Restoration of moose habitat underway near Smithers landing
February 25, 2021
The Interior News
The 240-hectare project is just the beginning says Bulkley Valley Rod and Gun Club president.
Also See:
Restoration of moose habitat underway near Smithers landing – BC Local News
Quatse Estuary Trail renovations nearing completion
February 24, 2021
BC Local News
Port Hardy Bulldozing and Onsite Engineering have contracts on the project. Nature Trust BC, a non-profit dedicated to building a treasury of wild natural areas to conserve iconic and important species at risk, is leading the $400,000 project in partnership with the Kwakiutl First Nation. Funding is coming from a combination of the Coastal Restoration Fund from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, the province, and some COVID-19 related economic stimulus funding.
Kootenay Lake – Good Things Come to Those Who Bait
February 16, 2021
The Nelson Daily
The Kootenay Lake Angler Incentive Program (KLAIP) continues until June 2021, when the $50,000 Kingfisher boat package grand prize winner will be drawn. The four depots receiving the rainbow and bull trout heads have seen a total of 8,910 entries, which will give the juvenile kokanee a chance to grow. The program is designed to help the iconic kokanee salmon population to recover. Kootenay Lake’s adult kokanee populations collapsed in 2013.
February 16, 2021
Columbia Valley Pioneer
The judge ordered $5,800 of the $6,000 in fines to be paid into the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund, where the money will be directed back into projects for the enhancement and protection of fish, wildlife, and their habitat in the Columbia Valley.
Men plead guilty, fined, for moose kill
February 13, 2021
100 Mile Free Press
Men fined $7,500 and prohibited from hunting for two years, $5,700 of which went to the BC Habitat Conservation Trust Fund – Region 5 Moose Enhancement.
Greater Victoria program hosts free habitat mapping workshop
February 7, 2021
Victoria News
An online workshop on Feb. 10 will provide the tools to map habitats in the region like the one frequented by the rough-skinned newt.
Also See:
Greater Victoria program hosts free habitat mapping workshop – Oak Bay News
Bat researchers need your help
January 19, 2021
Delta Optimist
The BC Community Bat Program is asking residents of Delta, Surrey/White Rock, Langley, Abbotsford, and Chilliwack to be on the lookout for any more bats. Border communities are believed to be key to helping our program monitor White-nose Syndrome (WNS), a disease threatening BC bats.
Also See:
Program asks Aldergrove residents to report bat sightings – Aldergrove Star
Bat researchers need your help – Tricity News
Kootenay Lake fisherman Rick Taylor November winner in KLAIP
December 22, 2020
The Nelson Daily
The Kootenay Lake Angler Incentive Program was made possible by a grant from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF) to the BCWF.
BC men fined over $9K for snowmobiling in protected caribou area
December 17, 2020
Kamloops Now
One man was fined $5,050 after being found guilty of operating a snowmobile in a closed area, obstructing a Conservation Officer, and operating a snowmobile in a reckless manner. The other man was fined $4,000 for operating a snowmobile in a closed area. Of the $9,050 in fines, a total of $8,700 will go to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Also See:
BC men fined over $9K for snowmobiling in protected caribou area – KelownaNow
2 Williams Lake men fined for snowmobiling in mountain caribou-protected area – Terrace Standard
2 Williams Lake men fined for snowmobiling in mountain caribou-protected area – Williams Lake Tribune
Quatse Estuary Trail closed over winter for restoration work
December 14, 2020
Welland Tribune
The Quatse Estuary Trail will be closed from December 2020 to March or April 2021 while crews upgrade the walkway and bridge in an effort to restore the watershed.
Grand Forks grasslands purchased for wildlife conservation
December 2, 2020
Trail Times
Southern Interior Land Trust buys 86 acres of prime grazing land for California bighorn. Funds for the purchase also came from donors such as the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund, B.C. Conservation Foundation, Tom and Jenifer Foss, the Wild Sheep Society of B.C., Wild Sheep Foundation-Alberta, private donors, and the Government of Canada through its Natural Heritage Program.
Also See:
Grand Forks grasslands purchased for wildlife conservation – Rossland News
Land trust purchase near Grand Forks will protect Bighorn sheep habitat – infoNews.ca
Saving space for Bighorns – Castanet.net
Vancouver Island educators embrace outdoor education and learning outdoors
November 30, 2020
Vancouver Island Free Daily
The Campbell River School District has embraced the movement to incorporate nature into education.“We have many schools doing a wide array of activities outdoors,” said SD72 superintendent Jeremy Morrow at the Board of School Trustees’ Nov. 10 meeting.
Also See:
SD72 schools and educators embrace outdoor education and learning outdoors – Campbell River Mirror
Ducks Unlimited Canada concerned about viable Delta farmland
November 26, 2020
Delta Optimist
Winter in British Columbia signals the returns of millions of migrating birds to our province. This year’s return of an estimated 200,000-plus Lesser snow geese to the Fraser Delta highlights B.C.’s importance in maintaining their health and sustainability. While the return of such large numbers speaks to their success in breeding, their numbers are not without concern.
November 24, 2020
BC Local News
Dena Steenson was the lucky winner of the $1,000 gift certificates during the October draw of the Kootenay Lake Angler Incentive Program. The Kootenay Lake Angler Incentive Program was made possible by a grant from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF).
Also See:
Kootenay Angler Winner – Rossland News
Courtenay and partners on verge of historic purchase
November 20, 2020
Comox Valley Record
Courtenay council has approved a revised Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Courtenay, Project Watershed and the K’ómoks First Nation to enter into a binding agreement by Dec. 30 for the Kus-kus-sum project. Named after an ancient village, Kus-kus-sum aims to restore the former Field Sawmill site on the Courtenay River.
Fines, hunting prohibition given for poaching on Bowen Island
November 19, 2020
Bowen Island Undercurrent
A man has been fined $1,300 and prohibited from hunting for two years after pleading guilty to hunting out of season on Bowen Island and discharging a firearm in a no-shooting area.
November 17, 2020
My Campbell River Now
The Comox Valley Project Watershed Society says it will make its last fundraising push this month before the final payment for the property is due November 30th. With this in mind, their goal is to raise $100,000 by November 28th.
Provincial government strategy to save caribou herds missing its mark say environmental groups
November 16, 2020
Sun Peaks Independent News
Last year B.C.’s two southernmost caribou herds were announced extinct due to continued logging of old-growth forest, leaving the Northern Columbia caribou herd exposed to the same fate.
Fraser Valley Bald Eagle Festival is now self-guided tour
November 16, 2020
The Chilliwack Progress
While the iconic Fraser Valley Bald Eagle Festival is officially over, its spirit continues. Photographers, birdwatchers quietly observe area eagles.
Wolverine research study boosted by citizen science
November 13, 2020
Nelson Star
Funded by the Columbia Basin Trust, Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program, Habitat Conservation Trust Fund, and Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative. The South Columbia Mountains Wolverine Project started out using non-invasive genetic sampling of wolverine to estimate abundance and connectivity, and unmanned aerial vehicles to determine denning of wolverine. In recent years, the project has relied on citizen science observations collected through the online Wolverine Watch platform, which has been a wildly successful partnership.
Also See:
Wolverine research study boosted by citizen science – e-know.ca
Wolverine research study boosted by citizen science – Rossland Telegraph
Two men fined after hunting in residential area in Osoyoos
November 6, 2020
Penticton Herald
Two men from Surrey were handed hefty fines, totally more than $4,800, for a 2018 hunting violation that took place in Osoyoos.
Also See:
Two Surrey men heavily fined for 2018 Osoyoos hunting violation – Surrey Now-Leader
Two Surrey men heavily fined for 2018 Osoyoos hunting violation – Salmon Arm Observer
Two Surrey men heavily fined for 2018 Osoyoos hunting violation – Keremeos Review
October 21, 2020
Delta Optimist
As Halloween approaches and bat decorations appear, bat enthusiasts around B.C. are celebrating and supporting real bats by participating in International Bat Week (Oct. 24 to 31).
Celebrate Bat Week – Coast Reporter
Celebrate Bat Week – Nelson Star
October 18, 2020
e-Know.ca
The Kootenay Lake Angler Incentive Program was made possible by a grant from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF) to the BCWF.
Also See:
Kootenay Lake anglers report a Woodbury win – BC Local News
Facebook live event marks land acquisition in Perseverance Watershed
October 7, 2020
Comox Valley Record
Join the Cumberland Community Forest Society and project partners for a Facebook live event Friday to mark the collaboration, community and perseverance that has led to the protection of 225 acres of land and forest in the Perseverance Watershed in the unceded territory of the K’ómoks First Nation.
October 5, 2020
100 Mile Free Press
School is in session with about 30 students in attendance at the Lac La Hache Elementary school. They are adapting well to new rules and procedures. The Lac La Hache Elementary school is operating as a wild school on a three-year grant from Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF) Education, and have many learning sessions outdoors and more in the works.
How Canada’s grizzlies are faring during Fat Bear week
October 2, 2020
CBC (Quirks & Quarks)
Canadian grizzlies are healthy but have to work hard to coexist with humans in a crowded landscape.
Study Examines Recreational Impacts On Wildlife
September 28, 2020
National Parks Traveler
A Canadian study into how different forms of recreation affect wildlife indicates that animals avoid mountain bikers more than hikers, equestrians, and even motorized travelers. That said, the researchers also noted that they’re not sure how far wildlife will go out of its way to avoid these recreational users, as their monitoring was restricted to established trails in South Chilcotin Mountains Provincial Park in southwestern British Columbia.
Collaborative Perseverance Creek land purchase expands Cumberland Community Forest
September 28, 2020
Comox Valley Record
A major land purchase for the Cumberland Community Forest in the Village of Cumberland has been finalized. More than 225 acres of additional forested land has been acquired in the Perseverance Creek watershed for protection – the result of a collaborative partnership between conservation organizations, local governments, and a private timber company. The land purchase was championed by the Cumberland Community Forest Society (CCFS), a conservation organization formed 20 years ago by residents concerned about logging next to their community.
Also see:
$2.5 million addition made to Cumberland’s community forest – Vancouver Island Free Daily
Young bats turning up in unusual places
September 25, 2020
Penticton Herald
Are you seeing more bats around your house or property these days? You’re not alone. Mid- to late-summer is the time when landowners typically notice more bat activity, may have bats flying into their houses and occasionally find bats on the ground or roosting in unusual locations.
