boat launch study - regional district of north okanagan · the focus of the boat launch study is...

Boat Launch Study Kalamalka Lake and Okanagan Lake

DRAFT REPORT

MAY 2011

Submitted by:

In Association With

and

RDNO Boat Launch Study Kalamalka Lake and Okanagan Lake GDH Solutions with Summit Environmental and Ipsos Reid

BOAT LAUNCH STUDY KALAMALKA LAKE AND OKANAGAN LAKE

Executive Summary The Regional District of North Okanagan is blessed with a magnificent landscape and terrific weather. The focus of the Boat Launch Study is the Greater Vernon area, which includes the City of Vernon, the District of Coldstream and electoral areas “B” and “C”. This area is predicted to grow at a steady rate over the next twenty years with the population will increasing to 72,777 in 2031, from 58,985 in 2011. Many of these additional 13,792 people will move to the area with the intention of enjoying various types of boating on the lakes. This will have a significant impact on the current boating facilities, in particular the boat launches. The primary goal of the study was to create a comprehensive twenty-year Plan and Implementation Strategy for the provision of non-motorized boat launch facilities on Kalamalka Lake and motorized and non-motorized on Okanagan Lake which address current and future demand. In addition, the study was to identify and provide a preliminary evaluation of the different methods of delivering this service (local government, private, or private/public partnership).

Study Process The Plan was developed through a number of phases, several of them concurrent:

• Inventory and Analysis: This first phase was the collection of site-specific information, the usage of the existing boat launches and the boat traffic on the lakes. In this phase, opportunities for improvements were identified and analyzed.

• The second phase focused on the future of boat launches through the eyes of the public, stakeholders and staff. This phase included a public opinion survey conducted by Ipsos Reid. Additional public consultation was undertaken through key informant interviews, stakeholder workshops and public meetings.

• Identification of potential environmental issues and impacts associated with upgrading existing boat launches and for new boat launch locations, undertaken by Summit Environmental Consultants.

• Development and review of the draft plan, including demographic analysis and the

review of the governing authorities. It also included working with RDNO Staff for verification and review of the plan.

• Review of final draft plan and recommendations with stakeholders and public.

• Development of the Implementation Strategy was the final phase of the plan.


Key Issues The following key issues were identified in the development of the Plan:

• A potential increase of 2000 boats in the North Okanagan, based on demographic trends; and the need to accommodate those boats with access to the lakes.

• The majority of the population growth will be an older demographic, which will

require boat launching options that meet their needs.

• The lack of adequate motorized boat launch sites on Okanagan Lake, and the lack of good options for new sites due to topography, environmental concerns, and the residential character of much of the lakefront.

• The lack of adequate, safe, non-motorized boat launches and small boat storage on both Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake will affect the non-motorized boating community and the opportunity to promote the area for rowing and paddling.

• The lack of “launch management” at the existing motorized boat launches is causing distress for the boaters and the surrounding neighbours and other park users. There is a need for parking control, fees, and supervision.

• There is a need for suitable alternatives to the traditional boat launches for motorized boats, which might include offsite parking, boat valet services that provide boat storage along with transportation and launching of the boat.

• There is a growing need for additional moorage, both in the water, and alternatives such as year-round dry land storage facilities in proximity to the lakes.

• Both motorized and non-motorized participants are seeking “motor to” or “paddle to” destinations around the lakes. These could be beaches for swimming, picnic areas, hiking trails, safe havens, sites of historical interest, and restaurants.

• There is a need to provide appropriate locations for boaters to seek safe harbour

during storms or other emergencies.

• The public is concerned with the lack of knowledge around boating rules and etiquette, both at the launches and on the lakes. An educational and signage program is desirable.


Recommendations The recommendations were divided into six (6) categories for ease of reference. The complete list of recommendations and supporting actions are included in the main body of this report and in the implementation plan. The following is a summary of the key recommendations:

1. Motorized and non-motorized boat launch sites on Okanagan Lake Paddlewheel Park - It is recommended that Paddlewheel Park continue to serve as a

motorized boat launch facility for the North Okanagan, with the recognition and respect that the park is a multi-use area serving people of all ages with a variety of recreational

amenities. Other Motorized Boat Launches-It is recommended that, in addition to Paddlewheel Park,

new and upgraded boat launches be provided to serve the North Okanagan.

Non-motorized Boat Launches (Okanagan Lake)-It is recommended that eight (8) specific locations around Okanagan Lake be designated and developed as “hand launch only” and that appropriate improvements be undertaken in the short, medium and long term. It is

further recommended that a small feasibility study be undertaken regarding the provision of facilities for dragon boats on Okanagan Lake.

2. Vernon Tourist Commercial Waterfront Neighbourhood Plan

It is recommended that one, or potentially two non-motorized boat launches be established within the Vernon Waterfront Neighbourhood Centre Plan.

It is recommended that any future public pier accommodate motorized boats for short-term moorage; and that a “valet only” motorized boat launch be included in the pier

development.

3. Non-motorized Boat Launch Sites on Kalamalka Lake It is recommended that five(5) sites on Kalamalka Lake be developed as non-motorized

launch sites: West Kal Lake Access (north of motorized launch), Kal Beach by Alexander’s, Coldstream Centennial Park, Kinloch, and Kekuli Bay.

The proposed feasibility study for dragon boats should be extended to include Kalamalka Lake.

4. Other Boating Topics

Dry Dock Storage: It is recommended that the RDNO review publically owned lands for

suitability for dry dock storage; and that the private sector be encouraged to provide


boat storage on either public (through partnership arrangement) or on private lands. The storage facilities should provide boat valet service to the lake.

Parking: The parking lot at Paddlewheel should both be operated on a user pay basis.

Install parking ticket machines, and monitor the lots for compliance. Residents could have the option to purchase a seasonal permit.

Boat Launch Management: It is recommended that a launch supervisor be hired at Paddlewheel Park for the summer season who can handle the public in a professional

manner, and would provide safe enjoyable outings through the enforcement of safety regulations and rules of conduct. Alternatively, a partnership could be struck with the Yacht Club to manage this site.

Mooring Buoys: It is recommended that the RDNO encourage the continued provision of

mooring buoys by the Yacht Club on Okanagan Lake; and that mooring buoys for Kalamalka Lake be considered in the long term, with an appropriate partner.

Washrooms and Garbage Receptacles: It is recommended that RDNO consider the provision of toilet facilities at all designated non-motorized and motorized launches. A

greater number of garbage containers and recycling containers should be provided and maintained by RDNO.

Signage: It is recommended that the RDNO implement an attractive, consistent, signage program that is appropriate for the non-motorized and motorized launch locations. The

signs should include a combination of rules and regulations and “boater education information”.

Destinations and Safe Harbours: In cooperation with the boating clubs, the RDNO should designate locations around the lakes as “destinations”, as well as ensuring there are

appropriate locations to serve as safe harbours in case of sudden inclement weather.

Public Information: It is recommended that the RDNO enhance their brochure on “Public Boat Launching Facilities in the Greater Vernon Area” to provide information on non-motorized launches as well as destinations, amenities, rules, regulations, and etiquette

on the lakes. The brochure should be available at the main launch sites and should be provided in a downloadable format on the District’s website.

5. Governance

It is recommended that the Regional District of North Okanagan explore the possibility of a partnership with the Vernon Yacht Club for the operation of the Paddlewheel Park Boat

Launch. The RDNO could contract with the Yacht Club to maintain and supervise the boat launch facility, for a fee.

It is further recommended that the RDNO enter into a partnership arrangement with the Vernon Paddling Centre for the development and operation of a non-motorized launch on

the newly acquired land adjacent to Paddlewheel Park.


It is recommended that the RDNO participate in the Local Marine Advisory Council regarding issues relating to Transport Canada’s role on the lakes.

It is recommended that the Regional District of North Okanagan collaborate with the

Regional District of Central Okanagan regarding the coordination of provision, management, and operations of marine facilities and infrastructure on Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake.

6. Alternatives to Traditional Boat Launches

It is recommended that alternatives to the traditional practice of transporting the boat on a trailer to the boat launch, and parking the car and trailer on site after launching, be

actively encouraged and supported. Boat valet service, also known as concierge service, is one means of reducing vehicle and trailer traffic.


Table of Contents Executive Summary ............................................................................................... 2

Introduction .......................................................................................................... 8

Inventory .............................................................................................................. 9

Consultation ........................................................................................................ 12

Boating Carrying Capacity ..................................................................................... 13

Analysis Section ................................................................................................... 15

Demographic Analysis ........................................................................................ 15

Points of Interest .............................................................................................. 21

Okanagan Lake Sites ...................................................................................... 21

Kalamalka Lake Sites ...................................................................................... 29

Overview Map ................................................................................................... 36

Demand Analysis .............................................................................................. 37

Projected Boat Ownership Based on Population Growth ....................................... 37

Development Activity ......................................................................................... 39

Origin of Boaters ............................................................................................... 39

Other Boating Related Facilities and Issues ........................................................... 40

Governing Authorities Review ................................................................................ 42

Environmental Issues and Impacts and Environmental Legislation .............................. 48

Public Opinion Survey ........................................................................................... 48

Analysis Summary ............................................................................................... 52

Key Issues ..................................................................................................... 52

Draft Recommendations ........................................................................................ 53

1. Motorized and Non-motorized Boat Launches on Okanagan Lake ....................... 53

2. Vernon Waterfront Neighbourhood Centre Plan ................................................ 55

3. Non-motorized Boat Launch Sites on Kalamalka Lake ....................................... 56

4. Other Boating Topics .................................................................................... 57

5. Governance .................................................................................................. 59

6. Alternatives to Traditional Boat Launches ......................................................... 59

Conclusion .......................................................................................................... 60

APPENDIX A: Implementation Plan – “The Blueprint” ................................................ 61

APPENDIX B: Motorized Boat Launch Statistics ....................................................... 71

APPENDIX C: Stakeholder Meeting Summary of Comments ...................................... 72


BOAT LAUNCH STUDY KALAMALKA LAKE AND OKANAGAN LAKE

Introduction The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) is a popular boating region for both residents and tourists. This interest in boating has resulted in increasing pressure on both motorized and non-motorized boat launch facilities on Kalamalka Lake and Okanagan Lake. In June 2010, the RDNO commissioned GDH Solutions in partnership with Summit Environmental Consultants and Ipsos Reid to conduct a comprehensive study for non-motorized boat launching for that portion of Kalamalka Lake within the RDNO boundaries and for motorized and non-motorized boat launching for that portion of Okanagan Lake within the RDNO boundaries. The primary objectives of the study were to:

1. Create a comprehensive twenty (20) year plan and implementation strategy for the provision of non-motorized boat launch facilities on Kalamalka Lake and motorized/non-motorized on Okanagan Lake which address current and future demand.

2. To identify and provide a preliminary evaluation of the different methods of

delivering this service (local government, private, or private/public partnership). The approach to the study included the following:

• Research and data collection – inventory existing boat launch facilities and associated amenities; undertake boat volume assessments at motorized launches; calculate lake use capacity

• Public consultation through stakeholder and public meetings; and through a statistically valid public opinion survey

• Analyze demographic projections and impact on future boating • Project future demand for boat launches • Analyze existing launches and other locations for expansion or new boat launches • Analyze governance options • Undertake a study on environmental issues and effects • Develop recommendations based on the research, data collection, public input and

analysis • Preparation of an Implementation Plan with timelines

This report outlines the findings, the analysis and the recommendations and includes an implementation plan. The report also includes summaries of the results of the public opinion survey, conducted by Ipsos Reid and the Draft Environmental Issues/Impacts by Summit Environmental. The full Ipsos Reid and Summit Environmental Reports are separate documents.


Inventory The Inventory section includes descriptions of the existing motorized and non-motorized boat launches on Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake. It also includes information on other recreational marine facilities and the boat volumes on the lakes.

Boat Launch Facilities – Motorized

There is one major boat launch facility on Okanagan Lake, with a few other smaller and informal launch areas.

• Paddlewheel Park on Okanagan Landing Road, is the site of a double boat launch, as well as an area for the launching of non-motorized boats. There is a fairly large, unpaved parking area, which accommodates about 60 cars and trailers, including the areas around the parking lot that are not actually parking spots. There are two docks, one on each side of the launch. Washroom facilities are located in the Paddlewheel Park building close to launch area.

• A second motorized boat launch area, also on Okanagan Landing Road is located between two homes at 8829 and 8839. There is no parking on the site and the main road is quite narrow, making parking and access very difficult.

• There is a third motorized boat launch at Tronson and Beachcomber Road. This launch is in poor condition, with broken asphalt at the water’s edge. There are a few parking spots. Access to this launch is difficult.

• The Newport Beach boat launch is located on the Okanagan Indian Band lands on the west side of the lake. There is a fee of $7 to launch a boat at that location. There is limited parking available, and many of the users are campers at that location. The future of this boat launch is in question as the campground is scheduled to close operations next year.

There are some private boat launches on Okanagan Lake including the one at Canadian Lakeview Estates located on the north arm of the lake. There are four motorized boat launches on Kalamalka Lake, three in Coldstream and one in the Regional District at Kekuli Bay Provincial Park.

