2024 KCP Fall Gathering 'Stewarding for Biodiversity” - Save the Date!

October 4 - 5, Rossland

KCP is excited to host this year’s Fall Gathering in Rossland, on the theme of “Stewarding for Biodiversity”! The event will begin with lunch on Friday at 12 pm and continue throughout the afternoon with presentations and the Conservation Café. This will be followed by KCP’s AGM and a delicious banquet dinner and Conservation Leadership Awards ceremony. We will be meeting at the Prestige Mountain Resort in Rossland. The Saturday field tour will be a full day outing to see on-the-ground conservation work in the Rossland area in the morning, with lunch provided and afternoon tours in Beaver Creek Provincial Park. Early registration is now available to KCP partner organizations! Keep an eye on future newsletters for more information.

RDCK Local Conservation Fund 

Technical Review Committee Member, Kootenay Lake Region

The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) in partnership with Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP) is seeking qualified members for the RDCK Local Conservation Fund (RDCK LCF) Technical Review Committee (TRC). The volunteer role of the TRC is to make recommendations on allocating annual funding for conservation projects for RDCK Electoral Areas A, D, E, F and H. Individuals who reside in the in the Kootenay Lake area (Electoral Areas A, D, E, and F) and those with experience in aquatic and riparian systems and/or wildlife are preferred. Applications are accepted until July 31.

Click here for the full volunteer posting.

Kootenay Connect website updates 

Year 5 highlights available online on July 15

KCP's multi-year Kootenay Connect project wrapped up Year 5 at the end of March, and the highlights of all the work accomplished to date will be available on the Kootenay Connect website beginning on July 15. You'll find results, reports, and maps from the accumulated five years of Kootenay Connect projects, as well as new project pages for the three focal areas that are new this year. These are the Duncan-Lardeau, Slocan Valley, and Columbia Lake.

Click here for the Kootenay Connect highlights after July 15.

Resilience Through Collaboration Workshop

KCP invited to attend national workshop

Kootenay Conservation Program was recognized nationally last month by an invitation to the 'Resilience Through Collaboration Workshop'. Hosted by the Centre for Land Conservation, this workshop followed up on recommendations from 'Building a landscape conservation approach: The potential for Regional Conservation and Climate Partnerships in Canada'. Juliet Craig, KCP Program Director, attended on behalf of KCP to participate in this discussion about whether and how to foster the establishment and development of regional conservation and climate partnerships in Canada. 

KCP Board

Brainstorming about Future of KCP

At the end of May, the Board of Directors of Kootenay Conservation Program met in-person in Cranbrook. This was the first in-person Board meeting in 7 years. The day was rich in discussions about current priorities in conservation and funding, and KCP’s role as a Conservation Partnership. Strategic priorities and current initiatives were also discussed. 

Province of BC & Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society

Preventing the Spread of Whirling Disease

Whirling disease is a disease affecting juvenile salmonid fish including trout and whitefish. It is caused by a microscopic parasite, Myxobolus cerebralis, which infects fish through their skin. Although there is no risk to human health, the parasite can be lethal in rainbow (including steelhead) and cutthroat trout under four months of age. The spread of whirling disease can be prevented by following the Clean Drain Dry steps for all boats, equipment and material. The movement of fish, mud, and water can spread whirling disease. It can be transmitted through spores that attach to equipment (used for swimming, paddling, boating, water pumping, fishing), pets, or through infected fish (alive or dead) and fish parts. In BC it is now illegal to transport your watercraft with the drain plug still in place. Please forward any reports or inquiries regarding whirling disease in BC to WhirlingDisease@gov.bc.ca. In addition, if you have any feedback or questions regarding the recent North Columbia Regional Whirling Disease meeting or invasive species programs in the Columbia Shuswap, please provide your input to the team at the Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society (CSISS). Thank you for your support in helping prevent the spread of whirling disease and other invasive species.  

Click here for the full story.

Province of BC

New Forest Operations Map portal supports transparency, engagement

Information about forestry development is now more easily available online for public review and comment. The new Forest Operations Map online portal will act as an online resource for the public to review and comment on proposed cut blocks and forestry roads throughout BC. This update was one part of the amendments made to the Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA) to improve forest and range operational planning and practices. The portal will allow greater public input on forestry activities, as well as greater transparency about forestry proposals within the province and what those proposed activities would entail, including roads, mapped areas of harvest and estimated time of harvest. Under the new system, the public can submit comments online.

Click here to learn more.

Province of BC

Public Comment Period: BCTS Kootenay Forest Operations – until July 10

The public is invited to view and comment on BC Timber Sales (BCTS) Kootenay Business Area's Forest Operations Map. The BCTS Kootenay Business Area Forest Operations Map shows proposed road construction and cut block development under Forest Stewardship Plan #914 within Forest Development Units in the Selkirk and Rocky Mountain Forest Districts. The BCTS Kootenay Business Area Forest Operations Map is available for public review and comment online at: https://fom.nrs.gov.bc.ca/public/projects. This Forest Operations Map will be valid for the operating period from June 10, 2024 to June 10, 2027. Comments can be emailed directly to TKO.Ref@gov.bc.ca. Or there is the opportunity for an in-person review and comment by appointment (250-825-1100) at the following address during business hours between 8 am and 4:30 pm PT Monday to Friday at 1907 Ridgewood Road, Nelson. Comments can also be mailed to BC Timber Sales Kootenay, Attn: Planning Team, 1907 Ridge Road, Nelson, BC, V1L 6K1. If you have questions or comments, or require assistance using the online portal to view or comment on the Forest Operations Maps, please contact: TKO.Ref@gov.bc.ca. Comments accepted until July 10.

Arrow Lakes Caribou Society

Five Calves Born at the Central Selkirk Caribou Maternity Pen

This spring, one female and four male caribou calves were born in the Central Selkirk Caribou Maternity Pen. The caribou calving period typically spans from mid-May to mid-June. This year, calves were born between May 24 and June 13. The calves will remain in the maternity pen until they are released with the herd to their mountain habitat in mid-July, once the youngest calf is at least six weeks old. The caribou may be released sooner if the weather forecast predicts high temperatures that could subject the animals to heat stress. Caribou are closely monitored by maternity pen shepherds and veterinary staff from a specialty-built observation blind. The 2024 shepherd team includes two wildlife technicians/biologists, two members of the Sinixt Confederacy, and one member from the Lower Similkameen Band. Dr. Amélie Mathieu oversees animal health through the penning season, along with Columbus Zoo and Aquarium veterinary technician Dan Wallon during the calving season.

Click here for the full story. 

Valhalla Foundation for Ecology

Western Painted Turtle sightings wanted

Have you seen any Western Painted Turtles in the Slocan Valley region? The Vahalla Foundation for Ecology (VFE) would like to know, as they are doing research to help preserve local biodiversity and enhance wildlife habitats. Please contact VFE if you have information about nesting or basking locations, as well as general sightings of Western Painted Turtles in the Slocan Valley area. Contact VFE biologist Amber Peters at amber.vfe@xplorenet.ca.

