May marks National Invasive Species Action Month (NISAM) across Canada, a time to raise awareness and inspire action to protect our landscapes, waterways, and biodiversity from invasive species. This nationwide initiative highlights how invasive species impact everything from our farms and forests to our lakes and gardens—and how small, everyday actions can make a big difference.
Throughout May, the we will be taking action locally by attending and hosting community events to educate and engage residents.
“We’re excited to connect with people face-to-face and share how simple actions like cleaning your boots or choosing native plants can help protect the ecosystems we all love,” says Laurie Frankcom, CKISS Engagement Program Coordinator. “We invite everyone to come chat with us at one of our events this month and follow along on social media to learn how to make a difference.”
📍 CKISS May 2025 Event Lineup:
May 8 – Pulpit Rock Communities Pulling Together Event – click the link to sign up to volunteer!
May 24 – Beaver Valley May Days
May 25 – Kootenay Eco Fest
Throughout the month, CKISS will be posting educational content on Facebook and Instagram, following the weekly NISAM themes, which explore the many ways invasive species affect our lives—and how we can all be part of the solution.
🗓️ Weekly Themes for NISAM 2025:
May 3–9: Protecting Farms and Foods
May 10–16: Planting for Biodiversity
May 17–23: Protecting Where We Play
May 24–31: Responsible Pet Choices
From “Clean, Drain, Dry” and “PlayCleanGo” to “Don’t Let It Loose,” CKISS and partners will spotlight actionable programs and tools that empower Canadians to protect nature from invasive threats.
💚 Want to Take Action? Here’s How:
- Subscribe and follow CKISS on Facebook and Instagram
- Share and engage with NISAM posts using #NISAM and #SmallActionsBigImpact
- Attend a local event and speak with CKISS staff
- Clean your boots, bikes, and boats before exploring new areas
- Clean, Drain, Dry your watercraft and gear
- Plant native or non-invasive species in your garden
- Never release unwanted pets or aquarium contents into the wild
“May is a month for action,” says Frankcom. “Together, we can protect the Kootenays—and all of Canada—from invasive species, one small step at a time.”