September 2014 eNews

 

The KCP Annual Gathering & AGM is less than 4 weeks away! It will take place in Creston from September 26-27.  The event will kick off with a lunch at noon on Friday, September 26 in the banquet room at the Ramada Hotel. Following this, presentations will be made on the topic of Biodiversity Offsetting and the KCP AGM will follow. Friday evening will feature a banquet and evening program, including the presentation of the annual KCP Conservation Leadership Award(s). Saturday will feature a tour of Darkwoods - the largest conservation property in Canadian History. This tour will depart from the Ramada Hotel at 9:00am promptly and will return at 4:00pm, which will conclude the KCP Annual Gathering. While there is no charge for KCP partners to attend or for food, partners must cover the cost of their own accommodation. KCP has reserved a block of rooms at the Ramada at a preferred rate. If you require a room please call 250-254-1111 and reference the Kootenay Conservation Program. Click here for more information or email info@kootenayconservation.ca to confirm your attendance. 

Do you know of someone that should be recognized for their leadership in conservation in the Kootenays? If so please click here to find out more about the KCP Conservation Leadership Award. The deadline for nominations is September 15 and the winner(s) will be announced on September 26th at the KCP AGM & Gathering.

The KCP is very pleased to announce the launch of a Professional Development Bursary Program which provides financial assistance to our partner organizations to allow their staff and volunteers to attend professional development activities. It is funded by the generous support of the Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) and delivered by the KCP. Click here for more information and to apply.


We hope you enjoy your monthly conservation update. You can click here at anytime during the month to check out current news and events on our blog.

 

As always, please submit any news you'd like to share with our network by the 26th of each month to duncan@kootenayconservation.ca. 

Marc-André Beaucher  

Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area (CVWMA)

 

The Creston Valley has been home of Marc-André for nearly two decades. During this time he has worked on a range of conservation and wildlife related projects, from cavity nesting birds in forest ecosystems of the Rockies, to reptiles and amphibians in wetland ecosystems of the Central and West Kootenays. His passion lies primarily with birds because he says "you encounter every other kind of wildlife when you're chasing birds around".


Marc-André is currently the Head of Operations for the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area (CVWMA) and has a long history with the organization. One of his favorite projects has been the Northern Leopard Frog Recovery Project on the CVWMA, with which he has been involved since 2000. "So much has been done in the past 14 years to prevent this species from being extirpated - it has been challenging and sometimes downright depressing but overall very successful and extremely rewarding". Northern Leopard Frogs seem to be recovering in the Creston Valley and re-introduced individuals are now breeding in the East Kootenays.

 

Click here to read Marc-André's full story.


Upper Kootenay Ecosystem Enhancement Plan-Funding Available

Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program
The Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program, in partnership with the Columbia Basin Trust, led the development of the Upper Kootenay Ecosystem Enhancement Plan for the upper Kootenay River watershed including the Koocanusa Reservoir. This new plan will guide fish and wildlife funding in the watershed. The plan recommends actions to conserve and enhance lakes, streams, uplands/drylands, wetlands and species of interest. Review the plan, and then apply to FWCP for funding to deliver on one of the many recommended actions. 
Click here to see the Action Plans or contact the Program Manager at trevor.oussoren@bchydro.com or 250 365 4551.

Look Outside

Wildsight 
Summer may be coming to an end but Wildsight's photo contest continues. Keep sending in those great photos. It's as easy as Click.Share.Connect. Lots of cool prizes and a great way to show your love of the Purcell Mountains. 
Click here for the full story and submit your photos at #wildlookoutside.

Photo contest now open!
Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation
Have you captured a fantastic image of freshwater fish, wildlife or habitat in BC?  HCTF is looking for photos that we can use in promoting conservation and the work of the Foundation. As HCTF projects are primarily funded by BC's anglers, hunters, trappers and guide outfitters, we are also looking for photos of these activities that we can use to recognize these groups' contribution to conservation. The best photos (as determined by our judges) will win VISA gift cards.
Click here for the full story.

Project Funding Available: Apply by November 14
Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program
The Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program (FWCP) supports local stewardship groups, First Nations, agencies and others to deliver fish and wildlife projects in alignment with its Action Plans. Your idea for a project could be eligible for funding. Funding applications are due by November 14, 2014. This year the FWCP is offering three funding options: 1. Seed Project funding up to $5,000 to assist applicants to develop a large project funding application in a subsequent year that aligns with FWCP's Action Plans; 2. Small project funding for projects that align with FWCP's Action Plans and have a total project cost of less than $20,000; and 3. Large project funding for projects that align with FWCP's Action Plans and have a total project cost of more than $20,000. 
Click here for the full story.

