Environment Minister Mary Polak says the province is a step closer to protecting lands in the South Okanagan today. A South Okanagan National Park has long been in the works, experiencing fits and starts, but now the province has announced intentions for three parcels of land lying roughly between Okanagan Lake to the north and the U.S. border to the south. Parks Canada first floated the idea of a national park reserve in the area in 2003, but abandoned those plans in 2012 due to provincial opposition. Polak says if a national park reserve doesn't come together the land could be protected by provincial legislation. With files from CBC Radio One's Radio WestTo hear the full interview, click the audio labelled: Possible South Okanagan national park lands suggested by province

Source: CBC News January 29, 2017 19:52 UTC