Inter-Community Transportation Study

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association recently hosted “Community Voices Heard” in partnership with the Okanagan Transit Alliance and the University of British Columbia Okanagan. During this forum, the results of the Inter-Community Transportation Survey were discussed revealing the insights gathered from the survey conducted this summer. 

A study of the results, including the methodology, findings, and recommendations is available to download.

Survey Presentation

TOTA Team Attends the BRC 2024 Building Resilient Communities Conference

The BC Regional Tourism Emergency Management Specialists, including the specialist from the TOTA team, attended the Building Resilient Communities conference in Penticton from November 18th to 21st.

The BRC 2024 Building Resilient Communities Conference, focused on fostering collaboration among local governments, First Nations, organizations, agencies, and businesses to enhance community resilience. The event featured a mix of presentations, training sessions, and workshops designed to encourage active participation and knowledge sharing. It emphasized the evolution of emergency preparedness and business continuity, expanding its scope to address broader aspects of community resilience. Attendees were provided a unique venue for learning and networking to encourage partnership and drive innovation and transformation.

For more details, visit the BRC Conference website.

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Is Biosphere Certified

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is thrilled to have once again completed its annual Biosphere Certification Audit. This annual reporting provides the opportunity to review and confirm continuous improvement against the 17 Sustainable Development Goal Measures.

"The time to consider making change is behind us; our industry must work together to adopt practices and policies now that will protect and preserve the very experiences our residents value and that we invite visitors to enjoy," notes Walker-Matthews, "The responsibility is ours, individually, collectively and urgently."

Tourism businesses within the region can participate in the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, which equips tourism businesses with tools and resources to continuously measure, manage, and report sustainability management efforts.

Spring 2024 Beverage Industry Training Program Summary

The "Beverage Industry Training" (BIT) program, a collaborative initiative between the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Okanagan College, and an independent consultant, recently concluded with notable success. This comprehensive, two-week program aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of 20 participants within the South Okanagan beverage industry, covering wine, beer, and spirits and providing essential industry certifications. The BIT program participants included new hires in wineries, breweries, distilleries, and tasting rooms, owners of small wineries, and existing staff seeking foundational knowledge and opportunities for career advancement.

The BIT program combined practical skills, industry insights, and career development opportunities to address the critical need for skilled personnel retention and enhancement. Participants were taught and immersed in the South Okanagan beverage community, gaining exposure to grape varieties, production methods, and the regional context.

A panel of industry experts was consulted to develop the program’s curriculum, ensuring it met the current needs and standards of the South Okanagan beverage industry. The program also utilized Roots & Vines to transport participants to wineries, breweries, distilleries, and cideries. This arrangement allowed participants to gain hands-on learning experiences in various beverage production environments.

The program's comprehensive curriculum covered several key modules designed to equip participants with a broad spectrum of skills and knowledge essential for the beverage industry.

 Foundations for Industry Professionals

This module explored the unique flavor profile of the South Okanagan's beverage scene, delving into the region's history, terroir, and community connections. Emphasis was placed on customer service excellence to enhance guest experiences through effective communication and hospitality, preparing participants to handle challenging situations with professionalism. Additionally, this segment provided essential knowledge on financial literacy, compliance with regulations, and navigating licensing and safety protocols.

Teamwork and Collaboration

The Teamwork and Collaboration module focused on fostering positive relationships with colleagues and industry partners. Training included conflict resolution and team-building techniques, enabling participants to work cohesively in a professional environment.

Storytelling and Sales

This segment highlighted the construction of compelling sales narratives using traditional storytelling techniques. Participants learned to share regional stories effectively, engaging customers and enhancing their sales strategies.

Retention Strategies for Employers

In this module, strategies for employee engagement, career pathways, and promoting work-life balance were discussed to enhance job satisfaction and retention. The content aimed at helping employers develop a supportive and motivating work environment.

Challenges and Adaptability

Lastly, the Challenges and Adaptability module prepared participants to handle emergency protocols during wildfire seasons, manage air quality issues, and support community resilience during challenging times. This training was crucial for ensuring that participants could maintain operations and support their communities in the face of adversity.

