Okanagan Falls Provincial Park

Okanagan Falls Provincial Park is a provincial park in British Columbia, Canada, located in the town of the same name, protecting the area around the waterfall of the same name, which lies below the outlet of Skaha Lake in the course of the Okanagan River.

History

Okanagan Falls Provincial Park was created in 1956. The area was first inhabited by an Irishman named Michael Keogan. He built the area's first homestead. His homestead was to the south of what had now become the park. From that single homestead has grown an entire community. The step-like rapids of the outlet of the Skaha Lake, which in the Interior Salish was called "Little Falls," were lost in 1950 when a flood control dam was built over them.

Flora

The park occupies an area of two hectares. The park has deciduous trees and is an important site for the conservation of riparian vegetation. In the 1950s, non-native tree species like Chinese elm, Norway maple, red ash and Lombardy poplar were planted in the park.

Fauna

Okanagan Falls Provincial Park is a popular place for bird enthusiasts. There is superb bird watching in the park. Rare species such as western wood pewees, American yellow warblers, northern orioles and least flycatchers are often spotted in the park. The park offers numerous nature-related activities such as wildlife viewing, nature study, and photography. The park also supports an astounding 18 species of bats, one of the highest concentrations in Canada.

Activities

The park offers several activities, such as cycling and fishing, though for the latter permits are required. There are many trails in the park for hiking. There are also camping sites within the park.

Western wood-pewee (Contopus sordidulus)