Tourism Businesses Offering Travel Solutions Around the Hwy 97 Slide

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is commending Thompson Okanagan businesses and those that service the region for offering  solutions for residents and visitors in response to the ongoing Highway 97 road closure between Peachland and Summerland due to the August 28th landslide. These services are being offered  to avoid travel disruptions and provide options for travellers to easily be able to come enjoy autumn in a region that desperately needs tourism support after the recent climate crises.  

Air Travel: 

• Air Canada is waiving fees for those travellers with existing bookings impacted by the landslide to change their arrival destination to Penticton or Kelowna by calling the customer support centre. 

• WestJet is offering flexible changes and cancellation for those with trips at Kelowna International Airport (YLW) for travel between Sept. 7 through 10. For more details visit WestJet.com.

Water Shuttle 

• Luxury Lake Tours is offering a weekday Rock Slide Shuttle Service between Peachland and Summerland with one way and return options. Departing Peachland at 6:30am and 4pm; and Summerland at 7:15am and 4:45pm.  

Shuttle Service: 

• Hoodoo Adventures offers a daily shuttle service between Penticton to Kelowna via the Myra Canyon Trestles for those that need to return to their destination. Departing Penticton at 7am; and departing Kelowna between 10:30am-12:30pm *depending on bookings. 

“During this trying time, we appreciate all the support of partners and businesses in the region as we deal with the slide on Highway 97 north of Summerland,” shares Michael J. Ballingall, TOTA Board Chair. “The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association has been working closely with our airline partners and want to recognize the tremendous support to keep residents and visitors travelling through the entire region.”

The Thompson Okanagan from the peak of Mount Robson down to the semi-arid desert in Osoyoos is open and ready to welcome visitors. Fall is one of the best times to explore the region - the leaves are changing colour, the air is crisp, and the sky is clear with the sun shining bright. Offering the perfect conditions for wine touring, culinary journeys, paired with hiking, biking, fishing in between. Kelowna International Airport (YLW), Penticton Airport (YYF), and the Kamloops Airport (YKA), service the region and offer rental cars, or shuttle service.

Visitors can get trip inspiration at thompsonokanagan.com 

TOTA would like to thank the Ministry of Transportation for their ongoing efforts to stabilize the slide site and build a 150-metre wall to prevent further rock fall. They have indicated that this solution may allow single lane traffic by September 16th. To accommodate the road closure while these upgrades are made, there are four options for motorists to get to their destinations: 

• Two forest service roads between Penticton and Kelowna have been 

  improved to accommodate the influx of motorists. These routes add an 

  additional 60 to 90 minutes to the normal Central Okanagan to South 

  Okanagan commute.

  *Drivers who choose to travel these options should 

  ensure their vehicles are properly equipped for conditions.

• Two alternate highway detours are available through Princeton via Highways 3, 5A and 97C to the West, and through Highway 33 to the East, also resulting in multi-hour commutes.

TOTA would like to acknowledge the many partners who have come together to ensure the safety and seamlessness of travel through the Okanagan.

If you or a business you know is offering an alternative mode of transportation around the road closure, please share by filling out the Good News Form

BCRTS Statement on Regional Emergency Communications

The BC Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) is working with provincial and community organisations to improve outcomes for destinations in a crisis situation.

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Wildfires, landslides, and flooding have arrived in our province. These crises have affected many regions of British Columbia in a short period of time. While prevention of these disasters would be ideal, emergency preparedness and tourism coordination is the next most effective step to ensure both residents and visitors are informed and safe.

The Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) has been working with communities and across various ministries to support a coordinated approach to crises, including with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport (TACS). The Tourism Emergency Management Committee (TEMC) worked in tandem with the EMCR to assist in the development of the Tourism Emergency Management Framework. This framework outlines the roles and responsibilities of all levels of government and non-government tourism agencies (Tourism Industry Association of BC, Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport, Destination BC, Indigenous Tourism BC, BC Destination Marketing Organization Association, BC Regional Tourism Secretariat, and Emergency Management BC) and identifies how Destination Marketing / Management Organizations play a role to support and assist communities if and when they are asked.

TACS provided one-time funding to the BC Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) to support the regions’ work in implementing the Tourism Emergency Management Framework. The BCRTS is a collaboration among the following five regional destination management organizations: Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association, Northern BC Tourism Association, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, and 4VI (Vancouver Island). The initiative also includes Vancouver Coast Mountains.