Click here for more information and a poster.

Badger Recovery Team

Badger sightings wanted

The Badger Recovery Team is composed of representatives from federal and provincial governments, ranching and farming industries, research scientists, First Nations, and conservation organizations. If you have seen a badger (dead or alive) or recent badger burrows, please let the Recovery Team know! Sightings allow the Recovery Team to track where badgers are still occurring throughout the province of BC. If you have a photo of the badger that you are reporting, please upload it into the online form and if you have difficulties, email it to them at badgers@gov.bc.ca.

Click here for more information. 

The Nature Trust of BC

Recipient of BC Conservation & Biodiversity Award

The Nature Trust of BC (NTBC) has been chosen as a recipient of a 2024 BC Conservation & Biodiversity Award. NTBC was recognized for their conservation work in the Kootenays, specifically their efforts to reverse forest encroachment in the Hoodoos Conservation Complex to preserve native grasslands to benefit vulnerable and at-risk plant and wildlife species. This is the first BC Conservation & Biodiversity award that NTBC has been awarded since the award's inception in 2020. The awards are given annually for the most impactful initiatives brought forward by BC-based charities to protect British Columbia's natural world.

Click here for the full story. 

Living Lakes Canada

Local non-profit named finalist in Land Awards for Freshwater Science

Twenty-one projects leading the way in sustainable, equitable, and socially just land use and real estate were finalists for the 2024 Land Awards hosted by the Real Estate Foundation of BC. This biennial awards program recognizes outstanding projects and leaders that protect the lands and waters we love and create sustainable, inclusive, and resilient communities. In the Fresh Water category, Living Lakes Canada’s Columbia Basin Water Monitoring Framework was named a finalist for its work to implement a comprehensive monitoring network and support adaptive management. 

Click here to read the winners announcement.

BC Wildlife Federation: Version 3 of ''Wetlands of BC”

Looking for photos of wetland plants

The BC Wildlife Federation is advancing Version 3 of the “Wetlands of British Columbia” digital resource book. They are inviting you to explore your local wetlands, take photographs of the diverse plant species you encounter, and submit your photos for this project. Every photograph you submit to Plant Bingo contributes to conserving and protecting biodiversity in wetlands throughout BC. Join the BCWF to work together in celebrating the beauty of nature, preserving local ecosystems, and ensuring their resilience for future generations. Photos can be submitted to submission@bcwf.bc.ca.

Click here for more information on the project and how to submit photos. 

Parks Canada

All water bodies closed in Kootenay and Yoho National Parks

Parks Canada has closed all bodies of water in Yoho and Kootenay National Parks until at least March 2025. This comes after BC's first-ever case of whirling disease was found in fish in Emerald Lake, near the village of Field in Yoho National Park, in September of 2023. Whirling disease was later found in fish in Kicking Horse River, Wapta Lake, Finn Creek, Monarch Creek and at the confluence of Emerald River and the Kicking Horse River. Access was first restricted for five months beginning last October, and Francois Masse, Parks Canada's superintendent for Lake Louise, Yoho and Kootenay, says extending the restrictions another year will help protect fish species including several types of trout and Kokanee. Whirling disease has a devastating impact on aquatic life. Once established, researchers say, it is impossible to eradicate the parasite, which is a known aquatic invasive species. Parks Canada says the mortality rate for young fish is 90%, with no treatment options available.

Click here for more information.

Environment and Climate Change Canada

Public consultations on the potential amendment of the List of Wildlife Species at Risk under SARA - by October 16

You are invited to submit comments on the potential impacts of amending the List of Wildlife Species at Risk according to the COSEWIC status assessments for the terrestrial species. Your comments will be considered and will inform the Minister’s recommendation to Cabinet. One terrestrial species, the Great Blue Heron fannini subspecies, will follow an extended consultation process. Please provide comments by October 16 for this species that will be following an extended consultation path. There will also be an opportunity to provide comments during the 30-day public consultation period associated with pre-publication in Canada Gazette Part I.

Click here for the complete set of statements and the consultation path for each species.

Lake Biodiversity Photo Challenge open for submissions until July 31

June 1 to July 31, Local Lakes

Hosted by Living Lakes Canada and the Canadian Conservation Photographers Collective, the Lake Biodiversity Photo Challenge celebrates the beauty of lakes in Canada and raises awareness around what’s threatening their incredible biodiversity. Everyone who enters is eligible to win! New this year, we’ve partnered with Nikon Canada Ambassador and Kase Filters Global Ambassador Viktoria Haack to offer the grand prize of an online photography workshop for winners. Winners will also receive age-appropriate prizes provided by gift sponsors LUSH Cosmetics, Kicking Horse Coffee and Laykhaus Candles.

Click here to learn more and submit your photos. 

Blewett Communities Pulling Together Event

July 3, Nelson

Join the Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society (CKISS) for this Communities Pulling Together (CPT) Event just outside Nelson in Blewett! A CPT is when a group of volunteers mechanically remove an invasive plant infestation in their community. Volunteers receive hands-on learning experiences on the impacts invasive plants can have on ecosystems and economies. In addition, you will learn about plant ecology, and proper removal and disposal techniques. The targeted species for this event is common tansy – this invasive plant reduces plant diversity in ecosystems that it invades, which impacts other types of biodiversity. This event is on Kays Road in Blewett from 6 to 8 pm PT.

Click here for more information.

Grizzly Bears in the Kootenays

July 4, Nelson

As part of the Kokanee Creek Summer Speaker Series, this evening presentation by Wildlife Biologist Grant MacHutchon will be sure to engage you and teach you something new about the iconic grizzly bear. Based in Nelson, Grant specializes in bear research and management issues, including habitat ecology, population biology, and bear and human conflict management. This evening presentation is from 7 to 8 pm PT, at Kokanee Creek Provincial Park nature centre.

Click here to see the entire Kokanee Creek Summer Speaker Series. 

Native Butterflies and Butterfly Habitat 

July 5, Nelson

As part of the Kokanee Creek Summer Speaker Series, this evening presentation by Biologist and Botanist Bren Beckwith is about the fascinating world of native butterflies and their habitat. Brenda has a PhD in Ethnoecology from the University of Victoria as well as a MSc in Ethnobotany and a BA in Plant Ecology from California State University. The presentation is from 7 to 8 pm PT, at Kokanee Creek Provincial Park nature centre.

Click here to see the entire Kokanee Creek Summer Speaker Series.

Nature walk: Ka Papa Cedars Trail

July 6, Kootenay Pass

Join Wildsight Creston for a nature walk at Ka Papa Cedars trail! This is a 1.7 km loop trail with about 50 m of elevation gain and loss. It passes through a beautiful old growth cedar grove near Kootenay Pass. These walks are family friendly and will explore various trails and habitats in the Creston Valley. Come out to learn about the ecology of the Creston Valley and have fun! Please sign up in advance for this free event. From 9 to 11 am PT.

Click here for more information and to sign up. 