• Kalavista Boat Launch is located on Kalavista Drive, four lots southeast of Kal Beach. The parking for cars with trailers is at the corner of Kalavista Road and Kalamalka Road, about a block from the launch (with about 40 car/trailer spaces) The single launch has two docks and a sloping concrete pad into the water. The entrance to the launch area is gated, and there is limited turn around space. A portable washroom is located immediately next to the neighbour’s fence. The neighbourhood is residential, with homes surrounding the launch.

• Kinloch Boat Launch is located on Kinloch Dr, off Kidston Rd. Kinloch Drive is a

winding, steep road down to the water, through a residential area. The launch


itself is narrow, with a small dock. There is parking for three vehicles with trailers, plus two additional vehicles. There is no other parking other than on the street.

• Westkal Boat Launch is at the end of Westkal Rd. located between two homes. The access is extremely narrow and there is no trailer parking permitted on the street.

• Kekuli Bay Boat Launch is a double-wide launch, with two docks. Improvements

were made to the slope of the boat launch ramp in late 2010, and a second, longer dock was added. There is a large paved parking lot with 65 car and trailer spots, which is slated to be doubled in size in 2011. There is a $3 per day parking fee. It is part of the Provincial Campground.

Boat Launches - Non-Motorized

There are no designated non-motorized, or hand launches on either Kalamalka or Okanagan lakes. On Okanagan Lake, rowers, paddlers and sailors with small boats, launch at Paddlewheel Park. The Vernon Paddling Centre and the North Okanagan Sailing Association are both located in that Park. There is an area being used as a hand-launch at the Foster Road turnaround. A parking area with four spaces is located at the end of the turnaround, which is used by canoe/kayakers as well as persons using the small beach area. As there are there are no specific locations for non-motorized launching on Kalamalka Lake, small craft are launched at beaches, parks, launches for motorized boats, and other public access points to the lake.

Other Marine Recreational Facilities

There are two locations for marine fuel in the north ends of Lake Okanagan, one at the Seymour Marina on Okanagan Landing Road, close to Paddlewheel Park and a second location at Newport Beach Marina, located on the west side of the lake on the north arm. These fuel locations are seasonal and generally close mid September. There is one pump out for the disposal of greywater at the Vernon Yacht Club, which serves the north part of Okanagan Lake. This pump out is open to any vessel on the lake at no charge. It is primarily used by larger power cruisers 24 feet and up with plumbed in toilet and holding tank. It also serves sailboats over 25 feet and the Cruise Okanagan tour boat. This pump out is used about six times per week from April to October. There are no pump outs on Kalamalka Lake. As there are few sailboats and not many large power boats with toilet facilities, the lack of a pump out is not currently an issue on Kalamalka Lake.


Moorage is at a premium on both lakes. The majority of boat slips are privately owned by lakefront property owners or by Strata’s. The Vernon Yacht Club has 250 slips for its members, but has a significant waiting list. They have plans for moderate expansion over the next two years (about 40 slips). Seymour Marina has 72 slips, 60 for lease and 12 for use by the Blue Heron Pub. They also have a long waiting list for their slips, and plan to re-configure their docks, adding 6 to 8 more slips. There are no public marinas or moorage in the north area of Kalamalka Lake. Dry dock storage is available at Valley Marine, Latitude Marine and Elephant Storage among other locations.

Current Boat Volumes

The three major boat launches, Paddlewheel Park, Kalavista and Kekuli Bay were monitored for activity during the summer of 2009 by RDNO staff and during July and early August by the Consultants. The volume of boats launched in 2010 was very similar to 2009. The number of motorized boats launched was calculated using the trailer counts, and extrapolating the numbers over the season. In 2010, the boat trailers from Alberta and other out of province boats were counted separately. This showed that about 14 to 26% (depending on the day)of the traffic at the boat launches during July and August can be attributed to out of province, with the vast majority being from Alberta. The total estimated launched boats, with BC plates, from May to mid September is 9,343 on both lakes within the RDNO. Of these, 3,369 were launched at Paddlewheel Park. Kalavista launch was used for 3,020 boats, with the remaining 2,954 at Kekuli Bay. Using a conservative number of an additional 15% of total boats over the season with Alberta origin, the total number of boats launched on both lakes would be 11,000. The number of boats launched on a peak summer day is greater at Kekuli than Kalavista, however Kekuli has low numbers in May. Details are in the Appendix.


Consultation

Key Informant Interviews

Interviews and/or meetings were conducted with the following individuals and associations:

• Kim Flick, Director of Planning, City of Vernon • Craig Broderick, Director of Planning, District of Coldstream • Rob Smailes, General Manager, RDNO Planning and Building • Colleen Marchand, Head, Territorial Lands, Okanagan Indian Band • Keith Louis, Head, Fisheries, Okanagan Indian Band • Wayne Robert, Business Counsellor, Community Futures • Tim Amy, Commodore, Vernon Yacht Club • Brad Clemens, Vernon Paddling Centre • Scott Siemens, Vernon Paddling Centre • Lisa George, Go Row and Paddling • Val Trevis, Dragon Boater, formerly GM, Vernon Chamber of Commerce • Okanagan Landing & District Community Association • Local Marine Advisory Council (Transport Canada)

Stakeholder Meeting

The first of two planned stakeholder meetings took place on September 16, 2010 at the Vernon Yacht Club. It was attended by 22 people representing 15 organizations. The participants were provided with an overview of the study, findings to date and the next steps. The stakeholders then participated in an exercise to gather information on issues and opportunities on boat launches, other marine facilities, governance, environmental concerns, and other general boating issues. A summary of the comments are in the Appendix. A separate meeting was held with the Okanagan Landing and District Association due to their ownership of a large portion of Paddlewheel Park, and the Association’s concern with the extensive use of the motorized boat launch by residents from outside their community.

Public Meeting A public meeting was held on September 23, 2010 at the Recreation Centre, Halina Hall. There were 28 persons in attendance, plus staff and the consultants. The participants were given a short PowerPoint presentation outlining the objectives of the study, an overview of findings to date, a summary of the Ipsos Reid Survey, the role of Summit Environmental, and the consultation process. Participants were invited to provide their comments in writing on boat launches, on other boating facilities, and on other issues relating to boating. There was also an opportunity for verbal feedback during a lively question and answer session following the presentation.


The oral and written feedback received from all consultation methods have been incorporated into the draft recommendations.

Boating Carrying Capacity A definition of “Carrying Capacity” is the reasonable or optimum average number of boats using a lake at one time. A survey of literature was undertaken in order to determine how Boating Carrying Capacity is calculated. The review has shown the concept of “carrying capacity” of a lake is somewhat subjective. Capacity is the reasonable or optimum average number of boats using the lake at one time. How this number of “optimum” boats is determined is subject to a number of considerations including impacts to the environment, compatibility between various forms of boating, compatibility of boating with other activities on the lake, and safety and quality of the boating experience. 1There is no universal boating density standard that will satisfy all lake users in all situations. There are, however, formulas that are generally used to determine boat capacity for individual lakes. The starting point is to calculate the usable lake surface area. This is done by taking the overall surface in acres and subtracting a shoreline buffer zone, commonly 100 feet, plus a greater distance for swimming areas and marinas (as high as 400 feet). The next step is to calculate the appropriate boating density. This is the number of surface acres per boat, and is determined primarily by the type of boating, whereby high-speed watercraft requires more space. This number varies greatly from researcher to researcher from, however 10 to 15 acres per boat appears to be acceptable. We used 15 acres per boat in this study. The term Lake Use Rate is used in the literature as a means of counting boats. Lake Use Rate is defined as a measure of the estimated proportion of moored boats on the lake at any given time, plus the estimated capacity of public access sites. The review of research again indicated a range of numbers. For moored boats the number is anywhere from 3.6 % to 25 % of boats out of their slips at any given time. 2 For the purposes of this study, a number of 15 % was used. Kalamalka Lake Using the boating density adjustment of 15 acres per boat, we can calculate the boating carrying capacity of Kalamalka Lake.

1 Bosley, Holly.Techniques for Estimating Boating Carrying Capacity – A Literature Review. North Carolina State

University, Department of Parks, recreation and Tourism Management (August 2005) 2 Ibid


The size is 6,348 acres, with a perimeter of 42,458.64 metres. 3 If we use 6,000 acres as the usable portion of the lake: 6,000 acres divided by 15 boats per acre = 400 boats at any given time.

Boat Moorage According to the Foreshore Inventory and Mapping of Kalamalka Lake by Ecoscape Environmental, there are 360 docks on the lake.4 In addition, there are 9 marinas (sites with more than 6 slips)5. Assuming each of these nine locations has 15 slips, that would result in a total of 495 potential boats. If 15% of these boats were on the lake at the same time, seventy-five (75) boats would be included in the Lake Use Rate. Fifteen percent is approximately the mid-range between 3.6 % and 25 % as found in the review of literature.

Public Boat Launches The main motorized boat launches on Kalamalka Lake are Kekuli Bay and Kalavista. There are also the boat launches at Kinloch and West Kal. In the south portion of the lake, there is a boat launch at Owls Nest. In addition, boats travel into Kalamalka Lake through the channel from Wood Lake, where there are several public boat launches. On a peak summer day about 122 motorized boats are launched at Kelkuli Bay and 68 at Kalavista. The number of boats launched at Kinloch and Westkal are likely no more than 30 per day in total. If 75% of these boats were on the lake at any given time that would add 165 boats to the lake count. Therefore the Lake Use Rate on a peak summer day could be 240 at any given time. This number could be somewhat higher as there is a narrow boat channel connecting Kalamalka Lake to Wood Lake. There is a marina with 74 slips and a private boat launch at Turtle Bay at the south end of Wood Lake. There is a public boat launch at the north end of Wood Lake in Oyama. Okanagan Lake The total size of Okanagan Lake is 85,107 acres, with a perimeter of 284,572,252.8 metres.6 The portion of Okanagan Lake located within the Regional District of North Okanagan has a perimeter of 67,183, or an area of 14,297.92 acres. To calculate usable lake area, the usable size will be reduced by ten percent to allow for shoreline environmental and safety considerations. This results in a usable portion of 12,868.13 acres. To calculate the boat carrying capacity, we divide by 15 acres per boat, giving us a boating carrying capacity for Okanagan Lake, in the RDNO, of 858 boats at any given time.

3 Fish and Wildlife Branch, Department of Recreation and Conservation. Bathymetric Map. 1966

4 Okanagan Collaborative Conservation Program and Ecoscape Environmental Consultants Ltd. Foreshore

inventory and Mapping, March 2010 5 Ibid.

6 Fish and Wildlife Bathymetric Map.


Boat Moorage Using the numbers provided by the Foreshore and Inventory Mapping for Okanagan Lake, there are 1061 docks as well as 8 marinas with over 6 slips. The Vernon Yacht Club has 370 slips; and the Seymour Marina (60 slips) . Assuming the other 6 marinas have 15 slips each, the total number of potential boats moored on this portion of the lake is 1581. If we again assume 15 % of the boats (high estimate) are on the water at any given time there would be 237 boats generated from moorage.

Public Boat Launches Although there are two small motorized boat launches in the Greater Vernon area, as well as one at Newport Beach on the west side of the lake, Paddlewheel Park is the primary launching site in the North Okanagan. On a peak day, 89 boats are launched at Paddlewheel Park. In addition, approximately 30 boats are launched at the two other motorized launches on the east side, plus another 25 at Newport Beach. We will assume 75% on the water at any one time, which equals 108. These calculations do not take into accounts any boats, which travel up the lake from the south, however, an equal number of boats may also be traveling south. The Lake Use Rate, on the portion of Okanagan Lake within the RDNO, on a peak day, would be 345.

Analysis Section

Demographic Analysis

Overview

The Regional District of North Okanagan is located in the northern portion of the Okanagan Valley in central British Columbia. Covering an area of 787,190 hectares, the Regional District of North Okanagan is comprised of six incorporated municipalities (the cities of Armstrong, Enderby and Vernon; District of Coldstream; Village of Lumby; Township of Spallumcheen) and five electoral areas. The main economic drivers of the region are agriculture, forestry and tourism. Some of the more recent population growth can be attributed to retirement immigration and economic development and investment in the area, particularly in the retail/commercial and manufacturing industries.7 Based on Statistics Canada 2006 Census estimates, the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) population was 77,301 in 2006. The Regional District experienced an

7 RDNO Regional Growth Strategy “One Region, One Future”; Population and Hosing Trends and Projections:

2008-2031


increase of 5.6% (4,074 people) at an annual average rate of 1.12% per year between 2001 and 2006. Compared to the rest of the province, the Regional District has an older population than the province – the average North Okanagan resident is 4 years older than the average British Columbian. The focus of the Boat Launch Study is on the Greater Vernon Area, tdiscussion on demographics will be primarily on that area. The intent of the study is to create a 20-year plan; hence demographics for the period 2011

Population Trends

The regional District of North Okanagan released tProjections 2008-2013 Report in March 2010. Much of the information on the population trends is extracted from that report. The fastest growing communities wStudy Area (the Greater Vernon AreaColdstream (1.26%) and Electoral Area “C” (0.77%) and “B” (0.25%).Vernon Area has increased their share of the Regional population from 66.8% to 72.7 % in 2006. The long term trend indicates that an increasing percent of the population within the North Okanagan will continue to reside within the Vernon and Coldstream areas.

