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For Release
June 15, 2006
Government of Canada Supports Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre
Osoyoos, British Columbia – Visitors from around the world will have the opportunity to learn about Canada’s only desert with the opening of the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre. Embedded in beautiful South Okanagan, the new Centre boasts interactive hands-on exhibits, an 80-seat multi-media theatre, a water garden, interpretive programs and on-site tours.
Financial support for the project was made available through the Western Economic Partnership Agreement. Western Economic Diversification Canada provided $988,628 and the BC Ministry of Economic Development gave an additional $1.5 million. Other funders include Industry Canada, Canadian Heritage, Infrastructure Canada, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and the Softwood Industry Community Economic Adjustment Initiative.
“This new desert cultural centre will provide residents and visitors with the opportunity to learn about the culture, history and land of the Osoyoos First Nations,” said the Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness on behalf of the Honourable Carol Skelton, Minister of National Revenue and Minister of Western Economic Diversification. “The variety of exhibits will make the facility a major tourist attraction, which will help to develop new economic opportunities in the Okanagan region.”
“The Nik’Mip Desert Cultural Centre is a shining example of the contribution Aboriginal enterprise is making to Canada’s multi-billion dollar tourism sector and to our country’s overall economic strength and growth,” said the Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Industry. “Industry Canada is pleased to have played a role in the development of this Centre, which will bring economic benefits to the community and showcase the rich history of the Okanagan First Nations People.”
“Our new desert cultural centre and the ongoing development of our Nk’Mip Resort resonates with the aspirations of a community wishing to share with visitors its rich heritage and the lands upon which it has lived for thousands of years,” said Osoyoos Indian Band Chief Clarence Louie at the official opening of the new centre today.
The Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre will showcase the history, culture and ecology of the Osoyoos First Nations living in Canada’s Great Basin Desert. The desert lands are one of Canada's three most endangered ecosystems and the home of many endangered plant and animal species. The Centre is part of the Osoyoos Indian Band’s larger Nk’Mip Resort that includes the development of the South Okanagan’s only four-star hotel and spa, Golf Course, Vineyard, Winery and lakefront RV Park and Campground.
For additional information, contact:
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Jinny Wu |
Fiona MacLeod |
WD Toll-Free Number:
1 888 338-WEST (9378) |