The East Kootenay Invasive Plant Council (EKIPC) is a collection of individuals and organizations who share a passion for ensuring our East Kootenay environment is not overtaken by invasive species.

Each year at the EKIPC annual general meeting; the Golden Shovel Award is presented in recognition of those who dedicate significant time and effort towards education, prevention and control of invasive species.

EKIPC has only been around for six years, but many people and organizations have been fighting invasive species for decades. This year; EKIPC recognized the Windermere and District Farmers Institute (WDFI) as the winner of the 2012 Golden Shovel Award. WDFI received the award for their outstanding contribution towards control of invasive species in the region. Hedi Trescher was on hand at the AGM in April to receive the award on their behalf.

“When spotted knapweed arrived in the valley over 50 years ago, WDFI was the first to raise the alarm bell. From that day onward, they have been very active in controlling weeds, educating countless others on the negative effects of these weeds, and putting pressure on decision makers to not give up on this fight. That sort of dedication is responsible for the limited spread of knapweed in the Columbia Valley” says EKIPC Treasurer, Darrell Smith.

Hedi Trescher explains that WDFI has been a key member of the East Kootenay Invasive Plant Council for the past several years and this participation has resulted in many positive developments.

“For example, WDFI pursued additional funding through the Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund to initiate the Neighborhood Invasive Plant Program, in partnership with the Regional District of East Kootenay and EKIPC. This program is crucial to our efforts in the region, as it assists landowners to treat priority invasive plants on their private lands.”

Never resting on their laurels, WDFI continues to pursue every opportunity to combat invasive species. “The contributions of Hedi and the WDFI at the EKIPC Board table have always been valued, particularly, their experience and practicality in solving problems. They very much deserve this award,” said Smith.

Above photo: Darrell Smith (left), EKIPC, Hedi Trescher (right), WDFI

By Pauline Artifacet
EKIPC Outreach Coordinator

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