Sub-Regional Population Projections 2011

8 Ibid

9 Ibid.

050001000015000200002500030000350004000045000500005500060000650007000075000

Boat Launch Study Kalamalka Lake and Okanagan Lake

GDH Solutions with Summit Environmental and Ipsos Reid

(4,074 people) at an annual average rate of 1.12% per year between ed to the rest of the province, the Regional District has an older

the average North Okanagan resident is 4 years older olumbian.8

The focus of the Boat Launch Study is on the Greater Vernon Area, tdiscussion on demographics will be primarily on that area. The intent of the study is to

demographics for the period 2011-2031 will be highlighted.

The regional District of North Okanagan released their Population Trends and Housing 2013 Report in March 2010. Much of the information on the population

trends is extracted from that report.

The fastest growing communities within the North Okanagan are within the Boat Launch Vernon Area) including the City of Vernon (1.45%), District of Electoral Area “C” (0.77%) and “B” (0.25%).

Vernon Area has increased their share of the Regional population from 66.8% to 72.7 % 2006. The long term trend indicates that an increasing percent of the population within

the North Okanagan will continue to reside within the Vernon and Coldstream areas.

Regional Population Projections 2011-2031

2031

2021

2011

(4,074 people) at an annual average rate of 1.12% per year between ed to the rest of the province, the Regional District has an older

the average North Okanagan resident is 4 years older

The focus of the Boat Launch Study is on the Greater Vernon Area, therefore the discussion on demographics will be primarily on that area. The intent of the study is to

2031 will be highlighted.

heir Population Trends and Housing 2013 Report in March 2010. Much of the information on the population

the Boat Launch including the City of Vernon (1.45%), District of

Electoral Area “C” (0.77%) and “B” (0.25%). The Greater Vernon Area has increased their share of the Regional population from 66.8% to 72.7 % 2006. The long term trend indicates that an increasing percent of the population within

the North Okanagan will continue to reside within the Vernon and Coldstream areas.9

2031

2021

2011


The City of Vernon is projected to increase in population from 41,400 in 2011 to 51,600 in 2031, based on a rate of 1.45% per annum. The District of Coldstream, growing at 1.26 % per annum will see an increase from 10,200 to 12,978 during that 20 year period. The two Electoral Areas will see a lower rate of growth: Area B at .25%, from 3260 persons to 3416; and Area C at a rate of .77% per annum, growing from a population of 4125 to 4783. For the whole Greater Vernon area, it is anticipated that the population will grow to 72,777 in 2031, from 58,985 in 2011. These additional 13,792 people will have a significant impact on boating, with the potential addition of more than 2,000 boats.

Age Distribution

The median age of the population in 2006 was 44.8 years in 2006, up from the median age of 41.5 in 2001 and 37.1 in 1999. A typical North Okanagan resident was 4 years older than the average British Columbia resident in 2006, and the average median age has been steadily increasing in the North Okanagan. This trend is expected to continue as the population born between 1945 and 1965 continues to age.10 The North Okanagan has one of the highest percentages of residents over 65 (18.5%) within British Columbia, which is consistent with many of the southern BC regions including the Central Okanagan (18%) and Okanagan-Similkameen (25%). By 2031, the percentage of the population in the North Okanagan over the age of 65 will increase to over 30%. The Regional District also has a significant gap in population in the 20-44 year age range.11

10

Ibid 11

Ibid


Projected North Okanagan Population by Age Cohort 2011-203112

As the table indicates, the number of children and youth will remain relatively stable, as will the 20 to 44 age group. The population of the 45 to 65 year olds will drop from 27,011 to 24,078 during the twenty-year period. The most significant change will be to the 65 plus age group, where the numbers are projected to increase from 17,697 in 2011 to 36,775 in 2031. An older population will undoubtedly result in changes to consumer preferences and expectations regarding access to services – available through either the public or private sectors. As such, service providers will likely be expected to develop new forms of infrastructure and alternative methods of service delivery that conform to the needs and desires of an aging population – including adjustments to facilities and service approaches available at marinas and boat launches. For example, reduced mobility of older adults might require additional attention paid to the accessibility and safety at public launches or docks. Parking facilities that are easily navigated may become minimum expectation of aging consumers. Additionally, watercraft sales, transporting boats from home storage to public launches and moorage priorities may be influenced by the boating habits, preferences and limitations of an older population. 13 Older adults who participate in non-motorized boating will require hand launch areas that provide a low dock, for easy access into canoes and kayaks. Some people use small “hand trailers” to transport their non-motorized boats to the water that would require a fairly even surface for better mobility.

12

Numbers from adjusted table (RDNO), excluding First Nations Reserve, from PEOPLE 33 projections 13

Major Lakes Recreational Marine Facilities Study 2008

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

35,000

40,000

0-19 20-44 45-64 65 +

2011

2021

2031


Going forward, it will be important that planners and decision makers in the region monitor the affects of the local aging trends to assist in the development of infrastructure and service delivery strategies. Staying close to the changes in the marketplace caused by these trends will be imperative to ensure that future initiatives remain in step with the needs and expectations of older adults – a group that will some become the largest consumer segment in the RDNO.

Household Income

The median income for all families for 2005 in British Columbia was $62,346. In comparison the median income for the North Okanagan was $56,271. The most affluent community is Coldstream with a median family income of $76,353, with Vernon having the lowest family income at $54,448.14 There is no information available on projected household incomes for the North Okanagan.

Median Income in 2005 – All Census Families15

Recreational boating generally has a higher participation rate in areas of higher income. The Ipsos Reid survey results support this, with boat ownership at 56% in Coldstream, dropping to 32% in Vernon.

14

Statistics Canada –Community Profiles 15

Ibid.

British Columbia

Vernon Coldstream Area B Area C

$0

$10,000

$20,000

$30,000

$40,000

$50,000

$60,000

$70,000

$80,000


Despite the apparent lower incomes in the North Okanagan, there is reason to believe that a large proportion of the region’s population would have sufficient resources to engage in boating or other water based activities as a recreation option of choice. A considerable number of affluent out-of-province seasonal residents (who presumably report income elsewhere) spend their summers in the Greater Vernon area. Additionally, retirees who do not report employment income can access other sources of funds and resources in order to pursue selected recreational activities – including boating.

Summary

The analysis of the demographic profile and population forecasts for the Regional District of North Okanagan suggest that the following implications should be considered in the recommendations arising from this study.

• Greater Vernon’s total population will climb by almost 25% over the next 20 years.

• While the region’s total population will grow, the majority of growth will be in the Greater Vernon area.

• In-migration will produce all of the region’s future population growth. People new to the RDNO will arrive with preconceived notions of acceptable levels of infrastructure and services based upon experiences in their previous home jurisdictions.

• The region’s population will age over time. There will be a dramatic upswing in the number of individuals over the age of 65 years, with seniors constituting one third of the population in 2031. This trend will significantly influence the preferences of the region’s consumer base to the extent that they will expect the provision of “age sensitive” infrastructure and the delivery of services in a manner consistent with individual needs.

• Neither household income or a lack of financial resources are likely to impede a significant proportion of the region’s population from participating in their recreation pursuits of choice including water based activities.


Points of Interest A number of sites were reviewed for potential for future public uses for boaters. The source for the list of sites for Okanagan Lake was the City of Vernon’s report on Community Lake Access Sites, undertaken in 2005. Additional information on Okanagan Lake as well as comments on Public Access to Kalamalka Lake were contained in a 1988 staff report to the Greater Vernon Parks and Recreation Committee. All locations were visited and photographed. The list was narrowed down to twenty-five (25) points of interest for this study. Each point has been mapped, and Summit Environmental has undertaken a review of each potential point of interest to assess the potential environmental issues and potential effects of the existing and future boat launch areas. Their Report is a separate document. A brief description and preliminary analysis, including photos follow. A map indicating the locations of each of the points of interest is included.

Okanagan Lake Sites

Site 1: Tronson Road (next to 9048) This site is adjacent to a Greater Vernon park site. There are rough trails leading down a steep slope to the water. This site would not be appropriate for a boat launch as it is not accessible by road. It could be a good site for mooring buoys and a designated “boat access beach”, and possibly toilet facilities, perhaps a modern outhouse, for boaters. The environmental rating for this location is low.16

16

Environmental Issues and Potential Effects –Summit Environmental Report 2010 for RDNO Boat Launch Study pg. 4.4


Site 2: Foster Road Turnaround This location has four car parking spots on the waterfront, and a shallow area, suitable for hand (non-motorized) launching. It could be considered in the long term as a small motorized launch due to its ideal location on the lake, away from the main use area and its low environmental sensitivity rating.17 The parking area could be re-configured to accommodate more parking and access to a boat launch.

Site 3: Tronson Road (between 8344 and 8356) This is a narrow site with encroachments by property owners on both sides. This area has a low environmental sensitivity rating, however it is located in the middle of a residential area, down a steep laneway, which makes it an unlikely candidate for a good launch area.

17

Ibid Pg. 4.4


Site 4: Tronson Road at Beachcomber This existing boat launch is difficult to access due to the proximity to the main road, and has very limited parking. The launch is in poor condition and requires repair. This launch is used by the local residents, and should be maintained if possible. The environmental sensitivity rating is moderate, as there is a spawning zone about 150 metres away and a drinking water intake 300 m away.18 If Tronson Rd. is upgraded, the option of improving the access to this boat launch should be explored, including the provision of additional parking in the vicinity.

Site 5: Kennedy Lane

This is currently used as an access to the beach and has two parking spots about 100 metres from the water. This site should be further investigated as non-motorized boat launch site. It would require additional parking spots and signage. It is not appropriate for a motorized boat launch due to its location in close proximity to residential neighbours. The environmental sensitivity rating is low.19

18

Ibid pg. 4-5 19

Ibid pg. 4-5


Site 6: Kin Beach (Northwest End) This area is presently used as a very small parking area, with beach access. It is a difficult access off Tronson Road. The area is part of a public park. It has potential for a small boat launch and boat storage, and could accommodate docks for dragon boats. Required improvements would include additional parking and improved road access. If a re-alignment of Tronson Rd. were to take place, the access issue could be addressed and allow for improved parking capacity. The site could also be considered for the launching of motorized boats, however, the high demand for parking in that area would limit the availability of boat trailer parking. This site would be suitable for a “valet only” or “drop off” motorized launch site. This site has a low sensitivity rating.20

Site 7: Kin Beach (South End)

This area is part of the land designated for future park use. It also has the potential as a good site for a non-motorized boat launch and boat storage. This area is part of Vernon’s Waterfront Neighbourhood Centre Plan, and may therefore be a suitable location for small boat (non-motorized) rentals. Consideration should also be given to this location for a pier and public moorage, to serve day visitors to Vernon. A motorized “valet only” boat launch could be incorporated as part of the pier development. This area is considered moderate sensitivity due to the proximity to the spawning area at Vernon Creek.21

20

Ibid pg. 4-6 21

Ibid pg 4-6


Kin Beach South End

Site 8: Grant Road ROW (Closed)

This location is next to the Strand Resort Development. Only 10 metres along the waterfront is publicly owned, therefore this site has limited potential. It could be used as a hand (non-motorized) launch area for persons who are able to carry their boats a considerable distance. It could also be an appropriate site for the installation of docks for dragon boats. The docks at the Strand development adjacent to this site provide some shelter from wind and boat traffic to this area. The sensitivity rating for this area is moderate due to the proximity (50 M) to a spawning area.22

22

Ibid pg. 4-7


Site 9: Paddlewheel Park

The park contains a double-wide boat launch with two long docks, an unpaved parking lot which accommodates about 60 cars with trailers, beach volleyball courts, two tennis courts, a small boat storage area, and a beach area used for small craft launching all in the area around the boat launch. A tour boat company operates at this location, and several boat rental companies use the launch. The existing parking area could be better laid out to achieve more efficient parking. The remainder of Paddlewheel Park also serves as a community park with picnic areas, basketball court, beach, swimming area, washrooms and a public building. The park is home to the North Okanagan sailing Association as well as the Vernon Paddling Centre. This park is a suitable site for a public boat launch within the North Okanagan, however it is also a very popular park for many other types of recreational activity. With the recent addition of the property on the southwest side of the park, it is large enough to accommodate an expanded boat launch facility, the Paddling Centre, the Sailing Association and a number of other park facilities including the public beach and tennis. Park ownership is divided between the RDNO and the Okanagan Landing & District Community Association. These organizations should work in partnership to develop a park design that meets the needs of boaters and other park users. The sensitivity rating for Paddlewheel Park is moderate.23

23

Ibid pg. 4-7


Site 10: Okanagan Landing Road (next to 8829) This is a narrow, single boat launch, with no dock. There is no parking area provided and the on-street parking is dangerous, due to the narrow road and high volume of traffic. There is no opportunity for expansion. It should be de-commissioned as a motorized launch site. It would be suitable for non-motorized only. The sensitive rating is high due to the presence of yellow zone spawning habitat along the foreshore, a 30 m riparian setback default requirement, and high value vegetation and wildlife characteristics.24

Site 11: Whitepoint Beach This site is located at the end of a residential turnaround (Whitepoint Rd.) It is a small beach, which had mostly disappeared with the higher water level. There is parking for a few cars, providing opportunities for car top boat launching. The sensitivity rating for this area is high due to the proximity to a drinking water intake and a yellow spawning zone.25 Due to this high rating the site is not appropriate for increased activity levels.

