Welcome to the Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society

British Columbia is the most ecologically diverse province in Canada making the Central Kootenays a beautiful place to work, live and play. The Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society (CKISS) strive to keep our lakes pristine, forests lush, mountains healthy and economies thriving through education and managing invasive species in an effective way.

What are Invasive Species?

• Invasive species are non-native plants and animals that become well established because they do not have any natural predators or controls.
• These introduced, non-native species spread quickly and have the ability to out compete native plant and animal species, impacting fragile ecosystems.
• Have been introduced to Canada either intentionally or accidentally. Human behaviour is the #1 contributor to the spread of invasive species

Impacts of Invasive Species:

• Outcompete native plant and animals, they are the second greatest threat to biodiversity globally
• Worldwide the estimated damage from invasive species totals more then $1.4 trillion, this is 5% of the global economy
• Threaten our food, drinking water, recreation opportunities and health

Get Involved

• Educate yourself on invasive aquatic and terrestrial species in your region
• Protect your lakes, land and wallet. Simple changes to your behaviours in the outdoors, on the water, in your garden , on your property or with your pet can stop the spread and introduction of invasive species.
• Attend or volunteer at a CKISS event. Contact us about applications for the “CKISS Community Weed Pull Program”, a fundraising opportunity for groups to get outside and earn $250 for your group (10 people miniumum).
• Use the valuable resources on our website to teach kids/students about invasive species, to learn what are the best practices for invasive species management for businesses and industries , view CKISS reports and strategic plan and a variety of useful links.