Thanks to Jane Stelkia for inviting me to her home for the above picture

Mr. Terry Lake
Minister of Environment
Parliament Buildings
Victoria,B.C. V8X 1X4

I am an original Okanagan First Nations woman at 82 years of age. I am a long time cattle and horse rancher that has and is to this day my livelihood! Ranching has been in my family for over 100 years. Anything that effects an area of drastic change such as a National Park in this area, can and will definitely traumatize or disable cattle ranching as a whole in the area and British Columbia. There is always a domino or residual effect that is usually over looked or pushed under the rug.

I want to continue for another 20 years and see the generations of my family continue, what I have worked so hard for to established and have been successful at all of my life! They deserve that.

I am also an avid outdoors activist, conservationist, and recreationalist, enjoying such activities as horseback riding, camping, quading, hunting, fishing, digging roots, picking medicines and berry picking.

My family and I treat our mountains, wildlife and waters with great respect. This has been taught throughout generations among our family and the First Nations People.

Thank you for reading my letter in its entirety and taking account that I DO NOT support a National Park in the proposed area that has been presented by Parks Canada, and CPAWS etc. going into the ninth year at present. Nine years of many dollars and support from the Governments and organizations, all without much success. This affects all the “individuals” as well. All of whom live in this area.

I am but one “individual” that lives here and would like to be counted!!

NO NATIONAL PARK

Regards,

Jane Stelkia Osoyoos Indian Band First Nations Oliver BC