 BCRTS Role
The BCRTS is not responsible for leading emergency management efforts before, during or after a crisis. The BCRTS’ role is to ensure familiarity with the Framework and to support the creation and completion of a crisis communications plan for those who would be the key point of contact for visitors to their area (CDMOs, visitor centres, or tourism businesses). During an emergency event, the regions and CDMOs will execute their own plans to support the efforts of the community’s officials and be the tourism point of contact for all parties involved in the emergency management funnel within the community.

 BCRTS Services

The BCRTS has partnered with Hatch Comms to provide communities with visitor communications support during an emergency event.

The BCRTS has compiled a basic interim template for CDMOs and tourism partners that have not completed DBC’s crisis comms training; or do not have a plan and need to submit something quickly to receive assistance. The document explains what crisis communications is, the role of a CDMO in a crisis, and the contacts of the various organizations within the frameworks of their community.

 The TEMC’s Emergency Communications Guidance for BC’s Tourism Industry provides more in-depth training, templates and checklists.

All of these steps should significantly improve outcomes for destinations with visitors in a variety of crisis situations by providing a singular source of accurate information. This will also support the destination’s communications and economy should they be in a nearby but unaffected destination, keeping visitors confidently flowing to areas that remain safe to travel.

The Province, Destination British Columbia, and the Tourism Industry Association of BC support this BCRTS initiative.

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“Keeping people safe during an emergency is imperative and a top priority for our government. We are committed to working with the BC Regional Tourism Secretariat and other provincial and community tourism partners to ensure the people in BC’s tourism sector, local communities, and our visitors have resources and information in advance of an emergency, so people know where to go, what to do, and what dangers to avoid.”

— The Honourable Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport

“Timely and accurate information sharing in a time of crisis is crucial to maintaining BC’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination, and ensuring business continuity for thousands of tourism operators around the province. We can only achieve this by closely collaborating with our tourism partners and government agencies, at all levels.”

— Clare Mason, Director, Corporate Communications, Destination BC Tourism Emergency Management Committee member

We would be more than happy to schedule a virtual meeting to discuss any concerns or to further clarify our tourism support role within the emergency framework. To schedule a time, please email info@TOTABC.com. 

Thank you,

Ellen Walker-Matthews

Vice-Chair, BC Regional Tourism Secretariat

Chief Executive Officer, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

Industry Shout Out & Enter to Win: Moon Curser Vineyards Celebrates 20 Years

Moon Curser Vineyards is a boutique, family-owned winery on the East Bench of Osoyoos, a South Okanagan border town known for its hot summers, lakeside fun, and vineyards.

Chris and Beata Tolley, founders of Moon Curser

Moon Curser has been in operation for 20 years, since 2004 when Chris and Beata Tolley purchased an old orchard in need of replanting and set about converting it into what is now the Moon Curser Home Vineyard block, winery, and tasting room.

The Moon Curser name pays tribute to the gold smuggling history of Osoyoos. The Moon Curser wines, however, break from tradition – the winery’s focus has always been on making premium wines from old-world grape varieties not previously planted in the Okanagan such as Tannat, Dolcetto, and Touriga Nacional. These varieties have not historically been a part of the South Okanagan viticulture, but thrive in the distinctive terroir of the Osoyoos East Bench and continue to deliver unique, world class interpretations of these wines.

Moon Curser was recognized as #1 Best Performing Small Winery at the 2019 WineAlign National Wine Awards of Canada. 

The Moon Curser team is proud to make delicious wines, provide excellent wine tasting experiences, and also create a professional, flexible and welcoming work environment for employees. They are fortunate to have a long-term team of staff who have been working at Moon Curser for 8 or more years on average.

Planning a trip? You can reserve a Wine Tasting or Private Winemaker Tour & Tasting for your next visit.

Tasting room and vineyards overlooking Osoyoos Lake

Enter to Win a Wine Tasting for 4

Want to taste some of these rare Okanagan grape varietals for yourself? Moon Curser has generously donated 3 prizes of a Wine Tasting Experience for up to 4 people, including a 10% discount on wine purchases made in the tasting room.

Thompson Okanagan tourism and hospitality professionals in the Thompson Okanagan (View Eligibility Details) can enter to win by Friday, July 14, 11:59 PM through the form below.

BC Wildlife Park's Commitment to Access and Inclusion Continues with Fundraising for Playground Upgrades

In 2021, the BC Wildlife Park in Kamloops completed a project to pave all its pathways to make the park more accessible for people using wheelchairs, strollers, and walkers. As well, the park added powered mobility scooters and wheelchairs for visitors to easily explore the park. The washrooms were made accessible and environmentally efficient. And this was just the beginning of BC Wildlife Park’s commitment to access and inclusion.

