A Message From the President

Dear Friends

The softer days of fall are finally here, blue skies, migrating birds flying high, scarlet Sumac livening up the hills, a fairly decent rain, and yes, oh yes, some new green growth coming through the ash. Once again, Nature’s resilience shines bright. 

What a summer it has been! Drought, heat, fires, smoke, more smoke, displaced people, uncertainty, communities stretched to the limit, kindness, support and helping hands stretched out by those less affected. The worst and the best of a challenging summer. Nature provided the worst; people met the challenge.

Leading up to the Osoyoos fiery climax, visitors at the Osoyoos Desert Centre enjoyed their tours and special events. It was summer, pleasant mornings, hot days, sweet evenings, but oh so very dry. A new pergola provided shade over the picnic tables, a little rest, perhaps a snack, definitely another drink of water. And on to the next summer activity.

Then whammy; a stray spark ignited vegetation near Oroville. With strong south winds the flames raced northward, people hurriedly evacuating, homes saved by valiant firefighters. As the fire was burning fiercely above us, we were concerned about stray embers igniting the tinder dry vegetation and sweeping through the Centre. Foremost in our minds was the safety of staff and visitors. What to do? The answer was obvious. Close! Until the threat passed. Close, even though this would result in no visitors for two weeks and further affect admissions already impacted by smoke and heat. But safety came first.

The threat passed; the Centre was intact. We reopened, but overall conditions reduced outdoor activity and visitor numbers remained down. So here we are. The challenging summer has reduced our cash flow significantly. Despite this, our commitment to our many programs is not squelched. We have the energy to continue. The site provides the platform, but cash is essential to maintaining the educational and fun programs enjoyed by our diverse visitors. 

Board and staff are optimistic, but we need your help. Please consider making a donation to us this year. All donations are tax deductible and can be made easily and securely online through CanadaHelps.org via the link below. If you would prefer to send your donation via Canada Post please download the donation form here and mail to: Box 123, Osoyoos, BC V0H 1V0. Every contribution is much appreciated. If you’ve already donated to us this year, thank you so much!

We look forward to next year with renewed energy and a 25^th anniversary celebration of the opening of the Osoyoos Desert Centre. Stay tuned for the many exciting plans that are in the works.

Your President, Lee McFadyen

Tel 250.495.2470 | mail@desert.org | www.desert.org