Big White Ski Resort Donates $2,000 to Okanagan Forest Task Force, Challenges Others in Honour of BC Rivers Day
Michael J. Ballingall, Senior Vice President of Big White Ski Resort, emphasized the resort’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and its support for the OFTF’s efforts to protect the region’s natural spaces.
"Big White Ski Resort is dedicated to protecting the beautiful forested landscapes that make British Columbia unique," said Ballingall. "Partnering with the Okanagan Forest Task Force aligns perfectly with our values of environmental stewardship. In fact, we challenge other businesses to step up and join us by matching or even doubling our contribution to help protect these vital natural spaces."
Kane Blake, founder of the Okanagan Forest Task Force, expressed his appreciation for Big White’s support and highlighted its significance in furthering the organization’s mission.
"The support from Big White Ski Resort is huge for us. It shows that larger businesses believe in our mission, and we hope it inspires other companies to join in the effort to keep BC beautiful," said Blake. "All donations help further our work in keeping the backcountry clean and beautiful for both wildlife and people. As we’re not government-funded, we rely on the support of community members and businesses to keep our efforts going."
This donation continues a growing partnership between Big White Ski Resort and the OFTF. In May 2022, the OFTF addressed a major illegal dumping site near Big White Road, left behind by an encampment, successfully restoring the area to its natural state. Big White Ski Resort has been a dedicated supporter of these efforts, donating $2000 in 2020 following the cleanup of another site near Big White Road. This contribution helped the OFTF purchase and install trail cameras in key areas to monitor and deter future illegal dumping activities. These cameras are strategically placed along forest service roads that are known hotspots for illegal dumping, helping to catch perpetrators and deter future environmental damage.
Big White Ski Resort’s latest donation will directly support the Okanagan Forest Task Force’s essential efforts, funding critical operations such as purchasing supplies, covering fuel for scouting missions, repairing equipment, providing meals for volunteers, and installing trail cameras in areas prone to illegal dumping. This contribution aligns with BC Rivers Day on September 22, a global event now recognized in over 60 countries that underscores the importance of protecting rivers and waterways, which are vital to both wildlife and communities.
Big White Ski Resort is proud to support the Okanagan Forest Task Force in its mission to restore the region’s environment and challenges other businesses to join us by matching or even doubling our contribution. The Task Force’s volunteers have made significant progress in tackling illegal dumping and environmental degradation across the Okanagan, ensuring that forests, waterways, and recreational areas remain accessible for future generations. To donate to their ongoing mission, visit okanaganforesttaskforce.com/donate.
About Big White Ski Resort: Established in 1963, Big White Ski Resort is a cherished, locally family-owned and operated landmark, consistently ranked among Canada’s top destinations for winter sports and outdoor recreation. The resort boasts over 2,765 acres of skiable terrain and features Canada’s second-largest lift system, providing an unparalleled skiing experience. The Early Bird Season Pass Sale for the 2024-2025 winter season is available now through October 20, 2024, with the winter season set to begin on November 28, 2024. Learn more at bigwhite.com.
About Okanagan Forest Task Force: The Okanagan Forest Task Force is a nonprofit organization, entirely volunteer-driven, founded in August 2016 by a group of outdoor enthusiasts deeply concerned about the rising issue of illegal dumping in our forests, recreational areas and along natural waterways. Learn more at okanaganforesttaskforce.com.