Now, BC Wildlife Park has turned its attention to the iconic children’s playground. The current playground is over 23 years old and major upgrades are needed in order to bring it up to current standards and make it inclusive and accessible for children of all ages and abilities. While park priorities remain focused on animal care and welfare, children and families make it all possible.

Early playground renderings include accessible paths, inclusive equipment and sensory stations - all carefully designed to allow children to play together.

“Participation in play, on an equal basis with other children, is a right, not a privilege, for ALL children. Playgrounds are at the heart of a community and a space where children of all ages and abilities can connect together through play. Canada needs more playgrounds that are designed in innovative ways to be fully accessible and inclusive to the needs of all children. No child should be left on the sidelines of play.”

— Dr. Kelly Arbour-Nicitopoulos, Associate Professor from the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education at the University of Toronto, Canada.

Fundraising Initiatives

Fundraising efforts began with a country music concert on June 17 and a children’s contest asking BC children of all ages to share what outdoor play means to them through a creative piece, like a poem, letter, artwork, or video.

More fun and engaging fundraising initiatives are planned throughout the year-long campaign.

To learn more about upcoming events, please visit BCWildlife.org for details.

To support the new BC Wildlife Park accessible playground visit BCWildlife.org/play.htm or text “play” to 30333.

Community Spotlight: Village of Valemount

The Community Spotlight will highlight communities in the region to help tourism professionals get to know the 90+ villages, towns, Indigenous nations, and cities of the Thompson Okanagan region.

Tourism Valemount shared some information on the destination and their sustainability initiatives:

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Where is Valemount?

Surrounded by majestic mountains the vibrant Village of Valemount is tucked into the picturesque Robson Valley, situated along the Yellowhead Highway just twenty minutes from Mount Robson. Valemount is at the northern tip of the Thompson Okanagan region.

What are the main activities that attract visitors?

There are seemingly unlimited outdoor recreation and local cultural experience, with diverse trail networks, natural gems, and quiet serene locations where you can relax and enjoy scenic views, all year round.

Those who enjoy the adrenaline rush of white-water rafting, sledding, and downhill biking will find many reasons to keep coming back.

Prefer activities like hiking, paddling, and fishing? They have that too.

For those who enjoy browsing through museums, galleries, shopping in local markets and boutiques, meeting artisans, hearing musicians, and going to live theatrical performances Valemount has it all.

Take a stroll, or pedal along the Bigfoot Trail which loops through the community giving a great way to explore the village without a vehicle.

Learn more at the official DMO website, VisitValemount.ca.

What are the main events this summer?

• Valemountain Days starting June 9 is an action-packed weekend with plenty of family activities, including a car show, parade, live music, and bouncy castles. Take in this three-day event to discover why Valemount is known to be such a friendly and welcoming community.

• Bike Fest 2023 on June 17 will have shuttles, food, music, and epic trail riding.

• The Valemount Farmers’ Market is on Thursdays from 4-7 PM, starting June 15

For the full events schedule, check out VisitValemount.ca.

What sustainability initiatives is Tourism Valemount involved with?

Chinook salmon in Swift Creek

Photo Credit: Leon Lorenz Canadian Wildlife Productions

Chinook salmon conservation efforts

Photo Credit: Tourism Valemount – Photo of Jesi Watts – Spruce City Wildlife Association releases Chinook Salmon fry into Swift Creek, Valemount, BC.

The Chinook salmon have been greatly impacted by the Big Bar Slide so Tourism Valemount partnered with the Simpcw Nation and Spruce City Wildlife Association to co-host the release of over 20,000 Chinook salmon fry into Swift Creek.

The Swift Creek Chinook salmon population is of particular importance because it is considered an at-risk or endangered population. Factors such as habitat degradation, overfishing, pollution, and climate change have contributed to declines in their numbers.

Protecting and restoring at-risk salmon populations like the Swift Creek Chinook salmon is crucial for maintaining the health and biodiversity of freshwater ecosystems. Salmon play a significant ecological role as they bring nutrients from the ocean to freshwater systems, providing food for other organisms and contributing to the overall balance of the ecosystem.

Efforts are being made to protect and restore the Swift Creek Chinook salmon population. These efforts involve habitat restoration projects, such as improving water quality, restoring spawning grounds, and creating fish passages to enable their migration.