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. One participant remarked, "Such a great introduction to the field of the Beverage Industry. Can’t say enough about the two weeks of classes and field trips. Everything about this course was perfect!! Loved it!"

Participants completed the program with a robust understanding of the beverage industry specific to the South Okanagan region. They were equipped to solve real-world challenges in winemaking, brewing, and distillation, manage beverage-related projects effectively, and appreciate the significance of sustainable practices for long-term success.

Building on the initial program's success, plans are underway for a Tier 2 program that will offer more advanced skills and leadership development. This upcoming program will explore craftsmanship and quality assurance, covering advanced winemaking, brewing, and distillation techniques to ensure precision, consistency, and excellence. Participants will stay updated on industry trends and innovation and learn to implement the best product development and marketing practices. Leadership and mentorship will be key components, focusing on effective management strategies, developing mentorship programs, and fostering a learning culture. Business sustainability and succession planning will be emphasized to ensure business continuity and growth, preparing participants for leadership transitions. Advanced retention strategies for employers will also be included, covering talent development, recognition programs, and employee wellness initiatives. Additionally, the program will address challenges and resilience, helping participants adapt to climate variability, plan for emergency preparedness, and strengthen community support during difficult times.

The successful completion of the Beverage Industry Training program highlighted its value in cultivating an appreciation for the beverage industry and its impact on local culture. By equipping participants with the necessary skills and knowledge, the BIT program has significantly contributed to the professional growth of individuals and the overall enhancement of the South Okanagan beverage industry. 

Future Programs

Based on the success of the Spring 2024 Beverage Industry Training Program, a secondary Fall 2024 intake has been created. Interested parties are invited to watch the TOTA Industry Training Centre to learn about ongoing, and future upcoming training programs.

TOTA’s Corporate Carbon Inventory & Thompson Okanagan’s Destination Carbon Inventory

With sustainability as one of our guiding principles, and as a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration, TOTA has committed to net zero by 2050 and 50% reduction by 2030. This Carbon Inventory was done to get a comprehensive assessment of our Destination and Corporate carbon emissions and to set the stage for future coordinated action based on accurate data.

A carbon footprint - or Carbon Inventory - measures the amount of greenhouse gasses released by an activity, such as TOTA's business operations. It's expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e), which shows the impact on global warming.

To calculate TOTA's corporate carbon footprint, the GHG Protocol’s Corporate Standard was used, a widely accepted method that ensures consistency in measuring and comparing greenhouse gas emissions across different organizations globally.

If you run a tourism business and have taken actions to decarbonize your business, please let us know by emailing eve@totabc.com

Help Steer the Future of Transportation in the Thompson Okanagan with Inter-Community Transportation Survey

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO), with support from the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior, have launched the Inter-Community Transportation Survey. This important initiative invites businesses, residents, and visitors to share their thoughts on transportation needs and preferences within the Thompson Okanagan region.

As the region continues to grow— with StatsBC projecting an increase of 250,000 people by 2046—input from the public is crucial in shaping the future of transportation. The survey results will guide planning and advocacy efforts to enhance transportation options between communities, ensuring a connected and sustainable future for the Thompson Okanagan.

“We encourage all business owners, residents, and visitors in the Thompson Okanagan region to participate in this important survey,” said Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO of TOTA. “Feedback will play a crucial role in shaping the future of transportation, making travel between our communities more efficient, sustainable and accessible for everyone.”

The survey is quick and easy, taking just five minutes to complete. To thank participants for their time, they will be entered into a draw to win one of several incredible prizes, including:

• 3-night stay at Big White Ski Resort.

•  2-night stay at Summerland Waterfront Resort.

•  Predator Ridge Golf Experience.

•  Fall Family Getaway in Kamloops.

Read the Release here: www.hatchcomms.ca/post/thompson-okanagan-transportation-survey

TOTA is now a member of the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association has joined over 100 member organizations across the province and is now an Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) member.

This partnership will help TOTA promote and protect outdoor recreation opportunities and outdoor spaces across British Columbia.

Interested businesses can learn more about and join the ORCBC in preserving the outdoor spaces that we work and play on throughout the province. There are many ways to get involved including BC Rivers Day on September 22, 2024.

