News

Your Winter 2023 edition of the CKISS’n Tell newsletter is now available by clicking here. What will you find in this issue of CKISS’nTell? CKISS is hiring Land Managers meeting Bullfrog virtual update Education programs to get involved with: Community Weed Pulls & STEMming with Invasives Youth Program RDCK Invasive Species Strategy Implementation Plan Field …  Read more

Are you curious about invasive species in the Central Kootenay region? Do you want to help reduce the impact of invasive species on the ecosystems, communities, and economy of our region? If so, there are exciting opportunities for you to join the team at CKISS! We are currently looking for an Assistant Field Program Manager, …  Read more

Live decorations, like trees and wreaths, can introduce invasive species to a new area because they may have invasive species hiding in their branches, leaves, and needles. There is also a chance that you or a craftsperson used invasive plant materials in wreaths or flower arrangements. To reduce the chance of introducing invasive plants into …  Read more

Homemade wreaths and centerpieces made from natural materials can be beautiful, but ensure that you use invasive-free materials. Some common invasive species traditionally used for holiday décor are English ivy and holly. Ivy in particular has become problematic on the West Coast of B.C., where the escaped garden ornamental has taken over natural spaces. Some people in our area have used …  Read more

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new EcoAction project: Communities Protect Freshwater Together – Riparian Restoration in the Kootenay Region! This three-year initiative, beginning in 2022, is designed to engage and inspire local communities to take action in protecting freshwater quality. Through the restoration of critical water bodies and riparian habitats, we …  Read more

Lake monitoring continues to be a vital component of the B.C. Invasive Mussel Defence Program.  Between mid-June and the end of October staff and contractors from the Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society (CKISS) collected 265 samples from local lakes and rivers in order to detect the presence of invasive zebra and quagga mussels (Dreissena polymorpha …  Read more

Common bugloss (Anchusa officinalis) has been spotted for the first time in the CKISS region. The invasive plant was discovered in the Yahk/Kitchener area and has since been treated. The adjacent areas have been surveyed to look for more infestations. The plant is known to have impacts on the agriculture industry since it can reduce crop yields. Common bugloss is …  Read more

Your Fall 2022 edition of the CKISS’n Tell newsletter is now available by clicking here. What will you find in this issue of CKISS’nTell? Species Alert: help us spot new invasive plants in our region. Volunteer Opportunities: looking for help to plant native plants for wetland restoration project. Kootenay Riparian Plant Project highlights Field crew …  Read more