Shoreline study gets public view

September 11, 2008

The Regional District Okanagan Similkameen will be hosting an open house for the public to review information from the Skaha Lake Shoreline Study on Sept. 15

Over the past several months, consultants for the RDOS have been collecting biological, land use and geological inventory information for the Skaha Lake shoreline.

This information has been analyzed and summarized into a draft report and will be used to create a comprehensive plan for management of the shoreline within Electoral Area D.

“We welcome this opportunity to review work completed so far and to provide feedback and input,” said shoreline committee chair and regional area director Bill Schwarz.

“Skaha Lake is an important amenity for the region and managing the shoreline is critical for long-term sustainability.”

A group of 11 volunteers from Kaleden, Skaha Estates and Okanagan Falls make up the committee has developed nine basic principles for shoreline management.

These principles include enhancing connectivity, limiting noise, water and air pollution, conserving the natural environment, protecting and expanding recreation, increasing accessibility, maintaining opportunities for economic development, enhancing history, culture and education, protecting and enhancing the character and scenery and understanding and considering relevant legislation.

Funding for the project has been provided by the Okanagan Basin Water Board and the RDOS with support from the Okanagan Nation Alliance and Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

The open house is on Monday at Kenyon House in Kenyon Park, Okanagan Falls. People are welcome to drop-in between 4:40 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

A second open house is scheduled for Sept. 29 at the same time and location. Copies of the draft report and presentation boards with maps and air photos showing results of the inventory will be available to view.