About the ORCBC

The Outdoor Recreation Council of British Columbia (ORCBC) is a charitable organization that works with its members, government agencies, Indigenous communities, other organizations, and the public to address issues related to outdoor recreation access, environmental stewardship, and public policy.

GreenStep EcoFund Verified Program Assists TOTA Stakeholders to Reduce the Costs of Switching to RNG

TOTA continues its commitment to destination stewardship and sustainability through a partnership with GreenStep and its EcoFund program. GreenStep is an industry leader in guiding businesses to reduce environmental impacts and in turn the region’s carbon footprint. Tourism businesses that join the EcoFund program, collect an EcoFee that helps their businesses to cut down on the consumption of energy, waste and water, by investing in more efficient technologies and renewable energy. The EcoFund is managed by GreenStep and is applied to measurable carbon reduction projects at the participating business. 

Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) is part of that energy solution and businesses that are GreenStep Verified are now able to use 10% of their EcoFund towards incorporating RNG into their energy portfolio. RNG is a practical way to help mitigate future climate crises and transform BC's energy future by reducing BC's greenhouse gas emissions. Supporting both personal and professional climate goals, this is an important action to aid the Province’s path toward a ‘CleanBC Roadmap to 2030.’ Switching to FortisBC’s renewable natural gas option does not require any new equipment, upgrades, or installations. Customers have the option of replacing 5% to 100% of their natural gas consumption with RNG.

Improving tourism business value is a goal of TOTA and GreenStep. Through the GreenStep EcoFund program businesses access a comprehensive energy and carbon management funding program, and receive the EcoFund Verified seal, marketing assets, and annual summary reports to help communicate the positive impacts they have made. These materials help share the participation in the program, and reflect your dedication and progress towards improving sustainability within the region. If understanding your business's energy consumption or carbon footprint is a commitment for your business, then TOTA’s dedicated Energy Analyst, Harshit Srivastava, can provide a free audit. Harshit specializes in energy and can offer local tourism businesses opportunities for cost-saving options to reduce their carbon footprints. For energy efficiency solutions and to learn more about the benefits of making this simple switch, schedule an Energy Audit with Harshit, or book a free EcoFund opportunity analysis with GreenStep. Projects identified can then be funded in whole or in part through the GreenStep EcoFund program.

About GreenStep Solutions Inc.: GreenStep was founded in 2008 to help small to medium-sized enterprises measure and improve their sustainability performance. To date, the organization has worked with thousands of businesses and organizations of all sizes, in a variety of industries such as tourism and hospitality, retail, professional services, and manufacturing. For more information, visit www.greenstep.ca.

United Nations Sustainable Tourism Observatory Global Meeting

View fullsize

Mike and Eve are in the top, middle of the INSTO group.

TOTA Destination Stewardship team members, Mike Overend and Eve Layman, joined 43 tourism observatories on November 21-22 at the UN World Tourism Organization headquarters in Madrid, Spain for the annual International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO) meeting.

Following the meetings, they joined numerous observatories for additional engagements in Malaga, Spain.

Eve and Mike presented in Madrid and Malaga on TOTA's work regarding resident sentiment and engagement with residents and industry through strategic planning.

The four days were filled with learning from observatories from Europe, South America, Australia, and Asia about their sustainable actions related to specific issue areas.

Highlights included discussions around:

• Tourism Governance

• Resident Sentiment

• Net Positive Tourism

• Data collection methods

In addition, four new observatories were introduced during the meetings.

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About INSTO

TOTA became the first Canadian destination to join INSTO in October 2019.

Learn more about TOTA’s work as a sustainable tourism observatory at TOTABC.org/committed/insto.

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Climate Action Plan Provides Guidance for Sustainable Development for Regional Businesses and Communities

Kelowna, B.C. (April 18, 2023) - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has introduced a new climate action plan to facilitate sustainable industry and community development in the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia, Canada.

TOTA has been committed to sustainable and responsible tourism since 2012 and became a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism in May 2022, which includes the development and implementation of an official climate action plan to accelerate and co-ordinate climate action in tourism.

