Salmon in the Okanagan Valley are experiencing a challenging year, to say the least. Drought conditions have significantly reduced water levels and the summer heat has increased the temperature of the water, causing a higher than normal mortality rate in the fish. Earlier this year, it was being predicted that 2015 would be a banner year for salmon in Osoyoos Lake. Now, it looks like only 18,000 to 45,000 of the originally projected 375,000 fish will survive the journey. It’s a sobering look at how delicate the balance of nature is.
In the South Okanagan, salmon are an important part of First Nations life and the subsequent experiences for tourists and locals alike. Our own Ingrid Jarrett has been deeply involved in supporting the Okanagan Nation Alliance in their efforts to restore salmon levels in the area and Chef Adair ensures that salmon is a consistent feature on our restaurant menu.
Our friends at Covert Farms Family Estate will be hosting a special dinner on Saturday, August 29th at 6:00 PM to celebrate the Okanagan Salmon. Oceans to The Okanagan will bring guests into the field for an intimate five-course dinner, overlooking the Okanagan River. This unique farm field dinner tells the story of the Okanagan Salmon through the chefs, educators and producers of British Columbia, giving a poignant look at the salmon in the area.
The evening’s chef partners include:
- Chef Chris Whittaker, Forage Restaurant
- Chef Jeff van Geest, Miradoro Restaurant at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards
- Chef Derek Uhlemann, Farm Field Dinners at Covert Farms Family Estate Winery
Salmon Partners for the Oceans to the Okanagan include:
- Okanagan Nation Alliance
- Ocean Wise Vancouver Aquarium
- Salmon-Safe BC
Each of the five courses will be paired with wines from Cover Farms Family Estate Winery and Tinhorn Creek Vineyards. Best of all, proceeds from the dinner will be donated to help support the Salmon Habitat restoration here in the South Okanagan.
As the official accommodation partner of the event, Watermark Beach Resort will be offering a special Oceans to The Okanagan rate for guests and $10 per room booked will be donated to the Gravel Restoration Project in the South Okanagan. Tickets for the event can be purchased online. Call 1-888-755-3480 to book your room for Oceans to The Okanagan.