Kootenay Gallery Communities Pulling Together

July 6, Castlegar

Join the Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society (CKISS) and West Kootenay Naturalists at the Kootenay Gallery in Castlegar for a Communities Pulling Together event. Together, we’ll tackle invasive plants to enhance ecosystem health and community safety. Seize the opportunity to make an impact while enjoying the outdoors with people who share your interests! From 10 am to 12 pm PT.

Click here for more information and to register.

Snk’mip Marsh Sanctuary Communities Pulling Together Event

July 7, New Denver

Join the Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society (CKISS) and the Valhalla Foundation for Ecology to learn more about swamp creatures and wetland restoration, and help with invasive plant removal — all this in a little slice of paradise at the Snk’mip Marsh Sanctuary in Hills. These efforts will improve the health of this important wetland! From 10 am to 12 pm PT.

Click here for more information and to register.

Connecting to the Land, the Métis Way: Summer Course

July 8 • 15 • 22 • 29, Online

This course introduces parents, adult learners, and educators to children’s resources on Métis knowledge, culture and history connected to the land. Join Leah Marie Dorion, Métis artist, author, curriculum developer, lecturer and researcher, in discovering resources that include translations into Michif and offer incredibly vibrant illustrations giving insight into Métis life. There are four sessions on Mondays, July 8 to 29, from 4 to 5 pm PT / 5 to 6 pm MT.

Click here for more information and to register. 

Communities Pulling Together & Medicinal and Edible Invasive Plant Workshop

July 14, Creston

Join the Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society (CKISS) and Tilia Botanicals for an engaging workshop in Creston, focusing on the fascinating world of medicinal and edible invasive plants. Discover how these plants, that pose significant threats to native ecosystems, can be transformed into valuable resources while helping to protect our local natural environment. This free event will provide you with hands-on learning experiences about invasive plants, including what invasive species are, their impacts, and how they spread, Best Management Practices for harvesting and disposing of invasive plants to prevent their spread, and how to identify various invasive species in our area. From 9:30 am to 1:30 pm PT.

Click here for more information and to register. 

Gaming the Ecosystem: The Truth about Salvage Logging

July 15, Online

Is salvage logging good for nature, communities, and the climate? Find out with this panel of experts from BC and the US: Seraphine Munroe, Dr. Karen Price, Dr. Diana Six, Dr. Philip Burton and Dr. Dominick DellaSala. They will discuss their perspectives on how and why salvage logging compromises wildlife habitat, the climate, and traditional activities on the land. Seraphine Munroe is a member of the Dakelh and Sto:lo First Nations and serves as a strategic advisor for Dakelh Reconciliation initiatives. Dr. Karen Price is an independent scientist and recent member of the Old Growth Technical Advisory Panel for BC’s Ministry of Forests. Dr. Diana Six is a forest entomologist and professor whose research focuses primarily on bark beetle ecology and forest adaptation to climate change. Dr. Philip Burton is a botanist and plant ecologist who has been studying ecosystem dynamics for more than 35 years. Dr. Dominick DellaSala is President of the Society for Conservation Biology, North America Section. This webinar is from 7 to 9 pm PT / 8 to 9 pm MT.

Click here for more information and to register. 

Native Bee Biology and Identification

July 19, Nelson

Have you always wanted to know how to ID the amazing diversity of bees buzzing around your flowers? Where do they nest, what do they eat, and how can you support them? Join the Kootenay Native Plant Society's Bee Biology and Identification workshop! This two-day session will start in the classroom to provide you with identification strategies for common native bees, as well as in depth information on their nesting, overwintering, and flower preferences! The following day we will go on a Bee Quest - in Beaver Creek Park near Trail - exploring local natural areas and observing bees and their habitat in the field. This workshop is suitable for beginner to intermediate students and will focus on recognizing common bumble bee species and common solitary bee genera. We will also look for examples of important native bee habitat features and discuss practical habitat conservation measures that community members can take. Bonnie Zand is an RPBio based out of the Comox Valley. She works in the intersections of pollination and agriculture, and is also a board member of the Native Bee Society of BC and is the BC instructor for the Master Melittologist Program. Note that there is the choice of attending the full workshop or only one of the days.

Click here for more details and to get tickets.

Native Bee Quest: Discovering Common & Rare Species in the Lower Columbia

July 20, Trail

The Kootenay Native Plant Society and the Native Bee Society of BC are teaming up for an exploration of the common and rare native bees of the lower Columbia and the Pend d’Oreille Valley. In the field we will discuss the use of iNaturalist and the NBSBC’s BC Bee Atlas as tools for supporting native bees. We will also look for examples of important native bee habitat features and discuss practical habitat conservation measures that community members can take. Note that this Bee Quest day can be preceded by the Native Bee Biology and ID workshop on July 19 at Kokanee Creek Park near Nelson. Bonnie Zand is an RPBio based out of the Comox Valley. She works in the intersections of pollination and agriculture, and is also a board member of the Native Bee Society of BC and is the BC instructor for the Master Melittologist Program. Note that there is the choice of attending the full workshop or only one of the days.

Click here for more details and to get tickets.

Fire and Flow: Exploring Wildfires and Watersheds with Geographer François-Nicolas Robinne

July 24, Online

In the third webinar of Living Lakes Canada’s Lake Blitz Summer Speaker Series, discover how wildfires threaten water security and influence watershed dynamics as summer heats up. Geographer and wildfire researcher François-Nicolas Robinne will explore the complexities of wildfire behaviour and shed light on both the challenges and positive impacts. François-Nicolas will offer a nuanced perspective on this natural phenomenon and give participants insight into the fascinating interplay between wildfires and watersheds. This live webinar will be held from 5:30 to 6 pm PT / 6:30 to 7 pm MT followed by time for questions.

Click here to register.

Native Bee Study Group

July 24, Online

The BC Native Bee Society hosts a monthly Native Bee Study group with a different theme each month, as a jumping off point to share knowledge and learn from others. This group is an opportunity for connecting and learning about native bees with others throughout the province. Experts and complete beginners are very welcome! The format is a show and tell style, and anyone who is interested in participating can create a slide on the shared google slides deck to share with the group (link sent with registration). Photos can also be sent to bcnativebees@gmail.com with a subject line of "Native Bee Study Group". From 7 to 8:30 pm PT / 8 to 9:30 pm MT.

Click here for more information and to register.

Field Day 3: Gardening with Native Plants

July 27, Slocan Valley

This workshop is part of the Planting for Pollinators course series offered by Elk Root Conservation Farm Society. Specific topics in this third field day will include: native plant ecosystems; identification of native plants; the danger of unmonitored seed collection and wild harvest of native plants from natural environments; selecting drought tolerant native plants in the face of climate change; the importance of sourcing local ecotype native plants so as not to pollute the adapted traits of local native plants through cross pollination; native plant care and managing invasive plant competition, and more. Suitable for all levels of gardeners and ideal for beekeepers. From 9 am to 12 pm PT.

Click here for more information and to register.

