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Dear Supporters,
Summer is settling in; it's hard to believe that July is well launched. Seems we galloped through spring, then raced through June, each with mostly easy weather and now July, so on comes the heat! My comfort zone is up to the mid 30s. Beyond that, life can get a little uncomfortable. I take a cue from the birds, rise before the sun, scurry around to get chores done, as the heat takes over, settle into the inviting cool provided by shade from old trees or retreat into my nest, indoors, just perfect for a siesta. After the sun slips behind the mountain, cooler air falls into the valley, and it is time to join the birds for evening's essential activities.
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 | | Thinking back to December 2025, when a Category 5 atmospheric river slammed into the Pacific Northwest bringing torrential rain and causing catastrophic flooding across Washington state, Oregon and southern British Columbia. For a brief period all routes from the lower mainland east were closed. Between Hope and Princeton, Highway 3 suffered 23 major washouts and culvert failures, closing the vital route on December 16 just before the major winter holidays and causing many to wonder if they can travel to celebrate with family and friends or enjoy that booked skiing adventure. So much disappointment and criticism about highways in general, Highway 3 in particular. I thought there was too little understanding of the hazards of highways built through steep mountain terrain and their vulnerability to the whims of weather. But all ended well! A courageous crew worked 24/7 in dangerous and trying conditions and the highway reopened on December 24. Life moved on. Our travel route, our corridor, was again safe.
| | Soon after this, my friend Doreen and I were discussing the situation and our minds, as they often do, turned to wildlife. Imagine this: I have flown a thousand kilometres north to my traditional nesting grounds, observing many changes along the way, thankful that the industrial site below me is not built on my riparian area. But I soon become disoriented as mine should be very close, but no, no trees, no bushes, none of the habitat I left last fall when I went south is intact. Oh dear, I must be lost, but no, just a little further ahead is the subdivision I remember, so to be sure I must backtrack a little, but yes, my traditional habitat, my family rearing sight is gone, and there are few other sites I can adapt to or will be allowed into as I would be invading limited territory of ‘the others’. Perhaps I can find a spot to build a nest and find food to raise my family in that yard where thoughtful people realize the importance of insects, shrubbery, flowers, bird houses and have left a wild corner ‘for nature’ where nesting sites exist, and intact plant litter helps provide food for my babies, all welcoming me to share this space. Or: I have four legs, or slither, or hop, and my long established ‘wildlife corridor’ has vanished. So I end up in people’s back yards, some are kind and help me on my way, others just see me as a nuisance without realizing I too need to get from A to B if I am going to breed and keep my species vibrant. | | |
We are fortunate to have the Osoyoos Desert Centre just where it is. While not truly a wildlife corridor as it is fragmented north, south, east and west, it is a rest stop along the way, providing shelter, food, protection, time to restore energy for the next lap. Various species have chosen the site for a permanent home and several more as a family raising site. Again, hats off to the Founding members who had the vision and to all who have taken up the cause and helped maintain the site.
As is my custom, I will hand over to Jayme the updating of the exciting projects happening at the Osoyoos Desert Centre. And as always, none of our work could happen without the volunteers, including Board members, and the extraordinary energy Jayme releases making sure the Centre functions well and our goals are being met.
May bird song always be a companion, the summer holidays have lovely surprises and may a wander down the ODC boardwalk be one of your summer pleasures.
On behalf of the Osoyoos Desert Society Board,
Lee
Lee McFadyen
President, Osoyoos Desert Society
| | Meet our 2026 Conservation Guides | | |
Vriti (she/her) is a familiar face at the ODC returning for her fourth summer as ODC lead and Special Events Coordinator! Vriti attends the University of Victoria studying Economics and Environmental Studies. She loves the intersection between nature and people and hopes to work in environmental policy or law post-grad. At the ODC, she loves to try different edible plants and bird watch to her heart's content! When not at ODC, Vriti loves paddle boarding, cooking or shopping on Facebook marketplace. Her tours are filled with laughs and information that help build connections within this environment.
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EJ (he/him) is majoring in Zoology at UBC Okanagan. He has always had a passion for animals dating back to his younger years when he watched shows like "Wild Kratts" and other animal-related media. He dreams of one day earning a PhD and conducting research to help conserve endangered species worldwide. His tours at the ODC focus on the evolution of traits to survive a desert environment and the interconnectivity of the natural world. When not working, EJ can be found relaxing at home, playing video games or hanging out with friends. He also loves to go on walks, swim at the beach, or lift weights in the gym.
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Evee (she/they) studies Marine Biology with a minor in Environmental Studies at the University of Victoria. They love to tide pool, hike, anything that gets them outside. When not at the ODC, they can often be found exploring or hanging out at a lake in their free time! So far, their favourite thing at the ODC is monitoring the baby bluebirds and seeing them grow up. You can expect their tours to be informative and interesting with lots of fun facts and connections between the ecosystem.
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Jaslyne (she/they) is studying at UBC majoring in Environmental Sciences with a concentration in ecology and conservation. Her favourite part of being an ODC Conservation Guide is sharing fun facts, stories, and connecting with visitors! On Jaslyne’s tour you can expect information on unique ecosystem interactions partnered with enthusiasm and anecdotes. When not at ODC, she loves relaxing at the beach, baking, reading, hiking and playing her guitar. She is passionate about community-based conservation and making meaningful connections with the people and environment around her!
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Remembering Kathie
We were so sad to have lost a very special friend to the ODC earlier this year, Kathie Westphal. A longtime Admissions Desk Volunteer, Honorary Lifetime Member and Donor, Kathie was a wonderful presence at the Osoyoos Desert Centre. She was a joy to talk with, always excited to discuss the latest news headline or share how interesting the new nature show she had discovered on TV was. Her warm smile, gentle quiet laugh and enthusiasm for sharing stories about our local community and all that was happening at the ODC brightened the days of visitors, volunteers and staff alike. We miss you Kathie.