24

Ibid pg 4-7 25

Ibid pg 4-8


Site 12: Delcliffe Road This is a long shallow beach, with opportunities for some street parking. It could also be used as a location for car top boat, non-motorized launching. The sensitivity rating for this location is moderate. There is one drinking water intake within 120 m of the site within the bay. The foreshore is located within a no-colour spawning zone; however, there is a red zone within 80 m.26

Site 13: Ellison Park The Provincial Park does not have any boat launch facilities. Much of the topography is unsuitable and there is little road access to the shoreline. A hand launch area could be provided in the north bay area. The sensitivity rating is moderate. BC Parks has no plans for any type of boat launch at this time.(No Photo)

Site 14: Russell Road The Russell road location is across a bay from the Outback Resort. The adjacent property owner is encroaching on this site. It is currently only accessible by using the homeowners’ driveway. The shoreline is rocky and would not be appropriate for boat launching; however, it would be good spot for mooring buoys. The sensitivity rating is low.27

26

Ibid pg. 4-8 27

Ibid pg. 4-8


Russell Road

Kalamalka Lake Sites Site 15: Kekuli Bay The double-wide boat launch at Kekuli Bay was upgraded in 2010: the boat launch ramp was replaced with a lower slope ramp above the high water mark; and the dock was replaced with a 40 meter long dock, with the old 25 meter dock being relocated closer to shore. As well, the service compound was moved to free up additional space for the phase 3 parking expansion, and the design was completed for the phase 2 expansion (proposed for spring 2011 construction). Phase 2 is the enlargement and paving of the gravel parking area, which will double the current lots capacity, which is 65 car+trailer spots, and car only spots. It is an ideal site for motorized boat launching. With some minor modifications, this area would also be suitable for non-motorized boat launching.


Site 16: Westkal Westkal is an existing motorized boat launch with no parking for trailers within the area. Neighbourhood residents use it. The sensitivity is moderate. No change in use is proposed.

Site 17: Westkal Public Accesses There are two public lake accesses along Westkal Rd. The one with the parking pad has a walkway down to a grassy area at the water’s edge. There is a pipe visible in the water that may create a hazard. The second site (second picture) is undeveloped and is being used as a parking spot and dumpsite by the neighbours. It could be cleaned up and provide a suitable hand launch (non-motorized) area.


Second West Kal Access

Site 18: Pumphouse Beach This is a small beach area, accessed by a narrow, steep driveway off West Kal Road. There is no parking in the vicinity, other than on the street. It is not suitable for a designated non-motorized launch area.


Site 19: Kalavista Boat Launch This site is the main boat launch for the north end of Kalamalka Lake. The parking for the single launch is located about a block away across the street. The sensitivity rating is moderate as the boat ramp is located within a yellow (moderate value habitat) spawning zone.28

Site 19 A: Road End – Kalamalka Rd (Kal Beach) This existing road end is located between the Alexander Pub property and the public beach. This location could be used to create a few parking spots to serve non-motorized boaters, and designated as a “hand launch only” location. It is a “moderate” sensitivity area.

28

Ibid pg 4-9


Site 20: Kirkland Beach This neighbourhood beach, on Kirkland Rd. is used by local residents for hand launching canoes and kayaks, as there is some parking and easy access to the lake. The sensitivity rating overall is low, but this site is located within a red (high value habitat) spawning zone.29 This beach is currently designated as a “no boat” swimming area. If a non-motorized boat lane were to be established so that canoes and kayaks can access the lake, this site could become a designated non-motorized launch area.

Site 21: Coldstream Centennial Park

Coldstream Centennial Park is a large, passive park located on Kidston Road. It has a small beach area, accessed by a narrow winding treed path. The parking area is adjacent to Kidston Rd., a long way from the waterfront. There is road access to handicapped parking spots, closer to the waterfront. This area could be slightly expanded to allow a few cars to park closer to the waterfront, facilitating non-motorized boat launching. It could become a good location for a small boat club due to the other facilities in the park –washrooms, stone house. The site could become a suitable location for a dragon boats club, if the demand warrants it. The large parking area combined with the storage of the dragon boats in the water for the season would suit this location. The sheltered location of the water access with no motorized boat access further enhances the attractiveness of this location. This site has a moderate sensitivity rating. It is within 300 m of Coldstream Creek and is located in a yellow (moderate value habitat) spawning zone.30

29

Ibid pg.4-9 30

Ibid pg 4-9


Coldstream Centennial Park – trail to beach

Site 22: Kinloch Boat launch

Kinloch has a single concrete ramp, with very limited availability for parking of cars and trailers. The launch is located near the end of a winding residential road. Primarily local residents for both motorized and non-motorized launching use this location. A second, low dock could be provide, which would facilitate small boats launching. It is within 200 m of yellow zone shore spawning habitat with a moderate sensitivity rating.31

31

Ibid pg 4-10


Site 23: Long Lake Estate Park

This is a small park with beach area, located at the end of a residential road, next to a Resort. It appears to be used as a hand launch area by local residents. It would be a good location for mooring buoys, provided they are located directly off the beach, versus in front of the small resort located to the north of this site. It is not a good location for non-motorized launching due to the steep slope from the road down to the water. The sensitivity rating is moderate.32

Site 24: Cosen’s Bay

Cosen’s Bay is located on the east side of the lake, within Kalamalka Provincial Park. It has a beautiful beach and toilet facilities. It is boat access or hike in only. It would be an appropriate location for a few mooring buoys. The sensitivity rating is low.33 (No photo)

32

Ibid pg 4-10 33

Ibid


Overview Map


Demand Analysis The demographic analysis showed that the population of the Greater Vernon area is expected to grow by 13,792 over the next 20 years. If the rate of boat ownership remains the same, this could mean the addition of more than 2,000 boats. The Ipsos Reid findings supported the ongoing interest in boating. More than one third of households within the study area own at least one boat and ten percent intend to purchase a boat in the next five years. It is anticipated that the number of tourists bringing their boats to the north Okanagan will also increase. As there are no large scale plans that would significantly increase the amount of moorage, the vast majority of these would require boat launch facilities. There is considerable interest in non-motorized or “human powered” boating in the region. The Vernon Paddling Centre, located in Paddlewheel Park, is a membership-based organization providing boat storage and use of boats for members. They offer paddling lessons and boating safety for their members as well as the on-members. The North Okanagan Sailing Association also operates out of Paddlewheel Park. They are also membership based providing sailing opportunities, boat storage, and lessons. There is an established Paddling and Rowing Centre on Swan Lake, operated by Go Row Canada, a non-profit organization. They offer rowing and paddling, including dragon boating. This Centre has been in operation for seven seasons and is satisfied to continue their operations on Swan lake as it has ideal “flat water” conditions. Some dragon boat participants have expressed an interest in establishing a paddling centre on Okanagan Lake and/or Kalamalka Lake. There is also interest from Dragon Boat Festival organizers to operate events on both lakes. Stand Up Paddling (SUP) has become very popular and is operated out of the Kalavista Board Shop on Kalamalka Lake. All boaters, both motorized and non-motorized, require safe areas around the lake to moor or land their boats in the case of sudden inclement weather.

Projected Boat Ownership Based on Population Growth The cart below indicates the projected number of boats in five year increments for both motorized and non-motorized. This assumes that boat ownership will increase at approximately the same rate as the population in the Greater Vernon area. The chart does not include the numbers for boats coming from outside the area, as the Ipsos survey data was for the study area only. If one uses the information gleaned for the trailer plate data, as analyzed by ICBC, the numbers of motorized boats originating from outside the area will increase the numbers from 14 to 19 percent.


Year

2011

2016

2021

2026

2031

Projected Population

58,985 62,790 66,530 68,876 72,777

Projected # of boats* (motorized)

5850

6227 6598 6830 7217

Projected # of boats* (non-motorized)

3930 4183 4432 4588 4848

*boat ownership within study area Based on the projected increases in boat ownership within the study area, there will be an increase of about 350 motorized boats per year. If one adds in the non-resident boats the number climbs to well over 400 per year. These additional boats will put a tremendous strain on the existing boat launch facilities. Based on current usage patterns, about thirty-six percent (36%) of these boat owners will use Paddlewheel Park, and thirty-one percent (31%) Kekuli Bay, unless new locations are developed. BC Parks upgraded the launching facilities at Kekuli Bay in 2010, and anticipates doubling the size of the parking area in 2011, with additional capacity to be added in future years. This should alleviate the stress on motorized boat launches on Kalamalka Lake. The issue will be motorized boat launching on Okanagan Lake, as Paddlewheel Park is already over capacity during the summer months, and the other motorized boat launches are unsuitable for additional boat traffic in their current states. It will be necessary to make more efficient use of Paddlewheel Park, which currently accommodates 50 to 60 cars and trailers at one time. The boat launch numbers indicated about 90 launches on a peak day. It is unlikely that any improvements could accommodate an additional 144 boats per day (based on 36% of 400 boats). It is possible that the launch capacity could be increased with more efficient parking, a significant increase in valet and drop off launches and parking lot and launch management. The additional 50 or so boats would need to be accommodated at other sites. The four locations identified below (Tronson, Foster, two locations on Kin Beach) could meet that need. The existing Tronson Rd. launch only has parking for five vehicles with trailers. It will be necessary to explore other parking or drop off options at that location.


The Foster Road turnaround should be considered for re-development to a motorized boat launch site in the future. Its unique location on Okanagan Lake provides ideal access for boats into the main part of the lake. It will also be important to add “valet only” launches at Kin Beach and potentially within the Vernon Waterfront Plan, in the long term as well as and encouraging alternative methods of getting boats into the water. The increase in non-motorized boats is also significant, with an average increase of more than 200 boats per year, owned by local residents. It will be necessary to provide designated non-motorized launches with facilities including docks, toilet facilities and parking. There are opportunities on both lakes to provide these types of launch areas.

Development Activity The consultants met with planning staff in Coldstream, Vernon and RDNO to determine whether there were any development applications on the waterfront or near the waterfront that would be seeking lake access, specifically moorage. No applications were identified in any of the communities as meeting these criteria. The City of Vernon does not support moorage requests from “semi-lakefront” developments. The City of Vernon’s Waterfront Neighbourhood Centre Plan is adjacent to the southeast edge of Okanagan Lake. The Plan is intended to cater to both residents and visitors. It will provide an opportunity for increased access to the lake and additional lakefront parkland. The focus of the parkland is passive use.

Origin of Boaters The origin of boaters was researched through the recording of trailer license plates at the main boat launches during July and early August. The information was submitted to ICBC for analysis. The resulting information gives a “snapshot” of the origins of the boaters using the boat launches at Paddlewheel Park, Kalavista, Kekuli and Kinloch. At Paddlewheel Park, plates were recorded on seven occasions. About 14% of the plates were from out of province, primarily from Alberta, with a few from the USA and one from Saskatchewan. The detailed analysis showed that of the BC plates 65% were from Vernon, 13% from Coldstream, 5% percent from other areas in the RDNO, and the rest from Kelowna, Kamloops and other communities in BC. At Kalavista, plates were recorded on four occasions. On these occasions, 19% of the plates were from Alberta. Out of the BC plates analyzed by ICBC, 36% were from Vernon, 30% from Coldstream and 6% from the rest of the Regional District.


At Kekuli, plates on trailers in the parking lot only (as opposed to in the campground area) were also recorded on four occasions. This location had 26% of the plates from Alberta. Twenty-seven percent (27%) were from Kelowna, 24% from Vernon, and 10% from Lake Country. Only 9% were from Coldstream and 10% from the other areas of the Regional District of North Okanagan. Trailer plates were recorded on only two occasions at the Kinloch boat launch. Out of the 18 plates that were analyzed, 11 were from Coldstream and three from Vernon. It should be noted that the amount of information collected was limited and may not accurately reflect the overall use pattern of the boat launches. The quantity of trailer plate information provided to the ICBC was higher than the number for which they were able to provide data. The detailed report from ICBC is attached as a separate document. In summary, the vast majority of boaters are local residents, whether full-time or seasonal. Many of the Alberta trailer plates belong to people who have a second home in the North Okanagan.

Other Boating Related Facilities and Issues

Mooring Buoys Mooring buoys for day use provide an opportunity for power boaters and sailboats to tie up for a few hours to enjoy the lake, swim off the boat, or swim or paddle to a sandy beach or picnic area. Short-term overnight use of mooring buoys is also desirable, particularly for tourists. Moored boats can present a hazard to canoes and kayaks. Mooring buoys on the north section of Okanagan Lake are installed and managed by the Vernon Yacht Club. There is no coordinating body on Kalamalka Lake. On both lakes, mooring buoys have been installed, some with permits, many not. Mooring Buoys are under the jurisdiction of Transport Canada (TC), Navigable Waters Protection Act. Transport Canada considers mooring buoys as “works” under the NWPA, since they usually secure vessels in fixed locations (such as docks, piers or wharves), and do not aid or direct mariners. This means that the placement of a mooring buoy is subject to review and approval under the NWPA, unless otherwise excluded by TC policies and standards. Transport Canada has published an “owners Guide to Private buoys” available on TC’s website. The following is an excerpt from the Guide:

As an owner of a private buoy, YOU are responsible to make sure that:

1. It meets all legal requirements, standards and guidelines of the PBR, the Canadian Aids to Navigation System (TP 968) and Transport Canada directives.

