The south Okanagan Valley possesses unique geologic features not present in the rest of the Okanagan. Roadside geologic maps and descriptions of each of the townsites from Summerland to Osoyoos, (also White Lake), form the "heart" of this new book. Field trips can be designed with these maps, of interest to residents, visitors, students, teachers, naturalists and the public. A history of pioneering geologic exploration traces how changing theories have led to plate tectonics that modern geologists now employ. A review of historic gold mining revealed that it was surprisingly lucrative in today’s dollars. A comprehensive account of geologic hazards is a "first" for this part of the Okanagan. However, water is a major topic of concern in the south Okanagan. Development of surface water resources and its administrative history has served to emphasize once again that this resource is at the brink of full allocation. A companion chapter on groundwater, the only future water source, presents some ideas to assist exploration and calls for a far more regulated groundwater industry. The south Okanagan is wine country with production of numerous medal winning wines at over 60 wineries. A chapter discusses the influence that geology may have on wine quality, and has resulted in the classification of certain terroirs, another "first" for the valley.
The book has over 150 colour illustrations, is written in a non-technical manner and will be of interest to anyone that is curious about the many spectacular landforms, lakes and streams of the south Okanagan Valley.
All contributors to the book volunteered. Profit from sales will be endowed to the Okanagan College Foundation and the University of British Columbia Okanagan, with a grant provision to APEG Foundation.
