KCP featured at new Regional Conservation and Climate Partnership event in Ontario

Inspiration and Ideas from BC and Beyond from a KCP perspective

KCP Program Director Juliet Craig recently presented at a Kick-off event for the newly formed Kawartha Regional Conservation and Climate Partnership in southern Ontario on October 10. Since Kawartha is exploring establishing a new conservation partnership, they looked to the Kootenays to provide inspiration and ideas. Juliet provided information on the history and structure of KCP, six example collaborative initiatives (Kootenay Connect Priority Places, Conservation Action Forums, Stewardship Solutions Toolkit, building knowledge and skills, Local Conservation Funds, and serving as a network), and seven principles of effective conservation partnerships. The event was attended by approximately 70 people, representing over 40 organizations and groups. 

Fall Gathering 2024 was held in Rossland in early October

Thank you to all Funders and Participants 

Kootenay Conservation Program would like to thank everyone who made the 2024 Fall Gathering such a success! We would like to thank our program sponsors this year, who make this event and all of KCP’s work possible: Columbia Basin Trust, Fish & Wildlife Compensation Program, The Nature Trust of BC, Nature Conservancy of Canada, Environment & Climate Change Canada, and Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation. We also extend our appreciation to the event sponsors: Columbia Power Corporation, Teck, and FortisBC. A big thank you to our presenters and to everyone who attended the Fall Gathering. It wouldn’t be such a collaborative and inspiring event without each of your contributions and energy.

Click here for photos and the full summary, and be sure to 'Save the Date' of October 3 & 4 in Fernie for the 2025 Fall Gathering! 

Province of BC

Report any Treponeme-associated hoof disease in elk

Treponeme-associated hoof disease (TAHD), previously called elk hoof disease, is a highly infectious syndrome associated with a bacterial infection that causes hoof deformities and severe lameness in elk. Limping and deformed, overgrown, and broken hooves in elk may be caused by other diseases, conditions, and injuries in elk, however research has shown that infection with bacteria in the genus Treponema is associated a significant increase of cases beginning in 2007-2008 in southwestern Washington State. This disease has not been detected in BC, and there have been no suspected cases reported. However, it has been confirmed near our southern border, so awareness and early detection are important. This disease first appeared in southwestern Washington state in the late 1990s and early 2000s and has since been identified in Oregon, Idaho, Northern California, and other areas of Washington. The nearest reported or confirmed positive cases are in Washington State, with the majority occurring west of the Cascade Mountain Range. There is no treatment for TAHD. While measures to prevent spread are not in place in BC formally, the Provincial government encourages reporting of abnormal hooves and limping elk to the BC Wildlife Health Program. Hunters should consider removing elk hooves and leaving them on site. In other jurisdictions, anyone who hikes or drives off-road in known affected areas are encouraged to remove all mud from their shoes or tires before leaving the area. The Provincial Government is asking biologists, hunters, and the general public to report any signs of animals with lame limbs or hooves to Dr. Caeley Thacker at Caeley.Thacker@gov.bc.ca. Dr. Thacker, BC wildlife veterinarian, leads the BC Wildlife Health Program.

Click here for a distribution map and more information.

Parks Canada

Launches Indigenous Stewardship Policy

The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, announced his support of the Indigenous Stewardship Policy in mid-October, prior to participating in a Ceremony at Thousand Islands National Park to honour and enact the policy with members of the Mohawks of Akwesasne and members of the Parks Canada Indigenous Stewardship Circle. This policy, which recognizes and supports Indigenous stewardship in all places Parks Canada plays a role in administering, will strengthen the connections between Indigenous Peoples and the protected lands, waters and ice located within their traditional territories, treaty lands and ancestral homelands. Co-developed in close collaboration with the Indigenous Stewardship Circle, a diverse group of Indigenous leaders, the Indigenous Stewardship Policy will guide the implementation of the Indigenous Stewardship Framework and create conditions that support cultural continuity, cultural safety, and healing for Indigenous Peoples. The new policy is grounded in four key principles.

Click here for more information.

Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it First Nation

Wetland at Shottanana Lake gets vital attention

Restoring, protecting and speaking up for the land is at the heart of a five-year project being implemented by the Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it First Nation, focused on the northern portion of Shottanana Lake. Located on its reserve in the southern East Kootenay, the aim is to restore a healthy, functional wetland that supports native wildlife and increases open water habitat for species like ungulates and the at-risk western painted turtle. The project is supported through the Columbia Basin Trust’s Ecosystem Enhancement Program, which aims to have a measurable impact in supporting and strengthening ecosystem health in the Basin in a variety of ecosystems, including wetlands, fish habitat, forests and grasslands. This northern portion of the lake is fed by groundwater, so a main objective has been to restore this connection so that surface water can return to this area of the landscape. To this end, excavators and bulldozers have deepened the basin and loosened compacted soils. Also, features that appeal to western painted turtles have been added, such as floating or partially submerged logs that provide places for them to bask. As of spring 2024, the project had restored 1.1 hectares of open water, 4.9 hectares of upland planting areas and 0.3 hectares of turtle-nesting habitat. 

Click here for the full story and photos.

