IGS585/OK2023WT2/LCimpressions

IGS 585

Lake Country Class Observations

The average age of Lake Country residents is higher than the provincial average.
- The community recognizes this and is trying to be ‘age friendly’.
- It was notable in the active communities plan that the needs of those with mobility challenges was recognized.
There has been lots of growth. 22% population increase between the two most recent census (5 year span).
The OCP was notably lacking in recommending initiatives to educate the public in regards to their role in achieving sustainability for Lake Country.
The OCP spoke to conservation, particularly the wildlife corridor on the eastern slopes of the valley.
- How protection of this corridor was to be achieved seemed to emphasize getting private land owners to put in most of the effort. Will this work?
Water is an issue.
- 56% of water used in Lake Country is used by agriculture.
- There has been a 15% reduction in water use. However, not clear where this has occurred – entire community, part of community, per capita, … ?
- Is there a role for reclaimed water?
Agriculture.
- How important is it really?
- It is large user of landscape. Is there a way to reduce the environmental impact and/or increase the ecological services provided?

Ecological Services,
Carbon Neutrality,
Disconnect of newcomers with community.
- Questions about what is the identity, how to get people to connect to it.
Role of recreation.
Transportation.
Equity
Aging population.

Lake Country planning
Lake Country local politicians
Conservation / environmental NGO (Okanagan Collaborative Conservation Partnership?)
Urban ecology expertise (consultant?)
Transportation
Provincial representative, in relation to scope for incentive based tools
Okanagan Basin Water Board
Indigenous perspective – ONA, OKIB, Lake Country liason
Heritage
Social dimension
Community group (Rotary Club)
Business group (Chamber of Commerce)