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We are honoured that her husband Ernie has dedicated a bench at the Osoyoos Desert Centre in her memory. Ernie too is a special friend of the ODC, a Volunteer since the very early days of the ODC, an Honorary Lifetime Member and Donor. During your next visit we, along with Ernie, invite you to pause at our north Spadefoot pond deck for a moment, take in the beauty of the landscape Kathie loved so much and reflect on the lasting impact she had on the ODC and the community she cared about so deeply.
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We're Almost There!
Construction of our new accessible washrooms are moving right along and we've been so excited watching it take shape. This project could not have happened without the incredible dedication of our volunteers and the generous support of local businesses, contractors and suppliers who have donated time, materials, services and expertise along the way. Once completed the new facility will provide a more welcoming and accessible experience for all visitors, including those with mobility challenges and families with young children. Thank you so much to everyone who has helped bring this important project to life. We look forward to celebrating its unveiling with you in a few short weeks. Keep an eye out for our announcement that our new accessible washrooms at ODC are open for business!
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ODC was Buzzing Again!
For the second year in a row, we were delighted to present our Buzzing for Bees workshop as part of the Meadowlark Nature Festival. Participants of all ages learned about the incredible diversity of our region's native bees and why these important pollinators are essential to healthy ecosystems. Visitors also had the opportunity to build their own mason bee houses and take home practical tips for creating bee-friendly habitats in their own gardens. It was wonderful to see so many families and nature enthusiasts join us for another successful event, and we thank everyone who helped make the day such a buzz!
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Way To Go Angela!
All of us at ODC would like to send a big congratulations to our Treasurer Angela Huxham who recently completed the 2026 Oliver Triathlon, Standard Distance. Competing in her very first triathlon, Angela crossed the finish line with an impressive 2nd place in her age category. Well done, Angela! We are so delighted to celebrate her accomplishment and look forward to cheering her on in her next race. Angela says she's now training for the Vancouver Triathlon and is determined as ever to beat her time. We have no doubt Angela! You go girl!!
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Oh What a Day!
A big shout out once again to Deb Sherwood and Roger Horton for proudly representing the ODC in this year's Canada Day Cherry Fiesta Parade. We are so grateful for your ongoing commitment and for helping bring the Osoyoos Desert Centre into the heart of our community celebration.
Thanks also to Ivor and Heather Langley and their very stylish 1965 Skylark convertible!
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Nature Talks are underway!
Our Nature Talks are up and running taking place throughout the months of July and August. Talks feature fascinating tidbits on a variety of topics relating to the south Okanagan Similkameen habitats ranging from fire management, butterflies of BC, burrowing owls, backyard biodiversity and fascinating facts on the food pyramid. For a look at the full summer schedule click here.
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Romancing Returns!
Tickets are now on sale for our much-loved Romancing the Desert fundraiser taking place Saturday, August 22nd from 4 to 11 pm. Spend a magical summer evening in the glow of the full moon as you stroll our boardwalk trail, discovering fascinating insights into our unique desert habitat while enjoying delicious culinary creations and exceptional Okanagan wines and hand-craft beverages along the way. After your guided tour savour a sumptuous dinner prepared by Chef Paul Cecconi of Brodo Kitchen. The evening also features our popular silent auction, filled with incredible local experiences including accommodations, golf, dining, attractions and more, showcasing the very best our region has to offer. Join us for one of the south Okanagan's signature summer events!
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Best Members Ever!
ODC members help us fund projects that conserve and restore antelope-brush in the South Okanagan and to advocate for and educate people about threatened habitats and species in our region. Members receive unlimited free admission to the Osoyoos Desert Centre, 10% discount in our Gift Shop, 10% discount for special events (except Romancing the Desert) and advance notice of select events and programs. Memberships are $30 per person, per year.
| Your support is invaluable! Become a Member today! | | |
Are You Nocturnal?
If you like hanging out after dark, we've got a couple of evening events you'll want to add to your calendar. Watch for our "Tickets on Sale Now" announcements in the coming weeks, You won't want to miss them!
Exploring the Desert After Dark
Our very popular evening tours are back August 13, 18 and 25! Join us for an exhilarating night as we wander the boardwalk from dusk to dark.
Night Skies
Join amateur astronomer and Vancouver Planetarium Head Interpreter John Reid for a night of stargazing under the dark Osoyoos skies September 5.
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Call for Osoyoos Desert Society Board Members, from ODS President Lee McFadyen:
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Are you passionate about conservation, education, and supporting one of Canada's most unique ecosystems? Osoyoos Desert Centre is looking for enthusiastic community members to join our Board of Directors. Serving on the Board is a rewarding opportunity to help guide the future of the Centre, support environmental education and contribute to the conservation of the South Okanagan's remarkable semi-arid shrub-steppe habitat. We welcome individuals with a variety of skills and backgrounds, whether your experience is in governance, finance, fundraising, education, business, or simply a commitment to our mission. Osoyoos Desert Society board is a governance board working towards the vision and mission of the organization alongside a full time Executive Director. Members attend regular meetings, participate in strategic planning and help champion the Centre within our community. No previous board experience is required, just an interest in making a meaningful difference. If you'd like to learn more about becoming a board member, we'd love to hear from you. Please contact the Osoyoos Desert Centre at mail@desert.org for more information and discover how you can help shape the future of this special place.
Click here to meet our current Board of Directors.
Click here to see our Vision, Mission, Strategic Priorities and Values statements.
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