Golden District Rod & Gun Club

North Trench Elk Collaring Project

This project is aimed at deploying GPS collars on 30 elk in the area surrounding Golden to better understand habitat use, gain confidence in population counts, determine limiting factors to the herds and investigate causes of mortality. The North Trench Elk Collaring Project is a joint study with provincial biologists. “BC’s regional elk stewardship plan made it clear to us that very little is known about the Rocky Mountain elk. There is a major data gap, so we are doing what we can to ensure the future sustainability and science-based management of the population,” said club Executive Director Brian Gustafson. The Golden District Rod & Gun Club are working to submit proposals for funding for various organizations and are also accepting support from people who want to contribute to the project. There will be many volunteer opportunities for member involvement as the project evolves.

Click here for more information. 

Province of BC - by November 15

Feedback wanted on Columbia River Treaty Agreement-in-Principle (AIP)

The Province of BC wants your feedback on the Columbia River Treaty Agreement-in-Principal (AIP), that was reached between the Canada and the U.S. to modernize the Columbia River Treaty. The AIP represents over a decade of engagement with Canadian Columbia Basin Indigenous Nations, local governments and residents. The Province encourages you to fill out the online feedback form below or email your thoughts to columbiarivertreaty@gov.bc.ca by November 15, 2024. Your feedback will inform next steps in the process to modernize the Columbia River Treaty. There are a number of ways to learn about the AIP, which are available on the BC Columbia River Treaty website. This includes an overview video, backgrounder, a document containing the content of the AIP, and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs). To provide feedback, please complete the online feedback form, and see these guidelines for written submissions.

Province of BC

BC Mountain Goat and Wild Sheep observations wanted

The BC Wildlife Program is asking for your observations of Mountain Goat, Thinhorn Sheep and Bighorn Sheep from around BC. Specifically, observations that record the location and presence of newborn kids and lambs, along with later observations of nanny/kid and ewe/lamb groups throughout the year. The Provincial Wild Sheep and Mountain Goat Natal App allows conservationists and members of the public to easily submit what they see. The data collected will be used to inform BC’s Regional Biologists when making important decisions around wild sheep and goat conservation as well as provide information on the effects of changing climates and other environmental and human pressures on the wild sheep and goat populations. Use this app to consistently track your mountain goat and wild sheep sightings and you'll be contributing valuable data to conservation efforts, as your observations will help increase understanding of population trends and inform important management decisions.

Click here for more information.

Living Lakes Canada

New Learning Centre Offers Valuable Resources for Water Science and Stewardship

In the face of increasing freshwater challenges, understanding both the issues and potential solutions is necessary for fostering meaningful change. To support this, Living Lakes Canada has launched a Learning Centre featuring comprehensive resources on critical topics such as climate change impacts, water conservation, climate anxiety, the Columbia River and more. The goal of the Learning Centre is to equip individuals with knowledge and tools to make change in their daily lives. 

Click here to visit the Learning Centre.

Columbia Basin Trust

Non-profit Advisors Program

The Non-profit Advisors Program supports non-profits in Columbia Basin Trust’s region with organizational development and capacity building through a range of resources including organizational assessments and recommendations, specialized consulting support, information-sharing, skill-building workshops and webinars and an online reference library. Whether you are new to the program or have received previous support, Trust's team is here to help. These services are free and if the advisor thinks more specialized consulting support is needed, this program may also subsidize those services. You can obtain advice in areas like planning and direction, human resources, financial management, risk management and recovery planning, administration/management, board governance, and community relationships. If you have questions regarding eligibility or general non-profit questions, contact nonprofit@ourtrust.org.

Click here for more information.

Capturing Canada's Key Biodiversity Areas

Photo Contest: Submissions open until November 30

Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) play a vital role in preserving the diverse range of ecosystems in Canada, and the species that call them home. KBAs are places that contain remarkable concentrations of rare or vulnerable species and ecosystems, according to specific globally recognized criteria. Each site is critically important for supporting the long-term survival of some special piece of biodiversity or biological process. Photos submitted to the contest should be taken from KBAs (or Candidate KBAs) or should feature species or ecosystems that are having KBAs identified for them. To find out what places across Canada are KBAs or Candidate KBAs, visit the Map Viewer. Find out which species or ecosystems are being considered for KBAs by clicking on Candidate KBAs in the Map Viewer, exploring the Species Search on our website, or by checking the list here. Visit KBACanada.org for more information and KBAs and KBA Canada’s work. For questions about contest rules and eligibility, please contact Peter Soroye at psoroye@wcs.org.

Click here for more information. 

BC Wildlife Federation: Version 3 of ''Wetlands of BC”

Looking for photos of wetland plants

The BC Wildlife Federation is advancing Version 3 of the “Wetlands of British Columbia” digital resource book. They are inviting you to explore your local wetlands, take photographs of the diverse plant species you encounter, and submit your photos for this project. Every photograph you submit to Plant Bingo contributes to conserving and protecting biodiversity in wetlands throughout BC. Join the BCWF to work together in celebrating the beauty of nature, preserving local ecosystems, and ensuring their resilience for future generations. Photos can be submitted to submission@bcwf.bc.ca.