Camera traps show impact of recreational activity on wildlife
September 24, 2020
Science Daily
The COVID-19 pandemic has fired up interest in outdoor activities in our parks and forests. Now a new study highlights the need to be mindful of how these activities may affect wildlife living in protected areas. All wildlife tended to avoid places that were recently visited by recreational users. And they avoided mountain bikers and motorized vehicles significantly more than they did hikers and horseback riders.
UBCO researchers concerned about important prey and predator species in post-fire logging areas
September 23, 2020
UBC Okanagan News
Two caribous herds in north-central B.C. have drawn slightly more than $700,000 worth of attention from the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund.
Also see:
UBCO researchers concerned about important prey and predator species in post-fire logging areas – YubaNet.com
$700,000-plus earmarked for caribou restoration
September 21, 2020
Prince George Citizen
Two caribous herds in north-central B.C. have drawn slightly more than $700,000 worth of attention from the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund.
Excitement Grows Over Fall Fishing in Kootenay Lake
September 18, 2020
The Nelson Daily
The BC Wildlife Federation (BCWF) and its local member club, the West Arm Outdoors Club, are thrilled about the angling public’s response to their Kootenay Lake Angler Incentive Program (KLAIP).
Also see:
Excitement Grows Over Fall Fishing in Kootenay Lake – Trail Times
87 hectares of Pemberton Valley riverfront lands converted to conservation area
September 16, 2020
North Shore News
The riverfront lands will benefit at-risk wildlife, including grizzly bears, and protect the area from development
Also see:
Back to topAt-risk population of grizzly bears to benefit from successful conservation initiative in Pemberton Valley – The Nelson Daily
Fernie man fined $7,000 for wildlife act violations
September 14, 2020
The Free Press
A Fernie man has been slapped with a $7,000 fine after pleading guilty to multiple wildlife act violations in Terrace Provincial Court on Sep. 10.
Also see:
Kootenay man fined $7,000 for BC Wildlife Act violations – Victoria News
Fernie man pleads guilty to Wildlife Act violations – e-know.ca
Dangerous, difficult and disgusting — Tracking cougar kills gives insights into the big cats
September 11, 2020
CBC (Quirks & Quarks)
Tracking cougar kills in the wilderness of southern British Columbia involves some risk, some challenging terrain, and can be an assault on the senses. But for biologist Siobhan Darlington and her team, it’s a great way to learn more about the often mysterious big cats.
Tofino-Ucluelet region hops up to help frogs migrate under highway
September 9, 2020
BC Local News
The Pacific Rim National Park Reserve recently installed three tunnels under the highway between Tofino and Ucluelet to help amphibians migrate across the landscape without getting run over by motorists.
See also:
Frog tunnels installed near Tofino to keep amphibians safe while hopping under highway – Victoria News
New wildlife tunnels installed near Tofino, B.C., save amphibians from a deadly game of Frogger – CBC
New wildlife tunnels installed near Tofino, B.C., save amphibians from a deadly game of Frogger – Maharlika News
August 20, 2020
Coast Reporter
Mid to late summer is the time when residents typically notice more bat activity, may have bats flying into their houses, or occasionally find a bat on the ground or roosting in unusual locations.
Also see:
Bats on the move – Delta-Optimist
Kootenay Lake anglers incentive reels in plenty of interest
August 20, 2020
Nelson Star
Mid to late summer is the time when residents typically notice more bat activity, may have bats flying into their houses, or occasionally find a bat on the ground or roosting in unusual locations.
Also see:
Kootenay Lake anglers incentive reels in plenty of interest – Trail Times
B.C. government funding caribou habitat restoration projects
August 18, 2020
Global News
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation has announced funding for seven caribou habitat restoration projects to the tune of just over $1 million.
Mussel risk reminder issued in Shuswap after invasive species intercepted at inspection sites
August 18, 2020
Salmon Arm Observer
The public is being reminded of the risks zebra and quagga mussels pose to B.C. waterbodies after 10 watercraft were found carrying the invasive species at provincial inspection stations.
Threat of invasive mussels continues as domestic travel is encouraged
August 18, 2020
Revelstoke Mountaineer
Increased domestic travel due to the pandemic could see many more infested watercraft traveling west and increasing the risk of infesting British Columbia waters.
Volunteers needed to fight invasive species
July 24, 2020
Penticton Herald
Can you spare a little space under your dock? An environmental group focused on blocking invasive species from establishing themselves in the region is launching a citizen science initiative to help monitor Okanagan lakes.
Also see:
Volunteer to monitor for invasive mussels and clams in the Okanagan – Salmon Arm Observer
Caribou habitat restoration projects approved
July 16, 2020
BC Gov News
With funding from the B.C. government, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation has approved seven more projects that will help restore caribou habitat in British Columbia, through the organization’s Caribou Habitat Restoration Fund. This round of grants totals almost $1.1 million (see details in backgrounder). The Province has committed $8.5 million over three years to the foundation to support this type of work.
Also see:
B.C. government committing $8.5M over three years for caribou habitat restoration – Canadian Forest Industries
7 more projects to receive funding for caribou habitat restoration – CASTANET.net
Habitat Conservation Trust hands out grants to support caribou habitat – Energetic City.ca
$1.1 million for caribou projects – Alaska Highway News
Province announces $1.1 million in funding to restore caribou habitat – Salmon Arm Observer
Seven more projects to receive funding for caribou habitat restoration in B.C. – The Province
Seven more projects to receive funding for caribou habitat restoration in B.C. – Toronto Star
Kootenay angler’s program off to a great start
July 15, 2020
Trail Times
The first lucky winner of the new Kootenay Lake Angler Incentive Program is local Dave Johnston from Grey Creek. Johnston picked up the June prize of gift certificates to local businesses worth $1,000 from the Gill ‘N Gifts depot.
Also see:
Vernon learning program receives grant for aquatic ecosystem study – CASTANET.net
Okanagan Wildlife will benefit from environmental projects
July 14, 2020
Penticton
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation announced new funding to go towards conservation efforts across the province, including the South Okanagan and Similkameen. The $9.2 million will go towards over 180 conservation projects, focused on the individual wildlife species, freshwater fish and habitat conservation.
Also see:
South Okanagan to benefit from $9 million conservation funding – Times-Chronicle
South Okanagan to benefit from $9 million conservation funding – Oliver Chronicle
South Okanagan to benefit from $9 million conservation funding – Osoyoos Times
Four new conservation studies planned for Okanagan – The Daily Courier
Four new conservation studies planned for Okanagan – UBC in the News
Funding for 180 Conservation Projects Across B.C. released – CASTANET.net (Penticton)
Funding for 180 Conservation Projects Across B.C. released – CASTANET.net (Kamloops)
Funding for 180 Conservation Projects Across B.C. released – CASTANET.net (Kelowna)
Funding for 180 Conservation Projects Across B.C. released – CASTANET.net (Vernon)
Fire suppression efforts, timber extractions and highways changing life for declining mule deers – INFO News.ca
Southern Interior Mule Deer Research Project Underway – Tree Frog
Southern Interior Mule Deer Research Project Underway – ABCFP E-Newsletter
Grizzlies change habits to coexist with people—but is it enough?
July 6, 2020
UBC News
Researchers have determined that bear populations near people need two things to survive—adaptive behaviour to become nocturnal and immigrant bears moving into their region.
Also see:
Grizzly bears pay a high price to coexist with humans, new research shows – Folio.ca (University of Alberta)
UBCO research: Bears change behaviour when people are near – The Daily Courier
Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation fund projects throughout Skeena Region
June 25, 2020
My Bulkley Lakes Now
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation has announced $9.2 million in funding for more than 180 individual wildlife, freshwater fish, and habitat conservation projects across the province.The HCTF is also partnering with the Forest Enhancement Society of BC to support the Bulkley Valley Centre for Natural Resources and Management in efforts to restore endangered whitebark pine ecosystems in the Skeena Region.
Also see:
Funding announced to help save whitebark pine in the Skeena Region – CFNR
Funding announced to help save whitebark pine in the Skeena Region – ABCFP E-Newsletter
Conservation groups contribute to Comox Valley projects
June 24, 2020
Comox Valley Record
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and the Forest Enhancement Society of B.C. work together to improve wildlife habitat. Locally, the groups have funded projects to estimate cougar populations and to re-establish Vancouver Island marmots. HCTF recently announced $9.2 million in funding for 180 projects around the province — 31 of them on Vancouver Island
Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation’s Enhancement and Restoration Grant Program (Canada)
June 21, 2020
FundsForNGOs
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF) has announced a call for proposals for Enhancement and Restoration (E&R) Grant Program.
Also see:
Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation’s Enhancement and Restoration Grant Program (Canada) – Concoursn
New two-year plan to guide Mission Creek restoration efforts
June 18, 2020
CASTANET.net
Following the successful completion of phase one of the Mission Creek restoration initiative, partners are now working on a two-year plan to guide future restoration efforts within lower Mission Creek.
Human/Grizzly Bear Coexistence Project in Kootenays receives funding
June 18, 2020
The Nelson Daily
Through cooperation with conservation groups like FESBC, HCTF is able to support projects such as the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development’s study of grizzly bear mortality in the Kootenay region.
Also see:
Human/Grizzly Bear Coexistence Project in Kootenays receives funding – Castlegar Source
Human/Grizzly Bear Coexistence Project in Kootenays receives funding – Tree Frog
Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation provides $9.2 mllion to environmental projects – Cranbrook Townsman
Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation provides $9.2 mllion to environmental projects – Kimberley Bulletin
Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation provides $9.2 mllion to environmental projects – ABCFP E-Newsletter
Trust Foundation to fund habitat projects
June 11, 2020
Richmond Sentinel
Through cooperation with partners like the Forest Enhancement Society of BC, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation is able to support conservation projects such as the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development’s (FLNRORD) study of Northern Goshawk in South Coastal BC.
Also see:
Funding for South Coastal Northern Goshawk Research – Tree Frog
Funding for South Coastal Northern Goshawk Research – ABCFP E-Newsletter
Foundation supports West Kootenay conservation
June 10, 2020
BC Local News
A number of conservation efforts will be launched in the West Kootenay after the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation released $9.2M in funding for more than 180 individual wildlife, freshwater fish, and habitat conservation projects across the province this year.
