Syilx people have always cared for and managed wildlife and ecosystems as part of our inherent responsibility to sustain life on our territory.
At ONA we are committed to adhering to these responsibilities — with ONA biologists and tmixʷ technicians working on the ground to develop, manage, and implement wildlife projects and activities. From the restoration of key habitats to the monitoring of endemic species we are working to guarantee that all beings have the capacity to thrive for generations to come.
Main goals of the tmixʷ Wildlife program are to:
- naqsmiʔst x̌əl tmixʷ(come together for all tmixʷ) and work collaboratively on matters of common concern to monitor, protect, and restore tmixʷ populations in the Okanagan, now and for future generations.
- Create inclusive, collaborative tmixʷ programs grounded in Syilx law and intergenerational responsibility that support the stewardship and management of wildlife across Syilx Territory, now and for time immemorial.
- Advance tmixʷ management as collaborative stewardship that supports healthy, resilient wildlife populations and habitats through evidence-informed decision-making, strong partnerships, and long-term conservation.
- Ensure tmixʷ populations are thriving, food sovereignty is upheld, while balancing ecological integrity, cultural values, and public safety.