Click here for more information on the project and how to submit photos. 

Kootenay Lake Beach Cleanup

November 5, Nelson

The Friends of Kootenay Lake Stewardship Society (FOKLSS) are a community of lake stewards working to improve the health and stewardship of Kootenay Lake. Join FOKLSS for this last beach cleanup of the year, from 3 to 5 pm PT. Meet in Nelson at the Lakeside Dog Walk Trail (Recycling Depot entrance).

Click here to see a poster for more information. 

Communications, Marketing, and Social Media for Non-profits

November 6, Castlegar - DATE CHANGED

This workshop provided by Columbia Basin Trust in partnership with Selkirk College, aims to give non-profits tools and strategies they can use to help tell their stories and raise awareness of their organization, including examples of traditional approaches, digital, and social media, and ideas of how to choose the right tool for their organization or audience. Facilitator Zan Comerford has almost a decade of experience working with Columbia Basin non-profits and businesses and speaks social media strategy in her sleep. She is the head of a Basin-based marketing company and has also taught for the Basin Business Advisors and Selkirk College. This workshop is on Wednesday, November 6 from 1 to 4 pm PT, at Selkirk College in Castlegar.

Click here for more information and to register. 

Planning Meetings for Citizen Science: City Nature Challenge

November 6 & 7, Online

The 2025 international City Nature Challenge (CNC) bioblitz will be held on April 25 to 28 (for making observations in nature), and April 29 to May 4 for getting all observations uploaded and identified. You can make observations of wild plants and animals and take part in one of the largest community science events in the world while helping us better understand – and therefore, take care of – nature that lives in and around urban areas. See the CNC FAQ for more information. Join in the 2025 City Nature Challenge as a volunteer organizer! All NEW organizers must take part in a New Organizer Kickoff meeting, happening in November. Watching a recording counts as attending a meeting. You can also sign up here for the CNC email list. For more information, contact George Gehrig with the Northern Rocky Mountain Biodiversity Challenge at geogehrig@gmail.com. The Nov. 6 meeting is at 4 pm PT / 5 pm MT, and the Nov. 7 morning meeting is at 8 am PT / 9 am MT or in the afternoon at 1 pm PT / 2 pm MT.

Click here to register for the Nov. 6 planning meeting, here for the Nov. 7 am meeting, or here for the Nov. 7 pm meeting.

Connect with nature in your own backyard

November 6, Nelson

Join special guests from the Native Bee Society and Kootenay Community Bat Project for this free event held at the Nelson Public Library as part the library’s Climate Action Week. Conversations about our climate can understandably bring up feelings of grief and anxiety, but the joy and wonder that can still be found in our own backyards is something to hold on to. ‘Connect with Nature in your Own Backyard’ is an event that will explore the treasures found in the local landscape. During the event, there will be stations set up with special guests to guide the exploration of three topics: bats, ecological gardening, and native plant seeds and the iNaturalist app, which can be used to identify local plants and animals. This event will begin at 7 pm PT.

Click here for more information. 

Non-Profit Board Governance Roles and Responsibilities

November 7, Online

Part of the Columbia Basin Trust’s Webinar Series for Non-profits, this session will provide insights to help your board excel in guiding and supporting your organization’s mission. Examples of questions that will be answered are: What are the roles and responsibilities of both the Board and Executive Director? What are the fiduciary responsibilities of the Board? How do the Board and Executive Director work together as a high-functioning team? These questions help the Board deal with the work at hand in providing the services they do. This webinar is from 9:30 to 11 am PT / 10:30 am to 12 pm MT.

Click here to register.

Wild Spaces Recreation Dialogues: Mountain Goats

November 13, Kimberley

Join Wildsight to hear local wildlife experts Kim Poole and Amanda Weber-Roy speak about interactions between people and mountain goats on trails and in the backcountry—and find out how we can reduce our impact. Kim is a wildlife biologist with Aurora Wildlife Research, while Amanda is the Kootenay conservation specialist with BC Parks. This presentation will span their individual work researching recreation’s impacts on mountain goats across the seasons, as well as their collaborative efforts to protect mountain goat populations throughout the Kootenays. Afterwards, Wildsight staff will facilitate an audience discussion, with the opportunity to ask questions and share perspectives. This event is free, but space is limited. Please register to save your seat. From 7 to 8:30 pm MT.

Click here for more information and to register. 

Bighorn Sheep Citizen Monitoring

November 15, Fairmont 

Wildsight Invermere is coordinating Bighorn sheep citizen monitoring events! No experience is needed to be a citizen science sheep monitor, just the ability to walk and be outside for 4-6 hours. The orientation and tools to do the monitoring are provided. This is in support of the Bighorn Sheep Conservation and Biodiversity project. By participating in the program, volunteers actively contribute to the project’s objectives by assisting in monitoring activities such as observing and documenting bighorn sheep sightings, recording behavioural observations, and collecting data on habitat use. Packing some snacks or lunch, wearing good walking shoes, dressing for the weather, and carrying bear spray, are all recommended. If you have binoculars please bring them too. The sheep herd is located near Canal Flats, and car pooling can be arranged. The meeting spot is at The Local Coffeehouse in Fairmont at 10am MT. Please pre-register!

