Photo: VSAR

North Okanagan environmental and public safety initiatives are getting a financial boost from the province.

Funding from the Community Gaming Grants program will assist the Allan Brooks Nature Centre and Vernon Search and Rescue.

VSAR is receiving $97,000 in grants for public safety work, while the ABNC is receiving $19,500 for environmental education and outreach programs.

“Spending time in the great outdoors is a passion that many of us in the North Okanagan share,” said Vernon-Monashee MLA Harwinder Sandhu in announcing the funding.

“While we’re out enjoying nature, it’s important that we do so in a way that’s safe. I’m glad we’re able to support the Vernon SAR team and Allan Brooks Nature Centre that help us learn about the great outdoors, and keep us safe while we take them in. They’re an integral part of our community and do an amazing job.”

More than $10.5 million is being distributed through the environment and public safety streams of the Community Gaming Grant program for the 2021-22 fiscal year.