I know the subject we love to hate.

I am introducing it here again as I think something is going to change soon. A small change because the clues and the words have been in the media coming from the government side for some time.

I had a conversation with a person in Victoria who stated there will be a few announcements in August and I expect we may even hear about this subject this week or next.

Both MLA Linda Larson and Environment Minister Mary Polak have told ODN – that ‘a one size fits all blanket’ national park is NOT in the offing but they allowed for the label “National Park” as one option to be explored.

To consolidate land already protected and not available for development might be a good decision to limit cost exposure while ensuring protection for endangered species, wildlife, sensitive environmental areas. Two such areas that just about everyone refers to are: Vaseux Lake noted for its Canadian Wildlife Service controlled area, land held by the Nature’s Trust, Provincial Park and The Land Conservancy. The second area is west of Osoyoos in the hills with names like Chopaka and Kilpoola and Desert Centre.

This would be a start to bring out the maps – consolidate the land and offer it to the federal government as a National Park Reserve.

Environment Minister Polak called a National Park a blunt instrument at a time when there was measurable opposition from ranchers and outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Polak has now had the chance to consult with natives bands and regional aboriginal organizations and all other stakeholders and maybe her government is ready to announce a plan that would be a first step towards a scheme that all can accept.

The pressure is mounting for a palatable solution – a position in the middle.

Time will tell.

One prediction from me is that the plan is not a big as those with the new signs want.