road just south of the new Coast Hotel.
While the topic was being discussed during an open house last week at the community centre, an innovative idea was shared by Caitlyn Bennett, who’s the food action coordinator with Oliver Parks and Recreation. She wonders if the park could be best utilized as a space for pollinator species and native plants.
In collaboration with the Osoyoos Indian Band, “We could put indigenous plant species into that space, which would not only stimulate bee population and other pollinators,” she said. “From there, signage can be installed to identify each plant, explain what it was historically used for by indigenous communities, and include the indigenous spelling and pronunciation.”
The site can be incorporated into local curriculums, Bennett said, as it would create an opportunity for students to learn about biology in Oliver’s arid environment.
“Anybody will be able to see what plants and flowers are there and go do it in their own garden.”
• Read more: Town to expedite construction on Fairview
Beyond the benefit more bees would bring to the natural environment, Bennett said the effects could also be an advantage for local agriculture.
“Especially with so many orchards and vineyards nearby.”
And since the parkland is located so close to downtown, the channel trail, the library and sports facilities – Bennett believes a site for native and pollinator plants could become a boon for tourism.
“This could really help draw tourists as they go between the arenas and the bike path to the hotel, they’ll have this space to engage with our indigenous community instead of having to go to Osoyoos to see the boardwalks.”
Since a pollinator park featuring indigenous plants would be a boost for First Nations culture and local ecology, Bennett suspects that such a project would be eligible for valuable grant funding.
“It’s mostly taxpayers dollars dedicated to the project right now, but this is an opportunity to achieve more by partnering with a larger organization.”
In hopes of getting her idea considered as a serious proposal, Bennett said the next step is to speak with Town staffers, submit a written proposal and present it before council.