Thompson Okanagan Communities Receive Over $5.5 million in Funding from PacifiCan to Revitalize Public Spaces and Enhance Tourism Experiences

The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $5.5 million in PacifiCan funding for 17 projects in the Thompson Okanagan through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund and the Tourism Relief Fund.

TOTA received funding to conduct sustainability assessments for tourism businesses to help them implement sustainable and environmentally responsible operational practices. More details will be shared shortly. 

Upgrading existing infrastructure and building new public assets will mean British Columbians will have better access to recreational programs and facilities; these projects will grow economic opportunities, create jobs, and improve community wellness.

The funding announcement builds on the recent openings of PacifiCan offices in Kelowna and Cranbrook that will help support local economic development for British Columbians in the Southern Interior.

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Thompson Okanagan Projects

Communities benefiting from funding include Kelowna, Penticton, Peachland, Vernon, Summerland, Keremeos, and Osoyoos.

Canada Community Revitalization Fund

City of Kelowna
$750,000
Funding will go towards adding accessibility features to Pandosy Waterfront Park in Kelowna, including a floating dock, pedestrian lighting, wayfinding signage, and mobile infrastructure.

City of Penticton
$750,000
Funding will go towards building a new lake-to-lake bike route between Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake. The safe and dedicated cycling route and pedestrian sidewalk will allow easy public access across the city.

$200,000
Funding will go towards the construction of two accessible community washrooms at Penticton’s Kiwanis Park Safety Village and Riverside Park.

City of Vernon
$639,000
Funding will be used for the continued development of Civic Memorial Park. Project activities include upgrading an existing building to improve energy efficiency and the creation of accessible public washrooms and a community meeting space.

City of West Kelowna
$416,250
Funding will go towards revitalizing four community parks in West Kelowna: Beechnut, Pritchard, Paula and Shetler Park. Upgrades include landscape and parking enhancements, and the installation of new playground equipment, volleyball courts and picnic areas.

District of Peachland
$53,188
Funding will be used to expand and improve the accessibility of multi-use pathways that link Heritage Park to downtown Peachland. Project activities include installing new streetlights, expanding the parking lot, and adding safe trail connections and crosswalks.

O’Keefe Ranch and interior Heritage Society
$94,915
Funding will help create ten glamping accommodation units at the O’Keefe Ranch Historic Site in Vernon. The project will leverage green technology and improve accessibility for persons with disabilities.

Osoyoos Museum Society
$310,530
Funding will go towards redeveloping the lower level of the Osoyoos Museum to include cultural artifact displays and multi-purpose work rooms to host community gatherings and events.

Tourism Relief Fund

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
$500,000
Funding will go towards conducting sustainability assessments for rural tourism businesses in British Columbia to help them adopt and implement sustainable and environmentally responsible operational practices.

Argus Properties Ltd.
$99,999
Funding will help build a floating platform and ramp extension for Hotel Eldorado’s marina dock on Okanagan Lake. Improvements will expand existing floatplane services, bringing visitors from Vancouver to Kelowna.

British Columbia Snowmobile Federation
$500,000
Funding will go towards creating a recreational snowmobile trail program, which will support snowmobile clubs in the province and enhance tourism offerings.

Carpe Diem Tours Ltd.
$85,000
Funding will go towards purchasing a new vehicle and facilitate further development of winery tours targeted to francophone and other visitors to the Okanagan.

Elevation Outdoors Experiential Programs Association
$219,600
Funding will go towards expanding operations at Kelowna Bike Rentals, including the purchase of 92 new bikes including adaptive e-bikes, mountain and city bikes, and cycling accessories.

ERTCU Travel Group Ltd
$99,999
Funding will help develop and market a series of new RV tours across rural British Columbia, targeting the international market. 

Renedian Adventures Ltd.
$99,999
Funding will go towards purchasing four motorcycles, a van and trailer and hiring additional staff to increase motorcycle tour services in Kelowna.

Vernon Winter Carnival Society
$125,000
Funding will go towards new activities that expand the Vernon Winter Carnival, a 10-day winter festival featuring over 100 local events.

Wine Country Studios
$56,960
Funding will go towards expanding and promoting unique Metis art workshops and classes to tourists visiting West Kelowna.

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For the full list of projects, please see the press release and backgrounder.

New Biosphere Committed Company: Travel Penticton

Travel Penticton has become a member of the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, joining over 80 other organizations in working towards sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

Read on to learn about Travel Penticton’s role as a destination marketing organization, including their current sustainability initiatives and motivation for joining Biosphere.