Also see:
Revelstoke-area wildlife monitoring projects receive funding – Revelstoke Review
Foundation supports West Kootenay conservation – Trail Times
Conservation projects in B.C. receive $9.2M in funds from Victoria-based foundation
June 7, 2020
Victoria News
Over $9 million in funding will go to more than 180 wildlife, freshwater fish and habitat conservation projects across B.C. this year… One of the organizations being funded is the Marmot Recovery Foundation, which is trying to re-establish the critically endangered Vancouver Island marmot in Strathcona Provincial Park.
Also See:
Conservation projects in B.C. receive $9.2M in funds from Victoria-based foundation – Oak Bay News
Conservation projects in B.C. receive $9.2M in funds from Victoria-based foundation – Saanich News
Conservation projects in B.C. receive $9.2M in funds from Victoria-based foundation – Sooke News Mirror
Conservation projects in B.C. receive $9.2M in funds from Victoria-based foundation – Goldstream News Gazette
Conservation projects in B.C. receive $9.2M in funds from Victoria-based foundation – BC Local News
Conservation projects in B.C. receive $9.2M in funds from Victoria-based foundation – Vancouver Island Free Daily
Conservation projects in B.C. receive $9.2M in funds from Victoria-based foundation – Peninsula News
$9.2 M for B.C. Conservation Projects Including Endangered Vancouver Island Marmot Recovery – Tree Frog
Bighorn sheep undergoing COVID-like test
June 5, 2020
100 Mile Free Press
Sick people aren’t the only ones getting tested with deep nasal swabs. Bighorn sheep from Lillooet all the way to Williams Lake, along both sides of the Fraser River, are having their nasal cavities tested for disease.
Also See:
Bighorn sheep undergoing COVID-like test – The Williams Lake Tribune
Angler incentive project launched on Kootenay Lake
June 1, 2020
Rossland News
Kootenay Lake anglers can help restore the kokanee fishery by keeping their catch, and win some attractive prizes while they’re at it.
Also See:
Kootenay Lake Angler Incentive Program: Catch a contest entry with your fish – The Nelson Daily
Angler incentive project launched on Kootenay Lake – Nelson Star
Kootenay Lake angler incentive program beginning – e-know.ca
B.C. Bat Count seeks bat roosts and volunteers
May 29, 2020
Coast Reporter
It can be difficult to know how to help endangered wildlife such as the little brown bat. One simple way to support bats is to participate in the Annual B.C. Bat Count. The Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project, in coordination with the B.C. Community Bat Program, is requesting roost reports and volunteer assistance for this valuable citizen-science initiative.
Mule deer research project well underway in Cache Creek area
May 27, 2020
The Ashcroft-Cache Creek Journal
The project looks to identify the effect of wildfire on mule deer habitat selection and population growth, and is also being conducted in the Boundary Region and West Okanagan. In the Bonaparte Plateau, where the Elephant Hill wildfire burned 192,000 hectares in 2017, the deer range from Cache Creek to Clinton and as far north as Lone Butte and Interlakes.
Also see:
‘Probably the biggest mule deer project to ever occur in this province’ – 100 Mile House Free Press
Cariboo Chilcotin region receives funding for fisheries, wildlife habitat projects
May 21, 2020
The Williams Lake Tribune
Fisheries and wildlife habitat enhancement projects across the Cariboo Chilcotin are being made possible through the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF).
Cariboo Chilcotin region receives funding for fisheries, wildlife habitat projects – Quesnel Cariboo Observer
Cariboo Chilcotin region receives funding for fisheries, wildlife habitat projects – BC Local News
BC bats don’t spread COVID-19 says Kootenay Bat Project
May 19, 2020
Kimberley Bulletin
The Kootenay Community Bat Project is concerned that the COVID-19 pandemic is shining a negative spotlight on bats in BC, and it could lead to unfounded fear and persecution of bats.
Also see:
BC bats don’t spread COVID-19 says Kootenay Bat Project – Cranbrook Daily Townsman
B.C. bats not to blame for COVID-19; in fact, bats need our help – Barriere Star Journal
B.C. bats not to blame for COVID-19; in fact, bats need our help – BC Local News
B.C. wildlife, fish and habitat conservation projects get $9.2M boost
May 13, 2020
Prince George Matters
More than 180 individual wildlife, freshwater fish and habitat conservation projects across B.C. will benefit from $9.2 million in funding. The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation announced the investment today (May 13), calling it “no small feat.”
Also See:
$9.2 Million for Wildlife, Fish and Habitat Including Fishers in the BC Interior – Tree Frog
$9.2m for wildlife projects– CASTANET.net (Kamloops)
$9.2m for wildlife projects– CASTANET.net (Kelowna)
Habitat Conservation Trust approves $9.2 million in projects across B.C. – Prince George Daily News
Outdoors licences will help fund steelhead and other projects in Kamloops region – Kamloops This Week
Nearly $10M of funding announced for wildlife and habitat conservation projects in BC – Kamloops Now
Nearly $10M of funding announced for wildlife and habitat conservation projects in BC – Kelowna Now
Nearly $10M of funding announced for wildlife and habitat conservation projects in BC – Shuswap Now
Nearly $10M of funding announced for wildlife and habitat conservation projects in BC – Victoria Now
Nearly $10M of funding announced for wildlife and habitat conservation projects in BC – Penticton Now
Dan Buffett Interview – Randio NL 610 Am
Rich Weir Interview – CBC Radio Kamloops
Bats unfairly ‘persecuted’ via COVID-19 fears
Apr 18, 2020
Burnaby Now
The BC Community Bat Program would like to remind people that they are here to answer your questions and collect reports on bat sightings, bat roosts, and dead bats.We would also like to share current, accurate information about bats in B.C., and issues around bat and human health. Our program strives to educate people about bats and dispel misinformation that may lead to persecution of bats.
Also See:
Bats unfairly ‘persecuted’ via COVID-19 fears – Tricity News
Bats unfairly ‘persecuted’ via COVID-19 fears – Vancouver Courier
Company fined $175K, driver must pay $20K after spilling jet fuel into BC Creek– CBC News
Don’t blame the bats for COVID-19: B.C.’s bat people – Richmond News
Comox Valley organization continues to raise funds for land purchase
Apr 15, 2020
Comox Valley Record
Despite the coronavirus pandemic, the Comox Valley Project Watershed Society remains confident that it can raise enough money to restore the former Field Sawmill site on the Courtenay River. The final payment for the Kus-Kus-Sum property — named after an ancient village in the area — is $1 million, due at the end of June.
Vancouver Island group raises money to buy beloved forest lands from logging company
Apr. 13, 2020
CBC News
A group of Vancouver Islanders are not letting the COVID-19 pandemic interfere with plans to expand their strategy of preserving the forestry lands surrounding their village. Latest fundraiser garnered over $2M for 91.4 hectares of forest, including part of Perseverance Creek (interview with Meaghan Cursons)
Episode 5: Who Pays to Fund Fish, Wildlife and Habitat Initiatives in BC?
Apr 4, 2020
Faces of Wildlife
On this episode, Mike chats with Brian Springinotic. The HCTF exists because its major contributors (hunters, anglers, trappers, and guide-outfitters) were willing to pay for conservation work above and beyond that expected by the government for basic management of wildlife and fish resources.
Trucking Company fined $175K for Kootenay creek fuel spill
Feb. 26, 2020
Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows News
An aviation fuel company has pleaded guilty to spilling fuel into a mountain stream in the Slocan Valley seven years ago and handed a hefty fine by a provincial court judge. The company made the plea in Nelson Provincial Court and has been fined $175,00. $10,000 will be directed to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, and due 2021.
Also See:
Trucking company fined $175K for Kootenay creek fuel spill– The Abbotsford News
$195K in fines for fuel spill– Castanet
Company fined $175K, driver must pay $20K after spilling jet fuel into BC Creek– CBC News
Alberta trucking company fined $175,000 for fuel spill in BC’s Slocan Valley– Vancouver Sun
Kootenay Community Bat Program asking the public to report bat sightings
Feb. 6, 2020
Cranbrook Daily Townsman
The Kootenay Community Bat Project (KCBP) is once again asking Kootenay residents for help in the monitoring of White-nose Syndrome (WNS), a fungal disease that is responsible for the death of millions of bats in eastern North America. Signs of the disease include unusual bat activity in winter and the appearance of dead bats outdoors as they succumb to the effects of WNS.
Wanted: Reports of dead bats and winter bat sightings
Feb. 5, 2020
East Kootenay News Online Weekly
Public help is essential for bat disease monitoring, says the Kootenay Community Bat Project. BC bats are threatened by disease, and researchers continue to ask the public for help. If you find a dead bat, report it to the KCBP (www.bcbats.ca)
Richmond man fined $8K for wounding mule deer doe in stomach with crossbow
Dec 27, 2019
CBC News
A Richmond, BC man was fined $8,000 earlier this month for wounding a mule deer doe in the stomach with a crossbow in November 2018. The resident has permission to hunt in the area but did not have a licence to hunt mule deer. Among paying the fine, he received a four-year hunting prohibition.
Season’s Greetings: Rural school heart of Big Lake community
Dec 26, 2019
The Williams Lake Tribune
This year marks the second year that the school has been a Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation Wild School. Over the last few years, the foundation has supported the school with Get Outdoors grants which helped purchase backpacks that have dip nets, tweezers, and specimen jars.
Invasive English holly poses threat to Island’s eco-system
Dec 12, 2019
Sooke News Mirror
Neil West bends down and buries his fingers into the forest floor and picks up a handful of English Holly. It is a non-native plant, and leaving it to propagate will only lead to more problems for indigenous species. There are an estimated 400 English holly sites on Vancouver Island covering an area of more than 300 hectares.
Also See:
Invasive English holly poses threat to Island’s eco-system– Peninsula News
Five years after rock slide, Seymour River now passable for migrating fish
Dec 6, 2019
North Shore News
On December 7, 2014, 80,000 cubic meters of canyon wall came crashing down, choking the Seymour River to a trickle. Within six hours of the slide, an 850-meter-long lake formed north of the slide site, 10 meters deep in some parts, and covering two hectares. That spring, the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC named the Seymour one of the most endangered rivers in the province, not just for the fish but for the otters, bears, minks, and eagles that feed on them. With grants secured, work began on clearing the rock, installing a fish fence, and removing the twin bridge.