2. It is built and maintained so that it remains in position. 3. Anchors are used, built and installed in a way that will keep the buoy in position.


4. You have a monitoring and repair schedule for checking that the buoy continues to meet all legal requirements, stays in position and remains in good working order.

5. You use recommended retroreflective material (as a minimum). 6. Any lights comply with the Canadian Aids to Navigation System (TP 968).

In order to provide mooring buoys for the boating public, the RDNO would need to meet all of the Transport Canada Guidelines. It would be more efficient if one agency coordinated mooring buoys on the lakes. There is, of course, a cost attached to the provision and ongoing maintenance of buoys.

Parking Facilities Current parking facilities at the motorized boat launches are overcrowded during peak periods. There is an considerable support for User Pay at launch facilities. The majority of stakeholders felt that users should pay a parking fee, and that the funds should be used to offset operating and maintenance costs of the launches. Local residents could be provided with the opportunity to purchase a seasonal permit.

Toilet Facilities, Garbage Containers The lack of adequate toilet facilities and garbage containers at boat launches, both motorized and non-motorized was a significant concern expressed at the consultation sessions. The existing portable toilets are not adequately maintained and are only few in numbers. Chemical toilets should be considered.

Moorage There are limited plans to increase the available moorage on either lake at this time. The Vernon Yacht Club is planning to add about 40 slips over the next few years. The Seymour marina is planning some re-configuration of the docks to add six to eight slips. Both the yacht club and the marina have long waiting lists. These expansions will not satisfy the current demand and as the population grows, the demand for moorage will increase significantly.

Dry Dock Storage The existing boat storage sites are a considerable distance from the lake, and only some provide valet service to the lakes. As boat launching becomes more difficult, and moorage becomes impossible to secure, more boaters will likely seek other means of launching their boats. The aging demographic will also influence the need for more convenient boat access. There will be an increasing demand for convenient boat storage and transport to the lakes over the next twenty years.

Destinations and Safe Harbours Both motorized and non-motorized participants are seeking “motor to” or “paddle to” destinations around the lakes. These could be beaches for swimming, picnic areas, hiking trails, safe havens, sites of historical interest, and restaurants.


There is a need to provide appropriate locations for boaters to seek safe harbour during storms or other emergencies.

Signage There is a need for improved signage at boat launches. Ideally, the signs would designate hand launch areas, provide information on other parking options, provide “launch etiquette” information, inform users of the no-wake zones, and environmental impact.

Public Information

Although there is information on boat launch sites, boaters are also interested in locations of amenities, destinations on the lakes, and lake maps in general. Stakeholders have expressed a need for better education and information on regulations and boater etiquette.

Boat Launch Management There is considerable dissatisfaction with the lack of “management of launch sites”, particularly during peak times. The location of motorized boat launches and the associated parking lots in residential neighbourhoods can have a significant negative impact during peak days in July and August. The car and trailer traffic congestion and the general commotion around the boat launch area affect the tranquility of the immediate neighbourhood.

Governing Authorities Review Within the North Okanagan, the “Public Self Management Model” is the primary model used for the development and operation of boat launches. The only privately operated boat launch in the North Okanagan is at Newport Beach, on Okanagan Indian Band lands. The Public Self Management Model is also the most common in the central and south Okanagan regions for the provision of boat launches. With respect to other marine facilities the current situation is:

• Moorage is provided by a not-for-profit society (Vernon Yacht Club) and private marinas. In each case, the entity deals with municipal government on matters related to local zoning and bylaws, and the provincial government for water licenses or water leases, the DFO regarding fish, Transport Canada and their departments of Navigable Waters and Office of Boating Safety for signage, buoys, aids to navigation etc.

• Mooring buoys are distributed along the shoreline and in many cases are maintained by the yacht club.

• The boat launches are owned and operated by the RDNO, with the exception of the private launches, usually connected with a residential development.


Stakeholder and public consultation will explore the governance options for the provision of boat launches and other marine facilities. Brief descriptions of the potential management models for marine recreational facilities which were developed for the RDCO Major Lakes Recreational Marine Facilities Study34 are presented below. The table illustrates their associated merits and drawback. Boat launch facilities could be provided using any of the models.

The Public Sector Self Management Model Normally, in response to demonstrated need for marine recreation infrastructure and services, a municipality or government authority develops the required facilities using public funds and operates the service utilizing public service personnel. In the case of boat launches, it is a frequent model of choice for numerous municipalities, regional districts and First Nations, including Kelowna, Peachland, Lake Country, and the Regional District of Central Okanagan. There are no marinas on Lake Okanagan or Kalamalka Lake that are operated directly by a municipality. There are however numerous examples of successful municipal marine facilities in other parts of British Columbia (Vancouver) and across Canada, particularly in Ontario.

Public Sector Contract-Out Model Normally, in response to demonstrated need for marine recreation infrastructure and services, a municipality or government authority develops the required facilities using public funds. The public entity then enters into a management, operating, or service agreement with an outside entity - either a private sector group or a not-for-profit organization. Usually, the public entity employs an open, fair and transparent process to search for and select an appropriate contractor such as the traditional Request for Proposal process. The contract-out model is currently not employed by any public jurisdictions in the RDNO for any marine facilities. An example of this type of arrangement can be found in Penticton, where the City owns the marina and boat launch, but contracts out the management of these facilities to the Penticton Yacht Club.

Joint Venture Model Either in response to demonstrated need for marine recreation infrastructure or as a result of an unsolicited proposal from an outside entity, a municipality or government authority enters into an agreement with a third party to develop and operate marine recreation facilities. The nature of these relationships vary widely and are largely dependent upon the availability of an appropriate joint venture partner as well as the public entity’s experience with, and willingness to develop and manage these relationships. In certain cases, the joint venture partner is sourced through a formal search and selection process. In others instances circumstances dictate a sole source approach – i.e. a private landowner proposes an acceptable partner relationship and no

34

GDH Solutions, Major Lakes Recreational Marine Facilities Study, for RDCO, 2008


other proponents are available. There are no marina related joint ventures in the North Okanagan at this time. It is noteworthy that the Canadian Council of Public Private Partnerships reports that there is increasing evidence that joint venture models are becoming more widely accepted by variety of public jurisdictions across the country in all facets of recreation facility provision and service delivery. At this time there are no Joint Venture Models for marine facilities in the Okanagan.

Private Sector Model For any number of reasons the private sector may elect to develop and operate marine recreation facilities. Some facilities are developed for purely commercial reasons based upon a valid business case responding to local market conditions. The ownership of these private marinas may rest with individuals, large corporations or small companies made up of several independent shareholders. One private marina operation which provides slips and fuel (Seymour Marina) currently exists on Lake Okanagan in the Regional District of North Okanagan. The Newport Beach Marina, provides fuel, a boat launch and a very limited number of moorage slips. Private marina facilities are also developed as amenities to larger residential, commercial, recreational or resort projects. In these cases the stand-alone marina facilities may not be supported by a valid business case, but are otherwise seen as marketing or retention advantages for the project as a whole. A number of these latter developments exist within the RDNO. Some examples of the Private Sector Model are: Kelowna Marina and Eldorado Marina in Kelowna, Turtle Bay Marina and Owl’s Nest Marina in Lake Country and Shelter Bay Marina on Westbank First Nation lands.

Not-For-Profit Organization Model This model involves a Not-For-Profit Corporation being responsible for the development, management and operations of the marine facilities. The Corporation would be subject to all federal legislation, provincial statutes and municipal bylaws that govern not-for-profit organizations. The Corporation is governed by a Board comprised of Directors who would be elected or appointed by constituents (in the case of yacht clubs directors are chosen from within the club’s membership) or stakeholder groups (such as ratepayers, government agencies in the case of harbour authorities). At its discretion, the Board would decide upon either the self managed or contract-out approach to operate the facilities. In order to reach its decision regarding the most appropriate operating approach, the Board would normally conduct a cost-benefit analysis. This model sometimes involves relationships between the Not-For-Profit organization and local government authorities such as in the case when the organization may require capital financial assistance for projects deemed as providing benefit to the public good. The Vernon Yacht Club employs this model. As does the Kelowna Yacht Club, the Peachland Yacht Club and the Penticton Yacht Club. The Victoria Harbour Authority is also an example of this model.


The following Table outlines associated merits and drawbacks.

TABLE 1 – Merits & Drawbacks of Potential Governance Models

Model Merits Drawbacks

Merits and Drawbacks of Potential Governance Models

Public Sector

Self

Management

• Direct public sector decision-

making control for capital

development and operations

• Opportunities to integrate marine

facility operations with other “like

government services”

• Ability to manage and control

quality of service and operations

• Potential net proceeds available

from operations

• Reliant upon public sector

funding for capital development

and operations

• Government authority absorbs

all operating risks and financial

liabilities

• Potential public sector personnel

limitations and liabilities

• Need to develop operating

expertise not currently available

from within government

authorities

• Need to create administrative

systems and controls required to

undertake a new area of

business

Public Sector

Contract-Out

• Direct public sector decision-

making control over capital

develop

• Opportunities to develop a

management contract

specifically tailored to the

subject site and consistent with

public service values

• Ability to access operating

expertise from experienced

marina operators

• Ability to offload day-to-day

operating responsibilities to a

third party

• Opportunity to share operating

and financial risks with operator

• Ability to access marina specific

technologies that may not

otherwise be available to the

government authority

• Reliant upon public sector

funding for capital development

• Government authority absorbs

all financial liabilities associated

with capital development

• Process of searching for and

selecting an appropriate

contractor could be time

consuming

• Need to develop standards of

operation that can be articulated

in the contract

• Contractor controls quality, albeit

in accordance with contract

particulars

• Need to dedicate time and staff

resources to manage the

contract



Joint Venture

• Ability to transfer some of the

capital costs to joint venture

partner

• Ability to share the operating

risks with the joint venture

partner

• Ability to access operating

expertise from an experienced

marina operator

• Opportunity to negotiate a

reasonable operating approach

with joint venture partner that

protects the public’s interest well

supporting a reasonable and

viable business case for the

project

• Opportunities to benefit from

order of magnitude cost savings

if the marina facility is

associated with a larger project

• Ability to offload day-to-day

operating responsibilities to joint

venture partner

• Potentially a limited number of

local qualified and willing joint

venture partners

• The process of searching for

and selecting a joint venture

partner could be time consuming

and complicated

• Need to develop standards of

operation that can be articulated

in the joint venture agreement if

the partner is to absorb the

operating responsibilities

• There will undoubtedly be

compromises associated with

the joint venture agreement that

many be troublesome

• Need to dedicate staff time and

resources to monitor the

performance of the joint venture

partner

Private Sector

• The private sector is entirely

responsible for the capital costs

of development

• All operating risks and liabilities

are absorbed by the private

sector

• There is no government

responsibilities associated with

day-to-day operations

• Market conditions dictate fees

and therefore no government

responsibility to subsidize fees

• All development decisions rest

with the private sector

• The private sector is three to

establish operating standards –

including fees – with no input

from government authority

• The continuous availability of

recreational marine facilities is

completely dependant upon

private sector decision-making

and the financial viability of

operations

Not-For-Profit

Organization

• Government authority may have

some influence over the

structure and governance model

• Organization will be responsible

to comply with all federal

legislative obligations, provincial



adopted by the organization

• Government authority might

occupy Board position(s)

• Opportunity to offload day-to-

day operating responsibilities to

the organization

• Not-for-profit organization

absorbs operating risks and

liabilities to the extent of their

insurability

statutes and local by-laws

governing not-for-profit

organizations

• Decision-making tends to be

cumbersome

• If the not-for-profit organization

is unable to financially support

major yet necessary capital

projects, it would likely approach

government for financial

assistance

• Board of Directors is to a certain

extent responsible for the

liabilities of the organization

• Need to dedicate staff time and

resources to monitor the

performance of the not-for-profit

organization if the marine facility

is an extension of government

operations

Results of Public Consultation Regarding Governance

There was very limited support for any form of “lake authority”, as this would create another level of government requiring taxpayer support. There was however support for better co-ordination among the many government authorities who regulate the waters. There was interest in the Regional District becoming involved in a coordinating role to allow for consistent application of rules and regulations and the provision of mooring buoys, fueling stations and pump-outs. Private public partnerships for the operation of boat launches received mixed support.


Environmental Issues and Impacts and Environmental

Legislation Summit Environmental Consultants Inc. undertook an assessment to identify existing and/or potential environmental impacts on current and future boating recreational facilities. They also reviewed, identified and documented environmental legislation and regulations that affect current and future boating facilities. Upgrades to existing and installation of new boat launch facilities will need to comply with local government bylaws and with provincial and federal regulations. Each local government has specific bylaws associated with development and land alteration near lakes. Wildlife habitat and riparian vegetation are protected under applicable federal and provincial regulations and land below the high water mark of the lakes is Crown Land that is also managed according to provincial and federal regulations. Boat launches can have associated terrestrial and aquatic environmental impacts. Work within the water may alter important fish spawning habitat and/or contribute to poor water quality. Upland structures, such as roads, parking lots and toilet facilities, impact riparian habitat and promote storm water infiltration to the lake due to impermeable surfaces. Such impacts may be minimized by mitigation that is appropriate to the sensitivity of the area and choosing locations in lower impact areas. The report prepared by Summit Environmental describes the methods used to develop a rating system that determines areas with environmentally sensitive habitat and acts as a screening tool for future facility locations. Data gaps are also identified in the report. The rating system was used to assign a high, medium or low hazard rating for each of the 24 sites identified as “points of interest”. Mapping has been developed which will reflect existing and potential impacts/issues by illustrating key sensitive areas. The full draft report by Summit Environmental is a separate document.

