Photo credit: Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society

Awarded to the Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society to establish a long-term model for community led invasive plant removal, or Pulling Together events, in the Central Kootenays

PROPONENT: Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society

DESCRIPTION: This project focuses on mobilizing community involvement to help address the spread of invasive species with an initial focus on Scotch broom in the Kootenays. Scotch broom was introduced over a hundred years ago as an ornamental and has now spread across BC. As a result, scotch broom is identified as the top worst invasive species offender for impacts on the most species at risk (SAR) in the province. Currently, Scotch broom is concentrated along the west arm and the main lake of Kootenay Lake, although sites are scattered throughout the region, including the Slocan Valley. It is a priority to remove the smaller outlier infestations in order to limit the extent of the Scotch broom’s range and spread. It is also important to remove as much Scotch broom as possible to relieve the impacts of Scotch broom on native ecosystems throughout the region.

The overarching goal of this project is to establish a long-term model for community led invasive plant removal, or Pulling Together events, in the Central Kootenays. This program will focus on Scotch broom in order to simplify establishing a functioning model, tie into the existing BroomBusters program and address the particular issues of Scotch broom disposal. Scotch broom is colourful when in bloom, easy to identify, has significant impacts on the ecosystem, is a FireSmart concern and is highly satisfying and easy to control. If the model is successful, then there is the option to expand the program in the future to other species or to a multi-species approach.

OBJECTIVE: This project has the following objectives:

  1. Develop community knowledge and skills and increase the environmental literacy of local residents as part of the long-term solutions to tackle the double threat of climate change and invasive species.
  2. Provide a straightforward, easy to understand and action oriented opportunity to be a part of the solution to build a culture of hope and positivity.
  3. Reduce the impact of Scotch broom by increasing the regional capacity to remove it in all areas.
  4. Coordination and partnership building in the region.