Invasive species are the second greatest threat to biodiversity after habitat loss. Every year the BC government declares May ‘Invasive Species Action Month’ recognizing the impact on BC’s environment, economy, society, and human health. Preventing the introduction and spread of invasive species is possible with growing awareness, education, and management of human behaviours, practices, and habits.
The Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society (CKISS) is participating by offering a variety of in person and virtual events the whole month of May. We are hosting a Community Weed Pull at Pulpit Rock in Nelson on May 7 and a Broom Bash and Weaving Workshop in Kootenay Bay on May 31. CKISS is offering online events, including a webinar for gardeners who want to grow native plants and support pollinators. The Room to Bloom: A Spring EcoGarden webinar will be held on May 2 and the CKISS Virtual AGM and Speaker series will be May 25. You can find the CKISS Outreach Booth at Critter Day on May 13 at Beaver Creek Provincial Park and at the Castlegar Garden and Nature Fest on May 27. In addition, CKISS will be visiting local schools and community groups to offer presentations, field trips, weed pulls and native planting activities. To sign up for the events or to find out more visit ckiss.ca/events/public-events/
“Invasive species are present in the Kootenay Region. Invasive species like knotweed and Scotch broom are here and we want to manage them and prevent their spread. We are also concerned about new invaders like the harmful zebra mussels moving in. Education and behaviour changes are vital in the fight against invasives!” states Laurie Frankcom, Education Program Coordinator, CKISS
“We participate in Invasive Species Action Month to educate Kootenay residents and visitors on the simple actions they can take to prevent the spread of invaders. Humans are the leading cause of invasive species spread, that means we can also be the number one solution” states Frankcom
During the month of May right across BC, individuals and organizations are taking part in Invasive Species Action Month. The first four weeks of ISAM 2023 will focus on four different themes, with the goal of demonstrating how our behaviours can either prevent or accelerate the spread of invasive species.
Week 1, May 1 – 7 – Urgent call to Pet Owners! Why you should never let a goldfish, rabbit or turtle loose.
Week 2, May 8 – 14 – Gardeners, what’s growing on? Why choosing native plants leads to better garden health.
May 15 – 21 – In the lead up to the May long weekend, and the unofficial start of summer camping season, what’s hiding in your firewood?
May 22 – 28 – Dusting off your fishing gear? Ready to drop your boat in the water? As we warm up to summer, why is it so important to ensure invasive species aren’t tagging along on your gear.
Follow CKISS on Instagram and Facebook this Invasive Species Action month and learn how simple it is to help!
For more on Invasive Species Action Month, what you can do to stop the introduction and spread contact CKISS.
CKISS gratefully acknowledges the Columbia Basin Trust and the Province of B.C. who support the CKISS Education Program.