From soil to sunshine to scenic vineyards, wineries throughout B.C. are giving British Columbians a diverse sensory experience that is as extraordinary as the province itself.

The B.C. government has committed $5 million to reroute the Town of Oliver’s agricultural irrigation system so the region’s fruit, vegetable and crop economy has the stability to grow.

Skilled trades students in the Okanagan-Similkameen and Boundary school districts will benefit from a three-year, $15-million investment by the B.C. government to support youth trades programs with the purchase of new trades training equipment.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen is receiving a joint federal-provincial Small Communities Fund grant worth $6,606,224.

Building on the economic benefits and jobs created by getting to yes on major projects and provincial investments in infrastructure, Boundary-Similkameen MLA Linda Larson announced immediate investments and a long-term action plan outlined in B.C.’s rural economic development strategy that will create jobs and economic opportunities in Boundary-Similkameen.

The world is changing and B.C. students need to be ready to adapt to the careers of tomorrow. Students in the Okanagan Similkameen School District will be prepared thanks to $22,500 in provincial funding awarded to the district, helping to connect kids with opportunities in skilled trades and tech training. 

Families in the Okanagan-Similkameen school district will benefit from improved transportation services, thanks to $209,099 in funding under the new provincial Student Transportation Fund.

The on-time, on-budget completion of the new $200-million Okanagan Correctional Centre (OCC) puts a lock on more options to safely house inmates throughout British Columbia – and adds 300 jobs in the South Okanagan for correctional officers and support staff.

The South Okanagan is brimming with local flavours from a variety of companies, including the Howling Moon Cider House in Oliver and Bordertown Vineyards and Estate Winery in Osoyoos.

With less than three months until builders hand over the keys to British Columbia’s newest correctional centre, hiring is on track, with approximately 190 positions filled – from correctional officer and administrative support roles to the warden’s chair.