Society working to restore spawning in streams

Eastshore Freshwater Habitat Society

In many streams and creeks along Kootenay Lake's East Shore, spawning Kokanee salmon have disappeared completely in recent years, but a new society is aiming to change that. With the goal of remediating the tributaries that spill into Kootenay Lake, members of the Eastshore Freshwater Habitat Society (EFHS) have been training this summer through the Pacific Streamkeepers Federation, which offers education and support to similar groups.
Click here for the full story.

 

Where in BC...?

Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation

We often state that HCTF invests in fish & wildlife projects across the province, but did you ever wonder where in BC those projects actually take place? We've put together a map showing the approximate locations of conservation work being funded by HCTF in 2014-15, including project descriptions, approved funding amounts, and project leader information. 

Click here for the full story.


Lake Windermere Ambassadors - Treasurer (Volunteer)

Deadline: August 19

The Lake Windermere Ambassadors, a non-profit Society, require a volunteer with a financial background to act as their Treasurer. This opening on the Board of Directors provides a permanent or part-time resident of the Columbia Valley with a chance to have a measurable impact on the ecological health of Lake Windermere.

Click here for more information.

 

Be Waste Wise - Online Community Builder

Deadline: Open until position is filled

As be Waste Wise's Online Community Builder, you will be responsible for growing and maintaining an engaged community to enable collaborative learning and create a sense of belonging to "a global waste community" among its members. You may carry out the work remotely as a part-time job. 

Click here fore more information. 

 

Canadian Environmental Network - Special Project Volunteers
Deadline: Fall
The Canadian Environmental Network is looking for additional volunteers to help build the new virtual organization through work on a number of projects and programs. As a volunteer you will have a very direct role, working with Board members and other volunteers in determining the future of the organization and will be able to network with individuals and environmental organizations from across Canada. It will also provide you with an opportunity to put into practice your knowledge, expertise and skills.
Click here to find out more.

Canadian Wildlife Foundation

Deadline: September 1

Financial assistance to conservation programs and educational programs related to wildlife and research.  

Click here to find out more.  


Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP) Professional Development Bursary Program

Intake opens September 1

The KCP Professional Development Bursary Program provides financial assistance to our partner organizations to allow their staff and volunteers to attend professional development activities. It is funded by the generous support of the Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) and delivered by the KCP.

Click here to find out more.

 

Mountain Equipment Coop

Deadline: September 10

Grant funding helps keep space for adventure by conserving ecologically important places and by inspiring and enabling Canadians to be active outside. 

Click here to find out more.

 

Real Estate Foundation of BC General Grant Program

Deadline: September 11

The Foundation's overall aim is to transform land use attitudes and practices, thus contributing to resilient, healthy communities and natural environments. Our grant programs support progressive initiatives that address current challenges and plan for the future.
Click here to find out more. 

 

Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program Project Funding 

Deadline: November 14

The Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program (FWCP) supports local stewardship groups, First Nations, agencies and others to deliver fish and wildlife projects in alignment with its Action Plans. Your idea for a project could be eligible for funding. This year the FWCP is offering three funding options.

Click here for action plans, funding applications and information for funding applicants.


Upper Kootenay Ecosystem Enhancement Plan Funding 

Deadline: November 14

The Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program, in partnership with the Columbia Basin Trust, led the development of the Upper Kootenay Ecosystem Enhancement Plan for the upper Kootenay River watershed including the Koocanusa Reservoir. This new plan will guide fish and wildlife funding in the watershed. The plan recommends actions to conserve and enhance lakes, streams, uplands/drylands, wetlands and species of interest. Review the plan, and then apply to FWCP for funding to deliver on one of the many recommended actions. 

Click here for action plans or contact the Program Manager at trevor.oussoren@bchydro.com or 250 365 4551. 

Exploring Public Participation in Scientific Research Conference

September 9 - 10, Calgary

This conference will explore the diverse and growing field of citizen science with sessions on program design, evaluation, policy implications, technology and applications in parks and protected areas.

For more information email events@rockies.ca.


Traditional Knowledge Sharing

September 10, Lake Enid (near Wilmer)
Native culture hinges on the belief that the land responds positively to care and respect. The Stevens family from the Shuswap Band will lead an interpretive walk as part of Wildsight's ongoing Lake Enid Restoration Project. This is a unique opportunity to learn about their traditional knowledge and use of wild plants. You may even get to try some homemade recipes! Everyone is welcome to this free event. Meet at the main parking area at Lake Enid.
For more information contact invermere@wildsight.ca.
 

