Farmers in Osoyoos are disheartened after a rash of thefts of farm equipment that has been occurring in the Osoyoos area over the past month.

After a series of thefts of tractors and terrain vehicles, the South Okanagan RCMP are warning residents and the farming community to keep a close eye on their property and ensure equipment, outbuildings and properties are secured.

Over the past month two tractors, two rugged terrain vehicles (RTV) and one all terrain vehicle (ATV) have been stolen, said Const. Kelly Brett.

鈥淣ot only are these thefts discouraging for the small farming community, they have a large impact on operations and sustainability for the businesses and their families,鈥� said Brett.

Police believe the vehicles are being loaded onto trailers or other vehicles and driven off the properties. RCMP are asking residents to ensure their farming equipment and any other valuable machinery and or vehicles are properly secured even if locked in an outbuilding or storage shed. Installing high quality and visible camera system will also deter thefts from occurring, said police.

Anyone with any information about these thefts is asked to contact the Osoyoos RCMP at 250-495-7236. Or remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. You do not have to reveal your identity to Crime Stoppers. If you provide information that leads to an arrest, you could be eligible for a cash reward.