News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
Emergency Preparedness Week Resources (May 5-11, 2024)
Emergency Preparedness Week is May 5 to 11 in 2024, and is a great time to learn about getting prepared for emergencies, such as reviewing the updated resources from the Province of BC and Destination BC.
May 5-11, 2024 is Emergency Preparedness Week in BC, and it's a great time for individuals and businesses to learn about getting prepared for emergencies.
The Province has a wealth of resources available including;
Using technology in emergency management
Knowing the hazards in your community, using the PreparedBC Hazard Map
How to make an emergency plan
Throughout the week, Destination BC will be highlighting the Tourism Emergency Management Committee's (TEMC) work, messaging and resources through their newsletter, website, and LinkedIn, under the slogan “Prepare and Share”.
Here are a couple of examples:
Updated emergency messaging guide, infographics, and resources for industry
New and updated Infographics (in the TEMC’s public Google Hub)
Reminders to create crisis comms plans (TEMC comms guidance and check-lists)
Suggested emergency apps/platforms: Alertable, BC Wildfire, Drive BC etc.
Also to note, as part of Emergency Preparedness Week, an emergency alert test will be issued to cellphones, television and radio at 10:55 am (PT) on Wednesday, May 8.
The test alert will go to all compatible cellphones, and will interrupt radio and television broadcasts. This test will assess the system’s readiness for an actual emergency and identify any required adjustments.
BC Hotel Association Announces Launch of Emergency Management Central Booking Portal
The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, and the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, has announced the development of the Emergency Management Central Booking Portal. This portal will enhance the booking efficiency for Emergency Support Services (ESS) evacuee support in B.C.
The BC Hotel Association (BCHA), in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, and the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, has announced the development of the Emergency Management Central Booking Portal.
The reservation system aims to accelerate the process of sheltering evacuees by enhancing the coordinating and booking efficiencies for Emergency Support Services (ESS) evacuee support in B.C. for the year 2024.
The pilot reservation system will go live in three host communities, Kamloops, Kelowna, and Prince George, in June 2024. The system will provide live availability for accommodations while simultaneously tracking evacuee placements.
Commit to Workplace Safety for National Safety & Health Week
May 6 to 11 is National Safety & Health Week. Create a safe and strong workplace by accessing free resources and training from go2HR.
May 6 to 11 is National Safety & Health Week. Employers can gear up for this week-long event by accessing the free resources from go2HR.
Health & safety training promotes a positive safety culture that results in the reduction rate and duration of injuries, improves employee morale, and attracts and retains employees.
Destination Events Support Fund by Tourism Kamloops
Tourism Kamloops has recently announced a new RFP funding opportunity, the Destination Events Support Fund. They are seeking proposals from businesses and organizations who want to develop annual destination events in Kamloops between October and April.
Tourism Kamloops has recently announced a new RFP funding opportunity, the Destination Events Support Fund. This was developed because Tourism Kamloops is committed to elevating Kamloops as an attractive, year-round destination by investing in strategies that focus on off-peak visitation. They are seeking proposals from businesses and organizations who want to develop annual destination events in Kamloops between October and April.
Program Goals:
- Generate incremental visitation and overnight stays in October, November, December, January, February, March & April.
- Develop the destination in off-peak months by creating events that enhance perception, increase awareness, and stimulate advocacy for Kamloops in key markets (social media & word-of-mouth)
- Enhance resident sentiment
- Increase net promoter score
Find out if you qualify for the funding by visiting TourismKamloops.com /Event-Support-Fund.
Securing Small Business Rebate Now Open (until funds are expended, or January 2025)
Small companies can get rebates for eligible commercial property crime and vandalism repairs or to implement eligible preventative measures and covers expenses incurred between January 2023 to December 30, 2024.
Recognizing the increased costs to businesses due to property crime and vandalism in rural and urban communities across the province, the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation is sending a reminder that its $10.5 million Securing Small Business Rebate Program, is open, and will run through to January 2025 (or until funds are expended).
