The new BC Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health Framework sets an exciting direction for prioritizing our ecosystems, but to truly protect and sustain BC’s biodiversity, we need a biodiversity and ecosystem health law in place as soon as possible. A robust legislative framework will ensure that BC’s unique and precious ecosystems are preserved and restored for future generations. … Read more
As we complete the Communities Protect Freshwater Together: Riparian Restoration in the Kootenay Region Eco Action Project, we’re excited to highlight the remarkable progress made over the past three years. This initiative focused on restoring critical freshwater and riparian habitats at three sites in the Central Kootenay region: Jubilee Wetland, Hunter Siding Wetland, and Harrop … Read more
In 2024, CKISS staff and contractors undertook the important task of collecting 257 water samples from local lakes and rivers, including Upper and Lower Arrow, Kootenay, Duncan, Slocan, Summit, Whatshan Lakes, and the Columbia, Kootenay, and Slocan Rivers to monitor for the presence of invasive zebra and quagga mussels (Dreissena polymorpha and Dreissena rostriformis bugenis). … Read more
In 2024, the Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society (CKISS) and the Okanagan Nation Alliance completed the final year of an important project targeting invasive plants in the Kootenay region. Our team surveyed 62 sites for the presence of two high-priority invasive species—yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus) and purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria). Out of these, yellow … Read more
As fall approaches, many outdoor enthusiasts—including hunters, anglers, and RV owners—gear up for camping trips and outdoor adventures. But did you know that moving firewood can spread invasive pests and diseases, putting our forests at risk? Forest pests like the emerald ash borer and diseases can hitch a ride on your firewood, spreading to new … Read more
Recently, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) detected invasive zebra mussels in Marimo moss balls, a popular aquarium decoration. This discovery, made in Renton, Washington, highlights the ongoing threat of invasive species to our ecosystems. Zebra mussels are notorious for their ability to cause severe environmental and economic damage if they establish in … Read more
Attention 4WD Enthusiasts! Help us protect the beautiful Kootenays from invasive species by following the Play Clean Go steps. Your off-road adventures can inadvertently spread harmful plants and pests, threatening our cherished landscapes. Here’s how you can make a difference: Play: Enjoy your off-roading, but stay on designated trails to prevent spreading invasive species. Clean: … Read more
We are calling on residents of Creston to play an active role in the new Community Poison Hemlock Eradication Plan by reporting sightings of the invasive plant, poison hemlock (Conium maculatum). The first crucial step in this initiative is to determine the extent and location of poison hemlock plants within the community. Report Sightings: If … Read more
Did you know BC has native mussels? But they are at risk of being taken over by invasive mussels. Here’s the scoop on the differences, how to identify them, how to prevent the spread of invasives, and how to report if you spot invasives in the wild! Native Freshwater Mussels in BC British Columbia’s freshwater … Read more