Helping the environment through the Trust’s Environmental Initiatives Program
The Slocan Western Screech Owl Habitat Protection and Interpretation Project is one of 37 projects receiving support through Columbia Basin Trust’s Environmental Initiatives Program.
Thirty-seven projects will receive a combined total of $610,000 from Columbia Basin Trust’s Environmental Initiatives Program. These projects will help educate the public about the environment, or maintain or enhance the environment.
“The breadth of these projects demonstrates the many ways communities can address environmental issues,” said Sabrina Curtis, Trust Director, Sector Initiatives. “We applaud each of these groups for doing their part to improve our environmental well-being, for drawing in people of all ages and creating solutions that work for them.”
One of the approved projects is the Columbia Headwaters Watershed Protection Dialogues, initiated by the Lake Windermere Ambassadors Society. Supported by $15,000 from the Trust, this project involves increasing public awareness about the Columbia Headwaters watershed by offering events, workshops, guided watershed tours and other activities. It will bring together a diverse group of people who will continue to raise public awareness, engage the public and work together to manage the watershed.
“The people of the Columbia Headwaters watershed recognize that they live in a place of incredible natural beauty,” said Kirsten Joy Harma, Program Coordinator. “The Lake Windermere Ambassadors’ project aims to provide a forum for people to develop a new set of tools for protecting the region’s water resources and natural values for generations to come.”
Another approved project is the Slocan Western Screech Owl Habitat Protection and Interpretation Project, initiated by the Slocan Valley Heritage Trail Society (SVHST). Supported by $13,000 from the Trust, this project involves creating an Owl Walk with interpretive signage that will lead visitors, school groups and residents on an informative and enjoyable walk through Western Screech Owl habitat while educating them on the owl and its habitat.
“The Rail Trail will have one more special feature along its length to make exploring it even more enjoyable and interesting,” said Kurt Hilger, Project Coordinator. “SVHST is sponsoring the Slocan Western Screech Owl Project this summer, to create a self-directed educational Owl Walk using parts of the Rail Trail and Village of Slocan land. The aim is to protect critical Western Screech Owl habitat in the area while promoting environmentally friendly enjoyment of the trail.”
See the complete list of projects approved for funding.
Over the past 12 years, the Environmental Initiatives Program has provided over $5 million to help groups across the Basin conserve and restore the environment, promote stewardship and educate the public. For more information, visit cbt.org/eip. To learn more about the Trust’s other environmental priorities, visit cbt.org/environment.