Poacher fined for killing cow moose west of Kelowna
Dec 5, 2019
KelownaNow
A poacher has been fined $1,500 after killing a cow moose out of season in the Okanagan. The Conservation Officer Service (COS) said the poacher, a status Frist Nations individual, made the kill near Jackpine Lake. The proceeds of the fine will to go to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Man handed $4K fine and 5-year hunting probation for poaching BC Moose
Dec 5, 2019
KamloopsNow
The unnamed poacher, from Agassiz, pleaded guilty to hunting wildlife outside of open season back in 2017. He has now been fined $4k and given a five-year hunting probation, the Conservation Officer Service said. The moose he poached was in Dawson Creek.
BC man fined, banned from hunting for killing therapy dog mistaken for wolf
Dec 5, 2019
Global News
A Squamish, BC hunter found guilty for fatally shooting a therapy dog he mistook for a wolf in 2017 has been fined more than $4,000 and is banned from hunting for four years. Jordan Jensen was found guilty on Tuesday of two counts under the Wildlife Act: hunting wildlife while not within open season, and hunting without reasonable consideration of the lives, safety or property of others. He has also been ordered to pay $1,500 to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Agassiz man receives a conviction for poaching in Dawson Creek in 2017
Dec 6, 2019
Energetic City
An Agassiz man who pleaded guilty in court for poaching a moose in Dawson Creek in 2017 was issued a $4,000 fine and a five-year hunting prohibition. The COS reports the man pleaded guilty to hunting wildlife, not within an open season. Of the fine, $3,000 was ordered to be paid to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
‘It’s ridiculous’: BC tour operator fined $35K for baiting black bears for customers to view
Nov. 29, 2019
CBC News
It’s the largest fine amount handed to a person or company in BC for attracting dangerous wildlife. “When you start putting that any bears in one area, it is a definite safety concern”. The court ordered the company to create an anti-bear baiting policy and to be subject to inspections by conservation officers.
BC tour company ordered to pay $35K for using bait to attract bears
Nov. 29, 2019
The Canadian Press
The BC Conservation Officer Service says a guiding company in the province has received the highest-ever fine imposed by a BC court for using bait to attract bears. A statement from the service says a judge in Clearwater imposed a $35,000 fine this week on Russell and Debra Critchlow.
Also See:
BC tour company ordered to pay $35K for using bait to attract bears– Vancouver Sun
BC tour company ordered to pay $35K for using bait to attract bears– CFJC Today
BC tour company ordered to pay $35K fine for using bait to attract bears– CityNews
BC guiding company hit with record $25K fine for using bait to attract bears– CTVnews
Local wildlife tour company fined– The Rocky Mountain Goat News
BC tour company fined $35K for baiting bears with food
Nov. 28, 2019
Daily Hive
A BC tour company has been fined $35K after it was found guilty of baiting bears with human food in an attempt to give its clients “better viewing opportunities”. In its statement, the BCCOS said wildlife tour operators “have a responsibility to ensure they conduct business in a lawful manner that is safe for clients, staff, and the public.
BC Tour company fined $35K for baiting bears with peanut butter, meatballs
Nov. 28, 2019
Victoria News
A wildlife company near Clearwater has been handed a $35,000 fine for baiting bears, making the largest fine amount ever delivered in a BC court for attracting dangerous wildlife. Officers used electronic surveillance during the investigation and provincial court in Clearwater heard the company used cranberries, peanut butter and meatballs to attract the bears.
BC tour company fined $35K for baiting bears with peanut butter, meatballs
Nov. 28, 2019
Coast Mountain News
Siblings Russell and Debra Critchlow were each ordered to pay $17,400 to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and were then fined an extra $200. BCCOS began investigating in August 2017 after receiving a complaint the wildlife tour company had been baiting bears to increase sighting opportunities for clients.
BC Wildlife tour company fined $35K for baiting bears
Nov. 26, 2019
Kelowna Now
A wildlife tour company in the BC Interior has been handed a hefty fine for baiting bears in what the BC Conservation Officer Service calls a “precedent-setting case”. Blue River Safari’s two owners were both ordered to pay the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation $17,400.
CSISS wraps up invasive mussel sampling for 2019
Nov. 19, 2019
Revelstoke Mountaineer
No invasive mussels were found in the Columbia Shuswap region over the summer. The Columbia Shuswap Invasive Society (CSISS) sampled across the region this summer in the search for invasive mussels (Zebra and Quagga mussels). So far, the society says it has not found any. Invasive mussels could severely impact the enjoyment of lakes and rivers, damage native ecosystems, and cost millions annually in management if they ever got into BC waters.
Ph.D. student’s wolverine research subject of a documentary at the Banff Film Festival
Oct. 23, 2019
University of Calgary- Faculty of Science
The “cool factor” of the mountain-dwelling wolverine is part of what motivates Mirjam Barrueto, a Ph.D. student working with Dr. Marco Musiani, Ph.D., in the Department of Biological Sciences. She began her Ph.D. in 2017, working with Musiani’s group to study how human activities impact wolverines, specifically breeding females. Her work will be showcased in Chasing a Trace, a documentary by award-winning filmmaker Leanne Allison, at the Banff Film Festival on Oct. 26. The initial year of the project saw contributions from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, along with other partners.
Sooke workshop shows you how to discover animal signs in the forest
November 14, 2019
Victoria News
A November talk will teach participants how to read animal signs in the forest, with an emphasis on the Columbia black-tailed deer, Roosevelt elk, American black bear, cougar, and the Vancouver Island wolf. The Essence of Animal Communication is on November 30th at Charters River Salmon Interpretive Center, 2895 Sooke River Road presented by wildlife advocate Gary Schroyen.
Protect Our Waters from Invasive Species
November 6, 2019
The Boundary Sentinel
For the past few years, the Boundary Invasive Species Society has been taking water samples from Jewel Lake and Idabel Lake to check for the presence of invasive zebra and quagga mussels. They have also installed a substrate sampler in the lakes for the summer season. These mussels are found in three Eastern Canadian provinces and at least 24 American states.
Bat House building workshop in DC
November 6, 2019
Dawson Creek Mirror
The Timberline Trail and Nature Club held a bat house building workshop on Saturday, October 26 at McQueen’s Slough. Bat Week is all about appreciating these amazing animals and their benefits, from eating insects to pollinating the agave plant used to make tequila. Attend a bat talk, help restore a wetland, visit a roost site, prepare your bat house for next spring. There are many ways to participate and the Peace Region has been getting organized.
Students, teachers loving outdoor classroom space in Lake Country
October 31, 2019
BC Local News
The outdoor classroom was part of the Clearwater Park and trail project, a collaboration between the District of Lake Country, Walk Around Lake Country, Rotary Club of Lake Country and Ecole Peter Greer Elementary. To build on the outdoor classroom design provided by the district for the park space, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (Wild Schools) helped with some of the knowledge-building in the space around locals plants and animals.
Province issues $40,000 in environmental fines in the Peace in the first three months of 2019
October 30, 2019
Alaska Highway News
There was more than $40,000 in environmental penalties and tickets issued in the Peace region in the first quarter of 2019. Information released by the ministry shows officers handed out 79 tickets, and five sanctions and penalties against individuals and industry between January 1 and March 1. There were another four environmental orders issued and four court convictions.
Grizzly bear fieldwork wraps for the year
October 29, 2019
Bridge River Lillooet News
Participants in the Grizzly Bear Hair Snag Project met at Xaxl’ip Hall on Oct. 17th to celebrate the wrap-up of the 2019 effort with a slide show, dinner, presentations, and plenty of memories. The DNA monitoring project focusses on the small, genetically isolated Stein Nahaltlatch population of 17-20 bears which is in decline and is the most endangered in Canada.
October 25, 2019
Castanet
As human-bear conflicts rise in the Okanagan and across the province, one woman is doing her part to help keep things civil. Gillian Sanders runs Grizzly Bear Solutions, and for the past few weeks, she has been traveling across BC to demonstrate the benefits of bear-deterring electric fences. Sanders’ workshops are funded by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
October 22, 2019
East Kootenay News Online Weekly
As Halloween approaches, bat enthusiasts around B.C. are celebrating and supporting bats by participating in International Bat Week (October 24-31st). Bat Week is all about appreciating these amazing animals and their benefits, from eating insects to pollinating the agave plant used to make tequila.
Also See:
Bat Week? It’s for the bats– Creston Valley Advance
Bat Week? It’s for the bats– Kimberley Bulletin
Bat Week in B.C. – Trail Times
Alberta man pleads guilty, fined for hunting without a licence in North Island
October 21, 2019
Surrey Now-leader
An Alberta man pled guilty in Port Hardy Provincial Court to hunting without a licence. The COS added that on Oct. 1st the man was sentenced to pay $2,501 with $2,500 being directed to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation. The man owned property on North Vancouver Island, however, he maintained a business and access to government services in Alberta, all while continuing to hunt in Alberta as a resident as well.
Province funding $6.5 million for caribou habitat restoration
October 18, 2019
Revelstoke Review
The ministry of forests has provided $6.5 million over three years for caribou habitat restoration in B.C. The foundation is accepting applications now for the second round of habitat restoration projects. The deadline is November 1st.
Province to provide $6.5 million for caribou habitat restoration
October 16, 2019
Energeticcity
The Province of BC has announced that it will be providing $6.5 million over three years for caribou habitat restoration. According to the Government, the funding will be administered to qualifying organizations through the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation’s Caribou Restoration Fund. Applications for funding can be made to the HCTF by no later than November 1, 2019.
B.C. calls for new caribou habitat restoration projects
October 16, 2019
Coast Mountain News
The BC government is taking applications for a $6.5 million fund to restore caribou habitat and protect the endangered animals from predators. Applications are being accepted until Nov. 1 from communities, first nations and non-profit groups by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation’s caribou habitat restoration fund, the forests ministry announced Wednesday.
Species at risk get a boost in the Kootenays
October 11, 2019
Kimberley Bulletin
The Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP) has recently been awarded $22 million over four years in ta federal Environment and Climate Change Canada grant to protect and restore species-at-risk habitat and ecological connectivity in four biodiversity hotspots in the Kootenays.
Also See: Species at risk get a boost in the Kootenays
Similkameen Property purchased by conservation group gets official name
October 9, 2019
Summerland Review
On Sept. 28, the Southern Interior Land Trust (SILT) named the property the R.E. Taylor Conservation Property to honour wildlife conservationist Ron Taylor. Located on a flat valley bottomland near Olalla, the property is home to several special at risk, including the yellow-breasted chat, western screech owl, Lewis’s woodpecker, barn owl, badger, and common night walk.
Bear spray know-how focus of PG workshop
October 5, 2019
CKPG Today
Gillian Sanders is to present a workshop on the proper techniques of using bear spray.