Toadfest 2024

July 30 & 31, Summit Lake near Nakusp

Save the date for Toadfest at Summit Lake Provincial Park near Nakusp! Learn more about western toads and other species that call the region home at this free and fun family event. Toadfest is organized by the Fish & Wildlife Compensation (FWCP), with support from the Ministry of Water, Land, and Resource Stewardship, BC Parks, and the Okanagan Nation Alliance. Thanks also to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. ToadFest 2024 will be held earlier than previous years: on Tuesday, July 30 from 4 to 7 pm PT, and Wednesday, July 31 from 9 am to 12 pm PT.

Click here for more information. 

FWCP Notice of Intent info session

August 1, Online

All organizations applying for a grant through the Fish & Wildlife Compensation Program (FWCP), must submit a notice of intent by Tuesday, September 10. Learn more about this process at the FWCP notice of intent info session on August 1 at 10 am PT / 11 am MT.

Click here to register.

2024 Summer Bee Bioblitz

August 4, Blanket Creek Provincial Park near Revelstoke

We need your help! There are over 500 native bee species in BC, and many of them are still relatively under-studied, and under-represented. The more eyes we have looking for bees, the more likely we are to find rare species. iNaturalist is teaming up with BC Parks to offer this event at Blanket Creek Park near Revelstoke. You are invited to attend the Summer Bee Bioblitz, where there will be a brief talk about the importance of native bees and other pollinators, before leading a ‘bee safari’ walk for a hands-on example of how to collect observations to upload to iNaturalist. Please dress for the weather and avoid wearing heavily perfumed products. Dogs and other pets tend to scare the bees away, so please leave them at home. Even if you aren’t able to attend this event, everyone is still encouraged, anywhere in BC, to get outside, enjoy some fresh air, and collect some bee observations. While they will not end up in this particular project, they are still incredibly useful, and they will be collected in the Native Bee Society of BC’s BC Bee Tracker project, which is ongoing, and collects bee observations from anywhere in the province. Meet at the historic homestead site south of campground at Blanket Creek Park on Sunday, August 4, beginning at 1 pm PT.

Click here for more information and to register. 

Art Meets Science: Climate Action and the Power of Art with Jill Pelto

August 28, Online

The dynamic fusion of art and science has the power to move hearts and minds. In the fourth webinar of Living Lakes Canada’s Lake Blitz Summer Speaker Series, climate artist Jill Pelto will illuminate the urgency of climate change and speak to how art can effectively communicate scientific concepts in accessible and engaging ways. Jill will share her breathtaking artwork and provide insights into the vital role of artistic expression in raising awareness about environmental challenges. This live webinar will be held from 5:30 to 6 pm PT / 6:30 to 7 pm MT followed by time for questions.

Click here to register. 

Field Day 4: Fall & Winter Preparations, Meadow Preparation & Fall Seeding of 2025 Pollinator Habitats

September 14, Slocan Valley

This workshop is part of the Planting for Pollinators course series offered by Elk Root Conservation Farm Society. Specific topics in this fourth field day will include: pollinator habitat development grants available to support your 2025 pollinator habitat project plans; fall to winter preparations; preparing and seeding pollinator meadows; planting perennial native plants; selecting plants for dividing, cutting back and frost protection by plant preference; selection and planting of spring bulbs; protecting orchard trees and shrubs from winter rodent damage and more! Suitable for all levels of gardeners and ideal for beekeepers. From 9 am to 12 pm PT.

Click here for more information and to register. 

2024 Wetlands Institute Workshop – register now!

September 15 to 21, Creston & Cranbrook

The BC Wildlife Federation (BCWF’s) Wetlands Institute, a 7-day environmental stewardship workshop, is coming to Creston, Cranbrook and surrounding communities! BCWF is bringing this valuable course free of charge for those with a wetland or watershed-related project that benefits British Columbia. This workshop is suitable for consultants, planners, environmental/conservation groups, government representatives, First Nations, and engaged community members and landowners. Participants are expected to come to the course with a wetland project or program that they wish to implement in their community or have a high propensity to initiate a project/program in the future. Apply soon, as this course has been known to fill quickly! BCWF will accept a maximum of 25 participants on a rolling basis and will contact you to confirm acceptance after reviewing your application. 

Click here for more information and to register. 

Introduction to Camera Trap Data Management and Analysis in R

September 25 – 27, Revelstoke

The number of projects employing camera traps to understand ecological phenomena is growing rapidly – as are the number of statistical tools to analyze the resultant data. Consequently, the management and analysis of camera trap data can seem complex and overwhelming. This course aims to guide participants in effective ways to store, manipulate and analyze camera trap data within the R statistical environment. It will cover data storage and exploration of best practices, introductions to the major methods used to analyze camera trap data, all using real world camera data. The course will give participants the tools to manage, analyze and share camera trap data in an approachable and practical way! This course is designed for students who are familiar with the basics of using R and R Studio.

Click here for more information and to register. 

Nerdy about Nature: Making Watershed Science Accessible through Social Media with Ross Reid

September 25, Online

For the last webinar in Living Lakes Canada’s Lake Blitz Summer Speaker Series, join to hear Ross Reid, the creative force behind the social media sensation Nerdy About Nature, which has nearly 300K followers on Instagram and 200K followers on TikTok. Ross will offer a glimpse into his captivating project, share clips of his favourite social media videos, and provide insights into promoting watershed restoration and accessibility in science education. Get ready for an engaging session that goes beyond the typical slideshow - prepare to learn, laugh, and leave inspired! This live webinar will be held from 5:30 to 6 pm PT / 6:30 to 7 pm MT followed by time for questions.

Click here to register. 

FWCP Grant Overview Info Session

September 26, Online

Learn more about the Fish & Wildlife Compensation Program (FWCP) grants and action plans. Join FWCP for their grants overview info session on Thursday, September 26 at 1 pm PT / 2 pm MT.

Click here to register.

CMI Annual Researcher’s Forum

October 8 & 9, Creston – proposals accepted until September 6

The CMI Annual Researcher’s Forum is annual event to gather members of the scientific community, Indigenous community members and representatives, stewardship groups, and interested individuals to provide updates on ecological projects taking place in southeastern BC – everything from field trials, new restoration projects and their associated community initiatives, to ecosystem monitoring, research, etc. These updates cover a wide range of topics and species - from the valley bottom to the mountain top! This traveling event has an informal atmosphere where everyone is invited to attend, mix, and mingle. This year’s event will take place in Creston, and any ecological project goes! On October 8, an afternoon of short presentations and posters will be followed by an evening social, and a series of field trips on October 9. More details on the event schedule will become available after the Call for Proposals has closed. For anyone interested in offering a 5, 10 or 15 minute presentation, bringing a poster, or leading a local field trip, please check out the submission guidelines. Please submit all proposals to office@cmiae.org by September 6.

Click here for more information. 

