Columbia Basin Symposia

For the first time ever, the Trust offered three symposia instead of one, held in May and June in Cranbrook, Trail and Golden. The goal was to enable as many Basin residents as possible to join in the celebrations and conversations. Participants discussed the future of the region and what role the Trust may be able to play as we renew the Columbia Basin Management Plan. In addition, attendees enjoyed and Evening of Basin Culture including:

• Amazing food created with local ingredients.
• Hillbilly music from the Doggone Brothers.
• Foot-stomping tunes from the Maritime Kitchen Party.
• Entertaining offerings by locals Lucas Myers and Claire Dibble.
• Indigenous language and culture present by Bonnie Harvey, Ktunaxa Nation.
• Introspection and reflection from slam poet Zaynab Mohammed.
• Keynote address by Canadian comic Rick Mercer.

On October 13-15, 2017 we hosted the Columbia Basin Symposium in Kimberley, BC.

The event focused on SHIFT! Thriving in change. We had over 450 residents come together to discuss shared challenges our region faces; a changing climate, new technologies and shifting demographics. See photos.

In addition to Symposium, we also hosted An Evening of Basin Culture and Entertainment in Kimberley’s Platzl on October 14. The event was a celebration of Basin residents, culture and entertainment. See photos.

As a bonus to the weekend, on October 13, we were able to offer a FREE community event in Cranbrook for youth and community members  to see Col. Chris Hadfield before he presented at Symposium. See photos.

Nearly 300 people from communities throughout the Basin attended the 2010 Columbia Basin Symposium, “Shaping Our Future Together: Take Action, Build Partnerships, Strengthen Communities.” The Symposium took place October 22 to 24 in Revelstoke.

The 2007 Columbia Basin Symposium took place October 19 to 21 at Selkirk College in Castlegar. The event was a great opportunity for over 250 participants to share their perspectives on issues important to them, including climate change, labour force, changing demographics, effective community planning and affordable housing.