"Some people protect a special place. Others invite the world to experience it. Phyllis did both."
Thank you, Phyllis.
Thank you for sharing your stories, your hospitality, and your love of Marron Valley. Your generosity helped countless visitors discover a deeper appreciation for nature, and your legacy will continue to inspire all who walk the trails, watch the birds, and experience the peace of this remarkable place.
It is with heartfelt sadness that the Meadowlark Nature Festival and the Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Alliance (OSCA) share the news of the passing of our dear friend, Phyllis Jmaeff.
For many years, Phyllis graciously opened her beautiful Marron Valley property to Meadowlark festival-goers, hosting both the Marron Valley History Tour and the Marron Valley Birding Tour. She welcomed visitors not only onto her land, but into a place she deeply loved—a place where history, wildlife, and the quiet beauty of nature came together.
Anyone fortunate enough to meet Phyllis quickly discovered her gentle spirit and generous heart. She loved sharing stories of Marron Valley, introducing guests to its remarkable birdlife, and offering a peaceful refuge where people could slow down and reconnect with the natural world.
Known throughout the community as a gardener, businesswoman, and devoted steward of the land, Phyllis wore many hats during her lifetime. To us, she will always be remembered as a gracious host, a passionate supporter of conservation, and a cherished friend of the Meadowlark Nature Festival.
Through her generosity, thousands of festival participants experienced the beauty of Marron Valley in a way that only Phyllis could provide. She reminded us that some of life's greatest gifts are found in quiet places, shared stories, and a deep respect for the land.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, and everyone whose lives she touched. We are grateful for the years she shared with our community and for the lasting legacy she leaves behind.
With love, gratitude, and remembrance,
Your friends at the,
Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Alliance and the Meadowlark Nature Festival
Welcome to OSCA
The South Okanagan and Lower Similkameen valleys are very special places.
Our region is known for its spectacular landscapes and wildlife, amazing outdoor recreation opportunities, and thriving agriculture industry.
It is a biologically unique area with both high wildlife diversity and high numbers of species at risk, and is recognized as one of Canada’s most endangered natural systems.
For more than 20 years, the Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Alliance (OSCA) has been providing people of all ages with opportunities to experience, discover, explore and protect our amazing natural environment.
We do this through various programs and events offered mainly outdoors throughout the year including the annual Meadowlark Nature Festival and Ecostudies outdoor education programs for schools and home learners.
Watch Our Video
OSCA Membership
Special bonus. Members get early bird access to Meadowlark Nature Festival tour tickets!OSCA Membership Here
OSCA EcoStudies Programs
School Programs This Fall!OSCA EcoStudies Here
Rare Up Close Look at the South Okanagan Bird Observatory
Global News VideoEncourage Student Involvement in Habitat Restoration
If you are contacting OSCA about an animal in distress or in conflict with humans, please contact your local conservation officer. The Penticton number is:
Conservation Officer (Penticton)
877 952-7277
OSCANEWS
New fish passage Telus Grant
Feedback on our Fall Migratory Bird Program at Vaseux Lake...
Ecostudies Programs 2025 (PDF)
"I just want to let you know that one of our senior, master teachers just came back from your OSCA Fall Eco Bird Program. To quote her, 'It was one of the best field trips I've been on over the course of my career.' In the staff room at lunch, she then proceeded to rave about how engaged her students were because of your staff's expertise (as scientists and teachers) and the high quality of your program. Our students learned more about migration and bird behaviour through your hands on activities and interactive lessons than we could ever hope to achieve inside of our school. You have created something special, and our students feel the same as their teacher about their morning. Please thank your staff on our behalf for creating such a valuable immersive experience for our kids!"