The Program will provide small businesses with funds for eligible commercial property crime and vandalism repairs, or to implement eligible preventative measures and covers expenses incurred between January 2023 to December 30, 2024. The BC Chamber of Commerce will administer the rebate program.
Sustainable Tourism Course by eLearningU
Learn from experts from around the world who will go beyond the need for sustainable practices to define the business opportunity and the ways that we can all take steps to develop, attract, and grow sustainable travel for your business/destination. Early bird pricing is available. Use discount code BC300 to receive a $300 discount.
This series of live, interactive Zoom lessons will demonstrate the demand for sustainable travel, highlight the opportunities, then empower you to take advantage.
Learn from experts from around the world who will go beyond the need for sustainable practices to define the business opportunity and the ways that we can all take steps to develop, attract, and grow sustainable travel for businesses and destinations.
Program goals include:
Empower businesses to embrace the sustainability need and identify the opportunity for sustainable travel
Build the skills necessary to connect sustainable businesses with travellers
Create engaged and informed stakeholders
Develop thriving local tourism economies
Early bird pricing is available. Use discount code BC300 to receive a $300 discount.
2023 Resident Perceptions of BC's Tourism Industry Report by Destination BC
Destination BC released a on report on the 2023 Resident Perceptions of BC’s Tourism Industry survey, launched in November 2023 to understand the perceptions BC residents have of the tourism industry on both community and provincial levels. The survey found that the majority of BC residents continue to value the impact that tourism has on their communities.
Destination BC released the results from the 2023 Resident Perceptions of BC’s Tourism Industry survey. The survey was launched in November 2023 to understand the perceptions BC residents have of the tourism industry on both community and provincial levels.
Some key highlights noted in the announcement include:
The majority of BC residents continue to value the impact that tourism has on their communities.
A large percentage agree that tourism supports a greater diversity of amenities (78%), contributes positively to the quality of life of their community (72%), and its positive impacts in their community outweigh the negative ones (75%).
Residents take pride in making visitors feel welcome (75%) and a strong majority agree their community is a desirable place to visit (79%).
Province-wide, residents are more likely to support tourism growth during winter (December-February), followed by fall (September-November), and then spring (March-May).
Promote Your Business at the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre - 2024 Season
Thompson Okanagan tourism companies are invited to share adventures and experiences at the Tourism Inspiration Centre on Highway 97C above Peachland, which receives 35,000+ visitors per season.
Promotion Opportunities for the season (May-October)
Outdoor Billboard Space: $500+GST / year
Brochure Racking Space & QR Code Link to Website: $125+GST / year
On-Site Exhibit Space: $150+GST / weekend
Biosphere Commitment Program members will receive a 25% discount on listed prices.
Availability is limited and offered first come, first serve. To secure your promotion space, contact Visit@TOTABC.com.
Thompson Okanagan tourism companies are invited to share adventures and experiences at the Tourism Inspiration Centre on Highway 97C above Peachland, which receives 35,000+ visitors in a regular season.
TOTA operates the Tourism Inspiration Centre, with a team of Tourism Visitor Information Counsellors available to assist visitors en route to or from their Thompson Okanagan destination.
Note: Biosphere Commitment Program members will receive a 25% discount on listed prices.
Promotion Opportunities for the 2024 Season (May-October)
Outdoor Billboard Space: $500+GST / year
Display a poster for 4' x 8' space facing the Tourism Inspiration Centre and parking lot. This includes the opportunity to host an on-site exhibit space for one weekend during the season to meet with and directly promote your experience to visitors; and one social media post on Tourism Inspiration Centre Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business.
Billboard creation and installation not included.
Brochure Racking Space & QR Code Link to Website: $125+GST / year
Display brochures and link to your website in the Tourism Inspiration Centre. Tourism Inspiration Centre ambassadors will familiarize themselves with your company and share it with visitors. Includes one social media post on Tourism Inspiration Centre Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business. Brochure creation not included.