Fire fine lights up conservation initiatives
October 3, 2019
The Columbia Valley Pioneer
A year after Radium Resort was ordered to pay $190,000 to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation after a toxic fire on the resport’s property, a portion of the fine has been directed to deer monitoring and conservation programs in the Valley. The court-ordered environmental funding was specifically intended for HCTF to direct toward fish, wildlife and habitat initiatives in the area.
October 1, 2019
Prince George Citizen
A free workshop will be held at Spruce City Wildlife in Prince George on Friday and Saturday in Vanderhoof at the College of New Caledonia to answer questions regarding how to avoid conflicts with bears. The free workshops provided by Grizzly Bear Solutions are supported by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
September 28, 2019
Castanet
Four hardworking members of the Okanagan Similkameen Stewardship Society and local volunteers planted almost 300 native plants along Deep Creek at O’Keefe Rance on Saturday to celebrate BC Rivers Day. The trees, shrubs, and plants come from Sagebrush Nursery in Oliver, part of an effort to restore the area.
BC Moose Tracker app aids in management
September 18, 2019
MyBulkleyLakesNow
With the BC Moose Tracker app, hunters can input observations on the kind of moose they see during an outing and how long they spend in the bush. The app detects which Management Unit (MU) the user is in. The app was launched in August 2016 as an inexpensive way of gathering more information to aid moose management.
App helps province monitor moose populations
September 18, 2019
Houston Now
The province is allowing hunters to upload information about moose that they see with the help of an app. The Moose Tracker app allows users to upload the number, sex, and location of the moose in a database. The data will help the province monitor moose populations and alert staff of issues. The BC Wildlife Federation and the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation helped fund the BC Moose Tracker app.
Also See: BC Moose Tracker app aids in management
New data on elk to help species, numerous organizations
September 12, 2019
Cranbrook Townsman
Wildlife groups in the Elk Valley hope that new data from a four-year collaring study will help shed light on the solutions necessary to help elk populations bounce back, as well as benefit numerous organizations. The study began in 2016 and involved collaring roughly 70 elk. In addition to monitoring migratory and movement patterns, the study also helped the organization gain a better understanding of how elk in the area are dying.
Cowichan Coffee Time: Cadets, cavassers, nature and more.
September 7, 2019
Lake Cowichan Gazette
More BC families will get outdoors to explore, learn and take action for nature, thanks to a $37,977 grant to NatureKids Bc’s Nature Clubs program. The program’s network of more than 25 volunteer-led nature clubs encourages kids and their families to learn about B.C’s wildlife, plants, and wild spaces by connecting with the outdoors. On Vancouver Island, there are Nature Clubs located in Victoriam Port Alberni, Nanaimo, Cowichan, and Comox Valley.
Helping wildlife in the Kootenays
September 1, 2019
East Kootenay News Online Weekly
Throughout the summer, young people are working hard to care for conservation lands as part of the Nature Trust of BC Conservation Youth Crews. The crews perform on-the-ground work as well as attending workshops from specialists in the field on topics such as bird counts, and forest and wetland ecology. In 2019, Conservation Youth Crews are operating on Vancouver Island, Lower Mainland, Okanagan, and Kootenays. The Nature Trust is pleased to have the support from HCTF and other organizations.
Got Bats? Province-wide bat conservation program gets big boost
August 26, 2019
Vancouver is Awesome
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and Forest Enhancement Society of BC have just given over $185,000 in grants to organizations protecting the threatened bat species in B.C. Part of a multi-million dollar investment into wildlife conservation projects, the grants will be used to help monitor bat populations, bat conservation, and support research to end white-nose syndrome.
Also See: Got Bats? Province-wide bat conservation program gets big boost– Vancouver Courier
August 25, 2019
Castanet
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and Forest Enhancement Society of BC have just given over $185,000 in grants to organizations protecting the threatened bat species in BC. Part of a multi-million dollar investment into wildlife conservation projects, the grants will be used to help monitor bat populations, bat conservation, and support research to end white-nose syndrome.
Kootenay Conservation Program offers free online tool
August 24, 2019
Trail Times
The Kootenay Conservation Program has developed a free online tool to help communities care for their properties in ways that benefit wildlife, water, and wild spaces. The Stewardship Solutions online toolkit is a portal to the list of Kootenay-based services and programs that address stewardship issues on private land.
Project boosting bat conservation in B.C.
August 22, 2019
East Kootenay News
Organizations working to protect B.C.’s threatened bat species just got a boost-over $185,000 in grants to monitor bat populations, encourage public participation in bat conservation and support research into a promising new probiotic that could prevent white-nose syndrome. The grants are part of a multi-million dollar investment by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and Forest Enhancement Society of BC into wildlife conservation projects happening this year.
Kootenay Conservation Program develops free online tool to help communities
August 21, 2019
Creston Valley Advance
The Kootenay Conservation Program has developed a free online tool to help communities care for their properties in ways that benefit wildlife, water, and wild spaces. The Stewardship Solutions online toolkit is a portal to the list of Kootenay-based services and programs that address stewardship issues on private land. The Stewardship Solutions was made possible thanks to generous funding from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and other organizations.
Bat conservation society in B.C. receives funding boost
August 21, 2019
Global News
A BC bat conservation society says a recent funding boost will do many things, including funding more research of a fatal wildlife disease. The Got Bats? program says it received more than $185,000 from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and the Forest Enhancement Society of BC. The money will go towards monitoring BC’s bat populations, encouraging public participation in bat conservation and researching white-nose syndrome.
Support granted for NatureKids
August 17, 2019
Surrey Now-Leader
A program that provides opportunities for youth and families throughout B.C.- including Surrey, Langley, and White Rock- to get outdoors and learn about nature has received a boost from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation. The $37,977 grant to NatureKids BC was announced last month.
Fishing for facts to help Westslope Cutthroat Trout
August 9, 2019
East Kootenay News Online
The Elk River supports a healthy population of genetically pure Westslope cutthroat trout through the ability to support the entire life cycle of the fish from spawning to juvenile growth and adult spawning. The Elk River Alliance wishes to thank community volunteers for assisting with assessing the fish habitat to help determine missing information on the species. the ERA acknowledges the financial support and technical assistance from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and Teck.
Golden and District Rod and Gun Club donates to Edgewater property purchase
August 8, 2019
BC Local News
The Golden and District Rod and Gun Club recently donated $10,000 toward the purchase of land in Edgewater. The conservation lands feature 423 acres that include habitat and connectivity for grizzly bears and American Badgers and provides a wider range for mule deer, white-tailed deer, and moose.
Free online tool kit better than Google: KCP
August 6, 2019
East Kootenay News
The Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP) has developed a free online tool to help communities care for their properties in ways that benefit wildlife, water, and wild spaces. The Stewardship Solutions Online Toolkit is a portal to a list of Kootenay-based services and programs that address stewardship issues on private land. Stewardship Solutions was made possible thanks to generous funding by organizations including the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Okanagan dock owners urged to monitor for invasive mussels
August 2, 2019
Lake Country Calendar
The Okanagan and Similkameen Invasive Species Society (OASISS) is seeking community members who own private docks on Kalamalka, Wood, Okanagan, Skaha and Osoyoos lakes to participate in monitoring for the non-native zebra and quagga mussels. Participants in the project will be provided with a pair of mussel monitors to be attached to their private docks and are required to check the monitors every two weeks.
Also See:
Okanagan dock owners urged to monitor for invasive mussels– Keremeos Review
Residents with private docks asked to help monitor for invasive mussels– Osoyoos Times
Grant helps find breeding areas for “unique” forest hunter birds
July 31, 2019
Coast Reporter
More money is going towards locating and protecting northern goshawk breeding grounds on the Sunshine Coast. Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and the Forest Enhancement Society of BC have given $14,700 to the Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project to conduct field surveys to find breeding areas. The province provided $500,00 to HCTF to support conservation efforts for the northern goshawk and the marbled murrelet.
Saving land for bears and badgers
July 18, 2019
East Kootenay News Online Weekly
The Nature Trust of BC announced the protection of the Columbia River Wetlands- Edgewater Property, conservation lands covering 423 acres (17.5 hectares). The property features outstanding habitat and connectivity for Grizzly Bears and American Badgers. They also provide winter range for Mule Deer, White-Tailed Deer and Moose.
Interactive trail highlights Indigenous culture
July 18, 2019
Sun Peaks Independent news
In partnership with the BC Parks Foundation, BC Parks, School District 73, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and Adams Lake Interfor, the Chase Secondary School celebrated the opening of the new interactive trail in Tsutswecw Provincial Park (formerly Roderick Haig-Brown Provincial Park) near chase.
Learn to Fish program comes to Charlie Lake July 20
July 16, 2019
Alaska Highway News
Learn to Fish is a province-wide initiative, created to provide youth with the opportunity to experience freshwater fishing. The program will run on Saturday, July 20 at Charlie Lake from 10 am to 12 pm. There will be B.C. Parks Day celebrations from 1 to 3 pm. The program offers free tackle, rods, and lessons to those who participate.
Surrey man fined after shooting moose, leaving it to die
July 11, 2019
Vancouver Sun
A Surrey man was fined $10,000 for shooting a moose in Beaverdell and leaving it to suffer in a November 2, 2017 incident. The man is to pay a $1,500 penalty and to make an $8,500 payment to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Invasive species council gets funding for mussel testing
July 5, 2019
BC Local News
Grant funding has come in for a regional conservation organization dedicated to mitigating invasive species across the East Kootenay. The East Kootenay Invasive Species Council will be sampling more than 10 lakes in the region for the presence of Zebra and Quagga mussels, thanks to $17,305 in funding from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.
Invasive mussels monitoring continues in region.
July 2, 2019
East Kootenay News Online Weekly
More than 10 lakes in the East Kootenay will be sampled for invasive Zebra and Quagga mussels this year, thanks to a $17,305 grant approved as part of the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation’s annual funding program in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.
Invasive species council gets funding for mussel testing
July 2, 2019
Cranbrook Daily Townsman
The East Kootenay Invasive Species Council will be sampling more than 10 lakes in the region for the presence of Zebra and Quagga mussels, thanks to the $17,305 in funding from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. Lakes included in the project are Tie, Windermere, Koocaunusa, Premier, Wasa, Whitetail, Whiteswan, Columbia, Moyie, St Mary, Surveyor’s and Lillian.
