Dive Into the Wonders of Water at Regional Parks

The Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) is welcoming the community to Wonders of Water on Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Mission Creek Regional Park. This free community event offers a fun, hands-on way for people of all ages to learn about the importance of clean, healthy water systems.

“One of the highlights of the day is helping release Kokanee salmon fry into the spawning channel,” says Jill Hamilton, Supervisor of RDCO Parks Visitor Services and Community Relations. “It’s a special opportunity for visitors to see the salmon life cycle up close and deepen their understanding of salmon in the Okanagan.”

The event features interactive stations and activities focused on water education, conservation and ecosystem health. Guests are encouraged to explore park trails, participate in engaging experiences and learn how they can play a role in protecting local water resources. The event also offers a chance to connect with community partners who are dedicated to environmental conservation and education including:

• City of Kelowna – Climate Action, Environmental Stewardship & Water Efficiency
• Kelowna -Kasugai Sister City Association
• Okanagan and Similkameen Invasive Species Society (OASISS)
• Okanagan Regional Library
• Regional Parks Interpretation Team
• WWEST (Westcoast Women in Engineering, Science and Technology) along with iSTAND (Integrative STEM Team Advancing Network of Diversity)

Hands-on activity stations will give the opportunity for everyone to learn together, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility for our precious water resources including:

Bye Bye Baby Fry! – Help release baby kokanee salmon fry into Mission Creek. Fry releases will take place at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Water Detectives – Join a Park interpreter for a hike up to the Turtle Pond & investigate with sieves and a magnifying glass what critters are in the water.

Starting at 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

• What’s Up with Watersheds? – Discover the importance of watersheds for healthy water supply.
• Treating waste water? – Learn how waste water is cleaned.
• Water Stories Reading Station – Enjoy water-themed stories.
• Watercolour Painting – Create beautiful watercolour art.
• Climate Chemistry Conclusions – Explore the science of water and climate.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan offers more than 2,100 hectares of parkland including 86 kilometres of designated trails in 30 regional parks for visitors to explore. Visit rdco.com/parks to plan your next outing.