1 week Ago By Brendan Shykora
Three outdoor projects in the area are getting thousands of dollars in grant funding from the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO). The RDNO's board of directors approved funding through the Greater Vernon Trails and Natural Spaces Project Grant Program for 2025. Projects by the North Okanagan Cycling Society, Friends of the Okanagan Rail Trail Society and the North Okanagan Naturalists' Club are receiving funding.
The RDNO awards annual grant funding to community organizations that intend to undertake projects to improve trails and natural spaces for the benefit of users and Greater Vernon residents. The Cycling Society's project involves the rehabilitation and construction of a multi-use biking and hiking trail at Vernon Hill. Once complete, the trail system will also extend the new RDNO Coldstream Ranchlands Trail.
The Cycling Society is getting $50,000 for the project. "This project aligns with RDNO priorities of expanding and further connecting North Okanagan communities via trails throughout the region," reads an RDNO press release. The Friends of the Okanagan Rail Trail Society received funding for the installation of a three-tier signage kiosk at the Kekuli Bay trail entrance.
As one of the more popular access points, the additional wayfinding signage aims to improve user experience, assist visitors in learning expectations for trail safety and etiquette and provide a trail overview and map. The society has been given a $5,000 grant to make the project happen. The Naturalists' Club's project is a continuation of habitat restoration projects at the Swan Lake Nature Reserve.
The project includes enhancing native plantings such as grasses and herbaceous plants to help restore original vegetation. It also includes replacing birding perching poles, installing updated signage, and new benches. This grant is worth $7,800.
"We are thrilled to announce the awarding of grant funding to these outstanding organizations dedicated to enhancing our region's trails and natural spaces," said Ian Wilson, RDNO general manager of strategic and community services. “These projects are not just about improving physical infrastructure; they are about enriching the lives of our community members. Investing in the benefits of these improvements will extend far beyond the trails themselves and create a positive impact throughout our community.
" Anyone with an innovative trail project that would benefit the region can visit . The intake for 2026 projects will reopen in the fall..
