The East Kootenay Invasive Plant Council (EKIPC) is a conglomerate of government and non-governmental groups dedicated to the preservation of the natural ecosystems in the valley and the rest of the East Kootenay.
The role of these weed warriors is to preserve, protect, and prevent the further spread of invasive plant species that threaten the delicate balance of the ecosystem in the valley.
One of the major concerns for the EKIPC is the spread of Blueweed.
“Blueweed is quickly becoming widespread in many areas of the East Kootenay,” said Todd Larsen, EKIPC program co-ordinator. “These foreign plants are detrimental on a global scale and also pose “one of the biggest threats to bio-diversity after habitat loss.”
To help educate people on the processes implemented by the EKIPC in effectively eliminating these harmful species, an invitation has been extended to the public to join an exciting tour of specific treatment sites on Thursday, July 24th.
The East Kootenay resource sector is also highly involved in combating invasive species and the tour will showcase industry partner operations in the vicinity, including Teck and Fortis. “It’s so important to educate the public,” said Larsen. “These alien plants have a terrible impact on both agricultural crops and influence the forage of domestic and wild animals.”
The tour will leave from Tamarack Mall in Cranbrook at 8 a.m. and will return by 4 p.m. For those interested in combating invasive species, the cost is $15 per person, which includes lunch and transportation. lease contact Todd Larsen at coordinator@ekipc.com or 1-888-553-5472 to hold your seat.