Public Opinion Survey

Ipsos Reid was commissioned to conduct a public opinion survey to better understand usage and perceptions of local marine recreation facilities. More specifically, the main objectives of the survey were to:

• Gauge the overall incidence of boat ownership in the region; • Determine participation in boating activities on Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka

Lake; • Assess usage of local boat launches; • Explore perceptions of current marine recreation facilities;


• Determine the distance boat owners are willing to drive to access a public boat launch; and,

• Obtain feedback on specific initiatives aimed at improving public access to local marine facilities.

The methodology for the survey was:

• Random and representative telephone survey of 300 boat owners aged 18 years or older living in the Greater Vernon area.

• Sample was drawn by postal code and respondents were asked in the beginning of the survey whether or not they live in the target area to further validate residency.

• Conducted between July 21 and July 29, 2010. • Completion targets were set by region (see table below) and the final data was

weighted to further ensure the regional distribution of boat owners reflects that of the actual population in Greater Vernon.

• Overall results are accurate to within ±5.7 percentage points, 19 times out of 20. The margin of error will be larger for sample subgroups.

• Questions aimed at assessing the incidence of boat ownership were asked to a larger sample size and can be considered accurate to within ±3.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

It should be noted that the small number of respondents answering some of these questions means the results should be considered as directional in nature only and

interpreted with caution. City

Key Survey Findings

Boat Ownership

• More than one-third of Greater Vernon households currently own a boat. • Just under 10% of households plan on purchasing a boat in the next five years.

The likelihood of purchase is slightly higher among current boat owners. • Motor boats, followed by boats with oars or paddles, are the most common types

of boats to own. Analysis of future purchase behaviour suggests these will continue to be popular choices over the next five years.

Boating Activities

o Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake experience similar types of boating activities. • In the past 12 months, half of all boat owners participated in some kind of

boating activity on Okanagan Lake, with motorized boating activities being slightly more popular than non-motorized activities.

• A similar pattern of behaviour is seen when considering usage of Kalamalka Lake.

Boat Launches

• The survey suggests that boat launches are, and will continue to be, in demand. o Most boat owners transport their boat to and from the water using a trailer.

Those who anticipate buying a boat also plan on transporting it to and from the water.


o The exception is for sailboats, which are more likely to be moored than transported.

• Paddlewheel Park, Kalavista, and Kekuli Bay are all popular places to launch a boat.

o Paddlewheel Park is the most common location among those launching a motor boat or sailboat.

o While Paddlewheel Park is also popular among those launching a boat with oars or paddles, Kalavista is a slightly more popular destination with this segment.

• Overall, proximity to home primarily determines where respondents launch their boat.

o However, the reasons for using a particular boat launch vary depending on what launch they use.

� Usage of Paddlewheel Park and Kalavista is driven by proximity to home

� Kekuli Bay’s parking and ramp facilities are what draws people to launch at this location

Current Marine Recreation Facilities

• There is an appetite for increased investment in local marine recreation facilities. o Three-quarters of boat owners agree the Regional District should invest

more in marine recreation facilities on Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake. o Two-thirds of boat owners agree it is important to build new or upgrade

existing facilities because the current ones are in poor shape.

• Two-thirds of boat owners do not think the current marine recreation facilities on Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake are sufficient to meet regional demand.

o When asked what types of marine recreation facilities they would like to see

more of, four-in-ten boat owners mention boat launches.

• Boat owners are more satisfied with Okanagan Lake than Kalamalka Lake,

although both are seen as in need of improvement.

• While seven-in-ten are satisfied with the overall marine recreation facilities on

Okanagan Lake, only half feel this way about Kalamalka Lake.

• Furthermore, when asked about their satisfaction with specific aspects of these

facilities, none of those on either Okanagan Lake or Kalamalka Lake are deemed

satisfactory by the majority of boat owners.

• Of all the attributes tested, parking facilities for boaters garners the highest dissatisfaction rating on both Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake, suggesting this

is the area most in need of improvement.

• More than one-third of boat owners have had to leave Okanagan Lake or

Kalamalka Lake without launching their boat because the public boat launches

were at capacity.

• On average, boat owners are willing to drive 21.7 kilometres from where their boat

is stored to a public boat launch.


Feedback on Specific Initiatives

Survey respondents with boats were are asked about two specific initiatives: 1. A service that would help launch their boat, park their vehicle and trailer off-site

while they are boating, and then return their vehicle and trailer to the boat launch when they are finished boating.

2. A service that would store their boat when it’s not in use and then retrieve and launch their boat when they call ahead to say they’d like to use it at a certain time.

• The majority of boat owners are not interested in either of the two services tested.

• While these findings indicate that many are unlikely to use these services if they were available, they do appeal to a pocket of boat owners: Thirty-nine percent were interested in the first type of service, and thirty-two percent in the second

The Survey suggests charging between $5 and $10 for access to a public motorized boat launch. The complete Ipsos Reid Report is provided as a separate document.


Analysis Summary The analysis is based on the information gathered through primary and secondary research, data collection, public consultation, the public opinion survey, and the environmental issues and impacts review.

Key Issues

A number of key issues were identified in the analysis phase.

• There is a potential increase of 2000 boats in the North Okanagan, based on demographic trends, and there will be a need to accommodate those boats with access to the lakes.

• The majority of the population growth will be an older demographic, which will

require boat launching options that meet their needs.

• The lack of adequate motorized boat launch sites on Okanagan Lake, and the lack of good options for new sites due to topography, environmental concerns, and the residential character of much of the lakefront make it a challenge to provide additional capacity.

• The lack of adequate, safe, non-motorized boat launches and small boat storage on both Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake will impact the non-motorized boating community and the opportunity to promote the area for rowing and paddling.

• The lack of “launch management” at the existing motorized boat launches, is causing distress for the boaters and the surrounding neighbours and other park users. There is a need for parking control, fees, and supervision.

• There is a need for suitable alternatives to the traditional boat launches for motorized boats, which could include offsite parking, boat valet services that provide boat storage along with transportation and launching of the boat.

• There is a growing need for additional moorage, both in the water, and alternatives such as year-round dry land storage facilities in proximity to the lakes.

• There is considerable interest in the provision of destinations on the lakes for both non-motorized and motorized boats; as well as a need for safe harbours.

• The public is concerned with the lack of knowledge around boating rules and etiquette, both at the launches and on the lakes. An educational and signage program is desirable.


Draft Recommendations The recommendations were developed in consideration of all aspects of data collected and the analysis of that data. It is recognized that these recommendations may not satisfy all stakeholders, however they are intended to provide the RDNO with a basis for future planning for public marine facilities. All recommendations take into account the potential environmental affects as identified by Summit Environmental Consultants. Each recommendation includes a brief list of related actions. A more comprehensive list of action steps and timelines are included in the Implementation Plan. The recommendations have been divided into six categories:

1. Motorized and non-motorized boat launch sites on Okanagan Lake 2. Vernon Waterfront Neighbourhood Centre Plan 3. Non-motorized boat launch sites on Kalamalka Lake 4. Other boating topics 5. Governance 6. Alternatives to Traditional Boat Launches

1. Motorized and Non-motorized Boat Launches on Okanagan

Lake There is a need for additional motorized and non-motorized boat launch capacity on Okanagan Lake within the North Okanagan. The potential of 2,000 more boats combined with the lack of available moorage could mean a twenty percent increase in demand for launch facilities. It is desirable to have a number of motorized boat launches at various locations around the lakes, however the topography surrounding Okanagan Lake, and the residential neighbourhoods along the waterfront make the creation of new motorized boat launches a tremendous challenge. The expansion of parking lots at boat launches for vehicles with trailers is not a sustainable practice in the long term. Waterfront property is highly valued by community residents and tourists to the area. It is however necessary in the short term to provide adequate parking facilities until other alternatives are developed. Paddlewheel Park

It is recommended that Paddlewheel Park continue to serve as a motorized boat launch

facility for the North Okanagan, with the recognition and respect that the park is a multi-use area serving people of all ages with a variety of recreational amenities.


In order to achieve the goals of key stakeholders and the Regional District, the following actions are recommended:

Commence a comprehensive park planning process for the entire site in cooperation with the Okanagan Landing & District Association.

Make the existing boat launch parking area more efficient, including marking car-trailer parking areas, and a designated stacking lane for boats on trailers.

The current entrance to the launch parking area should be closed and a new entrance constructed to the west.

Re-locate the Vernon Paddling Centre to the newly acquired property to the west along the waterfront.(See non-motorized boating section)

Install a parking ticket machine for all users. Revenue to be re- invested in the operations of the launch and park.

Hire a “launch manager” for the summer season. Consider an active retired person for this position and a potential partnership with the Yacht Club for the supervision and management of the launch.

Upgrade the launch, with an additional double-wide ramp, to create greater capacity and efficient launching.

Other Motorized Boat Launches

It is recommended that, in addition to Paddlewheel Park, new and upgraded boat launches be provided to serve the North Okanagan.

The following actions are recommended to achieve this goal:

The existing boat launch at Tronson and Beachcomber (Site 4) should be maintained and repaired for neighbourhood use; options for additional parking spots should be pursued.

The Foster Road turnaround (Site 2) should be developed in the future as a motorized boat launch facility.

The northwest end of Kin Beach (Site 6) be developed a motorized launch for “valet only” or drop off launching, in the medium to long term. This option should be investigated in the context of the re-alignment of Tronson Rd.

The existing boat launch next to 8829 Okanagan Landing Road (Site 10) is not a suitable motorized launch. The environmental sensitivity rating is high, due to its location in a red zone, spawning habitat. It is very close to the road and difficult to access safely with a trailer. It should be converted to a non-motorized launch.

Communicate with the Okanagan Indian Band regarding the potential closure of the Newport Beach Boat launch and marina; and any future plans for boat launching facilities or public moorage.

Non-motorized Boat Launches (Okanagan Lake)

There are a number of opportunities to provide designated non-motorized or hand launch locations and facilities to support small boats.


It is recommended that eight specific locations around Okanagan Lake be designated and developed as “hand launch only” and that appropriate improvements be undertaken in

the short, medium and long term.

Re-locate the Vernon Paddling Centre to the newly acquired property to the west along the waterfront. It is recommended the RDNO enter into a partnership with the Centre to develop and operate a non-motorized launch area, including a couple of low, wide,

floating docks and small boat storage for both the members and the public.

It is further recommended that a small feasibility study be undertaken regarding the provision of facilities for dragon boats on Okanagan Lake.

In addition to the Paddlewheel Park launch, the following is a list of locations are appropriate for hand launch “designation”, improvements, and signage:

Foster Rd. Turnaround (Site 2) needs signage. Kennedy Lane (Site 5) Review the parking configuration at that location to

determine if additional spots could be added. Provide a low dock for ease of small craft launching.

Kin Beach (northwest end) (Site 6).Undertake in conjunction with the planned Tronson Rd. re-alignment. This is a potential site for dragon boats, which would require the provision of docks.

Kin Beach (south end) (Site 7) – see discussion below on the Vernon Waterfront Plan.

Grant Rd. ROW – designate as a non-motorized site, once access is established. 8829 Okanagan Landing Rd.(Site 10) – convert motorized to non-motorized(M).

Remove concrete ramp, and provide low, floating dock. Delcliffe Rd. (Site 12) requires signage and designated parking spots. Ellison Park (Site 13) BC Parks should be encouraged to consider a non-motorized

launch area in the longer term.

2. Vernon Waterfront Neighbourhood Centre Plan

The parkland at the southeast corner of Okanagan Lake is within the City of Vernon’s Waterfront neighbourhood Centre Plan. The recommended non-motorized launch in the vicinity of Site 7(Kin Beach South) would serve not only local boaters, but tourists as well. The location could provide an opportunity for canoe, kayak, and stand up paddleboard rentals. A low, wide dock and a grassy water’s edge would provide a pleasant launching experience. Small boat storage, possibly dragon boat docks and storage for paddles and personal floatation devices should also be considered within the area of this Plan. The area near the Grant Rd. ROW (Site 8) could be suitable for this purpose. Although a public pier is not planned at this time, this should remain an option for the future. Any pier should be designed so that it could accommodate power boats. It would serve as a “destination” for boaters on the lake, drawing them to activities on the shore.


Short-term moorage should be provided for day visitors. Marine themed stores and restaurants would increase the attraction of boaters to this area. In the long term, the inclusion of a “valet only” motorized boat launch near the pier would facilitate access to the lake and help reduce congestion at Paddlewheel Park. An outdoor or indoor boat storage in reasonably close proximity would provide a valuable amenity for residents and tourists. An example of this type of boat launch is in Kelowna, next to the Delta Grand Hotel on Water Street. It is recommended that a non-motorized boat launch be established within the Vernon Waterfront Neighbourhood Centre Plan; and that facilities be included to support dragon boats.

