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EKISC hosting general meeting Oct. 24
East Kootenay Invasive Species Council (EKISC) showcasing public and industry responsibilities of invasive species management
First, to underscore the seriousness of the problem with invasive species we have to understand the impact.
The costs of invasive species, economically, socially, and environmentally, are increasing at an alarming rate; and the consequences of allowing the spread to continue are unimaginable. Nationally, millions of dollars annually are spent to manage the current invasive species we have.
Many of our recreational areas have been deemed unusable due to the impact of Zebra mussels; and our once flourishing agriculture land has been abandoned because of uncontrollable invasive plant infestations. We all play a role in helping prevent further damaging impacts of invasive species.
“Public awareness of invasive species is crucial,” said Jessie Paloposki, EKISC Education and Communications Manager. “In general, people are starting to become more aware of what is happening in their community, but we want to shed some light on what people can, and are, doing to help. Invasive species management works better when everyone is onboard.”
EKISC is hosting an October general meeting to highlight the successes and challenges of invasive species management in the Regional District of East Kootenay. They will have a guest speaker to talk about what industry is doing to comply with best management practices and what EKISC is doing to get industry players involved. They are extending a public invitation to anyone involved in invasive species management. There will be opportunities to network, ask questions to EKISC staff, and sign up for upcoming EKISC courses.
“Now is the time when we [EKISC staff and board] plan for the upcoming season,” said Paloposki, “We want to show the public what we’ve been up to and what we’re striving for next season; we will welcome feedback during the meeting.”
The general meeting is from 1 to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 24 (doors open at 12:15 p.m.) at the Manual Training Centre, Cranbrook.
There will be door prizes and light refreshments.
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