Mayor and Council, City of Kelowna

The City of Kelowna recently carried out what was described to the public as “selective tree removal” along Mill Creek at Parkinson Recreation Centre (1800 Parkinson Way, Kelowna, BC).

What occurred, however, was a rapid and extensive clearing of a mature riparian habitat, completed in a very short timeframe and with little to no opportunity for meaningful public awareness or input. Many residents were unaware this work was taking place until after it had already occurred.

This work has been presented as flood mitigation. However, given the scale and intensity of the clearing, residents are left with serious questions about whether the extent of removal aligns with what was communicated and what was necessary.

Prior to clearing, this area supported a diverse and active ecosystem, including documented presence of:

Beavers (including an active den)
Great blue herons
Owls
Bats
Osprey
Salmon (actively spawning in the creek)
Turtles, salamanders, snails, snakes, and other species
Residents have documented wildlife actively using this habitat leading up to and during the clearing. This appears inconsistent with statements indicating no active wildlife concerns.

This area was not only ecologically significant, but also one of the few shaded and accessible natural spaces within the city—used regularly by residents for walking, reflection, and connection with nature.

Community Concerns

Residents of Kelowna are concerned that:

The work conducted does not align with what was communicated to the public
A large and established ecosystem was removed in an extremely short timeframe
Wildlife displacement and habitat loss occurred during active use periods
Environmental assessment methods may have been limited in scope
There has been a lack of transparency regarding permits, timing, and decision-making

We are calling on the City of Kelowna to:

Immediately pause any further clearing or disturbance in the Mill Creek / Parkinson Recreation Centre area
Release all environmental assessments, permits, and supporting reports related to this project
Provide a clear public explanation of how the work conducted aligns with what was described as “selective tree removal”
Commission an independent ecological review of the site and impacts
Ensure meaningful public consultation before any further work proceeds
Implement enforceable protections for remaining riparian habitat and wildlife

Kelowna residents deserve transparency, accountability, and responsible environmental stewardship.

What has been lost cannot be restored in the short term.
However, accountability and transparency can—and must—begin immediately.

Kelowna is not opposed to restoration.
We are opposed to misrepresentation, lack of transparency, and the destruction of a functioning ecosystem without clear public accountability.