This NWA is unique in Canada, with many plant and animal species that are at the northern extreme of their range. The channelized Okanagan River flows into the north end of the lake and drains it at its south end. The shallow lake is heavily grown in with dense mats of Eurasian water-milfoil.
Lands between the eastern shore and Highway 97, which runs parallel to the lake, are predominantly privately owned, as are lands on the southern shore, which have dense cottage development. The remainder of the shoreline consists of Crown land, much of which is under federal management. Hatfield Island (privately owned) in the southern half of the lake is used by more than 200 Canada Geese for nesting.
The MBS was originally established to provide protection to Trumpeter Swans. Canada Geese use the site extensively and nest in numbers exceeding 200 on Hatfield Island. Canada Geese numbers have risen spectacularly in the valley in recent years. Ducks, coots and grebes frequent Vaseux Lake, and many overwinter when open water is available. Great Blue Herons and Common Loons are also residents of this lake.
From the Vaseux Lake MBS