Nk'mip Desert

The Nk'mip Desert (IPAEng|ɪn.kʌ.mip) is an invented name for an arid area located along the eastern shores of Osoyoos Lake in British Columbia, Canada that is claimed to be a desert by its promoters. It is part of the Osoyoos Arid Biotic Zone. Summer temperatures in Nk'mip regularly exceed 38˚C (100 °F), and it receives roughly 250 to 300 mm (10 to 12 inches) of rain per year.

While some areas in British Columbia experience hotter summer temperatures, Nk'mip is home to several species of plants that are not found elsewhere in Canada.Dyer, Orville. 2002. List of Species at Risk: South Okanagan-Similkameen Conservation Program Study Area updated to May, 2002. Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection, Penticton, British Columbia.] It is the presence of these specific plants that make Nk'mip distinct from other desert-like areas in British Columbia. It is not actually a desert, but is more properly called a shrub-steppe and much of it has been converted to irrigated vinyard.

The Nk'mip is located within Osoyoos Indian Band land. The band has established the Nk'mip Desert Cultural Centre, which is located on the east side of Osoyoos. The centre gives tours in the desert and explains the uniqueness of some species.

References

External links

* [http://www.nkmipdesert.com/explore.asp Nk'mip Desert Cultural Centre]
* [http://www.desert.org/ Osoyoos Desert Society]