Last week, the Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society (CSISS) marked a significant milestone by celebrating its 10th anniversary at Kovach Park in Revelstoke. The event brought together long-standing board members, dedicated staff, partner organizations, volunteers, friends and family.
Photo Caption: CSISS Staff and Board of Directors at a 10th Anniversary gathering in Revelstoke on June 15 2023.
The gathering served as a platform for reflecting on CSISS’s journey since its inception and sharing memorable moments from the past decade. We recognize the traditional lands of the Sinixt, the Ktunaxa, the Secwepemc and the Syilx in the region where we work, and are grateful for their partnerships and contributions to CSISS and look forward to more work together. In recognition of exceptional contributions, CSISS presented certificates of appreciation to the many individuals and organizations who have played pivotal roles in shaping the organization’s success at the anniversary celebration.
Photo 2. Nolan Novotny, giving an insect presentation at the celebration.
Resident entomologist and Field Technician, Nolan Novotny gave an enlightening presentation. Nolan captivated the attendees as he expanded their understanding of insects, showcasing their impressive diversity and vital significance in all (non marine) ecosystems on earth!
Following the enlightening talk, participants enjoyed a leisurely invasive plant bingo walk, where two attendees won vouchers to the CBEEN environmental education outdoor store. Together we shared a delicious lunch and cake provided by Community Connections, for which CSISS extends its gratitude to Austin Luciow.
Photo 3. Board of Directors Chair, Chris Cochran, Executive Director, Robyn Hooper, past Executive Director Natalie Stafl and Board of Directors member and past chair Hamish Kassa.
CSISS accomplishments at a glance in the past 10 years (2013-2022):
Outreach Program:
- 24,872 interactions
- 810 events, including 73 workshops, training sessions, and presentations, 51 youth education sessions, and 74 community weed pulls
- 389 news and radio appearances
Field Program:
- Conducted 6,612 invasive plant surveys
- Surveyed 2,137 sites
- Mechanically treated 237 sites
- Collected 739 plankton samples (no zebra and quagga mussels found!)
- Sampled 14 waterbodies
CSISS is proud of its accomplishments and the dedicated team that has made these achievements possible. The organization expresses deep gratitude to all those who have contributed to the CSISS journey. As the year progresses, CSISS invites everyone to join in the ongoing celebration of their 10-year anniversary.
For more photos of the event – check out our facebook page.
For media inquiries or more information, please contact: info@columbiashuswapinvasivespecies.org Robyn Hooper, Executive Director
The Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to the prevention, management and reduction of invasive species in the Columbia Shuswap Regional District. CSISS is thankful for the generous support of the Columbia Basin Trust, the Columbia Shuswap Regional District, the Province of BC, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, the Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC), the Shuswap Watershed Council, and other funders.
To learn more about invasive species in the Columbia Shuswap region please visit: http://www.columbiashuswapinvasives.org
