After devastating wildfires ripped through the Okanagan in 2023, a couple who live at Big White near 琉璃神社 decided to do something about it.

Kevin Fermin and Sol猫ne Soton traveled down to the coast and on April 6 and launched a cycling journey across Canada that aims to raise funds for reforestation efforts.

Neither one of the couple were dedicated cyclists, but they felt the need to demonstrate the importance and the possibilities of green travel and tourism.

鈥淲e wanted to do something about the environment and show that travelling by bike 鈥� even in Canada, in a huge country 鈥� can be possible for anyone,鈥� said Soton.

By April 11, the couple had made it a bit over 400 kilometres, traveling from the coast to Penticton where they took a day of rest before hitting the road again.

鈥淭he beginning is a bit hard, we have to admit, because we are cycling in B.C. in the mountains and through the Rockies,鈥� said Soton.

鈥淏ut we are thinking about the trees and the cause and the fundraising, and the body is getting used to it, so it鈥檚 better and better,鈥� added Fermin.

Once the couple clears B.C. and hits Alberta the journey should ease a little, but leaving the beauty of the region behind.

People interested in helping the couple on their fundraising efforts can go to their website at . The proceeds will go to support One Tree Planted Canada.

Supporters are also welcome and invited to join them on the road, whether it鈥檚 for a few metres or a few kilometres.

鈥淭wo days ago, we had someone on Instagram send us a message saying 鈥淚 was in my car and I saw you guys on the road and followed you,鈥欌�� said Soton.

The couple are also working to plan out some extra events along the way to raise more funds.