About Travel Penticton

Travel Penticton is the Destination Marketing Organization for Penticton and area, charged with the task of providing destination marketing and awareness to potential travelers on a regional, provincial, national, and international level. Travel Penticton proudly acknowledges that they work on the traditional unceded territory of the Syilx-Okanagan People.

Tourism is the third largest contributor to the economy in Penticton and a robust and sustainable tourism sector will contribute significantly to the City’s long term prosperity. They have always encouraged members and stakeholders to invest in sustainable initiatives and felt it important to lead by example by joining the Biosphere Commitment Program.

For Travel Penticton, sustainability means they can ensure the longevity of the tourism sector by protecting the natural environment, maintaining a healthy and stable workforce, and creating a community that is welcoming and accessible to all.

Travel Penticton has already made concerted efforts to reduce carbon emissions produced by visitors who drive and fly into Penticton annually through the "Fuel Free…Almost" initiative. This program encourages visitors, once they have arrived, to leave their vehicle keys in the hotel safe and explore the region by foot, pedal, or paddle.

Travel Penticton is also working on several other sustainability initiatives relating to health and wellness of both visitors and employees, including:

• Became Rainbow Registered, signifying that visitor centres and offices are deemed safe spaces for members of the LGBTQ2+ community.

• Held training and workshops for employees and members covering a wide range of environmental, social and economic topics.

• Work closely with the City of Penticton and Penticton Indian Band to address and advocate for policies that have a significant impact on the tourism sector such as diversity, equality, accessibility, affordable housing, and community development.

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About the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program

Biosphere is a Sustainable Tourism System certified by the Responsible Tourism Institute, an international certification body that maintains a Memorandum of Understanding with UNESCO, is affiliated to the World Tourism Organization, and is a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. The system is aligned with the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris COP21 Accord to Fight Climate Change.

TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program allows tourism industry stakeholders within the Thompson Okanagan to become involved. The Commitment Program follows a simple process in order to be recognized as a Biosphere Committed Company.

Learn More →

Schedule a Virtual Biosphere Introduction →

New Biosphere Member: Little Straw Vineyards

Little Straw Vineyards is the newest member of the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program. Read on for information about Little Straw, including their rich history, new ownership, and motivation for joining Biosphere.

About Little Straw Vineyards

Little Straw Vineyard is a family-owned winery established in 1996. Wines vinted from the hot summer grapes of 1994 made up the first commercial releases. The winery is well known for the remarkably popular white blend “Tapestry” and for producing the only Auxerrois Icewine in Canada. 

The majority of grapes come from their own vineyards situated on the lower slopes of Mount Boucherie in West Kelowna, British Columbia. Little Straw offers a wide range of small-lot wines, with something to appeal to almost every palate.

The winery is currently moving towards sustainability and organic.

Reasons for Joining the Biosphere Commitment Program

The ownership changed at the end of 2021 to Karnail Singh Sidhu, who also owns Kalala Organic Estate Winery. Karnail has been always passionate about being organic, sustainable, and eco-friendly. Kalala Organic Estate Winery has been a part of the Biosphere Commitment Program for a while now, and shares the same values as Biosphere.

The central vision of the Little Straw is to be a leader in environmentally sustainable agri-tourism business in BC. Little Straw really values being environmentally sustainable, keeping the environment in mind with every business decision. For instance, the majority of organic waste from the winery is used in the vineyards as nutrient manure.

Little Straw proactively tries to get certified, especially regarding environmental sustainability. For instance, listing certified organic and Biosphere Committed Company logos will stimulate the wine and agriculture industries and consumers.

The new owners have big plans for Little Straw. Joining the Biosphere Commitment Program will be one of the first steps they take for sustainability. The winery is also in the process to become certified organic, which takes approximately three years.

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About the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program

Biosphere is a Sustainable Tourism System certified by the Responsible Tourism Institute, an international certification body that maintains a Memorandum of Understanding with UNESCO, is affiliated to the World Tourism Organization, and is a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. The system is aligned with the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris COP21 Accord to Fight Climate Change.

TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program allows tourism industry stakeholders within the Thompson Okanagan to become involved. The Commitment Program follows a simple process in order to be recognized as a Biosphere Committed Company.

Learn More →

Schedule a Virtual Biosphere Introduction →

A Place Where They Belong: The Rise of the Okanagan’s Indian-Owned Wineries

The story of British Columbia’s modern wine industry—albeit remarkable in terms of its rapid growth and success—is usually portrayed as one of risk-taking, combined with an abundance of unbridled optimism. Yet, often missing from the narrative of 40 or 50 years ago are the very real hardships endured by immigrants who worked in the orchards and vineyards of their adopted homeland.