4 Seasons of Indigenous Learning

October to May, Online

Beginning this fall, offered in partnership with over 50 non-profit organizations, this course serves to support participants in deepening their understanding of Indigenous knowledge and perspectives while strengthening connections with the local land and supporting more respectful, reciprocal relationships. This year of learning features 12 incredible Indigenous presenters from across Turtle Island (North America), including Shelley Boyd, Arrow Lakes Cultural Facilitator for the Sinixt Confederacy, Dr. Gregory Cajete, Director of Native American Studies at the University of New Mexico, Micaela Iron Shell-Dominguez, co-founder of the International Indigenous Youth Council, and scientist, author, and professor Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer. You are invited to watch the 2 minute welcome videos offered by Director of Indigenous Learning, Jenna Jasek (Secwépemc, Ktunaxa) and Indigenous Learning Facilitator, Alyson McMullen (Swampy Cree).

Click here for more information and to register.

2024 KCP Fall Gathering 'Stewarding for Biodiversity” - Save the Date!

October 4 - 5, Rossland

KCP is excited to host this year’s Fall Gathering in Rossland, on the theme of “Stewarding for Biodiversity”! The event will begin with lunch on Friday at 12 pm and continue throughout the afternoon with presentations and the Conservation Café. This will be followed by KCP’s AGM and a delicious banquet dinner and conservation leadership awards ceremony. We will be meeting at the Prestige Mountain Resort in Rossland. The Saturday field tour will be a full day outing to see on-the-ground conservation work in the Rossland area in the morning, with lunch provided and afternoon tours in Beaver Creek Provincial Park. Early registration is now available to KCP partner organizations! Keep an eye on future newsletters for more information.

Environmental DNA (eDNA) Theory and Implementation

October 23 & 24, Revelstoke

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a proven and globally accepted method that is increasingly being used for survey of aquatic taxa. This highly effective, cost-efficient, and non-invasive method relies on the detection of genetic materials in aquatic ecosystems using laboratory analysis of water samples to detect DNA from the target taxa. Environmental DNA methods are predicated on basic biological principles and employ long-standing proven methods for laboratory testing. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is the preferred method for detecting DNA in water samples as it provides an effective way to amplify, detect and identify existing DNA in sample water collected from natural aquatic systems.

Click here for more information and to register. 

Funding Opportunity to Hire Interns through Eco-Internships

Deadline: July 31

The mission of Eco-Internships is to support environmental organizations across Canada by connecting non-profits to funding opportunities to hire interns through wage subsidy grants and other funding. Build capacity for your organization with Eco-Internships; they have helped 70 grassroots environmental non-profits and supported over 180 internships through our Intern Support Program. The 2024 Employer Applications are now open!

Click here for more information and to apply.

NHCP-LTCF Small Grants Program

Deadline: September 4

The Government of Canada is investing a further $90 million to their initial $100 million investment (2019-2023), over the next 3 years, in the Natural Heritage Conservation Program (from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2026) as a continuation of the Budget 2018’s Nature Legacy initiative. This funding will be shared by conservation partners including the Nature Conservancy of Canada, Ducks Unlimited Canada, and Canada’s community and regional land trusts. The NHCP-LTCF program is designed to directly support Canada’s land conservation targets and as such, land funded under the NHCP-LTCF program must count towards objectives for permanent or long-term protection of land, either as a “Protected Area” (PA) or an “Other Effective area-based Conservation Measure” (OECM). Note that eligible projects must have a closing date before February 17, 2025. Application forms will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds are allocated; applications must meet eligibility requirements in order to be considered. Applications are accepted as soon as possible until September 4 at 5 pm PT / 6 pm MT.

Click here for more information.

Fish & Wildlife Compensation Program grants – open on July 29

Deadline for Notice of Intent: September 10

The Fish & Wildlife Compensation Program (FWCP’s) annual grant intake will open soon, and by July 8 they will have more information for applicants and steps to apply. In the Columbia region, all grant applicants must submit a notice of intent by September 10. FWCP’s Columbia Region board is working to strengthen engagement of First Nations in the fish and wildlife projects they fund. The mandatory notice of intent is used to inform First Nations in the Columbia region about your proposed project and is the basis for identifying opportunities for engagement in your project. Register for FWCP’s info session on August 1 to learn more. Full grant applications are due by November 1.

Click here for more information. 

Small-scale Ecosystem Grants from the Columbia Basin Trust

Deadline: November 28

Do you have a small-scale project, that helps improve ecological health and native biodiversity in the Basin? If so, the Trust wants to hear from you. Does your new project enhance a terrestrial and/or aquatic ecosystem, such as wetlands, fish habitat, forests or grasslands? Implement on-the-ground action? Have a small local scale? Take less than two years to implement? If your project meets these criteria, email Natasha Barisoff, Delivery of Benefits Manager, at ecosystems@ourtrust.org to discuss your project further. Deadline to apply is November 28 at 2 pm PT / 3 pm MT.

Click here for more information. 

Seed Grants, Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program

Deadline: Ongoing

You can now apply for a Seed Grant any time of the year; you don’t need to wait for the FWCP annual grant intake. An FWCP Seed Grant—up to a maximum of $5,000—can be used to fill information gaps, prepare technical information, and explore the feasibility of your project idea. Think of a Seed Grant as a first step toward a future Large Grant application. The FWCP Columbia Region board will review Seed Grant applications and make decisions at its spring, fall, and winter board meetings. Apply early.

Click here for more information. 

Healthy Habitats Community Service Grants for Youth, Invasive Species Council of BC

Deadline: Ongoing

Through this micro grant program, it is the goal of the Invasive Species Council of BC (ISCBC) to provide you with financial and project management support to help you grow your skills and make an impact in your community. ISCBC's Youth Engagement Coordinators will be happy to support you through every step of the project. The guidelines will walk you through the application process. The micro-grant program is designed to support youth in various stages of their projects or ideas. They supply three distinct tiers of funding, each aimed at different scopes and scales. Applicants can apply for one of the three tiers based on the needs of their project. The project must align with the goals of the grant program, and must show a reasonable effort to protect the environment at a local, regional, or national scale. This could include educational materials, art installations, research, field activities, etc. They encourage applicants to think freely, and not to feel discouraged if your project idea does not align exactly with their examples. Applicants must be between the ages of 15 and 30 at the time of application.

Click here for more information and to apply. 

Grassland and Rangeland Enhancement Program

Deadline: Ongoing

If you have an idea that will maintain or enhance grassland resources while meeting conservation, environment and recreation objectives, this program could help support it. This program is delivered by the Kootenay Livestock Association.

Click here for more information and how to apply.

Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program Community Engagement Grants

Deadline: Ongoing

Community Engagement Grants are typically $500 to $1000 and help stewardship groups and others take action to benefit local fish and wildlife.

Click here for more information and how to apply.

Columbia Basin Trust Career Internship Program

Deadline: First-come, first-served basis

The Columbia Basin Trust Career Internship Program provides eligible employers with up to 50 per cent of an intern’s salary (up to $25,000 over a seven to 12 month term) for full-time, career-focused positions that lead to permanent employment. Eligible employers are businesses, registered non-profits, municipalities, regional districts and Indigenous organizations within the Columbia Basin Trust region.

