The CKISS field season has come to an end, and our crew members have transitioned into the office, or moved on to their winter pursuits. As we reflect on the past summer and fall, we’re left with memories of long days in the field, incredible landscapes, and the rewarding work of invasive species management. From pulling stubborn root systems out of riparian zones to seeding native plants for restoration, this season was packed with new challenges and big wins.
Digging Deep: Tackling the Giant Root Systems of Yellow Flag Iris
One of our most demanding projects this year was removing massive root systems of yellow flag iris along shorelines. This invasive plant is notorious for forming dense mats that choke out native vegetation, and it takes serious effort to remove. Armed with shovels, waders, and sheer determination, we spent countless hours digging, cutting, and hauling these root masses out of riparian areas. It was backbreaking work, removing hundreds of pounds of plant material, but knowing that we were making space for native plants to thrive made it all worthwhile.
Exploring BC’s Provincial Parks: Surveying for Invasive Plants
This season took us deep into some of BC’s most stunning provincial parks to survey for invasive species. Hiking through old-growth forests, across meadows, and along pristine lakeshores, we documented invasive plant populations and helped develop strategies for their control. While the scenery was breathtaking, the work was serious—these surveys provide critical data that inform future management decisions and protect the delicate ecosystems within our parks.
Restoring the Land: Seeding Native Plants for the Future
Restoration was a major focus of the fall. After removing invasive plants, we worked to reestablish native vegetation by seeding a variety of grasses on disturbed soil. Seeing new seedlings sprout where invasives once dominated was incredibly rewarding—it’s a tangible reminder of the positive impact we can have on these landscapes.
Mechanical Removal: Taking on Scotch Broom and Other Invasives
Scotch broom remained a formidable opponent this year, but our team was up for the challenge. Using loppers, snips, and saws, we tackled infestations across the region, working to prevent this aggressive shrub from spreading further. Alongside broom removal, we also targeted other invasives like Himalayan blackberry, hoary alyssum, spotted knapweed, oxeye daisy, burdock, thistle species, common tansy, garlic mustard, blueweed, purple loosestrife and so much more!
Cheers to the 2024 CKISS Field Crew!
A huge thank you to our hardworking field crew members and managers, whose dedication and enthusiasm made this season a success:
- Nerissa Abbott
- Molly Tilden
- Kylie Skibeness
- Emily Spiler
- Eric Waldie
- James Schafer
Your hard work and commitment to conservation have made a lasting impact on our local ecosystems!
Thank You to Our Funders!
None of this would be possible without the generous support of our funders and partners. Your contributions allow us to continue protecting the landscapes we love. A heartfelt thank you to:
- BC Hydro
- BC Parks
- Columbia Power
- Fortis BC Inc.
- Fortis BC Energy
- Ministry of Forests
- Province of BC
- Nature Conservancy of Canada
- The Nature Trust of BC
- The City of Nelson
- Regional District of the Central Kootenays
- Regional District of the Kootenay Boundaries
- Columbia Basin Trust
- Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program
- Teck
- The Village of Nakusp
- Eco Canada
- Canada Summer Jobs Program
As we wrap up another incredible field season, we’re already looking forward to what next year will bring. Until then, thank you to everyone who supported our work, and we hope to see you out in the field next season!