It is recommended that any future public pier accommodate motorized boats for short

term moorage; and that a “valet only” motorized boat launch be included in the pier development.

3. Non-motorized Boat Launch Sites on Kalamalka Lake Although there are no designated and signed locations for non-motorized boat launches, a number of locations around the lake are currently being used for this purpose. It is recommended that five sites on Kalamalka Lake be developed as non-motorized launch sites: West Kal Lake Access (north of the motorized launch), Kal Beach by Alexander’s, Coldstream Centennial Park, Kinloch, and Kekuli Bay.

One of the Westkal lake accesses (Site 17) could easily be converted to a hand

launch area. The grassy water edge is very small boat friendly. The provision of a low dock would further enhance this area for non-motorized launching. This area could be designated and signage installed immediately. One of the sites will require some clearing and elimination of the encroachments from both sides.

Kal Beach, next to Alexander’s, would be a suitable site for a non-motorized launch, if some parking spots were provided and designated for that purpose. Ideally, a low, wide floating dock would provide easier access for canoes and kayaks.

Coldstream Centennial Park should be developed into an area for the location of a Paddling Club. This includes the development of a few additional parking spots close to the water (by the current handicapped parking). In the short term, some of the handicapped spaces could be converted to parking for boaters. The access to the water should accommodate persons carrying small boats. In the future a small dock should be installed, and provision for small boat storage on site. Parking for these users would be in the current lot off Kidston Rd.

The development of Coldstream Centennial Park as a location for a dragon boat club, with appropriate facilities, should be considered in the long term, as demand warrants.

Kinloch Boat Launch is currently being used for the launching of non-motorized boats, along with the motorized boats. This area could be designated as a non-


motorized location (in addition to the motorized use) with some alteration. A low dock on the south edge of the launch and designated “car only” parking spots would support this activity.

Kekuli Bay, (Site 15) although currently a motorized boat launch, could be made more user friendly for non-motorized launching. The provision of designated parking for vehicles, versus trailers; the provision of a specific “drop-off” zone to unload canoes/kayaks, immediately west of the railroad tracks; and the provision of a low, wide, dock would all facilitate hand launching. Once the upgrades are completed, signage and promotion of this location is needed.

Although Kirkland Beach is currently designated as a “non-boat area”, it should be reviewed as a possible non-motorized launch area.

4. Other Boating Topics Dry Dock Storage

Storage of motorized boats in areas that are readily accessible from the lakes would reduce the need for trailer parking and would result in more “older adult” and tourist friendly boat launching. Municipal lands should be considered for boat storage with concierge service, potentially provided by the private sector. Boat concierge services reduce the number of boat trailers on the roads, thereby reducing traffic congestion and CO2 emissions. It is recommended that the RDNO review publically owned lands for suitability for dry dock storage; and that the private sector be encouraged to provide boat storage on

either public (through partnership arrangement) or on private lands.

Parking The parking lots at Kalavista and Paddlewheel should both be operated on a user pay basis, as is the case at Kekuli Bay. The fees should differentiate between vehicles with trailers, or without. Parking ticket machines work well, but it will be necessary to monitor the lots for compliance. Residents could have the option to purchase a seasonal permit. The RDNO should implement a reasonable user fee for parking through the installation of

parking ticket machines.

Boat Launch Management The high level of traffic at the boat launch at Paddlewheel Park in peak periods warrants a “launch manager”. Based on a $3 per car fee, for a minimum of 3,000 boats, the $9,000 would more than cover the wages of part-time summer staff. During off-peak days, the staff could be assigned to other duties. Mature individuals should be considered for these positions. Due to the proximity of the Vernon Yacht Club, they may be in a position to provide staff support for this function.


Hire a Launch Manager for the summer season who can handle the public in a professional manner. Alternatively, a partnership could be struck with the Yacht Club to

manage this site.

Mooring Buoys The provision of mooring buoys enhances the boating experience. They allow for motorized boats to safely stop at various locations around the lakes for short periods of time, or overnight at appropriate sites. It is recommended that the RDNO encourage the continued provision of mooring buoys by the Yacht Club on Okanagan Lake; and that mooring buoys for Kalamalka Lake be

considered in the long term, with an appropriate partner.

Washrooms and Garbage Receptacles Although there are portable toilets and waste receptacles at the most of the designated launches, the public felt that these were inadequate.

It is recommended that RDNO consider the provision of toilet facilities at all designated non-motorized and motorized launches. A greater number of garbage containers and

recycling containers should be provided and maintained by RDNO.

Signage

The signage at the motorized boat launches needs to be upgrade to be more informative and visually appealing. There is no signage for non-motorized boat launches. It is recommended that the RDNO review publically owned lands for suitability for dry

dock storage; and that the private sector be encouraged to provide boat storage on either public (through partnership arrangement) or on private lands.

Destinations and Safe Harbours

Public feedback during the study has indicated that there is a demand for places to go on the lakes to eat, use restrooms and enjoy land based recreational activities. The lack of destinations on the lakes discourages boaters (both motorized and non-motorized) from more frequent outings which negatively impacts tourism and economic benefits. Stakeholders also indicated a need for safe harbours in case of poor weather or problems with the boat.

In cooperation with the boating clubs, the RDNO should designate locations around the lakes as “destinations”, as well as ensuring appropriate locations to serve as safe harbours in case of sudden inclement weather.


Public Information

It is recommended that the RDNO enhance their brochure on “Public Boat Launching Facilities in the Greater Vernon Area” to provide information on non-motorized launches

as well as destinations and amenities on the lakes. The brochure is also a vehicle to inform the public of the rules of etiquette around boat launches, and regulations on the lake. The brochure should be available at the main launch sites and should be provided

in a downloadable format on the District’s website.

5. Governance It is recommended that the Regional District of North Okanagan explore the possibility of a partnership with the Vernon Yacht Club for the operation of the Paddlewheel Park Boat Launch. The RDNO could contract with the Yacht Club to maintain and supervise the boat

launch facility, for a fee.

It is further recommended that the RDNO enter into a partnership arrangement with the Vernon Paddling Centre for the development and operation of a non-motorized launch on the newly acquired land adjacent to Paddlewheel Park.

It is recommended that the RDNO participate in the Local Marine Advisory Council

regarding issues relating to Transport Canada’s role on the lakes.

It is recommended that the Regional District of North Okanagan collaborate with the Regional District of Central Okanagan regarding the coordination of provision, management and operations of marine facilities and infrastructure on Okanagan Lake and

Kalamalka Lake.

6. Alternatives to Traditional Boat Launches It is recommended that alternatives to the traditional practice of transporting the boat on a trailer to the boat launch, and parking the car and trailer on site after launching, be

actively encouraged and supported. Valet boat service from a boat storage site would help reduce the vehicle and trailer traffic.

The following is a list of proposed actions:

Explore options for off-site car and/or trailer parking near Paddlewheel Park, for example at the elementary school nearby. This would likely require the provision of a weekend/holiday shuttle service.

Pursue discussions with the School District regarding use of the school site for boat and trailer storage during July and August.

Encourage and support the private sector in the development of both outdoor and indoor boat storage facilities that provide valet boat-launching services. Potential locations include the airport industrial lands and the light industrial/service commercial lands along Okanagan Landing Road.

Designate one or more of the new boat launches as “valet” boat launching only.


Conclusion The North Okanagan will continue to be a very popular boating destination. Tourists and resident alike enjoy the beautiful lakes and warm, sunny climate. The growing population and aging demographic combined with increasing boat ownership and the ongoing desire to get out on the lakes will be a challenge for government to meet the needs of current and future boaters. The future of a pleasurable boating experience in the North Okanagan will be dependent upon the ability of the public and private sector to work together to meet the needs for additional and upgraded recreational marine facilities, particularly the provision of motorized and non-motorized boat launches in an environmentally sensitive manner. This report makes a number of recommendations to guide the Regional District of North Okanagan in leading the way to better boating. Stakeholders and residents have expressed their desire for a variety of improvements, while still respecting local neighbourhoods and parks. “The Blueprint” is the Implementation Plan which outlines the actions and timelines to reach the desired future. Most of the work will need to be done over the next ten years, with some initiatives extending into the 20 year timeframe. It will a challenging and rewarding undertaking.


APPENDIX A: Implementation Plan – “The Blueprint”

Recommendation and Actions

Priority &

Timeline

1.Motorized and Non-motorized Boat Launches on Okanagan Lake

Paddlewheel Park Paddlewheel Park should continue to serve as a motorized boat

launch facility for the North Okanagan, with the recognition and respect that the park is a multi-use area serving people of all ages,

with a variety of recreational amenities. Actions: Commence a comprehensive park planning process for the entire site in co-operation with the Okanagan Landing & District Association. Once design is complete and accepted by all parties involved, develop a five-year park re-development plan including budget implications; commence park re-development construction. Make the existing boat launch parking area more efficient, including marking car-trailer parking areas, and a designated stacking lane for boats on trailers. The current entrance to the launch parking area should be closed and a new entrance constructed to the west, once the needed additional land is acquired. Re-locate the Vernon Paddling Centre to the newly acquired property to the west along the waterfront.(See non-motorized boating section) Install a parking ticket machine for all users. Revenue to be re-invested in the operations of the launch and park. Hire a “launch manager” for July and August. Consider an active retired person for this position and a potential partnership with the Yacht Club for the supervision and management of the launch. The role of this person would be to enforce safety regulations and rules of conduct in the launch area. Upgrade the launch, with an additional doublewide ramp, to create greater capacity and efficient launching.

Immediate (2011) Short to medium term (2012-2017) Short term (2012-2014) Medium term (2015-2017) Short term (2012-2014) Medium term (2015-2017) Short term (2012-2014) Very Long term (2020 -2030)



Priority &

Timeline

Other Motorized Boat Launches New and upgraded boat launches should be provided to serve the

North Okanagan, in addition to paddlewheel park

Actions: The existing boat launch at Tronson and Beachcomber (Site 4) should be maintained and repaired for neighbourhood use; options for additional parking spots should be pursued across Tronson Rd. The Foster Road turnaround (Site 2) could be developed as a future motorized boat launch facility. It would require re-configured and enhanced parking as well as the provision of a concrete launch pad, and preferably a dock. The northwest end of Kin Beach (Site 6) should be considered for development as a motorized launch and promoted as a “valet only” or drop off launch area. This option should be investigated in the context of the re-alignment of Tronson Rd. Parking for trailers would be required off-site for non-valet situations. The existing boat launch next to 8829 Okanagan Landing Road (Site 10) should be converted to a non-motorized launch, by removing the concrete ramp. It is not a suitable motorized launch. The environmental sensitivity rating is high, due to its location in a red zone, spawning habitat. It is very close to the road and difficult to access safely with a trailer. Communicate with the Okanagan Indian Band regarding the potential closure of the Newport Beach Boat launch and marina; and any future plans for boat launching facilities or public moorage.

Short term (2012-2014) Long term (2018-2020) Medium-long Term(2015-2019) Medium Term (2015-2017) Short term (2012-2014)

Non-motorized Boat Launches (Okanagan Lake)

Eight locations as listed below be designated and developed as “hand launch only” and appropriate improvements be

undertaken at each location.

Actions: Foster Rd. Turnaround (Site 2) .Provide “non-motorized or “hand launch only” signage in the parking area and a wayfinder sign on Tronson Rd; recognizing that this is proposed as a future motorized site in the long term.

Short term (2012-2014)



Priority &

Timeline

Kennedy Lane (Site 5). Review the parking configuration at that location to determine if additional spots could be added. Provide a low dock for ease of small craft launching. Kin Beach (northwest end)(Site 6) Undertake in conjunction with the planned Tronson Rd. re-alignment. This is a potential site for dragon boats, which would require the provision of docks. Kin Beach (south end) (Site 7) is appropriate for a non-motorized launch site. See discussion below on the Vernon Waterfront Plan. Grant Rd. ROW, now part of the Vernon Waterfront Plan, should be developed as a non-motorized site if it is determined that it is appropriate for dragon boats. 8829 Okanagan Landing Rd. (Site 10) – convert motorized to non-motorized. Remove concrete ramp, and provide low, floating dock. Delcliffe Rd. (Site 12)This beach should be designated and signed. Designated parking spots need to be provided along the road. Ellison Park (Site 13) BC Parks should be encouraged to consider a non-motorized launch area in the future to serve both campers and residents of the area.

Short term (2012-2014) Short term (2012-2014) Medium Term (2015-2017) Short term (2012-2014) Medium Term (2015-2017) Short term (20102-2014) Long term (2016-2018)

Re-locate the Vernon Paddling Centre to the newly acquired property to the west of Paddlewheel Park. It is further recommended that the

RDNO enter into a partnership with the Centre to develop and operate a non-motorized launch area, including one or more low, wide floating docks , and small boat storage for both members and

non-members of the club.

Actions:

Develop a partnership agreement between the RDNO and the Vernon Paddling Centre for both the development of the new site, the operations of the Vernon Paddling Centre, and the management of a non-motorized boat launch site. The terms and duration of the agreement should be appropriate to the investment on the part of each partner. Undertake a design concept for the new area in preparation for the re-development of the site into a home for the Paddling centre

Immediate (2011) Short term (2012-2014)



Priority &

Timeline

and non-motorized boat launch. Undertake a small feasibility study regarding the provision of facilities

for dragon boats on Okanagan Lake. Actions:

The actual demand for dragon boat facilities on Okanagan Lake (and Kalamalka lake) needs to be determined, along with a review of potential locations and partnership opportunities.