The plan outlines a series of strategies and initiatives to support the regional and global commitment to cut emissions in half by 2030 and reach Net Zero as soon as possible before 2050.

"TOTA recognizes the critical role that tourism plays in the region's economy and is committed to ensuring that the industry grows in a sustainable way," said Ellen Walker-Matthews, TOTA CEO. "By implementing this Climate Action Plan, we can work to reduce tourism’s carbon footprint while also enhancing the visitor experience and supporting local communities."

 The five pathways of the plan are:

• Measure: Measure and disclose all travel and tourism-related emissions. Ensure methodologies and tools are aligned to UNFCCC-relevant guidelines on measurement, reporting and verification, and that they are transparent and accessible.

• Decarbonize: Set and deliver targets aligned with climate science to accelerate tourism’s decarbonisation. This includes transport, infrastructure, accommodation, activities, food & drink, and waste management. While offsetting may have a subsidiary role, it must be complementary to real reductions.

• Regenerate: Restore and protect ecosystems, supporting nature’s ability to draw down carbon, as well as safeguarding biodiversity, food security, and water supply. As much of tourism is based in regions most immediately vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, ensure the sector can support affected and at-risk communities in resilience building, adaptation and disaster response. Help visitors and host communities experience better balance with nature.

• Collaborate: Share evidence of risks and solutions with all stakeholders and our guests, and work together to ensure our plans are as effective and co-ordinated as possible. Strengthen governance and capacity for action at all levels, including national and sub-national authorities, civil society, large companies and SMEs, vulnerable groups, local communities and visitors.

• Finance: Ensure organizational resources and capacity are sufficient to meet objectives set out in climate plans, including the financing of training, research and implementation of effective fiscal and policy tools where appropriate to accelerate transition.

TOTA encourages all tourism operators, visitors, and community members to learn more about the plan and take action to reduce their carbon footprint. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly significant factor for travellers when planning travel for both business and leisure. As people gain an understanding of the impact of travel, there is a growing preference for supporting responsible destinations, venues, hotels, and events. Destinations and their businesses that take initiative will attract these sustainability-conscious travellers.

To view the plan, download the Thompson Okanagan Climate Action Plan or visit TOTABC.org/committed/climate-action-plan

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About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport. It is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies.

As a Biosphere Certified Destination, TOTA is committed to working towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including goals related to access and inclusion, such as “Reduced Inequalities” and “Sustainable Cities & Communities.” becoming a world-renowned accessible tourism destination and to promote “Access & Inclusion” in all aspects of community and tourism experiences, products, and services in the Thompson Okanagan region.

Learn more at TOTABC.org.

About the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism:

The Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism is an urgent call for all stakeholders to commit to a decade of climate action in tourism, led by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in collaboration with the Travel Foundation, and within the framework of the One Planet Network and Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency initiatives. The Declaration was officially launched at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) in November 2021, after the need for a globally consistent approach for climate action in tourism was made clear, notably through research into CO2 emissions carried out by UNWTO/ITF and released at the UNFCCC COP25 in December 2019. 

Learn more at OnePlanetNetwork.org/programmes/sustainable-tourism/glasgow-declaration

For more information, contact:

Ellen-Walker Matthews

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)

E: CEO@TOTABC.com

Bat Resource for Okanagan Accommodators

In honour of International Bat Appreciation Day on April 17, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and the BC Community Bat Program (BCCBP) are pleased to announce a partnership to assist and educate accommodators throughout the region on the importance of protecting the bat populations in the Okanagan.

Bats are an important part of the Okanagan ecosystem and are neither rodents nor considered pests under BC law. They are classified as wildlife under the BC Wildlife Act and are protected from harassment and killing.

Bat Education Resource

TOTA and the BCCBP have created a resource for accommodators with bats on their property that details the importance of bats, how to protect them, and how best to manage them at your accommodation whether you are looking to incorporate them into your operations or relocate them somewhere else.

• BC Bats | Community Bat Programs of BC

• Resources to help if you have Bats - BC BATS

• What To Do If You’ve Found A Bat - Bat World Sanctuary

Photo by Merlin Tuttle©

Get Support for Bat Management

If you have bats at your accommodation or have had encounters with bats, take the bat survey, so the BC CBP can engage with you and your team to help you devise a plan on how to manage the bats.

