It’s turbulent times for Columbia Valley waters. The combined impacts of invasive species, increasing water-based recreation and climate change are threatening the once-pristine waters found within our region.

Flowing It Forward: Navigating Water-Based Recreation & Aquatic Health in the Columbia Valley is a free, Wildsight-hosted event that aims to raise awareness and promote responsible stewardship of our waterways.

Being held on Sunday, March 30, the event will bring together experts, stakeholders and the local community for an afternoon of learning, collaboration and proactive discussions on the challenges facing Columbia Valley water.

With concerns ranging from whirling disease and invasive Zebra and Quagga mussels, to the disruption of native aquatic plants and wildlife, the health of our freshwater systems is at risk. Increasing water-based recreation, especially in high-use areas like Lake Windermere, can exacerbate these threats, compromising water quality and habitats for flora and fauna.

“Through Flowing it forward, we want to create a safe and inclusive space in which all the parties involved in these complex and interconnected issues can both learn and be heard,” said Alli Banting, Wildsight’s Columbia Valley Conservation Coordinator.

“Our hope is that this forum can facilitate positive and proactive discussions about the solutions available to us. Ultimately, we all benefit from having access to healthy and clean waterways.”

This event is for residents, visitors and anyone else with an interest in the health and stewardship of our local waterways. Flowing it forward will feature short presentations from professionals at the forefront of conservation and responsible recreation, including First Nations, Parks Canada, community groups and nonprofit organizations.

A facilitated discussion will create a space for open and meaningful dialogue between presenters and participants, while educational booths and demonstrations expand the learning and connection opportunities.

Flowing it Forward will be held on Sunday, March 30 from 2–5 p.m. at the Radium Hot Springs Centre. This event is free, but pre-registration is encouraged: wildsight.ca/Flowing-It-Forward

Lead image: Boats slice through the water on a sunny summer day at Lake Windermere. Photo credit: Pat Morrow

Article Share