Backgrounder: Thompson Okanagan communities receive over $725,000 to create memorable outdoor experiences and support sustainable tourism
Today the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced $727,500 in funding through PacifiCan’s Tourism Growth Program for four organizations based in the Thompson Okanagan. This funding will help enhance outdoor recreation, increase visitors to smaller communities and promote sustainable tourism in B.C.’s southern interior.
The projects announced today are:
Hunters Range Snowmobile Association
$65,000
Funding will allow Hunters Range Snowmobile Association, a non-profit that manages and operates the snowmobile trails on Hunters Range in Enderby, to upgrade its grooming equipment and trail infrastructure. This project will improve the organization’s snowmobile experiences, attract more visitors, and promote outdoor recreation in rural communities.
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Foundation
$250,000
Funding will be used to restore the historic Adra Tunnel on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail in Naramata. Revitalizing the tunnel will preserve a vital piece of B.C.’s rail heritage, connect communities across the Okanagan, and attract more visitors to the region. Originally built for trains, the tunnel will soon be a pathway for hikers and cyclists, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to access and explore this early 20th-century landmark.
Silver Star Freestyle Club
$250,000
Funding will help create a state-of-the-art freestyle ski and snowboard training park at SilverStar Mountain Resort in Vernon. This new facility will feature specialized equipment, including a landing airbag and a variety of terrain features to accommodate athletes of all skill levels. The project is expected to elevate the resort’s global reputation as a top destination for year-round activities, provide provincial, national and international snow sport training opportunities, and draw more visitors to the region.
Wine Growers British Columbia Society
$162,500
PacifiCan funding will be used to create a user-friendly trip planning resource on the WineBC website. This online platform will help visitors to discover wineries and other small businesses across all nine wine regions. The project will boost local tourism, draw visitors to the region during the off-season, and enhance B.C.’s reputation as a top wine destination.