On-Site Exhibit Space: $150+GST / weekend
Host an on-site exhibit space outside the Tourism Inspiration Centre to meet with and directly promote your experience to visitors. Includes one social media post on Tourism Inspiration Centre Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business. Tent/booth not included.
Secure Your Promotion Space
Availability is limited and offered first come, first serve. To secure your promotion space, submit the Promotion Subscription Form or contact Tourism Inspiration Manager, Barbara Bonnough, at Visit@TOTABC.com.
BC Wine Month - Here's how to get involved, including free online certification
April is BC Wine Month! To celebrate, Wine Growers BC has shared several resources, including winery, event, and restaurant listings, free Wines of BC Ambassador Program level one course and certification, and a social media campaign. #BCWineMonth
The provincial government proclaimed April 2024 as BC Wine Month for the seventh year.
Wineries are excited to welcome guests this spring and summer and share an abundance of 100% BC wines.
Wineries are hosting tastings, tours and paired dining experiences, as well as yoga, painting and concerts. View winery events and start planning a visit at WineBC.com.
Restaurants and wine shops that serve BC wines are listed on the Pour More BC webpage.
Wine Growers BC are offering the Wines of BC Ambassador Program first level, complimentary for the month. Level One is an online certification course with valuable information on BC wine history, varieties, styles, unique climate, and food pairing expertise. Get certified now – $99 value offered complimentary (promo code BCWINE24) for BC Wine Month.
Want to spread the word? Follow along all BC Wine Month on social media @WinesofBC and tag #BCWineMonth in your BC wine adventures this season.
go2HR New Safety Basics Health & Safety Orientation Training (Free)
The Safety Basics Orientation Course is a free, online, asynchronous health and safety training for new and young workers, designed to meet the WorkSafeBC regulatory requirement to provide a health and safety orientation.
This newest addition to go2HR's training portfolio will also help employers deliver a positive onboarding experience, showcasing your commitment to creating a healthy and safe work environment.
The Safety Basics Orientation Course is a free, online, asynchronous health and safety training for new and young workers, designed to meet the WorkSafeBC regulatory requirement to provide a health and safety orientation.
This newest addition to go2HR's training portfolio will also help employers deliver a positive onboarding experience, showcasing your commitment to creating a healthy and safe work environment.
Register for 2SLGBTQI+ Diversity & Inclusion Online Training for Tourism on March 1
Thompson Okanagan tourism professionals are invited to an online training session on March 1 to start a conversation about how your team can contribute to a work environment that empowers 2SLGBTQI+ colleagues, guests, and other stakeholders.
Friday, March 1, 2024 | 9 - 10:30 am
$25 per person
Thompson Okanagan tourism professionals are invited to a 90-minute session designed to start a conversation about 2SLGBTQI+ diversity and inclusion in your workplace. The session is hosted by Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, as part of the Rainbow Registered program.
As a business, your responsibility to maintain an inclusive and accessible workplace is more important than ever. This session is a great way to start a conversation about how your team can contribute to a work environment that empowers 2SLGBTQI+ colleagues, guests, and other stakeholders.
Topics include:
2SLGBTQ+ Intro - terminology, sexuality, orientation & attraction
Gender Diversity - identity and expression, transition, names & pronouns
Inclusion Considerations - context, work & employment related experiences
Inclusive Workplaces - what they look like, benefits & challenges of achieving them
Putting it into practice - how to demonstrate allyship & contribute to an inclusive workplace and atmosphere
Risk of Invasive Mussels to Okanagan Lakes & Waterways
The Okanagan Basin Water Board (OBWB) has increased calls for action after the announcement of invasive mussels in a tributary to the Columbia River, which connects to the Okanagan. The OBWB began calling for a temporary moratorium on watercraft coming into BC. Support for the moratorium has been gathering steam with letters coming in from BC municipalities, chambers of commerce, TOTA, and others.
The Don't Move a Mussel campaign website has resources to learn more about risks and prevention, and to raise awareness.