Click here for more information and how to apply.

Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship

Invasive Plant Specialist, Nelson – deadline July 4

The Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship is looking for an Invasive Plant Specialist to work in Nelson. As part of the Range Branch Invasive Plant Team composed of Invasive Plant Specialists and technicians, this Invasive Plant Specialist position provides expert professional advisory services and program administration support, particularly on invasive plant issues in aquatic and riparian habitats. Specific responsibilities include providing policy recommendations, developing standards, exploring new invasive plant management solutions, improving program effectiveness, assessing risk, and working with First Nations and other partners to plan and implement invasive plant management activities. The Invasive Plant Specialist leads delivery of key invasive plant management projects and provides expert advice and support to regional operations staff, other Ministries, stakeholders and partners. Note that the deadline has been extended to July 4 at 11 pm PT.

Click here for more information and to apply. 

RDCK Local Conservation Fund 

Technical Review Committee Member, Kootenay Lake Region

The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) in partnership with Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP) is seeking qualified members for the RDCK Local Conservation Fund (RDCK LCF) Technical Review Committee (TRC). The volunteer role of the TRC is to make recommendations on allocating annual funding for conservation projects for RDCK Electoral Areas A, D, E, F and H. Individuals who reside in the in the Kootenay Lake area (Electoral Areas A, D, E, and F) and those with experience in aquatic and riparian systems and/or wildlife are preferred. Applications are accepted until July 31.

Click here for the full volunteer posting.

BC Public Service

Aquatic Resource Biologist, Cranbrook or Nelson

The Environmental Monitoring and Analysis Branch (EMAB) is a key program area within the Environmental Protection Division (EPD). The branch manages and coordinates the acquisition, publication and application of data analytics and science-based knowledge, including the provision of lab services. The branch supports the management and stewardship of the natural resource sector through ambient monitoring data production, development of scientific/technical standards and guidelines and through the provision of expert environment and climate change advice and support. This position provides provincial-level expertise in the field of biological monitoring and aquatic ecology and expert advice that directly informs natural resource development decisions affecting water quality and ecosystem health. Responsibilities include the continued development and co-ordination of the provincial benthic invertebrate biomonitoring program. Applications accepted until July 7.

Click here for the full job posting.

Whitebark Pine Ecosystem Foundation of Canada

Executive Director, Remote

The Whitebark Pine Ecosystem Foundation of Canada is seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to lead the non-profit as Executive Director. The successful candidate will have experience working with a variety of partners, including NGOs, stakeholders and various levels of government. The ideal candidate will be organized, personable, skilled at facilitating meetings, flexible and have demonstrated experience with non-profit financial administration. Overall, the ED's focus is one of strategic coordination, public education, communication, fiscal accountability and organizational management. The Whitebark Pine Ecosystem Foundation of Canada supports diversity. All qualified applicants are welcome to apply by the deadline of July 7.

Click here for the full job posting.

Ducks Unlimited Canada

Indigenous Environmental Monitoring Specialist, ?aq’am, Cranbrook or Kimberly

Through this employment opportunity, Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is seeking to hire a permanent Columbia Basin resident to collect baseline data to assist with a large wetland restoration project planned by DUC, ʔaq̓am, The Nature Trust of British Columbia, The Province of BC, and The BC Wildlife Federation. This is a P/T, term position until the end of March 2025. You will be assisting with the first year of baseline data collection for an environmental restoration project at Bummers Flats, a large floodplain directly across the Kootenay River from ?aq’am’s reserve lands. The project will involve restoring natural hydrologic and ecological functions of floodplain, and baseline environmental monitoring and data collection is critical to future design plans and effectiveness monitoring. The position will assist the project team with baseline monitoring and explore opportunities to work with ?aq’am youth through the Guardians program. Applications are accepted until July 14.

Click here for the full job posting.

Ducks Unlimited Canada

Ktunaxa Language Outreach Coordinator, ?aq’am, Cranbrook or Kimberly

Through this employment opportunity, Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is seeking to partner with an ʔaq̓amnik to recognize the indigenous right to revitalize, use, develop and transmit to future generations their histories, languages, oral traditions, philosophies, writing systems and literatures, and to designate and retain Ktunaxanames for communities, places and persons in a way that is meaningful to ʔaq̓amnik. This is a P/T, term position until the end of March 2025. You will be involved in a large, partnership-led wetland restoration project at Bummers Flats, a large floodplain directly across the Kootenay River from ʔaq̓am community. The project, led by DUC, ʔaq̓am, The Nature Trust of British Columbia, The Province of BC, and The BC Wildlife Federation, involves restoring natural hydrologic and ecological functions of floodplain. Key objectives of the project include ʔaq̓amnik incorporation of Ktunaxa language, values, and stewardship at the Bummers Flats location. This position will work directly with the project team and ʔaq̓am community to develop communication and education material to ensure that Ktunaxa place names, values and stories are meaningfully included in the project. Applications are accepted until July 14.

Click here for the full job posting.

Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship

Licensed Authorization Officer, Kootenay Boundary Region (Nelson, Cranbrook, Revelstoke, Castlegar, Invermere)

The Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship is looking for two Licensed Authorization Officers for the Kootenay Boundary region. As the Authorizations Specialist, you will work in a variety of settings and provide professional advice and may make decisions regarding the allocation of resources and adjudication of resource authorizations for the Natural Resource Sector. If you enjoy researching, analyzing, and evaluating information to support decisions on allocating natural resources in a way that ensures its best use and minimizing its effect on other values, this may be the right job for you. It will allow you to utilize knowledge of resource management and exercise superior report writing skills while also conducting field monitoring to support natural resource recommendations that incorporate cumulative effects. Effective communication skills are necessary when liaising with other agencies, leading conflict resolution, and resolving disputes and negotiating with diverse stakeholders over the use of public land and other natural resources. If you are a motivated individual with the expertise and initiative to take on this important role, consider applying. Applications are accepted until July 15.

Click here for the full job posting.

Wildsight

Finance and Administration Coordinator, Kimberley

If you are organized and love checking things off of a to-do list, have at least two years of experience in bookkeeping, payroll, and/or administration (bonus if you have experience with Quickbooks Online), love numbers, and have experience in spreadsheet programs, this could be the job for you! You must be committed to Wildsight’s mission, and work well with a team, as well as on your own. Reporting to the Operations Director, the part-time Finance and Administration Coordinator plays a key role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the organization, working in bookkeeping, payroll, grant management and more. Applications are accepted as soon as possible.

Click here for the full job posting. 