Read More →

Q&A: Destination Canada’s Gracen Chungath on The Future of Regenerative Tourism in Canada

Destination Canada’s Senior Vice-President, Destination Development, Gracen Chungath, spoke with Canadian Geographic about a regenerative approach to tourism and destination stewardship. The article explores how these two themes can be put into practice across Canada. Adopting regenerative tourism principles means flipping from focusing solely on the visitor, to focusing on the needs of the local community. Once the community knows what they aspire to do, the next step is to determine how tourism can be used to help reach those goals.

Learn More →

Tackling Food Waste: Sustainable Solutions That Will Improve Your Bottom Line

Originally published in InnFocus Magazine Summer 2022.

Article by Kelsey Millman 

While recycling, saving water, and reducing electricity are among the many important steps toward being sustainable, are you aware of the impact food waste has on the climate crisis? Ben Liegey is on a mission to expand our collective understanding of food waste prevention and help hospitality operators improve their bottom line in the process. 

“Food waste generates 8% of total anthropogenic GHG emissions globally, meaning that if food waste was a country, it would be the third highest emitter of CO2 in the world, behind USA and China,” says the food waste expert and co-founder and CEO at Rethink2gether. “Globally, food waste prevention is the number one solution to fight climate change, and emissions caused by food waste can be drastically reduced through simple steps.” 

Liegey’s Vancouver-based company works directly with accommodators across the province to reduce food waste through a tailored action plan that will result in annual savings. 

“An average restaurant in BC experiences approximately 50K in food waste per year—30% of which is completely avoidable,” he says. “3% of hospitality businesses in British Columbia measure food waste currently,” and Rethink2gether wants to increase that number by providing the expertise, training, technology, and a certification program—The PLEDGE™ on Food Waste—to set operators on their path to savings. He adds, “hospitality businesses can cut food purchasing costs by 3-7% and expect an average of 30% less food waste after a year of using our services, meaning 15K can go back into your pocket.” 

Although cost savings and protecting the planet are clear benefits of reducing food waste, Liegey also points to ethical food waste prevention as a means to attract and retain workers, as today’s workforce is “looking for work that has meaning.” Particularly for those within the culinary space, Liegey suggests, “if you show your employees you care about the environment, and the treatment of food, you can attract people who are needed in the industry right now.” 

But employees are not the only group of people looking to engage with foodconscious businesses. He notes, “According to a recent booking.com poll, 83% of global travellers think sustainable travel is vital. If you want to drive revenue and guests to your hotel, being sustainable is really a no-brainer.” 

Fortunately for us all, food waste prevention is becoming part of a larger conversation— something Liegey is excited to see. “We are witnessing governments around the world beginning to take action,” he says. “France is one of the first countries to officially adopt anti-food waste laws.” Anticipating that this will be a growing trend, it creates an opportunity for operators to be leaders in this space, being among the first to implement food waste prevention practices.

Sandman Hotel & Suites Kelowna Pilot Project 

In BC’s hotel community, one such leader that has emerged is Sandman Hotel & Suites Kelowna. The property recently participated in a first-of-its-kind Energy, Waste & Carbon Reduction Pilot Project, pioneered by the BC Hotel Association, in partnership with FortisBC, GreenStep, and Rethink2gether.

Through this ground-breaking program, all aspects of the property’s hotel and dining operations have been scrutinized by analysts as they measure the property’s carbon footprint, while conducting comprehensive energy, waste, and water audits. This was all done with one aim in mind—to identify energy conservation and sustainability opportunities. 

For Rethink2gether’s part, Liegey explains, “We trained the entire team on-site, and arranged food waste segregation bins to separate different food waste streams that include preparation, spoilage, and plate waste.” Once the measuring systems were in place, over the course of a week, the Rethink2gether team began “analyzing food waste data to identify food efficiency opportunities—compared against industry data—and shared a detailed three-month action plan that will help the property identify up to tens of thousands in cost-savings from food waste reduction alone.”

To support this program, the Sandman Hotel & Suites Kelowna added a $2 Eco Fee to all guest bookings as of February 15, 2022. Funds go directly into a Sandman Hotel Group Green Fund—administered by GreenStep—to support the implementation of future sustainability projects and opportunities at the hotel. 