The Okanagan Basin Water Board (OBWB) has been stepping up calls for action after last September’s announcement of quagga mussels in the Idaho’s Snake River, a tributary to the Columbia River which connects to the Okanagan, and only an 11-hour drive to the BC and Alberta border.
Idaho’s desperate response was to spread toxic copper chelate into the river, killing almost seven tonnes of fish and poisoning a 26 km stretch of the river. The effectiveness won’t be known until this spring.
In October, the OBWB began calling for a temporary moratorium on watercraft coming into BC until results from Idaho’s efforts are known and the Province has closed any gaps in its Invasive Mussel Defence Program. Support for the moratorium has been gathering steam with letters coming in from BC municipalities, chambers of commerce, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, and others.
Tourism businesses and residents can review the Don't Move a Mussel campaign website to learn more about risks and prevention, and access resources to raise awareness.
Applications open for Fairs, Festivals and Events Fund | Apply by February 25, 2024
BC-based events can apply for one-time grants, up to about 20% of the total event budget, up to a maximum of $250,000 per event.
The Province of BC opened applications for the 2024 Fairs, Festivals and Events Fund. BC-based events can apply for one-time grants, up to about 20% of the total event budget, up to a maximum of $250,000 per event.
Event organizers will be able to tackle ongoing challenges the sector faces, such as reduced revenue and sponsorships, and rising costs of equipment and services.
Event funding will also support those areas affected by the 2023 wildfires and will help boost visitation and generate economic activity for those communities.
Eligibility
Eligible events include sporting events, arts and culture events, community celebrations, agricultural fairs and rodeos with a budget of at least $10,000, between April 1, 2024, and Sept. 30, 2025.
Examples of eligible expenses include operational costs, Indigenous consultation and honorariums, venue rental, marketing, wages, and promotion.
Application Details
Applications will be accepted until Feb. 25, 2024. Organizations are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.
New Grant and Mentorship Program to "Spark" Innovative Tourism Ideas Along Rainforest to Rockies Iconic Route | Apply by March 1
A new program aimed at sparking and supporting innovative tourism ideas along the Rainforest to Rockies iconic route across southern British Columbia was announced by Destination BC, in partnership with Tourism Innovation Lab, TOTA, and other tourism partners.
The Rainforest to Rockies “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants with a tourism mentor and provide a $3,000 grant and additional partner support to help take their new tourism ideas to the next level of development.
A new program aimed at sparking and supporting innovative tourism ideas along the Rainforest to Rockies iconic route across southern British Columbia was announced by Destination BC, in partnership with Tourism Innovation Lab, TOTA, and other tourism partners.
The Rainforest to Rockies “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants with a tourism mentor and provide a $3,000 grant and additional partner support to help take their new tourism ideas to the next level of development.
The goal of the program is to find, advance, and support new tourism ideas that will enhance the road trip experience along British Columbia’s Rainforest to Rockies corridors by motivating travellers to stop and explore a unique tourism experience, encouraging them to stay longer, and visit more communities along the way.
Eligible Projects
Rainforest to Rockies is the first Iconic brand to launch from Destination BC’s Invest in Iconics Strategy and takes visitors from the Pacific Coast to the Canadian Rockies, through the Thompson Okanagan through Highways 1, 3, 5, and 99, to Gold Country, Thompson Valley, Similkameen, South Okanagan, Boundary Country, and Shuswap areas.
The Spark Program is seeking new tourism ideas that enhance the experience of the road-trip traveller along British Columbia’s Rainforest to Rockies corridors in one or more of the following ways:
Motivate travellers to stop their vehicle and explore a unique tourism experience along the Iconic Route
Motivate visitors to stay longer or visit more communities along the way,
Address gaps in tourism products and services by offering something that does not yet exist or is in demand along the route or in the area
Share or convey captivating stories about the place, providing an opportunity for the visitor to connect with the destination in a meaningful way
Preference will be given to applications that demonstrate how your tourism idea supports economic, social, and/or environmental sustainability. Ideas that support or advance principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are encouraged.
