Local leader spotlight: Working to protect the elk herd of Naramata Bench

 

Community members are coming together to help protect an elk herd whose winter home on the Naramata Bench is at risk of being clearcut. This beautiful area is in the territory of the Syilx Okanagan People, near Penticton.

Development company, Canadian Horizons, is proposing a new development on approximately 126 acres of stunning land that is inhabited by a significant herd of elk.

Every year, over 140 elk live on the hillsides above the Naramata Bench from November to March, prior to moving up the mountain to raise their babies.

The proposed development would clearcut their home.

The photo below is of a clearcut a few miles further north along the plateau. If the proposed subdivision proceeds, the clearcut will be twice the size of the one shown here, and the elk will lose their precious habitat.

Things are moving quickly with this development. You can help safeguard this elk herd and their home. If you are interested, please reach out to Gjoa Taylor of the Society for Preservation of the Naramata Bench ASAP for more information and ways to help.

 

Photos by John Bilodeau and Copper Sky Productions.