Click here for more information and to register.

Hope in Action – Facing Climate Challenges

November 16, Creston

This free community symposium is hosted by the Creston Valley Climate Action Society. Speakers include Seth Klein, a policy expert, climate activist and author of A Good War, Laura Francis, community animateur and net zero grower, and Robin Louie, Yaqan Nu?kiy traditional knowledge keeper and land user. Workshops featuring Kootenay-based experts will share the wisdom of Indigenous knowledge, ways to better manage our watersheds and forests, advocate to the government, and engage our community to work together. The day includes an expo of businesses, organizations and projects that are making a difference here in the Kootenays. For more information please contact: crestonclimateactionsociety@gmail.com. This event is on November 16 from 9 am to 4:30 pm MT at 120 – 16 Avenue, in Creston.

Community Lichen Collection for Caribou

November 16, Nelson

The Arrow Lakes Caribou Society (ALCS) manages the Central Selkirk Caribou Maternity Pen project, aimed at recovering the Central Selkirk herd of southern mountain woodland caribou near Nakusp. While caribou are in the maternity pen, ALCS feeds them tree lichen, which is part of their natural diet in the wild. For 12 caribou in the pen, 300 kg of dried tree lichen is needed, for these caribou to eat between March and July of 2025. Therefore, ALCS is turning to volunteers to help collect the lichen before March 2025! There are many locations in the Kootenays with good sources of tree lichens to collect. This community lichen collection event will be from 10 am to 1 pm PT at Hummingbird Pass Trailhead (Whitewater Ski Hill Road). Everyone is welcome!

Click here for more information about lichen collection, and click here to see a poster about this event.

An Introduction to Fungi

November 16, Golden

Join naturalist Bryan Kelly-McArthur for an introduction to fungi at this event hosted by Wildsight Golden. Learn about what defines a fungus, their groups, roles and importance, through the lens of macrophotography. Please note that Bryn will not be answering questions about foraging and edibility. This presentation is at 3 pm MT at the Golden Library.

Click here to see the poster for more information.

Wild & Scenic Film Festival

November 16, Invermere (or Online from November 16 to 20)

The Wild & Scenic Film Festival is Wildsight Invermere’s annual fundraiser and, truly, the most awesome Columbia Valley grassroots gathering of the year, with an epic night of 12 films from around the world. The films share stories that ignite your passion for our planet and for positive change. It’s one big night of shared food, drink, story telling, films and friends (that’s you!). Come together with your community and share in the Festival vibes, all in support of Wildsight Invermere’s work in conservation, climate action and community environmental education. If you can’t attend that evening but want to watch the films, there is an Online Viewing option when buying tickets. Doors open at 5 pm, with films from 6:30 to 9:30 pm MT.

Click here for more information and to get tickets.

Y2Y Wild Film Fest: The Rockies’ Wild Corridor

November 17, Online

Back by popular demand, the Yellowstone to Yukon (Y2Y) Wild Film Fest returns this November! Join Y2Y to experience four breathtaking films that give a close-up look at the lives of wolves, bison, caribou, and grizzly bears. These films share stories of wildlife, people and landscapes in the Yellowstone to Yukon region, and celebrate the conservation successes we’ve achieved together. Each film will be followed by an engaging panel discussion and question period featuring Y2Y program staff, partners and other guests. Explore the extraordinary stories about these animals, witness the stunning landscapes they call home, and hear from Y2Y experts and partners. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or just learning about Y2Y, this event is for all who want to help both people and wildlife thrive. Attend all four films, or only the specific ones that interest you - the webinar link will be the same for each film. A recording of the presentation will be available for 48 hours following the live presentation. This online event is free with registration; don’t delay, as spots are limited! From 12 to 6 pm PT / 1 pm to 7 pm MT.

Click here for more information and to register. 

'Wildfires, Climate Change and Invasive Species' Virtual Conference

November 19, Online

Record-breaking wildfire seasons in recent years and the escalating spread of invasive species due to climate change, have demonstrated that fire management must be integrated with invasive alien species management. The 'Wildfires, Climate Change and Invasive Species' Virtual Conference, hosted by the Canadian Council on Invasive Species (CCIS), will bring together researchers, Indigenous peoples, policymakers, and practitioners from across Canada and the US. This event will start important conversations and form meaningful connections across sectors and boundaries, to address this emerging challenge. The theme of this conference is 'Fires, Forests, and the Future: Identifying actions to mitigate the triple-threat of wildfires, climate change and invasive species'. Presentations will contribute towards our understanding of the synergies between climate change and invasive species and explore solutions to the changing landscape of fire management.

Click here for more information.

Native Bee Study Group

November 27, Online

Join the Native Bee Society of BC for their monthly Native Bee Study Group, on the fourth Wednesday of each month. This monthly event is an opportunity for connecting and learning about native bees with others throughout the province. There is a monthly theme that is a jumping off point to share our own knowledge and learn from others. Experts and complete beginners are all welcome! The study group has a show and tell format, and anyone who is interested in participating can create a slide on the shared google slides deck to share with the group (link sent with registration). Photos can also be sent to bcnativebees@gmail.com, with a subject line of "Native Bee Study Group." From 7 to 8:30 pm PT / 8 to 9:30 pm MT.