Learn More and Apply
Applications are open to tourism entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profit organizations based in BC until March 1, 2024.
Following a review process, 20 finalists will be invited to four virtual pitch sessions, resulting in a total of 12 “Spark” Program winners.
For more information about the Rainforest to Rockies “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program and upcoming info sessions, visit TourismInnovation.ca/R2R.
New Business Supports for Tourism Climate-Readiness: BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative (BCTCRI)
Through the BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative (BCTCRI), BC's tourism industry can apply for sustainability adaptation planning support and micro-grants from Destination BC.
The BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative (BCTCRI) is launching in January 2024 to help BC’s tourism companies develop sustainable practices and climate resiliency. The program aims to incentivize and empower tourism businesses and community destination management organizations to actively contribute to the development of a clean, sustainable, and regenerative tourism landscape in BC.
The BCTCRI is comprised of four project streams that invest in:
Practical climate adaptation and sustainability planning for tourism businesses,
Micro-grants to help with implementation of climate adaptation and sustainability plans,
Development of a data framework to enable better insight-driven decisions, and
New province-wide learning and training opportunities.
Applications for the first two project streams will open in January 2024 and will provide direct support to tourism businesses by offering personalized assistance for creating sustainability roadmaps to help:
Grow sustainable business practices
Address the challenges of climate change
Save on energy costs
Identify solutions to climate change related threats.
Additionally, businesses can receive financial aid for:
Joining accredited sustainability programs
Planning for and adapting to extreme climate events such as wildfires and floods
Funding for projects that reduce energy, waste, and water consumption, aligning with CleanBC’s climate goals.
Application Process
Free, tailored support to tourism businesses looking to incorporate environmental sustainability or climate adaptation measures into their operations. An experienced program advisor and supporting experts will work with you to develop a sustainability and climate adaptation road map and perform detailed assessments to identify the most impactful, customized measures for climate resiliency. Applications are open January 18 to February 23, 2024.
Project Two: Micro-Grants to Support Sustainability and Climate Adaptation Plan Implementation
Micro-grant funding of up to $15,000 for tourism businesses that are ready to build on their current sustainability or climate adaptation plan to implement a project or obtain sustainability certification. Applications are open January 29 to March 8, 2024.
An additional micro-grant intake is planned for Fall 2024 to provide future opportunities for tourism businesses that need time to prepare or enhance their sustainability and climate adaptation plan or road map.
Project Three: Sustainability and Climate Adaptation Data Framework and Project Four: Community Destination Stewardship Initiative will launch later this year.
Learn more about the BCTCRI and the four project streams, including intake periods and application deadlines for BC’s tourism industry, by visiting the program landing page: DestinationBC.ca/what-we-do/destination-management/bc-tourism-climate-resiliency-initiative
Background
This initiative builds on the achievements of the BC Tourism Sustainability Network (BCTSN) – a collaborative sustainability support program for BC’s tourism industry that was initiated in 2022.
This initiative will be delivered by Destination BC and the RDMOs and was created through a provincial partnership with:
BC’s six Regional Destination Management Organizations (RDMOs)—the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association, Northern BC Tourism Association, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Tourism Region, and 4VI
This initiative is being funded through a $3 million investment from the provincial Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, over two-years, as part of BC’s Destination Development Fund.
Free Food Waste Prevention Online Training Certificate by BetterTable.ca
TOTA is offering free food waste prevention training for Thompson Okanagan tourism professionals through BetterTable.ca. The online program is about reducing food waste and industry best practices and is available on demand until February 29, 2024.
TOTA is offering complimentary BetterTable.ca Food Waste Prevention Training licenses to Thompson Okanagan tourism professionals working in food preparation.
This certificate program is a cost-saving opportunity, sharing actionable tips and industry best practices for managers and kitchen staff to reduce food wastage.
The training is online and available on demand. Training must be completed by February 29, 2024.
