Responding to dry conditions, the Government of B.C. has announced a Level 3 drought rating for the South Thompson, Nicola, Similkameen, Okanagan-Kettle and Skagit regions.

The Penticton Indian Band will receive $40,000 from the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund for a feasibility study to explore wind and hydro energy projects.

The public is urged to take extra care near the Okanagan River because of high water levels.

The Province, Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen and trail user groups have finalized a plan to enhance the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail network near Naramata and maintain motor vehicle access to Little Tunnel.

Surveys of kokanee numbers in Okanagan lakes during fall 2013 showed mixed results, but will not impact angling opportunities for the coming season.

As part of the long-term vision for the Kettle Valley Railway Trail to be a vibrant, world-class recreation destination, the Province is investing over $100,000 to upgrade the trail between Naramata and Little Tunnel.

Recreational users are being advised that a portion of the Kettle Valley Railway Trail - between Gillard Forest Service Road and Chute Lake Lodge - will be closed to motorized traffic from 9 a.m. to noon on Sunday, July 14.

The public is urged to take extra care near the Okanagan River because of high water levels.

Responding to dwindling kokanee salmon stocks in the Okanagan's Wood Lake, the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations has implemented additional regulatory restrictions for the 2013 season.