Click here for more information and to RSVP. 

What’s the future of grasslands and rangelands in the East Kootenay?

May 1 to 3, 2025, Kimberley – Call for proposals due by January 24, 2025

The purpose of this symposium hosted by the Columbia Mountains Institute for Applied Ecology (CMI) is to tell stories, share knowledge, and explore ideas and solutions for improving grassland and rangeland health in the East Kootenay. This event will explore the related implications of changing grasslands in the East Kootenay for wildlife and livestock forage, vulnerable grassland-dependent species, Indigenous and regional food security, wildfire risk reduction, and invasive species. To this end, a multidisciplinary group of scientists, First Nations, natural resource professionals, land managers, and ranchers will gather to discuss current land management challenges, initiatives, knowledge gaps, and the cumulative impacts to ecosystem health. The underlying assumption guiding this event is that if you improve grassland health through restoration, protection, and stewardship, then you improve conditions for wildlife, grassland ecosystems, and communities whose cultures and livelihoods are tied to these spaces. This symposium will include presentations, panel discussions, field tours, and posters that share recent science, the current state of rangelands in the East Kootenay region, and case studies from other regions to help inform potential restoration and rangeland management practices. Proposals are currently being accepted for presentations posters, or field trips. If you would like to submit a proposal, please send title, abstract (max. 300 words), a short bio, and full contact information to the Columbia Mountains Institute by January 24, 2025. See the submission guidelines prior to submission.

Click here for more information.

Environmental Justice and Climate Resilience grant, Commission for Environmental Cooperation

Deadline: November 14

The Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) established this grant program in 2021 to fund projects that target under-served and vulnerable communities, including Indigenous communities, in Canada, Mexico, and the US, to help reduce climate-related impacts. The Environmental Justice and Climate Resilience (EJ4Climate) grant is funding projects that promote climate adaptation knowledge. Eligible projects include addressing extreme weather impacts, transitioning to clean energy, implementing conservation or restoration initiatives, incorporating Traditional Ecological Knowledge, and engaging youth as agents of change. Projects are funded for a duration of 12 to 24 months, and the CEC encourages applicants to submit proposals up to $175,000. The deadline to apply is November 14.

Click here for more information and how to apply.

Small-scale Ecosystem Grants from the Columbia Basin Trust

Deadline: November 28

Do you have a small-scale project, that helps improve ecological health and native biodiversity in the Basin? If so, the Trust wants to hear from you. Does your new project enhance a terrestrial and/or aquatic ecosystem, such as wetlands, fish habitat, forests or grasslands? Implement on-the-ground action? Have a small local scale? Take less than two years to implement? If your project meets these criteria, email ecosystems@ourtrust.org to discuss your small-scale ecosystem enhancement or restoration project idea. Deadline to apply is November 28 at 2 pm PT / 3 pm MT.

Click here for more information.

Watershed Security Fund, Province of BC & BC First Nations Water Table

Deadline: December 11

The Watershed Security Fund supports projects that advance watershed resiliency, adhere to principles of reconciliation, foster collaborative partnerships, and focus on long-term watershed restoration and conservation. In its first year, the Fund will provide grants that total $7-$10 million to communities. These grants will address urgent and long-term watershed security needs. The Watershed Security Fund aims to build a foundation for long-term, multi-year grant programs. There are three funding streams, with maximum available funds up to $50,000, $100,000 and $500,000. The next intake will open on November 12 and close on December 11. There is also a webinar about this grants program happening on November 21.

Click here for more information and how to apply. 

BC Conservation & Biodiversity Awards

Deadline: December 31

The BC Conservation & Biodiversity Awards Foundation was established in 2020 to recognize and financially support conservation-based initiatives in the Province of BC. The awards are given annually for the most impactful initiatives brought forward by BC based charities, for specific work contributing to the improvement of the natural environment of BC and the preservation of its wilderness and biodiversity. Award applications are accepted throughout the calendar year to December 31, with the annual award winners then chosen by the Selection Committee and announced on March 1st of the following year.

Click here for more information and to apply. 

Agriculture Water Infrastructure Program Stream 3 from Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC

Deadline: first-come, first-served until funding is fully committed

The Agriculture Water Infrastructure Program (AWP) aims to increase adoption of efficient irrigation infrastructure and improve agricultural water supply and management in BC. Through this program, the Government of BC seeks to see improvements to stream flows, fish populations and an increased and more sustainable food production. Projects receiving funding through Stream 3 of the Agriculture Water Infrastructure Program can begin upon approval and should be completed within 24 months of approval. Projects may carry over between fiscal years.  Applications will be accepted first-come, first-served on a continual basis until funding is fully committed.

Click here for more information and to apply.

