Protecting Biodiversity and Wildlife Corridors in the South Okanagan

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is an industry-led, not-for-profit organization, governed by an elected Board of Directors, who represent and support business and community tourism interests throughout the Thompson Okanagan region.

This project aims to establish a comprehensive connectivity initiative in the South Okanagan that will bring all parties together to identify key ecological corridors that are critical for the long-term survival of our fish, wildlife and indigenous plants. The project will assist in setting policy and best practices for land use planning and help inform land stewardship, protection measures, and habitat restoration for conservation organizations. The project builds on the Biodiversity Conservation Strategy for the South Okanagan and advances collaboration between syilx communities and all levels of government, academia and environmental NGOs. This project is being lead by the Okanagan Collaborative Conservation Program (OCCP).

This project is the first year of a 3-year request. Approved by Regional District Okanagan Similkameen Board and $40,000.00 was allocated from the South Okanagan Conservation Fund in 2025. The project is expected to complete by January 31, 2026.