In partnership with the En’Owkin Centre, a non-profit First Nations educational organization located in Penticton, The Land Conservancy, holds a short-term lease and is working to acquire a long-term lease over 72 acres of rare and threatened habitat along the Okanagan River channel in Penticton. These lands are currently held by specific First Nations families in a form of land tenure known as Locatee.

The Ecommunity Place Project involves the protection of a large and relatively undisturbed tract of riparian black cottonwood forest that is unique in the South Okanagan Valley. The property includes a significant stand of cottonwood forest, rose thickets, and old field habitats. Located on the west side of the Okanagan River channel, this is the last remnant of the cottonwood forests and wet lowland habitats that once stretched from Okanagan Lake to Skaha Lake. Many hikers, cyclists, and channel rafters enjoy views of this special forested area. There are over 50 different species of birds, including Western Screech-Owl, Great Horned Owls, Red-tailed Hawks, Osprey, Flickers, and Great Blue Herons. This property is also one of the few places in BC where a nationally endangered bird, the Yellow-breasted Chat, has been found.

These lands are home to a unique interpretive and educational program that focuses not only on the ecological values of the land, but also on the aboriginal values and uses of the resources found here. Restoration projects involving elementary, secondary, and post-secondary students, community groups, and various other organizations will provide participants with hands on, meaningful learning experiences and opportunities.