Stop the Spread of Spiny-ray Fish Species

Our project addressed the threat of alien invasive fish species in the Shuswap watershed. To meet this end we continued with the multi-pronged, multi-agency approach to encompass our objectives of early detection, prevention, education and collaboration. Early detection was carried out by Splatsin band members under the direction of DFO who designed the sampling techniques and sampling schedule. The information collected was then used to detect population growth and expansion. Prevention was an exercise undertaken by KICS through education and engagement. Close to 4,000 school children partook in our spring and fall field trips to KIC and were educated about watersheds, aquatic entomology, forest ecology, First Nations, invasive species, salmon and more. Education and awareness was also offered to the over 2,000 summer visitors to the Centre. Invasive species information was also taken on the road to ten different events throughout the Okanagan and Lower Mainland. The whole project was a collaboration of government agencies, First Nations, and NGO’s. OPTIONAL Please give a short statement (up to 100 words) of the most compelling activity or outcome from your project.

The fundamental out come of this years’ project was the discovery of more yellow perch in Adams Lake. The location of this population is so close to our Adams River sockeye that it is essential that large lake control methods be explored before the population establishes itself. Quote of the year, made by a grade two student from ‘inner-city’ Vernon; “This place is just awesome! I’ve never been in a forest before!” This was the happiest child in the world. He will never forget that initial feeling when he first stepped off his bus into the forest (an unknown world to him). We feel such gratification knowing that his field trip the Kingfisher Interpretive Center probably changed his life!