Invasive-Species-Pull-Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society

Photo credit: Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society

Awarded to Valhalla Foundation for Ecology to reduce the threat of terrestrial and aquatic invasive plant species to ecosystem functions and microhabitats of species at risk including Coeur d’Alene Salamander and Western Painted Turtle

PROPONENT: Valhalla Foundation for Ecology

DESCRIPTION: Snk’mip Marsh is an incredibly precious wetland in a biodiverse nature sanctuary that contributes to the ecological integrity of the last un-dammed river system of the Columbia Basin. The multi-year restoration of the sanctuary has been a huge success to date, but ongoing stewardship and some additional enhancements are needed. On a planet where wetlands are disappearing at an alarming rate, it’s vital that we raise this ecosystem to its full potential for the large number of species, including species at risk, that so desperately need this rare type of habitat.

This project will reduce the threat of terrestrial and aquatic invasive plant species to ecosystem functions and microhabitats of species at risk including Coeur d’Alene Salamander and Western Painted Turtle; remove priority invasive plant species and revegetate with native species; enhance habitat for Western Painted Turtle; and enhance habitat for Coeur d’Alene Salamanders and Western Toads.

OBJECTIVE: This project has the following objectives:

    1. Delineate zones within the sanctuary for priority invasive plant control and restoration and implement manual removal and effectiveness monitoring via mapping.
    2. Revegetate with native grasses, shrubs and trees across all areas following invasive plant removal.
    3. Identify potential hibernacula for Coeur d’Alene Salamander and confirm presence. Apply biologist’s recommended habitat enhancements and treatment recommendations including eradication of invasive plant species.
    4. Identify potential nesting sites for Western Painted Turtle and breeding areas for Western Toad and apply biologist’s recommended habitat enhancements and treatment recommendations including eradication of invasive plant species.
    5. Obtain an expert assessment of the previous 6 years of restoration efforts with site-specific recommendations for future enhancements.
    6. Research and implement Western Painted Turtle habitat creation/enhancement and monitor project outcomes via site surveys and remote camera surveillance.
    7. Develop a stewardship plan for ongoing monitoring and restoration activities.