Celebrate Earth Month 2026 with CKISS in Nelson & Area 🌎
April is Earth Month, and the Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society (CKISS) is excited to take part in several community events happening throughout Nelson and the surrounding area. These events are a great opportunity to connect with local organizations, learn about environmental stewardship, and discover simple actions you can take to protect local ecosystems.
Whether you’re interested in creating a more biodiversity-friendly garden, celebrating Earth Day downtown, or exploring the Rail Trail with your community, there are many ways to get involved this April.
Backyard Biodiversity: Environmentally Friendly Landscaping
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
7:00–9:00 pm
📍 Nelson Public Library
Join us for an evening of expert speakers exploring how thoughtful landscaping choices can support biodiversity and healthier ecosystems in the Nelson area.
Presentations include:
Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society (CKISS) – Laurie Frankcom will introduce invasive species basics and highlight free resources to help residents make plant choices that support invasive-free, biodiverse gardens.
Bloom Garden Designs – Viktorie Hladik will discuss tools and ideas to rethink outdoor spaces in ways that encourage biodiversity while enhancing personal enjoyment.
Kinseed Ecologies – Brenda Beckwith will explore the importance of native plants and how they contribute to resilient, ecologically functional gardens.
Free admission. Everyone welcome!
Earth Day Festival
Sunday, April 19, 2026
1:00–4:00 pm
📍 Hall Street Plaza
Celebrate Earth Day with a lively downtown parade and community festival!
Parade: Begins at 1:00 pm down Baker Street
Festival: Immediately following at Hall Street Plaza
The celebration will include booths, music, food, speakers, games, and art. CKISS will have an information booth set up at the plaza—stop by to learn simple actions you can take to prevent the spread of invasive species and help protect our environment.
A Day on the Rail Trail
Saturday, April 25, 2026
1:00–4:00 pm
📍 Great Northern Rail Trail (between Mary Hall and Mountain Station)
Spend an afternoon outdoors enjoying the Rail Trail with your community. This event will feature guided walks, games, booths, and activities along the trail perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to celebrate Earth Month outside.
These events are just a portion of the activities happening throughout April. A big thank you to the West Kootenay Climate Hub and the Nelson & Area Earth Day organizers for coordinating an inspiring month of community events and including CKISS in the celebration. To see more events and details on Earth Month click here.
We hope to see you out there celebrating our planet! 🌿