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BC Community Bat Program (BCCBP)

The BC Community Bat Program is a network of community bat projects across BC, carried out in partnership with the Ministry of Environment. In the Okanagan region, we work with landowners to protect their bat roost sites and use bat-friendly exclusion methods, document the number of known roost sites in human-made structures, promote citizen science such as bat counts to monitor bat populations and White-nose Syndrome surveillance at active bat roosts, train Bat Ambassadors, and work with many partners towards implementation of Bat-friendly Communities.

New 3D Virtual Tours Highlight Accessible Features at Tourism Venues in the Thompson Okanagan

Kelowna, B.C. - Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Spinal Cord Injury BC (SCI BC), and their Access BC program have launched Virtual Venue Tours, a mapping project to improve access and inclusion for people exploring the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. 22 tours are available on ThompsonOkanagan.com as of March 2023 showcasing priority accessible features of various accommodations and attractions in Kelowna, Kamloops, Penticton, Naramata, Keremeos, Cawston, and Chase.

The virtual platform is easy to navigate on desktop and mobile devices, allowing people to explore venues and determine whether accessible features meet their specific requirements. When planning a visit, trip planners can explore the venues virtually and make informed decisions about which ones to experience in person.

The Virtual Venue Tours project was created for the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, which supports businesses to improve access and inclusion for visitors and staff through various services; with support from the Targeted Regional Tourism Development Initiative (TRTDI) fund from the Province of BC.

"This project will help improve access and inclusion for all visitors to the Thompson Okanagan region. We want to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the beauty of the region, and this program will make it easier for people to do so," said TOTA CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews.

At launch, these tours showcase the accessible features of the following venues who have participated in the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program or are committed to access and inclusion: 

Kelowna

• Grizzli Winery

• Little Straw Vineyards

• Kelowna Yacht Club

• Vibrant Vine Winery

• Tantalus Vineyards

• Summerhill Pyramid Winery

Keremeos & Cawston:

• Crowsnest Vineyards

• Eau Vivre Winery

• Klippers Guest Suites

• Klippers Marketplace & Cafe

• Row Fourteen Restaurant and Untangled Cider

Chase:

• Chase Visitor Centre

• Quaaout Lodge & Spa / Talking Rock Golf Resort

Kamloops:

• BC Wildlife Park

• Coast Kamloops Hotel & Conference Centre

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Kamloops

• South Thompson Inn & Conference Centre

• Best Western Plus Kamloops Hotel

• Monte Creek Winery

Penticton:

• Hoodoo Adventures

• Naramata Inn

• Tightrope Winery

The 3D images were created by Jody Wall Photography, a BC-based photographer and are hosted on the TourMkr platform.

More virtual tours will be added as funding becomes available.

To view the tours, visit ThompsonOkanagan.com/virtual-tours

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Key Links:

• TOTA Access & Inclusion Program

• Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program

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About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies.

As a Biosphere Certified Destination, TOTA is committed to working towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including goals related to access and inclusion, such as “Reduced Inequalities” and “Sustainable Cities & Communities.” becoming a world-renowned accessible tourism destination and to promote “Access & Inclusion” in all aspects of community and tourism experiences, products, and services in the Thompson Okanagan region.

Learn more at TOTABC.org.

About Spinal Cord Injury BC:

Spinal Cord Injury BC (SCI BC) is a non-profit organization based in British Columbia, Canada, that provides support and resources for individuals who have sustained a spinal cord injury, as well as their families and caregivers. The organization was founded in 1957 and has since grown to become a leading resource for those affected by spinal cord injury.

SCI BC offers a wide range of programs and services, including peer support, information and referral, community outreach, and advocacy. One of the key initiatives of SCI BC is the development of accessible technology and equipment for people with spinal cord injuries, with a focus on enhancing mobility and independence. The organization also provides education and awareness programs to promote understanding and inclusion in the community.

Learn more at SCI-BC.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Ellen-Walker Matthews

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)

E: CEO@TOTABC.com