While the sustainability collective hopes to roll this pilot project out across BC, Liegey says there are steps that hotel operators can immediately take to support food waste reduction—and it begins with a pen and paper. “The most important step in food waste prevention is to begin measuring,” he says, and operators do not need any specific technology to get started. “You have in your hand a very easy way to create significant savings and leverage the number one solution to fight climate change. Alternatively, if you want to explore food waste monitoring technology, you can also try Food Intel Tech for free for 45 days.”

 Liegey also encourages hospitality operators to explore Rethink2gether’s website for free training, resources, and to explore The PLEDGE™ on Food Waste, with 4 levels of certification and 95 criteria solely focused on food waste. 

As Liegey states, “Climate action begins with each of us, and food waste prevention is a tasty way to improve your bottom line.”

Rethink2gether’s Website →

Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada Annual Update 2022

The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada released their Annual Update video outlining how they have supported Indigenous tourism businesses throughout the past year and have made great progress towards recovery.

Congratulations to the team at Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) on a strong year and all of your successes along the way. We are proud to work alongside you to showcase the incredible Indigenous tourism offerings we have across the country. For an in-depth look at their work for the past year, read their annual report.

Watch Now →

Read the Report →

Industry Outlines Recommendations for Federal Tourism Growth Strategy

Following a consultation request from government on a Canadian Tourism Growth Strategy, industry advocates across Canada have submitted their recommendations:

1. As a result of consultations with industry leaders and members -- which included focus groups, surveys, and direct outreach -- the Hotel Association of Canada has submitted hotel-specific recommendations as part of the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy consultations. View Submission →

2. The BCHA and HAC are also a part of the Hardest Hit Coalition (HHC) - a collection of more than 120 business associations in the tourism sector, co-chaired by HAC and TIAC. With collaboration from industry, the submission reiterates the four key pillars with attention to tourism and hospitality. View Submission →

3. Expanding on the accommodation-specific recommendations outlined in submissions, the BC Hotel Association outlined specific recommendations and investments needed to support our provincial accommodation sector. View Submission →

4. The Tourism Industry Association of Canada also outlined tourism-specific recommendations; View Submission →

Province of B.C. Launches E-Transfer for Evacuees

The Province is launching upgrades to Emergency Support Services (ESS), including direct payment for evacuees to help meet their basic needs, including food and clothing.

E-transfer is now available in many communities for people receiving ESS after being evacuated and registering with the online Evacuee Registration and Assistance (ERA) tool. To be eligible for an e-transfer, people must log in to ERA online with their BC Services Card app and register. The BC Services Card app is available to download from the Apple and Google app stores.

People in B.C. forced from their homes by fire, floods, earthquakes or other emergencies may receive ESS for immediate needs when alternative supports, including insurance or accommodation with friends and family, are not available.

Pre-register for Evacuee Registration and Assistance (ERA): ess.gov.bc.ca

Learn More →

Destination Canada Releases Tourism Outlook Findings From Spring 2022

Destination Canada has published its Spring 2022 Tourism Outlook outlining the forecast for tourism recovery. The study was conducted between late March and May and the assumptions reflect the operating context of that time.

Key Takeaways:

• Travel demand is high and domestic travel will continue to lead recovery, with US following closely behind.

• Our other international markets have been slower to recover; international arrivals from DC long-haul markets have only recovered to 35% of the equivalent September to April period in 2018/19. 

• While recovery is uneven among our markets, momentum is building and we are forecasting that leisure travel will return to 2019 levels by 2025, with an upside to 2024 as our best-case scenario.

Read the full report to learn about travel demand, key recovery drivers and several forecast scenarios.

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Communities Benefit from Emergency Operations Centre Funding

84 First Nations and local governments, including 19 Thompson Okanagan communities, will receive provincial emergency-preparedness funding to help improve emergency operations centres (EOCs) and better equip them to respond to emergencies affecting the people in their communities.

With this $3.2 million in Community Emergency Preparedness funding, communities will be able to build or upgrade EOCs, purchase equipment, and enhance capacity through volunteer recruitment, retention and training. The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund is administered through the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) and supports programs that strengthen the resilience of First Nations communities, local governments, and residents.

