Hello FoKLSS members and supporters,

We had wonderful meeting on June 20th!

Thank you to all who could make it, and especially to Paris for facilitating the excellent conversation. It was clear that FoKLSS is a critical organization for this region and that it has the potential to benefit all (human and other species) living on, around and in the lake. 

We discussed what connects us to the lake and where FoKLSS needs to focus to move forward. It is clear that we need new, sustainable ways of operating – sharing valuable Lake information, helping residents understand issues and how to support our beautiful and life-giving lake. We brainstormed ideas, including strengthening partnerships with aligned NGOs, local governments and working closely with First Nations; gathering and disseminating data, creating an endowment fund and different fundraising tactics.

There will be more detailed notes later, but for now we want to keep moving with the momentum we experienced in the room around the HOW. 

This is a critical time for support.

We we need help with this transition. We are asking for volunteers to step up to form a lively, informal, transitional working group. Specifically, we are looking for supporters with the following experience:

• fundraising, event organizing, reaching out to potential donors, or

• strategic planning to bring our vision and planning up to date, or

• collaboration to support data flow from the many Lake monitoring activities, to communicate vital findings to local residents.

Maybe you have connections or are interested in developing connections to

• local companies such as FortisBC, Columbia Power, Teck, CBT, Realtor or BCHydro

• local NGOs such as Living Lakes Canada, Kootenay Lake Partnership, Wildsight, or Kootenay Conservation Program

• local governments (the RDCK or City of Nelson) and local environmental education programs (Selkirk College)

• or to local businesses, industry and consultancies with an interest in the lake and its watersheds (such as tourism, breweries, water engineering, local produce).

Please respond to this email if you are able to support FoKLSS in this critical time.

The future of FoKLSS will be determined by the interest and uptake of this working group.

With best wishes

Martin Carver (Chair)

and the Board