BC Climate Agri-Solutions Fund

Deadline: Applications are open until funding is fully committed (no later than January 30, 2025)

Don’t wait to submit your application – applications are open until funding is committed! The BC Climate Agri-Solutions Fund (BCCAF) provides cost-shared funding to eligible producers and supports the training of certified crop advisors and agrologists as well as information sharing throughout the agricultural community. The objective of BCCAF is to support farmers in adopting beneficial management practices (BMPs) that store carbon and reduce greenhouse gases, specifically in the areas of nitrogen management, cover cropping, and rotational grazing. These practices also provide other environmental benefits such as improved biodiversity and soil health. Other activities to support the adoption of beneficial management practices, such as outreach, education and training are also supported. BCCAF provides cost-share funding for nitrogen management up to $30,000, cover cropping up to $30,000, and rotational grazing up to $20,000. Approved projects will have three months from their project start date or until January 30, 2025 (whichever comes first) to incur the costs of their activities and submit a final report with cost documentation. Project activities and implementation must be complete before June 20, 2025.

Click here for more information and to apply.

Seed Grants, Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program

Deadline: Ongoing

You can now apply for a Seed Grant any time of the year; you don’t need to wait for the FWCP annual grant intake. An FWCP Seed Grant—up to a maximum of $5,000—can be used to fill information gaps, prepare technical information, and explore the feasibility of your project idea. Think of a Seed Grant as a first step toward a future Large Grant application. The FWCP Columbia Region board will review Seed Grant applications and make decisions at its spring, fall, and winter board meetings. Apply early.

Click here for more information. 

Healthy Habitats Community Service Grants for Youth, Invasive Species Council of BC

Deadline: Ongoing

Through this micro grant program, it is the goal of the Invasive Species Council of BC (ISCBC) to provide you with financial and project management support to help you grow your skills and make an impact in your community. ISCBC's Youth Engagement Coordinators will be happy to support you through every step of the project. The guidelines will walk you through the application process. The micro-grant program is designed to support youth in various stages of their projects or ideas. They supply three distinct tiers of funding, each aimed at different scopes and scales. Applicants can apply for one of the three tiers based on the needs of their project. The project must align with the goals of the grant program, and must show a reasonable effort to protect the environment at a local, regional, or national scale. This could include educational materials, art installations, research, field activities, etc. They encourage applicants to think freely, and not to feel discouraged if your project idea does not align exactly with their examples. Applicants must be between the ages of 15 and 30 at the time of application.

Click here for more information and to apply. 

Grassland and Rangeland Enhancement Program

Deadline: Ongoing

If you have an idea that will maintain or enhance grassland resources while meeting conservation, environment and recreation objectives, this program could help support it. This program is delivered by the Kootenay Livestock Association.

Click here for more information and how to apply.

Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program Community Engagement Grants

Deadline: Ongoing

Got an idea for a project to support fish and wildlife in the Columbia region? Community Engagement Grants are typically $500 to $1000 and help stewardship groups and others take action to benefit local fish and wildlife.

Click here for more information and how to apply.

Land Securement Grants from Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program

Deadline: Ongoing

Securing critical ecosystems and habitats for conservation is an important way to help conserve and enhance fish and wildlife in watersheds impacted by BC Hydro dams. The Fish & Wildlife Compensation Program (FWCP) funds land securement projects and supports a partnership approach in their Coastal, Columbia, and Peace regions. Due to the time-sensitive nature of real-estate transactions, grant applications for land securement purchases can be discussed with the region managers at any time of year. Please contact Columbia Region Manager Jen Walker-Larsen at Jennifer.Walker-Larsen@bchydro.com with your questions.

Click here for more information. 

BC Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship

Senior Species at Risk Biologist – Apply by Nov. 5

Bring your leadership and passion to the growing team of professionals within the Species and Ecosystems Recovery Section of the Terrestrial Species at Risk Recovery Branch of the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship (MWLRS), who are working to implement important conservation actions to recover at-risk species and ecosystems. This team plays an integral role in providing leadership in stewarding species and ecosystems at risk in BC, by developing policy and guidance, coordinating recovery planning, implementing conservation actions, promoting awareness and stewardship, providing innovative decision-making support, and using land designations to protect and conserve habitat for at-risk species. If you like the outdoors and adventure, enjoy working with academics, non-profit organizations, First Nations and multi-jurisdictional governments on solving complex issues regarding the protection of important habitat for species at risk, consider applying. Applications must be based in a designated MWLRS office, including Nelson, and the deadline to apply is November 5.

Click here for more information and to apply.

BC Ministry of Environment & Climate Change Strategy

Protected Areas Ecologist

This position coordinates and leads the research, analysis, development and implementation of policies and legislation for and on behalf of the BC Parks Conservation Program. The Protected Areas Ecologist will lead BC Parks’ policy, programs, and guidance related to protected area management for conservation and stewardship. This will include working closely with Indigenous Peoples and partners inside and outside of government to ensure strategic priorities are delivered effectively and representing BC Parks as a significant provincial land and water manager in various intergovernmental settings. As a key resource for regions, the Ecologist will liaise and provide policy advice and guidance regularly to operational staff and volunteers, and provide advice related to conservation and stewardship in protected areas to decision makers, staff and ministry executive. As a result, the Ecologist will need to work both at a park-specific and landscape-level scale. If you are a multi-tasker with a knack for collaboration and influence, who enjoys employing your expertise to achieve results on the ground, consider applying. There are currently two temporary opportunities available to March 31, 2026, and these may be extended or become permanent. These positions can be based in any BC Parks’ office. The deadline to apply is November 12.

