Wildsight says waterways in the Columbia Valley are facing threats emerging from invasive species, increased recreational pressure and climate change.
In Lake Windermere specifically, a two-year study revealed that motorboats were causing environmental degradation on the lake bed.
“There are several critical impacts from intensive boating on Lake Windermere, particularly impacting ecological values like fish, birds and other aquatic life,” said Lake Windermere Ambassadors Program Manager Pam Saunders.
“The concerns of power boating on the lake are due to the lake’s shallow depth and soft bottom sediment.”
Meanwhile, the introduction of invasive species presents another looming threat to local waterways, with whirling disease, zebra mussels and quagga mussels are a particular concern.
While none have been found in local waterways yet, Wildsight feels invasive species and recreational pressure can be a dangerous combination.
“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,” said Wildsight.
“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.”
Wildsight is hosting an event aimed at raising awareness and promoting responsible stewardship in the Columbia Valley.
Flowing It Forward: Navigating Water-Based Recreation & Aquatic Health in the Columbia Valley will be held on Sunday, March 30 in the Radium Hot Springs Centre.
“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 will bring together experts, stakeholders, residents, visitors and anyone else interested in learning about local water stewardship.
“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,” said Wildsight.
The event will feature opportunities for attendees to ask questions and learn through various information booths.
The event is free, and you can register for Flowing it Forward here.
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