Delta asked for $200,000 to fund farm programs
June 27, 2019
Delta Optimist
The Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust has upped its request for financial assistance from the city. The trust has asked for another $200,000 from Delta, which would work out to $50,000 per year for four years. The trust recently received $20,000 from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Vancouver Island marmot babies take facility by surprise
June 26, 2019
Times Colonist
Staff members at the Marmot Recovery Foundation were surprised by the recent birth of two marmot babies at their Mount Washington facility. The Vancouver Island Marmot has been in recovery mode since almost going extinct in the early 2000’s. The population has grown from about 30 wild marmots in 2003 to more than 200 in the wild today.
Also See:
Marmot babies take facility by surprise– Kamloops Matters
Penticton continues work to revitalize Penticton Creek
June 20, 2019
BC Local News
The city of Penticton is continuing its work to revitalize the Penticton Creek, restoring fish habitats and creating better flood protection for residents. The city staff initially requested funding assistance from South Okanagan Conservation Fund and the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund for $159,000 each to complete the required budget, but was denied by the latter.
Also See:
Penticton Continues work to revitalize Penticton Creek– Penticton Western News
Funds secured for next stage of Penticton Creek restoration
June 19, 2019
info news
The city of Penticton is moving ahead with plans to revitalize Penticton Creek. City engineer told Penticton city council that the project will need a $159,000 cash infusion to match an equal sum granted by the South Okanagan Conservation Fund to complete the design work through this year and next. The city fell short of the funds after an application for a Habitat Conservation Trust Fund grant was denied.
CP Rail received $31,500 penalty for effluent discharge in Golden
June 6, 2019
The Golden Star
Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd. has received a $31,500 penalty for environmental pollution by the Province of B.C. A quarterly environmental assessment summary stated that CP Rail failed to comply with the terms of a waste discharge permit. The assessment summary details a total of 1,728 actions taken by the provincial government with $885,907 in penalties and fines.
Also See:
CP Rail must pay $31,500 for environmental pollution in Golden– Coast Mountain News
CP Rail must pay $31,500 for environmental pollution in Golden– BC Local News
Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation
June 4, 2019
Comox Valley Land Trust- Instagram
This month’s Donor Shout Out goes to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF). HCTF is an environmental granting organization, that provides grants to individuals and organizations to undertake projects which benefit native fish, wildlife species and their habitats.
Summary of Environmental Enforcement in British Columbia for 2018
June 4, 2019
HazMat Magazine
The Province of British Columbia recently released its quarterly environmental enforcement summaries for the third and fourth quarters of 2019 to provide transparency on actions taken against polluters. The summaries detail a total of 1,728 environmental enforcement actions taken by the provincial government during this time period, along with $885,907 in associated penalties and fines. The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation received $190,000 from a fine issued to the Radium Resort Group Ltd for introducing waste-causing pollution and open burning of prohibited construction materials.
B.C. Annual Bat Count seeks bat roosts and volunteers
June 3, 2019
BC Local News
The bat count contributes to surveillance for white-nose syndrome across the province. Volunteers wait outside a known roost site, such as a bat-house, barn, bridge or attic, and count bats as they fly out at twilight. They record the final number along with basic information on weather conditions. Ideally, one or two counts are done between June 1 and 21 before pups are born, and one or two more between July 11 and August 5 when pups are flying.
Report bat roosts and swallow nests
June 1, 2019
Coast Reporter
The Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project is inviting community members to help conserve local wildlife by reporting bat roosts and swallow nests, and by participating in monitoring efforts for these two threatened groups. The Annual BC Bat Count is a province-wide citizen science effort. Last year, the program collected baseline data on bat populations at over 200 sites, and organizers hope to find more roosts to monitor in 2019.
What to do if you have bats: count them
May 29, 2019
The Interior News
Starting this weekend, volunteers across the province will be heading out at sunset to take part in the annual bat count. Ashleigh Ballevona from Telkwa is the project coordinator for the Skeena region. She said the count is important because the Little Brown Bat found in the area is threatened by a disease that is heading north.
Radium business fined $200k for polluting
May 28, 2019
East Kootenay News Online Weekly
A Radium Hot Springs business accounted for almost one-fifth of the total in fines issued/collected by provincial environmental enforcement agencies in 2018. Radium Resort Group Ltd. was fined $200,000 for introducing waste-causing pollution and open burning of prohibited construction materials. Of that total, $190,000 was directed to Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Province charges polluters more than $1 million in 2018
May 28, 2019
The Voice Online
There was a total of 1,728 environmental enforcement actions taken by the provincial government in the third and fourth quarters of 2018, along with $885,907 in associated penalties and fines. Radium Resort Group Ltd. was fined $200,000 for introducing waste-causing pollution and open burning of prohibited construction materials. Of that total, $190,000 was directed to Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation
Story Trail at Tsutswecw Provincial Park opens June 7th
May 28, 2019
Delta Optimist News
Along with the sights and sounds of a trail through the North Shuswap woods, those strolling through Tsutswecw Provincial Park will soon be treated to a story about the park’s natural landscape. On Friday, June 7th, the BC Parks Foundation, and BC Parks will be opening a story trail in the park which is the first of its kind in the province. Chase Secondary, School District #73, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, the Little Shuswap Lake, Adams Lake, and Neskonlith Bands helped support the project.
Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust gets $20,000 grant
May 28, 2019
Delta Optimist News
The Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust is one of several groups that will benefit from more than $9 million in funding for fish and wildlife projects in BC. The Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust will receive $20,000 from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, which announced funding for 170 projects at its recent annual convention in Fort St. John.
May 27, 2019
School District No.83
Students from South Canoe Elementary continue to work with a team of three biologists to monitor and restore the health of the Canoe Creek watershed. Planting trees, restoring habitat, and identifying and weeding out invasive species will be just some of the activities being held May 29 through May 31 at the RJ Haney House park. The school is partnering with the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and Salmon Arm Golf Club, RJ Haney Museum, Kingfisher Interpretive Centre, local biologists, community members, and private residents in taking on this challenge.
Annual count seeks bat roosts and volunteers
May 24, 2019
East Kootenay News Online Weekly
The BC Community Bat Program is requesting colony reports and volunteer assistance for the citizen-science initiative that encourages residents to count bats at local roost sites. The count data helps bat biologists to understand bat distribution and normal variation in colony sizes before the devastating White-nose Syndrome affects bats in the province. To find out more about bat counts or white-nose syndrome, to report a dead bat, or to get assistance dealing with bat issues, visit www.bcbats.ca or call 1-855-9BC-BATS.
Bonaparte River fishway, Thompson steelhead among projects awarded grant funding
May 23, 2019
The Ashcroft-Cash Creek Journal
Several projects in the Thompson region are among more than 170 fish and wildlife projects throughout the province that will benefit from more than $9 million in funding from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF). Almost $29,000 has been awarded for the operation and maintenance of the Bonaparte River fishway and Dam. The fishway has been the subject of major ongoing repairs following damage sustained in flood events after the Elephant Hill wildfire in 2017.
Prince George students learn from Elders at Special Outdoor Education Camp
May 17, 2019
Coast Reporter News
More than 400 primary and intermediate students from Van Bien and Westwood Elementary Schools participated in a special field trip called Outdoor Education Camp that connected them with Knowledge-Holders and, despite a little rain, the wonders of nature. This special field trip was also made possible by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation Go Grant, which helped to offset the cost of transportation to and from the camp, a 30-minute commute outside of Prince George.
May 17, 2019
Coast Reporter News
The Pender Harbour Wildlife Society presents Stewardship of Swallows and Bats: The Coast wildlife project on the Sunshine Coast, Tuesday, May 21st. Doors open at 6:30pm at Pender Harbour Secondary; presentation starts at 7pm.
Woman on crusade to save Duncan’s Centennial Park pond from invaders
May 17, 2019
BC Local News
Alison Ibbotson is on a crusade to clear invasive species from in and around the small pond at the rear of Centennial Park since March. Along with the support from the City of Duncan, Ibbotson has applied for a $2,500 grant from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Learning network with emphasis on Indigenous education wins 2019 Cmolik Prize
May 9, 2019
SFU News
An innovative network of schools and school districts that place special emphasis on Indigenous learning is being lauded for improving the quality and equity of education in the province. The 2019 $100,000 Cmolik Prize for the Enhancement of Public Education in B.C. has been awarded to Debbie Leighton-Stephens, Judy Halbert and Linda Kaser for their innovative Networks of Inquiry and Indigenous Education (NOIIE). Finalists include Kerrie Mortin of The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation Education (HCTF) program, contributing a province-wide network for environmental learning communities of practice. By addressing teacher challenges and needs through effective support, professional development and resources to influencing best practices in teaching and learning to result in positive outcomes for students. This model has fulfilled a unique niche in supporting environmental and place-based learning in B.C.
‘A thousand little things’ restore Burrard Inlet to suitable orca habitat
April 26, 2019
The CityNews 1130
Several Bigg’s killer whales have been spotted in the Burrard Inlet feeding on seals, sea lions, and other cetaceans. The increase in whale sightings were made possible thanks in part to the decades of cleanup efforts, stricter rules for industry and habitat restoration. “The water quality in Burrard Inlet is as good now probably as it’s been in 100 years”. Following the 2007 oil spill, Trans Mountain and other involved companies agreed to pay a total of aboug $450,000 to the Habitat Conservation Trust oundation. Through fund matching, about $3 million was raised to restore habitat in the inlet, on top of $15 million on cleaning up the initial spill.
B.C. guide outfitter handed hefty fine for luring black bear with pet food, cooking grease
April 8, 2019
Global News BC
An Oliver B.C. guide outfitter has been handed a hefty fine for baiting a black bear for American Tourists by using pet food and cooking grease. The Vaseaux Creek Outfitter pleaded guilty to three offenses under the B.C. Wildlife Act, including hunting with bait, feeding dangerous wildlife and hunting from a vehicle. He received an $18,500 fine, plus he must forfeit the $6,300 earned for the trip and also required to forfeit his rifle and ammunition. $18,000 will go towards the Conservation Trust Foundation and $500 in court fines.
