Crystal Klym has been the Executive Director of CKIPC for five years. We would like to congratulate Crystal on her new appointment as the Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program-Columbia Manager. Crystal will be transitioning out of the Executive Director role in the coming weeks, as such, the CKIPC Board of Directors is in the process of appointing a new Executive Director.
Crystal’s experience, dedication, and energy towards invasive species management in the Central Kootenay region has been invaluable. Here are a few highlights of her many notable accomplishments:
Formation of the Aquatic Invasive Species Working Group (AWG): Crystal was instrumental in striking the AWG, whose main goal is to provide a forum for discussion, coordination and action with respect to aquatic invasive species. Through this work the AWG has created an aquatic invasive species list, developed and installed CleanDrainDry signage, developed an extensive zebra/quagga mussel monitoring program and has developed an Aquatic Invasive Species Brochure and an Aquatic Invasive Species Strategic 5-Year Action Plan (2014-2019).
Columbia Basin Aquatic Invasive Species Collaboration: In late 2014, the Columbia Basin Trust and the four regional invasive species committees came together to collaborate on a cohesive strategy and implementation plan to address Aquatic Invasive Species within in the Canadian Columbia Basin. Crystal’s dedication and collaborative spirit have been key to moving this process forward and the CKIPC looks forward to expanding on Crystal’s efforts.
Invasive Plant Management Area Operational Frameworks: In 2011, Crystal began working with regional partners and land managers to develop operational frameworks for six jointly identified Invasive Plant Management Areas. This work has been invaluable for CKIPC and partners/land managers in developing annual/long-term work and management plans.
5-Year Strategic Plan for 2014-2019: Crystal coordinated the development of the Strategic Plan to provide a foundation for the long-term prevention, containment and control of invasive species in the Central Kootenay region. The plan includes achievable goals and objectives, which will guide the CKIPC Board of Directors and Executive Director into 2019.
On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff/contractors of CKIPC we would like thank Crystal for her passion, dedication, leadership and energy, and wish her all the best in her new adventures.
Sincerely,
Laurie Carr, President