This opportunity is available for a limited time, with limited availability to TOTA Biosphere Commitment Program Members. If you are interested in obtaining a certificate and joining the Biosphere Program, email Biosphere@TOTABC.com or schedule a meeting with TOTA’s Biosphere Success Advisor.
Apply by January 31, 2024 at TOTABC.org/form/food-waste
About BetterTable.ca
Bettertable.ca is a Vancouver-based company helping hotels and restaurants prevent food waste to achieve a triple bottom line. The BetterTable.ca team of food lovers and food waste experts, based in Vancouver, helps increase profitability, retain talents, and reduce climate impacts.
Learn more at BetterTable.ca
Apply for Tourism Growth Program: Funding up to $250,000 | Info Sessions on December 6 & 7
PacifiCan’s Tourism Growth Program (TGP) will provide up to $250,000 in funding to businesses, tourism organizations, and local communities to develop tourism products and experiences that create lasting prosperity in BC communities. Info sessions will be held on December 6 (virtual) and 7 (in Kelowna). Apply by February 2024.
PacifiCan’s Tourism Growth Program (TGP) will provide up to $250,000 in funding to businesses, tourism organizations, and local communities to develop tourism products and experiences that create lasting prosperity in BC communities.
Eligible businesses can apply for interest-free repayable funding of up to $250,000 to support the growth of tourism operations.
Eligible not-for-profit organizations can apply for non-repayable funding of up to $250,000 to support the growth of the tourism industry.
Projects must target one of six priorities:
Support active tourism
Increase tourism benefits for communities
Support the Indigenous tourism industry
Support economic, environmental and culturally sustainable tourism
Extend the season
Complement support provided through provincial programs.
Apply by February 20, 2024.
Info Sessions
PacifiCan is hosting virtual and in-person information sessions:
Virtual session for non-profit organizations / Governments: December 6, 3 PM
In person session - Kelowna, December 7, 10 AM. To register, email southern.interior@pacifican.gc.ca
Applications Open for B.C. Employer Training Grant (ETG) Until March 2024
The B.C. Employer Training Grant is a cost-sharing grant program that provides employers throughout B.C. with skills training funding for their workforces, including prospective new hires. Employers can receive 80% of the cost of training up to $10,000 per employee, with a maximum annual amount per employer of $300,000.
Receive up to $300,000 for Skills Training
The B.C. Employer Training Grant is a cost-sharing grant program that provides employers throughout B.C. with skills training funding for their workforces, including prospective new hires.
The grant funding helps employers respond to their changing labour needs and helps develop a skilled workforce with the right mix of skills. In turn, this helps British Columbians access the skills training needed to succeed in today’s labour market, while increasing job security and supporting career advancement.
Employers can apply as often as they need and receive 80% of the cost of training up to $10,000 per employee, with a maximum annual amount per employer of $300,000.
Boost Profit with a 3-Day Food Efficiency Audit and Enter for a Chance to Win $10,000
Vancity is offering an incredible funding opportunity to receive a Food Audit by Better Table, worth $1,500. The Food Audit takes 3 days to complete and can help restaurants save $1,000 or more per month.
And, once the food audit is completed you will be entered to win a grand prize worth $10,000.
Availability is limited so be sure to apply as soon as possible.
Vancity is offering an incredible funding opportunity to receive a receive $1,500 towards a Food Efficiency Audit by BetterTable.ca.
The Food Audit takes 3 days to complete and can help restaurants save $1,000 or more per month.
The Food Audit includes:
Online food waste prevention training and certificates for culinary team members.
A 3-day site visit from beginning to end of service, where every finished plate gets weighed and visually observed.
A report with valuable insights and actionable recommendations that can dramatically lower your food cost.
And, once the food audit is completed you will be entered to win a grand prize worth $10,000.
Availability is limited so be sure to apply as soon as possible.
About Better Table
Better Table is a Vancouver-based company helping BC hotels and restaurants prevent food waste and cut food costs. Their team of food lovers and food waste experts aim to increase profitability and retain talent, while improving sustainability performance.
Learn more at BetterTable.ca
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. 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.
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.
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.
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.