Surveillance cameras and the RCMP are now active in keeping people out of the slide area near Summerland after multiple trespassing and vandalism issues.
A press release issued by the snpink’tn (Penticton) Indian Band, in partnership with the District of Summerland and the City of Penticton, on May 2 is warning people once again to stay out of the slide area adjacent to Trout Creek near the Summerland Golf and Country Club.
The slide occurred on April 11 and despite warnings from the band, as well as safety efforts such as newly installed fences and warning signs, people have continued to trespass into the unsafe area and reserve land.
“Our community is deeply angered by the ongoing illegal trespassing and vandalism of protective measures in this landslide zone,” said snpink’tn Chief Greg Gabriel. “This is not just a matter of jurisdiction — it’s a matter of safety and respect. We are doing everything in our power to prevent injury or loss of life. We ask the public to honour our land and our warnings. This is not a place for recreation or sightseeing. It is a dangerous, unstable zone.”
After the initial slide, geotechnical assessments determined that there was a high risk of additional landslides, and potential for downstream flooding.
In addition to the signage and fencing, the PIB has now installed surveillance cameras to monitor the area and engaged the RCMP to respond to further trespassing and vandalism.
“Public safety is a shared responsibility,” said Summerland mayor Doug Holmes. “We stand with the snpink’tn condemning the destruction of safety infrastructure. This behaviour must stop immediately. We urge everyone to respect posted boundaries and understand that entering this site is not only dangerous, it is against the law.”
Individuals found trespassing or vandalizing fences, signs, or other safety infrastructure may face fines, vehicle impoundment and legal action, including under the PIB's zero tolerance Trespass Bylaw.
“The City of Penticton fully supports our neighbours at snpink’tn and the District of Summerland in protecting the public and upholding the law,” said Mayor Julius Bloomfield of Penticton. “This is a serious situation. We urge people to think not just about themselves, but about the emergency responders, the community, and the broader public when they ignore safety signs. We are asking — and expecting — full cooperation.”
The press release ends by stating that it is a formal notice that entry onto the reserve land is trespassing.
