Amid concerns of threats to the Columbia Valley's waters, Wildsight will host "Flowing It Forward," on Sunday, March, 30 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Radium Hot Springs Centre, a free event for anyone interested in the health and stewardship of local waterways.
Wildsight says the combined impacts of invasive species, an increase in water-based recreation and climate change are threatening the "once-pristine" waters of the Columbia Valley.
Concerns include things like whirling disease and invasive species such as Zebra and Quagga mussels, as well as disruptions to native aquatic plants and wildlife.
An increase in water-based recreation, particularly in high-use places like Lake Windermere, is compounding these issues, further threatening water quality and the habitats of aquatic plants and wildlife.
"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.”
The event is open to any interested resident or visitor. It will bring together experts, stakeholders and community members for an educational afternoon, working towards collaborative and proactive discussions on the challenges facing this region's waterways.
Flowing it Forward will feature brief presentations from leading professionals in conservation and responsible recreation, including First Nations, Parks Canada, and various other community groups and non-profits.
A guided discussion will provide an opportunity for open and meaningful dialogue between presenters and participants, while educational booths and demonstrations will enhance learning and networking opportunities.
Pre-registration for this free event is encouraged and can be done at: wildsight.ca/Flowing-It-Forward