5th Annual Conference of the Roundtable on the Crown of the Continent

September 10 - 12, Waterton

Click here for more information.

Columbia Salmon Festival

September 13, Invermere

The 4th annual Columbia Salmon Festival will celebrate the history of the salmon that once migrated to the headwaters of the River. Learn about the cultural significance, the challenges and the prospects of restoring salmon to the Columbia Basin. 

Click here for more information.


Wildsight's last Nature Tour

September 14, Pinto Mountain

Andrea Petzold, a professional geologist and certified hiking guide, is leading a scramble up Pinto Mountain on Sunday, September 14th. Explore the limestone formations along the way and experience a rewarding view of the Rocky Mountain Trench from the summit. 

Click here for more information.  

 

Kootenay Conservation Program Annual Gathering and AGM
September 26 - 27, Creston

The event will kick off with a lunch at noon on Friday, September 26th in the banquet room at the Ramada Hotel in Creston. Following this, presentations will be made on the topic of Biodiversity Offsetting and the KCP AGM will follow. Friday evening will feature a banquet and evening program, including the presentation of the annual KCP Conservation Leadership Award(s). Saturday will feature a tour of Darkwoods - the largest conservation property in Canadian History. This tour will depart from the Ramada Hotel at 9:00am promptly and will return at 4:00pm, which will conclude the KCP Annual Gathering. Please note that all times are Mountain Time, which Creston will still be the same as at that time. While there is no charge for KCP partners to attend or for food, partners must cover the cost of their own accommodation. KCP has reserved a block of rooms at the Ramada at a preferred rate. If you require a room please call 250-254-1111 and reference the Kootenay Conservation Program.

To confirm your attendance please email info@kootenayconservation.ca. 


Canadian Rural Revitalization Foundation Conference 

September 25 - 27, Prince George

Join rural and industry leaders, community and economic development practitioners, government policy-makers, researchers, and students to discuss issues at the heart of rural and resource sector development in BC and Canada
Click here for more information. 


North Kootenay Lake Shoreline Clean-up Event

September 28, Kootenay Lake

Come and celebrate World Rivers Day at the North Kootenay Lake Shoreline Clean-up event.  From 10am-2pm the Friends of Kootenay Lake are looking for volunteers to help clean-up the shoreline where the Lower Lardeau-Duncan River meets Kootenay Lake. 

Click here for more information. 

 

Solving Wicked Problems: Using human dimensions to inform natural resource management

September 30 - October 1, Kimberley

Registration is now open! During this Columbia Mountains Institute (CMI) conference, participants will examine how to use human dimensions research and methods to help resource practitioners resolve "wicked problems" in southeastern BC. 

Click here for more information.  

 

Public Participation for Natural Resource and Environmental Assessment Managers 

October 2 - 3, Kimberley  
This Columbia Mountains Institute facilitated course is designed as an introduction to public participation basic concepts and skills. Despite the demonstrated benefits of effective public participation, few resource and environmental assessment managers have formal training or professional development in planning for and implementing participatory processes. Registration closes September 15.
Click here for more information and course registration.

Real Estate Foundation of BC Land Awards Gala
October 17, Vancouver
The Land Awards will be presented in the categories of Public Sector, Private Sector and Non-profit Sector as well as the individual Land Champion Award.
Click here for more information.  

Voices for Sustainability Symposium
October 17 - 19, Golden
The Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network's (CBEEN) popular annual gathering of environmental educators will take place at Quantum Leaps Lodge in Golden. Registration to open in mid-September. 
Click here for more information.

Kootenay Lake Summit
October 18, Kaslo
Save the date for the 2nd Annual Kootenay Lake Summit.
Click here for more information.

Columbia River Basin International Conference
October 21 - 23, Spokane
Conference Theme: Learning from Our Past to Shape Our Future. 
Click here for more information. 

Biodiversity Offsets

A Primer for the KCP Annual Gathering

"Biodiversity Offsets in Canada" describes one particular market-based instrument - that of biodiversity offsets. Biodiversity offsets are defined as "measurable conservation outcomes resulting from actions designed to compensate for significant residual adverse biodiversity impacts arising from project development after appropriate prevention and mitigation measures have been taken," and are generally implemented with a goal of no net loss of biodiversity in the face of new economic activity. The purpose of this background report is to establish a common understanding of the use of biodiversity offsets, as applicable to Canada, and define the issues that must be considered by policy-makers considering implementing biodiversity offsets. 

Click here to read this background report. 

 

If you have news or announcements that you would like to share via our eNews, please email them to duncan@kootenayconservation.ca by the 26th of each month.