Valhalla Foundation for Ecology

Contractors for invasive species removal, New Denver

Valhalla Foundation for Ecology (VFE) is seeking help to steward one of our region's most ecologically significant habitats - Snk'mip Marsh Sanctuary. They are offering $30 / hour for contractors to come pull invasive plants, including knapweed, burdock, hawkweed and St. John's wort from important wildlife habitat areas. Please join VFE and spend approximately 4-5 hours a session in a beautiful location while helping our local biodiversity and species at risk. Plan to bring whatever you need to feel comfortable in the elements, including gloves, a hat, water, bear spray and a shovel if you have one. This is a casual position and dates can be arranged based on your availability and the availability of our Team Lead. Please contact Amber Peters at amber.vfe@xplornet.ca to arrange a time to help if you can spare one or more days this season, starting as soon as possible. 

East Kootenay Invasive Species Council

Education and Outreach Coordinator

The Education and Outreach Coordinator is a KEY role with the East Kootenay Invasive Species Society (EKISC). This person will coordinate educational initiatives and raise public awareness about the harm caused by invasive species in East Kootenay. You'll develop educational plans, lead a small team, and represent EKISC at events and outreach booths. Collaborating with the Communications Manager, you'll shape social media content and resources to foster change. Applications are accepted as soon as possible, and interviews will be conducted on a continuous basis. The position is anticipated to begin on July 29.

Click here for more information and to apply. 

East Kootenay Invasive Species Council

Field Operations Manager

The Field Operations Manager for the East Kootenay Invasive Species Society (EKISC) oversees field operations, focusing on planning, project management, and data collection related to invasive species management. They work with contractors, field crews, and the Program Director to manage projects, conduct field research, and maintain relationships with stakeholders, while also handling financial tracking and reporting. This position will begin on July 29, and applications are accepted as soon as possible, as EKISC will conduct interviews on a continuous basis.

Click here for more information and to apply.

East Kootenay Invasive Species Council

Field Operations Coordinator

The Field Operations Coordinator for the East Kootenay Invasive Species Society (EKISC) leads fieldwork to manage invasive species in the Regional District of East Kootenay, focusing on species identification, management, and restoration. They are the boots on the ground, running EKISC's internal field crew. They develop work plans, supervise field staff, conduct treatments, and assist with management plans, grant applications, and reporting. This position will begin on July 29, and applications are accepted as soon as possible, as EKISC will conduct interviews on a continuous basis.

Click here for more information and to apply. 

Yellowstone to Yukon

Director of Science and Knowledge, within Y2Y region

Yellowstone to Yukon (Y2Y) is seeking an experienced professional to be their next Director of Science and Knowledge. This individual should have a passion for communicating science, advancing collaborative conservation efforts, and ensuring the practical application of science to serve both policy and place-based conservation outcomes. This person should enjoy working with conservation advocates to ensure that Y2Y’s strategies and tactics are informed by science. They should also excel at creating and supporting diverse collaboratives and designing scientific research that directly advances conservation outcomes. Experience working with Indigenous Peoples, including an understanding how to work within an ethical space framework is also important. This person should delight in communicating science in a variety of ways from small groups, to talks and interviews, and through writing; and have demonstrated communication skills to communicate both to science and non-science audiences. Applications are accepted as soon as possible. Questions about the position can be directed to jodi@y2y.net.

Click here for more information and to apply. 

Eco-Internships

Now Accepting 2024 Intern Applications

The mission of Eco-Internships is to support environmental organizations across Canada by connecting non-profits to funding opportunities to hire interns through wage subsidy grants and other funding. Build capacity for your organization with Eco-Internships; they have supported over 180 internships through our Intern Support Program. Eco-Internship's mission is to create sustainable jobs for youth aged 18 to 30, equipping youth with the skills and experience necessary to excel in the environmental sector. The 2024 Intern Applications are now open!

Click here for more information and to apply.

Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network

Wild Voices Community Educator

Are you a forester or geographer? A biologist or mountain guide? A historian or holder of traditional knowledge? Do you have some unique knowledge, skill, or expertise you can share with students? If so, we’d like to connect with you! Wild Voices for Kids is a program of the Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network. It is a unique program in the Basin as it enables local specialists to develop programs connected to the local environment and tailored to their area of expertise and passion. Each educator brings their own unique knowledge of environment or natural history, adds their passion for education, and creates classroom or field-based programs that will both captivate students and satisfy the learning objectives of teachers. Community Educators are the heart and soul of the Wild Voices for Kids program! Wild Voices for Kids promotes presenters and their programs and provides cash honoraria to community educators. For more information, see link below, or email the Wild Voices program manager at education@cbeen.org.

Click here for more information.

Wildsight Golden

Upper Columbia Swallow Habitat Enhancement Program Volunteers

Volunteer with the Upper Columbia Swallow Habitat Enhancement Project (UCSHEP) this summer! Volunteers are needed to monitor swallow nests, or colonies, or possibly to monitor the effectiveness of conservation actions already on the ground. This is a great way to learn more about local swallows and get outside at the same time! UCSHEP will also provide landowner outreach and education through farmers markets, bird walks, presentations, and give Barn Swallow nest cups to people that qualify. UCSHEP cannot do this work without the help of volunteers, and are looking for people who have binoculars to help between May and September - between Donald and Canal Flats. Training and support are provided. UCSHEP is also looking for any new Barn Swallow nesting locations, so if you know of any please let them know. This program is managed by local biologist Rachel Darvill and naturalist Verena Shaw, who look forward to hearing from you at swallows@wildsight.ca.

Click here for more information.

Effectiveness of population-based recovery actions for threatened southern mountain caribou

Clayton T. Lamb, et. al.

The recovery of woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) and their habitat is one of the greatest conservation challenges in North America. Human-caused habitat loss—defined here as the human-caused degradation of caribou habitat that eliminates resources required for caribou persistence, such as predator refugia, food, and shelter from elements—has contributed to declines of woodland caribou across much of their distribution. As a result, two populations (boreal and southern mountain) have been listed as Threatened in Canada, and two as Endangered. Among the populations of woodland caribou, southern mountain caribou are the most imperiled. Over the last two decades, multiple southern mountain caribou subpopulations have been extirpated, and most that remain are small (<100 individuals) and have been rapidly declining for years. Current knowledge indicates habitat-based solutions that facilitate low predator density are required to ultimately regain self-sustaining status for southern mountain caribou subpopulations, but the recovery of these habitats is expected to take decades. Given the slow rate of caribou habitat recovery and the rate of caribou population declines without intervention, recovery actions are needed in the interim to avoid ongoing extirpations. This study occurred across the range of southern mountain caribou in western Canada and the USA.

Click here to access the full report.

A multisensory approach to understanding bat responses to wind energy developments

Kristin A. Jonasson et. al.

Millions of bats are killed at wind energy facilities worldwide, yet the behavioural mechanisms underlying why bats are vulnerable to wind turbines remain unclear. Anthropogenic stimuli that alter perceptions of the environment, known as sensory pollution, could create ecological traps and cause bat mortality at wind farms. The researchers review the sensory abilities of bats to evaluate potential stimuli associated with wind farms and examine the role of spatial scale on the perceptual mechanisms of sensory pollutants associated with wind energy facilities. Audition, vision, somatosensation and olfaction are sensory modalities that bats use to perceive their environment, including wind farms and turbine structures, but they will not all be useful at the same spatial scales. Bats most likely use vision to perceive wind farms on the landscape, and obstruction lighting may be the first sensory cue to attract bats to wind farms from km’s away. Research that assesses the risks posed by specific sensory pollutants, when conducted at the appropriate scale, can help identify solutions to reduce bat mortality, such as determining the attractiveness of obstruction lighting to bats at a landscape scale.

