Rebuilding Camp OAC continues to move forward, with much of the work over the past few months focused on the critical infrastructure that will support the camp for generations to come.
While there may not yet be dramatic changes visible on site, significant progress has been made behind the scenes. The Construction Committee continues to meet regularly, working alongside our construction and utility partners Interior Health, and many dedicated volunteers to coordinate the next stages of the rebuild.
One of the biggest milestones to date has been the completion of the overall site layout. This plan establishes the locations of the new buildings, utilities, roadways and essential services, providing the foundation for the next phase of construction. With the site layout finalized, detailed civil engineering drawings are now nearing completion and will guide the installation of water, electrical, septic, and other underground infrastructure.
Electrical servicing remains one of the project's highest priorities. Working with BC Hydro, Keldon Electric, and our engineering team, plans are progressing to bring power back to Camp OAC. Once the civil drawings are finalized and approved, work can begin on installing the new electrical distribution system that will serve both the rebuilt camp and future expansion.
Progress is also being made on the camp's water and septic systems. The design work for a completely new potable water distribution network is well underway, including a modern pumping station improving water reliability and year-round operations. Septic planning continues in collaboration with Interior Health to ensure the rebuilt camp meets environmental and operational standards while making the best use of existing infrastructure.
Alongside the infrastructure planning, work has continued on restoring several of the buildings that survived the wildfire. The First Aid building has been stripped back to its framing and preparations continue for new plumbing and electrical systems, while additional planning is underway for roofing, foundations, and site preparation to support the installation of the new modular buildings.
Our committee has also benefited from the work of UBC Okanagan engineering students, whose capstone project has provided valuable studies on geotechnical conditions, wildfire impacts, slope stability, and future sustainable energy opportunities for Camp OAC. Their work will help ensure the rebuilt camp is both resilient and environmentally responsible.
Every meeting brings us another step closer to welcoming campers back to the shores of Okanagan Lake. While rebuilding a camp requires patience and careful planning, the momentum continues to build. We remain incredibly grateful for the many volunteers, contractors, consultants, and supporters who are helping turn this vision into reality.
Thank you for continuing to walk alongside us as we rebuild the magic of Camp OAC. We look forward to sharing more construction milestones as work continues throughout the summer and fall.