The Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society (CKISS) is excited to announce that its successful BroomBusters Program has expanded to include the innovative Crowdsorsa mobile app, giving local residents a new way to take action against invasive Scotch broom while earning money.
Anyone can download the Crowdsorsa app, head to Johnstone Road, and get paid for removing invasive Scotch broom. Participants simply follow the app’s missions, cut broom plants at ground level, and upload photo proof of their work. Payments are then sent directly through the app, making it simple, rewarding, and fun to contribute to community environmental health.
How to Get Started
- Download the free Crowdsorsa app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Select the CKISS BroomBusters Mission.
- Head to Jonhstone Rd, just outside Nelson.
- Find Scotch broom – click here to learn how to ID and use apps like iNaturalist to help you out.
- Follow the instructions to cut broom, upload your photos, and once verified you will earn cash.
What is Crowdsorsa?
Crowdsorsa is a free mobile app that creates “missions” for citizens to help tackle invasive species and other environmental challenges. Once a mission is completed and verified through photo uploads, participants are rewarded financially. The app transforms invasive species management into a collaborative, community-driven game that motivates people to take part in real solutions.
Why target Scotch broom?
Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) is an aggressive invasive shrub that spreads quickly and displaces native vegetation. It forms dense thickets that reduce wildlife habitat, increase wildfire risk, and hinder forest regeneration. By removing broom before it flowers and spreads seeds, community members can help protect biodiversity and reduce the long-term costs of managing this invasive plant.
To learn more about Scotch broom, including ID tips click here.
CKISS invites everyone in the community to take part in this exciting new program. Together, we can stop the spread of Scotch broom and keep our landscapes healthy and resilient.
The Kootenay Broom Busters Program is made possible with funding by the Regional District of Central Kootenay through the Local Conservation Fund, and support from Columbia Basin Trust and the Province of B.C.