Click here for more information and to apply.

BC Ministry of Forests

GIS Forester

The Provincial Ministry of Forests are looking for a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Forester with a passion for sustainability and inclusion. In this role, you'll support BC Timber Sales by conducting timber supply analyses and forest estate modeling, ensuring long-term forest management that balances environmental, social, and economic factors. As a key contributor, you'll engage with a diverse range of stakeholders—including First Nations and the public—while helping to develop data systems that support sustainable forest policies. We encourage applications from individuals who bring diverse perspectives and are committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion in the forestry sector. This position can be based in any BC Timber Sales office, including in Nelson. The deadline to apply is November 13.

Click here for more information and to apply.

Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network

Wild Voices Community Educator

Are you a forester or geographer? A biologist or mountain guide? A historian or holder of traditional knowledge? Do you have some unique knowledge, skill, or expertise you can share with students? If so, we’d like to connect with you! Wild Voices for Kids is a program of the Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network. It is a unique program in the Basin as it enables local specialists to develop programs connected to the local environment and tailored to their area of expertise and passion. Each educator brings their own unique knowledge of environment or natural history, adds their passion for education, and creates classroom or field-based programs that will both captivate students and satisfy the learning objectives of teachers. Community Educators are the heart and soul of the Wild Voices for Kids program! Wild Voices for Kids promotes presenters and their programs and provides cash honoraria to community educators. For more information, see link below, or email the Wild Voices program manager at education@cbeen.org.

Click here for more information.

Lake Windermere Recreational Impact and Sediment Quality Assessment

Lake Windermere Ambassadors

This 2-year study looked at the impacts of recreational boating on Lake Windermere. Results suggest concern over power boating due to the lake's shallow depth and soft bottom sediment, making it very prone to disturbances such as large wake boats. When sediment on the lakebed gets stirred up, it unlocks previously stored nutrients, bringing them back into the water column and posing a threat to aquatic life. The study places Lake Windermere in the 'very high' category for unsuitability for heavy power boat usage, large power boats and wake surf boats. The study also established a theoretical carrying capacity of 200 vessels, which in peak tourist season, that capacity is often exceeded. Recommendations include creating a comprehensive lake management plan with involvement from Indigenous Nations, local government, and stakeholders, to safeguard fish spawning areas, wetlands, nesting sites and mussel beds. Another recommendation is to protect the drinking water source from contaminants.

Click here to access the full report.

Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas resources

IPCA Knowledge Basket website & FAQ document

As Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs) become more recognized across Canada, many questions arise about their establishment, development, and governance. The Conservation through Reconciliation Partnership (CRP) and the IISAAK OLAM Foundation have developed a living Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document to address these questions. This resource responds to several questions about IPCAs, informed by the Indigenous Circle of Experts' 2018 report ‘We Rise Together’, and includes examples of IPCAs across the country. It covers topics such as Indigenous-led conservation, definitions and origins of IPCAs, legal considerations, funding, and how to support IPCAs. In addition, you can search the IPCA Knowledge Basket Resource Database to find toolkits, reports, audio/visual resources, and other information to support IPCAs and Indigenous-led conservation. These resources were published by Indigenous governments and organizations, other governments (Federal, Provincial, Territorial), non-profit organizations, and others.

Click here to access the website’s FAQ page and click here to access resources from IPCA Knowledge Basket.

Funding Indigenous-led Conservation with Nature-based Solutions

First 30×30 Canada & Restore Assert Defend (RAD) Network

First 30×30 Canada and the Restore Assert Defend (RAD) Network co-hosted a webinar on October 17th on financing pathways for Indigenous-led conservation. First 30x30 Canada supports Indigenous-led conservation by harnessing nature-based solutions and carbon finance. In this webinar, the aim was to provide a brief introduction to nature-based solutions (NbS) as a financing pathway for Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs) and other forms of Indigenous-led land management. Real-life examples of how Nations are engaging with NbS were showcased, with a spotlight on the Great Bear Forest Carbon Project and Kwiakah First Nation. The new First 30×30 program was introduced, which mobilizes finance and technical support to help Indigenous Nations explore and create NbS project in line with their vision and aspirations for their land. The First 30×30 team introduced the program, and then we heard from guest speakers on the Coastal First Nations’ Great Bear Forest Carbon Project and the Kwiakah First Nation’s “living tree” tenure model. 

Click here to access the webinar recording.

Connected: a Parks Canada podcast

Parks Canada

Parks Canada has recently published a conservation podcast with each episode about a different species at risk in Kootenay, Banff, and Yoho National Parks. From the charismatic grizzly bear to the hardy whitebark pine, the podcasts explore why these species are in trouble and what we stand to lose. The podcast features interviews with the specialists who work in the National Parks and the episode list includes the grizzly bear, Westslope cutthroat trout, black swift, wolverine, whitebark pine, and little brown bat. Connected: A Parks Canada Podcast is available on major podcast streaming platforms.

Click here to access these podcasts.

