OKANAGAN GEOLOGY SOUTH
A much anticipated book has arrived at our gift shop at the Archives (9726 – 350th Ave.). This geological text is unique, as it is one of the few books on landscapes of
the southern Okanagan Valley. Profits from
sales will be endowed to the Okanagan College Foundation and the University of British Columbia Okanagan, with a grant provision to APEG Foundation (Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia).This just-released companion volume to the highly successful Okanagan Geology, focuses on the unique geologic features of the South Okanagan – features not present anywhere else in the Okanagan region.
Roadside geologic maps and descriptions of each of the townsites from Summerland to Osoyoos, (also White Lake), form the “heart” of this new book. From a discussion of the Okanagan Valley fault, to geology and its relationship to wine terroir, the book covers a wide range of topics that show how the land upon which we live and work – tells a powerful story of natural forces and geologic history. Also included in the book:A history of early geologic exploration traces how changing theories have led to plate tectonics that modern geologists now employ.
–
Geologic highlights of Osoyoos, Oliver, White Lake basin, Okanagan Falls, Penticton,
Naramata, and Summerland.
–
Geological disasters and near-disasters such as the Testalinden Creek debris torrent and the rock fracture that close Hwy 97 for three weeks in October 2008.
–
A review of historic gold mining reveals that it was surprisingly lucrative in today’s dollars.
–
Water is a major topic of concern in the South Okanagan and is addressed
here. A companion chapter on groundwater, the only future water source,
presents ideas to assist exploration and calls for a far more regulated ground
water industry.
The book has over 150 colour illustrations, is written in a non-technical manner and will be of interest to anyone curious about the many spectacular landforms, lakes and streams of the south OkanaganValley.
submitted by Lynn Alaric, Oliver and District Heritage Society – Archives