The Penticton and Wine Country Chamber of Commerce wants more information before it can decide if it supports the proposed national park in the South Okanagan.

The chamber is calling on the provincial and federal governments to complete an updated feasibility study on the park. There have been studies carried out in the past, but president Cary Schneiderat said they believe those relied on old data or inaccurate comparisons to established parks like Banff and Jasper.

“We are not opposed to the park, we just feel we don’t have enough information to make a decision yet,” he said, explaining they’ve received presentations from both supporters and opponents that each presented their own set of facts and conclusions.

The Penticton Chamber said it recognizes “the prospect of certain benefits a national park would bring,” but is also “aware of negative effects on farmers, miners, aviation companies and numerous other stakeholders.”

“In maintaining its position, the PWCCC renews its request for a fully up to date feasibility study taking into consideration all of the effects any proposed park,” he said. “Without such a fulsome review we fear optimism will supplant prudence.”

Schneiderat said the announcement Wednesday was in response to recent questions from membership and the news of SarahBoyle’s appointment (Parks Canada) to meet with those in favour and those against.

Source: Castanet