Thompson Okanagan funding recipients include:

• Adams Lake Indian Band – EOC capacity-building initiative, Total approved funding: $24,902.32

• Ashcroft Indian Band – EOC project, Total approved funding: $23,500

• Central Okanagan Regional District – large-format printer and equipment, Total approved funding: $24,959

• Kootenay-Boundary Regional District – emergency operations and training, Total approved funding: $20,910

• McBride – EOC equipment and training, Total approved funding: $12,263

• Merritt – EOC 2022, Total approved funding: $24,959.01

• Midway – 2022 EOC project, Total approved funding: $24,860

• North Okanagan Regional District – EOC emergency power generator, Total approved funding: $25,000

• Okanagan Indian Band – EOC improvements, Total approved funding: $24,984.40

• Okanagan-Similkameen Regional District, Summerland, Keremeos, Oliver, regional – 2022 joint EOC training and technology, Total approved funding: $99,130

• Osoyoos – EOC computer network upgrade, Total approved funding: $25,000

• Penticton – staff training, Total approved funding: $25,000

• Penticton Indian Band – EOC improvement, Total approved funding: $25,000

• Princeton – generator back-up power for EOC, Total approved funding: $25,000

• Simpcw First Nation – EOC virtually, Total approved funding: $25,000

• Skuppah Indian Band – emergency preparation, capacity building and training, Total approved funding: $24,640

• Spuzzum First Nation – EOC development, Total approved funding: $25,000

• Tk’emlups te Secwepemc – EOC training and equipment, Total approved funding: $24,130.91

• Vernon – 2022 EOC training and equipment, Total approved funding: $25,000

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Projections of Tourism Employment Demand

Tourism HR Canada released their Projections of Tourism Employment Demand in Canada, 2019 – 2025, which provides initial results from a three-year project to update and enhance the labour supply and demand projections for the tourism sector. Produced by The Conference Board of Canada, the report’s findings are based primarily on job demand stemming from the business perspective (demand side) but also include discussion of some outcomes that arise from labour challenges on the supply side, namely in the form of job vacancies.

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BCRTS COVID-19 Tourism Impact Survey Final Report

The BC Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) released the final B.C. COVID-19 Tourism Impact Survey 2020-2021 Report, which summarizes the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on British Columbia’s visitor economy from April 2020 to December 2021. The report outlines survey responses from B.C. tourism companies in order to share the experiences through one of the most challenging periods in recent history and lessons to navigate future events, impacts, and crises.

Survey questions were developed through a collaborative process, with a mix of core questions that repeated across surveys, as well as one-off or temporary questions designed to inform context-specific events or policies.

Over the course of the 21-month period, BCRTS collected 7,952 responses from 3,849 different visitor economy stakeholders.1,023 participants (13%)  operated in the Thompson Okanagan region. The survey heard from many different types of tourism operators across the province, including: accommodation, food and beverage, activities, retail, transportation, visitor centres, Indigenous and non indigenous owned businesses, as well as several others.

Reports were published regularly to share data visualizations and analysis of responses on a provincial and regional level and informed BCRTS in its advocacy and support of the visitor economy over the course of the pandemic.

Recommendations

The BCRTS developed a unique perspective on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the visitor economy through its survey program and other advocacy. This perspective has equipped BCRTS with the knowledge and expertise necessary to make recommendations on how to best navigate future crises.

Recommendations for industry include:

1. Digitalization and fully developed outreach programs are essential to relief program success. 

2. Insurance solutions specifically tailored by industry would provide greater protection for industry members during times of crisis. 

Recommendations for government and other policymakers include:

1. There exists a need to develop scenario analysis and crisis management plans for future crises.

2. Access to government-backed credit would increase the coping abilities of the most affected firms in times of crisis. 

3. Programs that are designed to support individuals create distortions for industry when they penalize workers that choose to continue working in the service sector.

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About the British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat:

The British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) is an active collaboration between the five tourism regions of Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association, Northern BC Tourism Association, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, and 4VI (formerly Tourism Vancouver Island). In March 2020, BCRTS members collaborated to better understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on B.C. tourism businesses and developed the BC Tourism Resiliency Network to support the tourism industry.

For more information, contact:

Chelsea Travere
Communications Specialist
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
E: Chelsea@TOTABC.com

Ellen Walker-Matthews
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
E: CEO@TOTABC.com

Watch Recording of Destination Canada’s Annual Public Meeting

On June 23, 2022, Destination Canada hosted their Annual Public Meeting, where the executive team reflected on the challenges and learnings of the past year and shared our forward-looking strategy, which focuses on the best opportunities to support the recovery and resilience of the tourism sector.

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Harbour Air Announces Summer Flights from Vancouver to Eldorado Resort Marina

Flights resume on Saturday, July 9th and there are promotional rates as low as $299 all summer long. This seasonal service will feature one round-trip flight twice a week (Saturday & Tuesday) through September 6th.

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