See Also:
Oliver hunting guide fined for baiting, killing black bear – Osoyoos Today
B.C. hunter fined after luring bears in with greased logs, dog food – Comox Valley Record
$24K fine for bear baiting -Castanet
Oliver man who created black bear ‘shooting gallery’ gets steep fine– InfoTel News
Hunting guide fined $24,800 for violations – Osoyoos Times
Declining mule deer numbers prompts study
April 4, 2019
The Ashcroft-Cache Creek Journal
B.C. largest collaborative mule deer study was launched last year to determine why some of the Interior mule deer populations are declining, with a special interest in the Elephant Hill wildfire area. Dr. Adam Ford, assistant UBC professor and Canadian Research Chair in Wildlife Restoration Ecology will be in Kamloops from 7 to 9 pm on Thursday, April 11th, providing a free seminar open to the public at the Thompson Rivers University Alumni Theatre.
April 2, 2019
Comox Valley Record
“The Comox Valley Land Trust (CVLT) and the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) have joined forces to protect the Morrison Headwaters Nature Preserve. The expansive, undeveloped wilderness area nestled between Cumberland and Courtenay provides critical habitat for the federally and provincially endangered Morrison Creek population of the western brook lamprey (Lampetra richardsoni var. marifuga), locally known as the Morrison Creek lamprey”.
The secret lives of wolverines
March 30, 2019
Revelstoke Review
Mirjam Barrueto has been studying wolverines for the past seven years, throughout the Columbia and Rocky Mountains. She is visiting sample sites in the Revelstoke area with the aspiration of collecting hairs that can be used for DNA analysis. With 153 study sites, she is hoping to track the movement of wolverines through DNA sampling and photo identification.
See Also:
The secret lives of B.C.’s wolverines -Summerland Review
March 27, 2019
Delta- Optimist
Warm temperatures mean that bats are becoming active after a winter of hibernation. Reporting spring bat activity can help researchers identify where bats may spend the winter and learn about regional differences in the timing of hibernation.
Celebrate spring return by helping wildlife
March 14, 2019
Coast Reporter
The Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project hosted two workshops in Gibsons to enable community members to build their own mason bee homes, bat houses, or owl, duck, or swallow nest boxes from easy-to-assemble kits.
Man fined $3,000 for killing moose out of season
March 22, 2019
Salmon Arm Observer
A Salmon Arm resident was sentenced to fines after caught by conservation officers with possession of a harvested animal in 2017. The man faced charges of killing wildlife not within an open season and unlawful possession of dead wildlife. He has now been fined $3,000 of which $2,900 has been court awarded to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation to be used toward wildlife or habitat work.
See Also:
Salmon Arm man fined $3,000 for poaching cow moose -Kelowna Info news.
March 10, 2019
Times Colonist
Residents on Southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands are asked to help the Habitat Acquisition Trust’s Bat Program, a citizen-science bat-monitoring program, by reporting dead bats and bats flying during winter. The program is funded by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, the Forest Enhancement Society of BC, the province of BC and the Habitat Stewardship Program.
Burnaby nature lovers asked to look for dead bats
March 1, 2019
Burnaby Now
The BC Community Bat Program in collaboration with the BC government is requesting the public’s help in monitoring the spread of a disease threatening the entire bat community. White-nose syndrome is a fungal disease responsible for the death of millions of bats in eastern North America and has now moved to the west coast, according to Mandy Kellner, coordinator of the bat program.
Fungus could “drastically” affect B.C. bat populations: researchers
March 1, 2019
PeaceArch News
Researchers concerned with the impact of White-nose Syndrome in bats south of the border are once again asking Semiahmoo Peninsula residents to help them monitor the spread of the disease on the west coast.
Wanted: Reports of dead bats and of bats flying in winter
March 1, 2019
Coast reporter
B.C. bats are at risk, and researchers are again asking for the public help. White-nose syndrome (WNS), a fungal disease responsible for the death of millions of bats in eastern North America, has moved to the west coast. The Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project is requesting the public’s help in monitoring the spread of WNS.
Kootenay group seeks help to monitor bat disease
February 10, 2019
Trail Times
The Kootenay Community Bat Project (KCBP) in collaboration with the BC Government are in need of your help. Bats in British Columbia are currently threatened by a fungal disease known as the White Nose Syndrome (WNS). With a near one hundred percent mortality rate in some species, this disease is responsible for the death of millions of these mammals in eastern North America. “We believe that our bats hibernate in relatively small groups across the province. Detecting WNS in our province will require many eyes on the ground”, says Leigh Anne Isaac, KCBP Coordinating Biologist. If you see a deceased bat, report it to KCBP as soon as possible.
See Also:
KCBP urges public to report dead bats, bats flying during winter – The Nelson Daily
Public help needed to monitor for bat disease – Creston Valley Advance
Kootenay Community Bat Project needs your help – Kimberly Bulletin
Government seeks help to monitor for bat disease in Okanagan
February 7, 2019
Salmon Arm Observer
The BC Community Bat Program in collaboration with the BC government is requesting the public’s help in monitoring the spread of this disease. The typical first sign of this disease is bats flying during the winter, an unusual sighting at a time of year when bats should be hibernating. Another sign of the presence of WNS is the appearance of dead bats outdoors as they succumb to the effects of WNS.
In This Nature Preserve, a Human Social Crisis Has Sprouted
February 5, 2019
The Tyee
Somenos Marsh is a newly designated, 155-hectare provincial wildlife management area featuring critical habitat for fish, including wild salmon, and home to endangered Garry oak ecosystems and more than 200 species of birds. Of late, the marsh is also home to people who are homeless and use drugs. That’s putting the ecosystem at risk while diverting up to $30,000 per year in conservation dollars to clean up hazardous waste and other garbage. “It’s a real challenge for us,” confirms Tom Reid, who manages the marsh on behalf of a coalition of partners — the B.C. and federal governments, the Nature Trust of B.C., Ducks Unlimited Canada, and Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Resident angered over B.C. government trapping deer for research
February 1, 2019
The Abbotsford News
Andrew Walker, a wildlife biologist with the ministry, said the trapping is part of an ongoing project to study mule deer populations. The Southern Interior Mule Deer Project is the largest collaborative study on mule deer in the province’s history. It was started in 2018.Members of the Okanagan Nation Alliance, B.C. Wildlife Federation members and clubs, the University of British Columbia Okanagan and the University of Idaho are among those involved in the study. He said traps are set up around the area and are checked once or more each day. Adam Ford, a faculty member at UBC Okanagan, said people who encounter the traps should leave them alone, especially if there is an animal trapped inside.“We have strict protocols to deal with how to get these animals out safely,” he said. Funding for the program was provided by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Surrey hunter fined $10,000 after shooting a bull moose and leaving it to die
January 19, 2019
Surrey Now-Leader
A Surrey man has been ordered to pay a $10,000 fine after illegally shooting a bull moose. A judge ruled that $8,500 of the $10,000 fine will be directed to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation. The man is also subject to a three year hunting prohibition, and forfeiture of firearms.
See also:
BC man who left moose to suffer before death is convicted, fined in court – Vancouver Courier
BC Hunter fined $10K for shooting moose out of season – CBC BC
Shoots moose, left it to die – Castanet
Province’s caribou herds under threat
Jan 9, 2019
Ashcroft-Cache Creek Journal
To better protect environmentally sensitive habitats and species at risk, the Province of British Columbia has increased fines for unlawful use of off-road vehicles and snowmobiles. The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF) is also working to protect the caribou population in B.C., and has been accepting applications from the public for the Caribou Habitat Restoration Fund. This fund was created through a $2 million grant from the Province of British Columbia to the HCTF to aid in caribou habitat restoration.
January 3, 2019
Castanet
The Southern Interior Land Trust has announced it has purchased 12 acres of land along Keremeos Creek near Olalla, between Penticton and Keremeos.The seasonally-flooded property is home of one of very few remaining mature water birch forests in the Okanagan-Similkameen and provides habitat for at least five federally-listed species at risk, including the yellow-breasted chat, western screech owl and Lewis’s woodpecker. The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation — which benefits from hunter, trapper and angler fees — made a contribution to SILT for the purchase.
See also:
Conservation Group Acquires Property on Keremeos Creek – Kelowna Capital News, Keremeos Review
Newly Acquired Wildlife Habitat Near Olalla Named After Winfield Man – The Daily Courier
Invasive Mussels Being Held at Bay in the Shuswap
December 21, 2018
Salmon Arm Observer
The society has been completing early detection lake sampling in the Columbia Shuswap region for microscopic larvae of the invasive zebra and quagga mussels for the past four years. Throughout the 2018 season, CSISS staff collected 118 samples from 22 waterbodies in the Columbia Shuswap Region. Similar programs are taking place across the province, and as with previous years, there was no detection of zebra or quagga mussels were found in any sampled waterbodies in British Columbia. CSISS collaborated with many partners and stakeholders throughout the region to provide extended outreach and monitoring efforts in 2018. The Habitat Conservation Trust Fund funded CSISS to monitor waterbodies in the Columbia Shuswap region, and the Shuswap Watershed Council and Columbia Basin Trust funded aquatic outreach activities, along with extra monitoring.
December 13, 2018
Castanet
The Nature Trust of British Columbia’s land holdings in the South Okanagan have grown. The organization announced Wednesday it has completed the purchase of an 80-acre area in the White Lake Basin that’s home to several endangered species. Funding for the purchase was provided by several nonprofits, businesses and private donors, including the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, South Okanagan Conservation Fund which is overseen by the Regional District of the Okanagan-Similkameen, Burrowing Owl Estate Winery, the South Okanagan Naturalists’ Club and more.
See also:
Nature Trust of B.C. purchases property in South Okanagan – Keremeos Review, Similkameen Spotlight
Nature Trust adds to White Lake Basin Biodiversity Complex – Osoyoos Today
Applications open for Caribou Habitat Restoration Fund
December 5, 2018
Penticton Western News, Keremeos Review
The public is now invited to apply for the Caribou Habitat Restoration Fund, a $2 million grant from the province to the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund (HCTF) to aid in caribou habitat restoration.
Partnership means important research for mule deer
December 3, 2018
Penticton Western News, Summerland Review
Thanks to the renewal of the partnership between HCTF and FESBC, local researchers are able to continue their work studying mule deer populations in the Okanagan.
Hunters fined $14,000 for illegal harvesting
November 25, 2018
Castlegar News, BC Local News
Two hunters have been ordered to pay more than $14,000 in fines over the harvesting of two bighorn sheep on mining property in the Elk Valley, $13,800 of which will go to HCTF.
Study aims to shed light on elusive wolverine in B.C.’s South Coast
The Canadian Press November 19, 2018
As published in The Daily Courier, CBC, The Province, Topix, Prince George Citizen, and the Globe and Mail
A new project aims to find out more about the life and lifestyle of the ghost of the deep forests of British Columbia, the wolverine.