Surveillance for an Emergent for an Emergent Hoof Disease in Elk (Cervus Elaphus) in the US Pacific West Supplemented by 16S rRNA Gene Amplicon Sequencing

Margaret A. Wild et. al.

A novel hoof disease of elk (Cervus elaphus) was described in southwestern Washington, US, in 2008 and was subsequently diagnosed in an adjacent area in northwestern Oregon in 2014. The disease, currently referred to as treponeme-associated hoof disease (TAHD), is characterized by lesions ranging from mild erosions, to severe ulcers with underrunning of the hoof capsule and heel-sole junction, to overgrown and avulsed hoof capsules. Histologically, lesions exhibit epithelial erosion or ulceration, suppurative inflammation, and the presence of argyrophilic spirochetes. The researchers used data collected by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife from 2008 to 2017 as reference for disease distribution, then conducted enhanced surveillance in 2018-20 by obtaining 164 submissions from four US Pacific West states. We detected TAHD for the first time in Idaho and northern California, as well as in multiple counties in Washington and Oregon where it had not been previously reported. Given the unexpectedly broad disease distribution, continued surveillance is warranted to determine the full geographic extent of TAHD. From samples of 22 elk, the researchers investigated 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing as a technique that could be used to supplement TAHD surveillance.

Click here to access the report. 

Advancements in monitoring: a comparison of traditional and application-based tools for measuring outdoor recreation

Capdevila, Talia Vilalta, et. al.

As the demand for recreation grows, managers are increasingly faced with making decisions to protect plant and wildlife communities while supporting high-quality recreation experiences. These decisions often necessitate understanding spatial and temporal patterns in recreation, and the impact of recreation on ecological systems, including wildlife use patterns. Yet, an understanding of where, when, how intense, and what activity types occur remains difficult to quantify. The lack of accessible and current recreation data is consistently highlighted as a critical knowledge gap impeding managers’ decision-making and strategic planning. The researchers addressed this knowledge gap by comparing the use of traditional and application-based tools for measuring recreation across a large area of mountainous terrain in western Alberta and eastern BC. They show that recreation use can be estimated using traditional and application-based tools, although their accuracy and utility varies across space, time and activity type; therefore, they recommend that the specific context and management objectives guide selection of tools. Application-based data from apps should be supplemented with data from traditional tools to identify individual tool biases and improve confidence in estimates. This research can help managers select which tools to use to improve recreation monitoring, and the information gathered can guide decisions to better protect ecological systems while allowing for sustainable recreation.

Click here to access the full report.

Recording: Columbia River Treaty Agreement-in-Principle Information Session

Government of BC

The Province of BC hosted a virtual information session on September 17, for the public to learn about the Agreement-in-Principle (AIP) reached between Canada and the U.S. to modernize the Columbia River Treaty. Representatives from the Canadian Columbia River Treaty negotiation team presented information about the elements of the AIP and the potential changes they represent in the Columbia Basin, joined by 175 participants from communities across the Basin, on both sides of the border. Questions related to each element of the AIP were answered at the end of the corresponding segment and a general question period was held following the formal presentations. Presenters answered questions on a wide range of topics, including changes to the flood risk management regime, anticipated water level fluctuations on Treaty reservoirs, how the additional Canadian flexibility will be used, the role of the new Kootenay/Kootenai Transboundary Working Group, the Joint Ecosystem and Indigenous and Tribal Cultural Values Body, and plans to support salmon reintroduction in the Upper Columbia River. More ways to learn about the AIP are available on the Province of BC Columbia River Treaty website, including an overview video, backgrounder, frequently asked questions, and a document containing the content of the AIP.

Click here for the recording of the AIP Info Session.

Responsible recreation in wildlife habitats

Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative

Since 2020, researchers at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) and Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative (Y2Y) have conducted extensive recreation ecology research to understand the intersection of recreation and wildlife. While recreation can bring many positive benefits for people and communities, this pressure can also unintentionally impact sensitive species, increase tension across different user groups, and affect the quality of outdoor experiences. More so than ever, there is a need for innovative approaches for monitoring and managing recreation across the landscape. Y2Y’s research partners include provincial and federal governments, Braided Knowledge Environmental Consulting, Conservation Science Partners, Nature Conservancy of Canada, Biological Sciences – University of Alberta, and other research experts in the field. This collaborative research is outlined in Y2Y’s research summary: ‘Protecting wildlife through responsible recreation.’

Click here for more information.  

KCP Stewardship Solutions Toolkit

Resource updated with growing number of stewardship listings

In 2019, KCP launched Stewardship Solutions, an easy-to-access stewardship resource for landowners and land managers in the Kootenays available both in print and online. We keep this resource up to date, and encourage you to access all the available stewardship "solutions" (i.e. services and resources) available in each of the 14 Conservation Neighbourhoods. Visit the website, select your location on the homepage map, and you'll be brought to the growing list of stewardship options available in your region.

Visit the Stewardship Solutions website.

Kootenay Conservation Program

Conservation Resources for our Region

The Kootenay Conservation Program helps partners to coordinate and facilitate conservation efforts on private land, and in an effort to support this, KCP has developed a webpage that compiles some of the best conservation and stewardship resources available for our region.

Click here for more information.