Swan Lake Nature Reserve

In 2005 Ducks Unlimited and Greater Vernon Services, with substantial donations from the North Okanagan Naturalists’ Club and Bishop Wild Bird Trust, took title on 125 acres of the Anderson’s property at the south end of Swan Lake to create a nature reserve around BX and Swan Lake Creeks, and provide public recreation. The North Okanagan Naturalists’s Club became responsible for the environmental stewardship of the property. Livestock are permanently removed from the property. Work started on BX creek clean up, and weed control.

In 2006 detailed surveys have commenced on the bird and animal populations, and tree/plant inventory is being updated. Further plans for the year included weed control work parties, tree and shrub planting along Swan Lake Creek, and debris and fence removal.

By 2007 NONC, with assistance from the BC Forest Service in Vernon, had planted over 1000 trees and shrubs on the ex-Anderson property and continued environmental upgrade of the property in line with the GVSC Nature Park concept plan.

In September 2007 NONC completed a footbridge over BX creek that will link to a future trail system.