2. Vernon Waterfront Neighbourhood Centre Plan

Develop a non-motorized boat launch within the Plan area, in the vicinity of Site 7, the south end of Kin Beach.

Actions:

Determine the best location of a non-motorized launch in relation to the environmentally sensitive area around Vernon Creek. Develop a launch area that includes a low, wide floating dock for ease of launching for persons of all abilities. Designate and develop a non-motorized boat launch area specifically for dragon boats at the Grant Rd. ROW location (based on a future

feasibility study)

Actions: Based on the results of the feasibility study, provide facilities for dragon boats at either Kin Beach (north end) or Grant Rd. location or other suitable site. It is recommended that options remain open for a future public pier and that it accommodate motorized boats for short term moorage;

and that a “valet only” motorized boat launch be included in the pier development.

Actions:

Communicate with the City for Vernon as to the need for, and benefits of, a public pier and day moorage that would draw visitors to the new waterfront shops, restaurants etc.

Short term (2012-2014) Medium Term (2015-2016) Medium term (2015-2017) Long Term (2018-2020)



Priority &

Timeline

3. Non-motorized Boat Launch Sites on Kalamalka Lake

It is recommended that five sites on Kalamalka Lake be developed as non-motorized launch sites: West Kal Lake Access, Kal Beach by

Alexander’s, Coldstream Centennial Park, Kinloch, and Kekuli Bay. Review options for Kirkland Beach as a non-motorized launch site, addressing the current “no-boat” zone.

Actions:

One of the Westkal lake accesses (Site 17) should be converted to a hand launch area. The grassy water edge is very small boat friendly. The provision of a low dock would further enhance this area for non-motorized launching. This area should be designated and signage installed. If the site closest to the existing boat launch is chosen, it will require removal of encroachments and site clean-up. Kal Beach, next to Alexander’s would be a suitable site for a non-motorized launch, if some parking spots were provided and designated for that purpose. Ideally, a low, wide floating dock would provide easier access for canoes and kayaks. Coldstream Centennial Park should be developed into an area for the location of a Paddling Club. This includes the development of a few additional parking spots close to the water (by the current handicapped parking). In the short term, some of the handicapped spaces could be converted to parking for boaters. The access to the water should accommodate persons carrying small boats. In the future a small dock should be installed, and provision for small boat storage on site(not directly on the beach). Parking for these users would be in the current lot on Kidston Rd. The development of Coldstream Centennial Park as a location for a dragon boat club, with appropriate facilities, could be considered as part of the dragon boat feasibility study recommended earlier in the report. Kinloch Boat Launch is currently being used for the launching of non-motorized boats, along with the motorized boats. This area could be designated as a non-motorized location (in addition to the motorized use) with some alteration. A low dock on the south edge of the

Short term (2012-2014) Short term (2012-2014) Medium term (2015-2017) Medium to long term (2015-2020) Short term (2012-2014)



Priority &

Timeline

launch and designated “car only” parking spots would support this. Kekuli Bay, (Site 15) although currently a motorized boat launch, could be made more user friendly for non-motorized launching. The provision of designated parking for vehicles, versus trailers; the provision of a specific “drop-off” zone to unload canoes/kayaks, immediately west of the railroad tracks; and the provision of a low, wide, dock would all facilitate hand launching. Once the upgrades are completed, signage and promotion of this location is needed. Kirkland Beach is used as an informal non-motorized boat launch, although this location has been designated as a “no-boat zone”. The appropriateness of removing this designation could be investigated, keeping in mind the yellow environmental rating (spawning area).

Medium term (2015-2017) Short Term (2012-2014)

4. Other Boating Topics

Dry Dock Storage It is recommended that the RDNO review publically owned lands for

suitability for dry dock storage; and that the private sector be encouraged to provide boat storage with valet service on either public (through partnership arrangement) or on private lands.

Actions:

RDNO to initiate discussions with the City of Vernon and the District of Coldstream regarding potential sites for indoor boat storage facilities. A list of potential sites, once identified should be promoted to business in the marine industry.

Short to medium term (2012-2017)

Parking The RDNO should implement a reasonable user fee for parking

through the installation of parking ticket machines. Actions:

Parking ticket machines to be purchased and installed in Paddlewheel Park and Kalavista parking lots.


Boat Launch Management Hire a Launch Manager for the summer season who can handle the

public in a professional manner. Alternatively, a partnership could be struck with the Yacht Club to manage the Paddlewheel Park location.



Priority &

Timeline

Actions: Meet with the Yacht Club officials to explore a partnership or “fee for service” arrangement for the supervision of the boat launch. Review the potential of hiring a part-time summer staff person to supervise the launch operations.

Short term (2012-2014) Short term (2012-2014)

Mooring Buoys It is recommended that the RDNO encourage the continued provision

of mooring buoys by the Yacht Club on Okanagan Lake; and that mooring buoys for Kalamalka Lake be considered in the long term,

with an appropriate partner. Actions:

RDNO to support the Yacht Club in the provision and maintenance of the mooring buoys on Okanagan Lake. Partnerships for the provision of mooring buoys on Kalamalka Lake should be explored with resorts and destinations on the lake.

Medium term (2015-2017)

Washrooms and Garbage Receptacles It is recommended that RDNO consider the provision of toilet facilities at all designated non-motorized and motorized launches. A greater number of garbage containers and recycling containers should be

provided and maintained by RDNO.

Actions: Investigate the cost and feasibility of providing chemical toilets at all launches, and some destinations/safe harbour locations. Provide attractive, environmentally friendly garbage and re-cycling receptacles at all motorized launches.

Short term (2012-2014) Short term (2012-2014)

Signage It is recommended that the RDNO implement an attractive,

consistent, signage program that is appropriate for the non-motorized and motorized launch locations. The signs should include a combination of rules and regulations and “boater education

information”.

Actions: Design standard, attractive signage to be used at boat launch locations. Implement new signage across the Greater Vernon area.

Short to medium term (2012-2017)



Priority &

Timeline

Destinations and Safe Harbours In cooperation with the boating clubs, the RDNO should designate locations around the lakes as “destinations”, as well as ensuring

appropriate locations to serve as safe harbours in case of sudden inclement weather.

Actions: Based on the information found in the inventory of this report select sites for “destination” designation. Work with the Vernon Paddling Centre, the North Okanagan Sailing Association, the Yacht Club and other interested parties to develop a network of sites along the shorelines for rest and recreation. Promote these locations through the brochure, boating clubs and Tourism Vernon.

Medium term (2015-2017)

Public Information It is recommended that the RDNO enhance their brochure on “Public Boat Launching Facilities in the Greater Vernon Area” to provide

information on non-motorized launches as well as destinations and amenities on the lakes. The brochure is also a vehicle to inform the

public of the rules of etiquette around boat launches, and regulations on the lake. The brochure should be available at the main launch sites and should be provided in a downloadable format on the

District’s website.

Actions: Update and enhance the boat launching brochure to include non-motorized boat launch locations. Add information on boating rules and etiquette. Provide the brochure information on the RDNO and Greater Vernon web site


5. Governance

It is recommended that the Regional District of North Okanagan explore the possibility of a partnership with the Vernon Yacht Club for the operation of the Paddlewheel Park Boat Launch. The RDNO could

contract with the Yacht Club to maintain and supervise the boat launch facility, for a fee.



Priority &

Timeline

Actions: Commence discussions with Yacht Club. See boat launch management section. It is recommended that the RDNO enter into a partnership

arrangement with the Vernon Paddling Centre for the development and operation of a non-motorized launch on the newly acquired land

adjacent to Paddlewheel Park. Actions:

Meet with the Vernon Paddling Centre Executive to negotiate an agreement for the development and operation of a non-motorized boat launch. Discussions should commence immediately with implementation upon he re-location of the Club to the new site. It is recommended that the RDNO participate in the Local Marine Advisory Council regarding issues relating to Transport Canada’s role

on the lakes.

Actions: Contact Transport Canada to request a seat for the RDNO at the Marine Advisory Council table. Attend meetings to stay apprised on issues and regulations related to the lakes.

It is recommended that the Regional District of North Okanagan collaborate with the Regional District of Central Okanagan regarding the coordination of provision, management and operations of marine

facilities and infrastructure on Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake.

Actions:

Contact the Regional District of Central Okanagan, Parks Services Manager, to explore opportunities to share information and work together for mutual benefit.

Short term (2012-2014) Immediate to Short term (2011-2014) Short term (2012-2014) Short term (2012-2014)

6. Alternatives to traditional Boat Launches

It is recommended that alternatives to the traditional practice of hauling the boat on a trailer to the boat launch, and parking the car

and trailer on site after launching, be actively encouraged and supported.



Priority &

Timeline

Actions:

Explore options for off-site car and/or trailer parking near Paddlewheel Park, for example at the elementary school nearby. This may require the provision of a week-end/holiday shuttle service. Pursue discussions with the School District regarding use of the school site for boat and trailer storage during July and August. Encourage and support the private sector in the development of both outdoor and indoor boat storage facilities that provide valet boat launching services. Potential locations include the airport industrial lands and the light industrial/service commercial lands along Okanagan Landing Road. Designate one or more of the new boat launches as “valet” boat launching only.

Immediate (2011) Immediate (2011) Short term (2012-2014) Medium term (2015-2017)

Vertical Boat Storage


APPENDIX B: Motorized Boat Launch Statistics

MOTORIZED BOAT LAUNCH STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Average of 2009-2010 Trailer Counts

Site May June July Aug Sept-15th Total

Paddle Wheel 181 647 1187 1131 223 3369

Peak dates 30-31 27-28 18-19 2-3 12-13

Peak day count (BC)

31 42 84 91 50

Alberta Plates*

30 12

Other Plates Idaho Cal.

Kalavista 174 437 1527 736 146 3020

Peak dates 30 13-14 11-12 1-3 12-13

Peak day count

12 38 68 60 30

Alberta plates*

17 6

Other plates Sask.

Kekuli 53 471 844 1329 257 2954

Peak dates 29-30 14 / 28 4-5 1 / 9 12-13

Peak day count

19 60 110 122 26

Alberta Plates*

11 17

Other Plates Sask. Montana

RDNO 408 1555 3558 3196 626 9343 BC

Season

May- June= 2009 Only

Statistics and plate counts derived from actual trailer counts in .09 and verification periods in .10 to include estimated peak daily and total monthly

*These numbers are in addition to the BC plate counts, and were only counted on 4 to 7 occasions in July and August.


APPENDIX C: Stakeholder Meeting Summary of Comments

RDNO STAKEHOLDER MEETING September 16, 2008

Group #1 Collective Response Boat Launches

• No safe launches for canoes • Not enough • Kalavista – inappropriate place for motorized launch; environmentally sensitive,

public hazard, drinking water • Do not expand parking facilities at Kalavista • Paddlewheel – no expansion • Larger launches

Amenities

• Power – now access am • Trash Can Disposal– bears, boaters • Control – rules • Parking “zoo” • Destinations • Safe areas for storms on lake • Dock for washrooms • Buoys – need a system #’s •

Governance

• Free or user pay for launch • Environmental impact • Education • Cost to community • System for recording costs • Motorized – higher costs • Can work together – design

Other issues

• Enforcement • User pay systems • Lake Authority • RCMP scope $$ • Unsatisfactory – lake watch falls short


Group #2 Collective Response Boat Launches

• Reduced speed areas around launches • Not signed for non-motorized, and not published anywhere • Keep away from beaches and swim areas • Too many boats at Kalavista • Need offsite storage for trailers • Shuttle for boaters • Size of boat and engine to be controlled at launches • Need better signage on rules, etiquette, hours • Multiple launch – in/out • 2 level ramps • Circulation at ramps is an issue • Non-motorized parking and access • Open areas, after launching boats need to move away

Amenities

• Don’t want fuel location in north Kal • Refueling off water does cause spillage • Need washrooms at boat launches • Moorage needs to be managed e.g. permit for each location; people not following

rules; Lisheen estates • Private property vs. public property – need to educate the public (people coming

ashore) • Need sites for shore access (mooring buoys) • Don’t want any overnight use of mooring buoys on Kal • Kayaks need safe rest areas on lake • Need swim up beach areas with signage • Keep water access locations • Maintained by users/neighbours • Only pump out at VYC

Governance

• Always need public launches for a minimum level of service • Fee for trailer boat launching • P/P services like boat valet • Lake authority would require legislation • Simplify what we have now; overlapping authority • SPRKL has a role re education • Shore patrol needed • Another layer of government (Lake Authority) • Cost? • Don’t need – fractured • Have global standards • Framework is there • A valleywide perspective has benefits – coordinating body?


• Public information • Consider partnerships with not for profits as well • Fundraising • Enforcement – part of Lake Authority • Behaviour of boaters is not reasonable

Other Issues

• Need noise control – enacted in Shuswap • Behaviour at launches • Need a more than 20 year plan (this one is too short a time frame)

boat launch study - regional district of north okanagan · the focus of the boat launch study is...

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