Vernon's Swan Lake has been recognized for its important wetland habitat and is now designated as part of a new wildlife management area to help protect migratory birds, animals and species at risk.

"Swan Lake is an unusually shallow and marshy lake with intact shoreline and undisturbed habitat," says Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. "We want to protect it for generations to come, because it is on a major migratory corridor for waterfowl, with over 200 bird species found in the area, as well as mammals and amphibians."

The 471.5-hectare wildlife management area will help ensure locals and visitors can continue to enjoy a healthy environment, recreation opportunities and natural attractions.

"What it does is bring a little bit more funding to the area for conservation efforts around Swan Lake, and there are a number of needs there," said Bob Fleming, Regional District of the North Okanagan chairman, citing the lake's importance for "migratory birds and all kinds of other creatures."

"From our point of view, I think it's good, and we're hoping that it leads to some changes that will allow for conservation efforts to get a little more attention and funding."

A 3.2-hectare conservation property on the eastern shore of the lake will be included in the new wildlife management area.