In addition to neighbours, the municipality of Summerland, BC Wildlife Federation and the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, the Penticton Indian Band is calling on the provincial government to override approval of a gravel pit at Garnet Valley.
The band issued a release on Sept. 3, condemning the approval of the gravel pit.
The project is located on land within the unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan Nation, and specifically on land within the Penticton Indian Band Commonage Claim.
"The proposed development and its operation will have a significant impact on syilx title, rights interests and economy,” said Greg Gabriel, Chief of the Penticton Indian Band. “Our syilx Elders strongly advise that this area is an important place for food, social and ceremonial activities and the valley is a well-known and important place for ungulates and other important wildlife."
The project recently received approval from the Inspector of Mines, leading to backlash from locals who are concerned about not only the impact to tourism and nearby agricultural businesses, but to the environment including the local mule deer population.
“There is substantial overlap with critical habitat for Species At Risk," said the band’s natural resource department director James Pepper "We have been working with the provincial government’s ecosystems branch and others to restore and enhance habitat within the Garnet Valley, the proposed operation is counter to this objective."
The band had sent a letter opposing and rejecting the project when it was initially being proposed in January.
The press release also notes that the project is in the vicinity of a sacred place for the syilx people.
The Summerland Sportsman’s Association, Chamber of Commerce, District of Summerland, Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen and residents of Garnet Valley have all made public opposition to the project and called for the approval to be overturned.