Click here to access the full report.

Migration, movements, and survival in a partially migratory elk (Cervus canadensis) population

Kim G. Poole, Clayton T. Lamb, Sam Medcalf, Lanny Amos

The Sparwood and District Fish and Wildlife Association is proud to announce the publication of a major study on elk migration in the science journal Conservation Science and Practice. The club collaborated with researcher and lead author Kim Poole to complete the research and support his work through to publication. The project collared 78 cow elk and followed their survival, death, and migratory patterns in the Elk Valley from 2016 to 2022. Compared to a 1980s study, a similar percent of elk migrated (about half) but migratory elk made fewer and shorter movements into upper mountain tributaries, and greater use of coal mine properties. Collisions with vehicles and trains, starvation, and predators were the main sources of mortality, according to Poole. The study found that the annual mortality rate from collisions averaged 5 per cent. Signs of nutritional stress and lower pregnancy rates indicated potential forage limitations.  

Click here to access the report.

BC Bat Action Plan (2024-2028)

British Columbia Bat Action Team (BCBAT)

The 2024-2028 BC Bat Action Plan outlines a comprehensive strategy for bat conservation in BC over the next four years. It emphasizes the prevention and mitigation of threats to bats, including white-nose syndrome, forest practices, wind energy development, and climate change impacts like fires. BC is the most bat-diverse province in Canada. Fifteen of the nineteen Canadian bat species occur in BC, and there are currently two additional species detected with only acoustics records. Seven of BC’s species are found nowhere else in Canada. Over half of the bat species in BC are of conservation concern. As the primary consumers of night-time insects, bats play important roles in many ecosystems and provide significant economic value through ecosystem services including pest control. It has been suggested that bats can be bioindicators in changing ecosystems. If White-nose Syndrome causes significant declines in bat populations in BC, as has occurred in eastern North America, there are likely to be far-reaching and long-lasting impacts on other wildlife such as birds and fish, arising from a trophic cascade of changing insect diversity and relative abundances.

Click here to access the full report.

Black swifts: How to help an endangered species

Yellowstone to Yukon & biologist Paul Levesque

These remarkable birds migrate long distances and breed in the Yellowstone to Yukon region — often choosing to nest in cliff-side habitats near waterfalls, especially in BC and western Alberta. Yet they are facing population decline due in part to habitat loss and climate change. Understanding where black swifts nest, how many are nesting, and what they need to survive are key to helping this endangered species thrive. However, black swift nests are very hard to locate, and understanding the species can benefit from people skilled at finding their breeding sites. Community scientists, including you, can help locate and monitor their nesting sites. Learn more about black swift biology and how to locate their nests in this training session led by biologist Paul Levesque.

Click here to access the recording of the training session.

Recording: Elk Biology in the Columbia Valley

Brian Gustafson, Wildlife Ecologist

Much of Brian Gustafson’s work as an independent ecologist revolves around researching and monitoring local elk populations. Brian grew up in Golden and has witnessed a lot of change in and around the Columbia Valley over his lifetime. As a kid, he remembers seeing herds of hundreds of elk, and now, he says he’s lucky to see herds of 30 to 50 animals. In his presentation, Brian speaks about some of the many challenges and threats that elk face in the Columbia Valley — from habitat degradation, destruction and fragmentation, to the impact of recreational activities like mountain biking and ATVs. While it’s clear that our elk aren’t doing so well — the draft Kootenay Region Elk Stewardship Plan found that Elk populations in the North Trench aren’t resilient or self-sustaining over the long term — a lack of data has prevented scientists and land managers from fully understanding what’s going on. Brian’s work as part of the North Elk Collaring Project is trying to shed light on some of those gaps and hopefully help elk populations to bounce back.

Click here to access the recording. 

KCP Annual Report 2023/2024

Available for viewing

From being featured as a model partnership in a national report on the benefits of conservation partnerships internationally, to supporting the RDCK in successfully expanding the Local Conservation Fund Service to Electoral Area F, and having record numbers of people tune in to our 8-part webinar series on the theme of “Wildlife Corridors and Ecological Connectivity” in partnership with the Columbia Mountains Institute of Applied Ecology, the 2023/2024 year was another busy and highly productive year for Kootenay Conservation Program. Our Annual Report contains more highlights and a summary of our various activities over the year, and is now available to view!

Click here to access the Annual Report.

Kootenay Connect: Riparian Wildlife Corridors for Climate Change – Year 4 Summary Report

Michael Proctor and Marcy Mahr

The Kootenay Connect Initiative envisions a regional network of 12 ecological corridors connecting important habitats, biodiversity hotspots, protected areas, and climate refugia across the human-settled valleys of the Kootenay region of BC. The premise behind Kootenay Connect is that landscape linkages focusing on large riparian-wetland complexes are essential for conserving biodiversity, habitat connectivity, species movement corridors, and ecological resilience in a changing climate. Since its inception in 2018, Kootenay Connect has integrated the best available science and local knowledge to identify important habitats for large carnivores, ungulates, and many at-risk species. Kootenay Connect’s collective on-the-ground conservation and management actions are supporting the recovery of 34 federally listed species at risk and working to help Canada achieve its goal of conserving 30% of its land and water by 2030. This Year 4 Summary Report presents the initiative’s scientific rationale, local, provincial, national, and international significance, corridor analysis, and maps of conservation values and threats in our region. It also provides progress and results from over $4 million investment in four of the 12 Kootenay Connect corridors with nearly 50 projects delivered by 35 partners that are contributing to species recovery and connected and protected landscapes. Projects include wetlands vulnerability assessment and restoration, species at risk habitat enhancement, forest thinning, invasive species management, wildlife-friendly fencing, creation of habitat features, potential large carnivore and ungulate wildlife corridors, access management, strategic land purchases, and more.

Click here to access the report.

KCP Stewardship Solutions Toolkit

Resource updated with growing number of stewardship listings

In 2019, KCP launched Stewardship Solutions, an easy-to-access stewardship resource for landowners and land managers in the Kootenays available both in print and online. We keep this resource up to date, and encourage you to access all the available stewardship "solutions" (i.e. services and resources) available in each of the 14 Conservation Neighbourhoods. Visit the website, select your location on the homepage map, and you'll be brought to the growing list of stewardship options available in your region.

Visit the Stewardship Solutions website.

Kootenay Conservation Program

Conservation Resources for our Region

The Kootenay Conservation Program helps partners to coordinate and facilitate conservation efforts on private land, and in an effort to support this, KCP has developed a webpage that compiles some of the best conservation and stewardship resources available for our region.

Click here for more information.