Sea to Sky wolverine project aims to find out more about shy creature
Squamish Chief, November 17, 2018
Most Squamish residents have likely never encountered the shy wolverine, but they are at home in our higher elevations and dense forests. A new project is examining home ranges, seasonal movements, and habitat of wolverines on the south coast.
HCTF & FESBC Strengthen Conservation Partnership with $3 Million Commitment
Nelson Daily November 9, 2018
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF) and the Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC) announced the renewal of their partnership to support wildlife habitat projects in BC. One of the projects included is being conducted in the East Kootenay, the Bull River Project.
Castanet, November 6, 2018
The Forest Enhancement Society of B.C. has announced it is renewing its partnership with the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, funding more projects to support wildlife habitat.
HCTF & FESBC Strengthen Partnership
Tree Frog Creative, November 6, 2018
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF) and the Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC) are pleased to announce the renewal of their partnership.
Cariboo lakes confirmed clear of invasive mussels after testing
Williams Lake Tribune, Quesnel Cariboo Observer, November 4, 2018
The Invasive Species Council of BC completed its initial year of invasive mussel sampling in seven Cariboo Lakes. There were no detections of invasive mussels in the Cariboo; BC remains provincially mussel-free.
Okanagan winery to restore wetlands
October 5, 2018
Summerland Review
The Okanagan Similkameen Stewardship Society (OSSS) is partnering with the Okanagan Crush Pad Winery to restore seven acres of creekside forest and floodplain habitat along Eneas creek.
Sayward man guiding without a license ordered to pay $10,000 to conservation fund; $100 in fine
October 3, 2018
Campbell River Mirror
On Oct. 1, a Sayward man entered a guilty plea for one count of guiding for game without a licence, contrary to the BC Wildlife Act. He received a $100 fine and was also ordered to pay $10,000 to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF).
See also Sayward Resident Faces Financial Penalties for Offering Illegal Hunting Guide Services – My Campbell River Now
September 13, 2018
The Narwhal
In a quiet pen in B.C.’s northeast corner, pregnant caribou cows and their calves are fed hand-picked old growth lichen, provided 24-hour armed security and are the subject of one of Canada’s boldest and most experimental efforts to save a species from extinction.
Radium Resort enters guilty pleas to toxic fire charges
September 5, 2018
Columbia Valley Pioneer
On Monday, August 13th, Radium Resort pled guilty to two charges related to a toxic fire on their property in February 2016. The fire started with permission from the BC Wildfire Service as a controlled burn of two wood piles. But when Radium Resort left the fire unattended, it spread to a contentious pile of construction waste.
August 30, 2018
Castanet
A resort in Radium B.C. has pleaded guilty to environmental violations and has been fined $200,000 for the toxic burning of demolition waste. The majority of the $200,000 penalty — $190,000 — will go to the Habitat Conservation Trust Initiative.
Learning about conservation in the Kootenays
August 14, 2018
East Kootenay Online Weekly
Throughout the summer young people are working hard to care for conservation lands as part of The Nature Trust of BC Conservation Youth Crews.
August 13, 2018
Delta Optimist
Mid-summer is the time when landowners typically notice more bat activity, may have bats flying into their house, and occasionally find a bat on the ground or roosting in unusual locations.
LWQS now testing Osoyoos Lake for invasive mussels
August 7, 2018
Osoyoos Times
The Osoyoos Lake Water Quality Society (OLWQS) has started testing the lake for the larvae of invasive zebra and quagga mussels.
Partnership helps protect baby toads from being trampled near Ucluelet
August 7, 2018
Tofino- Ucluelet Westerly News
The Toquaht First Nation has partnered with the Wetland Stewards for Clayoquot and Barkley Sound to protect baby toads from being trampled at an abandoned mine site that’s become a popular recreation destination.
Armed with funding from B.C.’s Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, the partners have installed barriers and educational signage around Cadillac Lake, where tiny western toadlets, roughly the size of a fingernail, are emerging and making their way to the forest.
Learn to Fish introductions being offered in Cariboo
August 2, 2018
Williams Lake Tribune
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC is inviting families to expand their outdoor adventure horizons with free family fishing activities throughout the Cariboo.
See also: Bring the family to learn to fish – Times Colonist
Learn to fish at Martha Creek tomorrow with the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC – Revelstoke Review
Free Family fishing activities throughout Thompson Okanagan – Salmon Arm Observer
Grant boosts battle to keep invasive mussels out of Okanagan lakes
July 25, 2018
Kelowna Capital News, Summerland Review
The battle to keep invasive mussels from getting into Okanagan lakes is getting an injection of support.
The Okanagan and Similkameen Invasive Species Society received a grant from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation for $17,500 to support the monitoring of five Okanagan lakes for zebra and quagga mussels.
Penticton Creek : One Section at a Time
July 24, 2018
Penticton Western News
Work is scheduled to resume on the restoration of Penticton Creek later this week.
Work will take place during the fisheries window, starting July 28 and continuing from where work on the 2015 showcase project left off. This section of the project, covering about 80 metres, will complete the restoration between Ellis Street bridge and the Nanaimo Avenue bridge.
Conservationists struggle to save western toadlets making perilous migration in Chilliwack
July 11, 2018
Vancouver Sun
It is one of the greatest, if tiniest, terrestrial migrations in North America, an estimated 100,000 western toadlets making their annual, overland trek from the pond of their birth in Chilliwack, across a farm pasture, and into a bordering forest.
Have you Seen Barn Swallows Nesting?
July 5, 2018
Coast Reporter
The Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project (SCWP) is asking for the community’s help in documenting barn swallow nest sites.
Specialty BC Parks licence plates have sold much faster than anticipated
June 26, 2018
The Ashcroft-Cache Creek Journal
Drivers around the province cannot fail to have noticed many vehicles sporting the BC Parks licence plates that were introduced in January 2017, with all net profits from the sale and renewal fees ($50 and $40 respectively) reinvested in B.C.’s provincial parks through the Parks Enhancement Fund. BC Parks is also contributing $30,000 from sales of the specialty plates to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation’s (HCTF) GO Grants Program.
See also
BC Parks reaches milestone for specialty licence plate sales – Voice Online
BC Parks Plates Net $2.3M – Castanet
June 22, 2018
Campbell River Mirror
Nine Grade 12 students from Carihi secondary school were recently given an experiential educational opportunity: a trip to the Cedar Coast Field Station on Vargas Island, B.C. Grants from the Pacific Salmon Foundation and Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation made this trip possible.
Plan to safeguard Kitimat River trout proposed
May 31, 2018
Terrace Standard
Provincial fisheries officials are contemplating both fishing and bait ban extensions on the Kitimat River at certain times of the year to safeguard its coastal cutthroat population.
Quesnel Lake fish study gets green light to continue critical work
May 29, 2018
Williams Lake Tribune
Biologists examining the effects of angling pressures on resident rainbow, bull and lake trout in Quesnel Lake have been given the green light to carry on their critical work.
Lee Williston, study leader and senior fisheries biologist with the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, said he is very pleased the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation has approved funding for the continuation of the Quesnel Lake tag-telemetry study.
Seeking volunteers and roosts for BC Bat Counts
May 22 2018
East Kootenay News Online Weekly
The Kootenay Community Bat Program (KCBP) is seeking volunteers and bat colonies for the Annual Bat Count.
See also:
KCBP seeking volunteers and roosts for annual BC Bat Counts – Kimberley Bulletin
Kootenay Community Bat Program seeks volunteers for count – The Nelson Daily
Kootenay Community Bat Program seeking volunteers – Revelstoke Review
Bat-count volunteers sought for White Rock area – North Delta Reporter
Seeking Volunteers and Roosts for BC Bat Counts – The Interior News
Citizen science project encourages kids to learn more about pollinators
May 9, 2018
Richmond News
NatureKids BC has launched a citizen science project encouraging schools, families and nature clubs across the province to collect data on local pollinators.
The elementary school has just had their application to be a “Wild School” for the 2018-2019 school year approved by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Premier announces purchase, dedication of Cowichan’s Eagle Heights as park
May 3, 2018
Cowichan Valley Citizen
Premier John Horgan, Environment Minister George Heyman, and Cowichan Valley MLA Sonia Furstenau shared the announcement Thursday, May 3 that 144 hectares of land called Eagle Heights near the Koksilah River will be protected. The province purchased the land for $7.15 million, supported by a $400,000 contribution from the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, via the CVRD, and a $225,000 contribution from the Cowichan Community Land Trust.
See also:
B.C. acquires 144 hectares of protected park land near Shawnigan Lake – CTV News Vancouver Island
B.C. buys ecologically sensitive plot in Cowichan Valley – Times Colonist
B.C. government buys six new parks for $10 million, largest on Vancouver Island -CHEK News
Province Protects 190 Hectares of Land in Six New Parks – Juice FM
Province Buys 17 ha for Kikomun Creek – E-Know
VIDEO: Grassland, old-growth Douglas fir forest, limestone karst features all protected at Eagle Heights – Cowichan Valley Citizen
Adding to the Outdoor Inventory – The Nelson Daily
April 26, 2018
Coast Reporter
Residents living in Pender Harbour and visitors to the region’s many lakes are asked to keep their eyes open for one of the most wonderful signs of spring: tiny baby turtles emerging from their underground nests.
April 20, 2018
Castanet
A new study into declining mule deer populations has had a successful start so far, collaring over 50 deer for tracking and monitoring.
Friends of Churn Creek invite new members, those interested to AGM
April 19, 2018
The Williams Lake Tribune
After a year of disruption, the Friends of Churn Creek are preparing for a new season.
The group, thanks to partnerships with B.C. Parks, the Cariboo Chilcotin Restoration Committee, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and volunteers, has been working for several years to reduce encroaching trees, trees that normally and somewhat ironically, would be cleared by wildfires to protect the grasslands.
White-nose syndrome creeps closer to B.C.
April 18, 2018
Bridge River Lillooet News
Reporting dead bats may help save the lives of our B.C. bats.
The B.C. Community Bat Program, in collaboration with the Province of B.C., is asking the public to report any dead bats in an effort to determine the distribution of White-Nose Syndrome (WNS).
Province dedicates $2M to help restore caribou habitat
April 13, 2018
Richmond News
The province has granted $2 million to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation to create a Caribou Habitat Restoration Fund.
See also:
BC government provides $2 million in funding to rehabilitate province’s caribou population – Daily Hive
BC pledges $2 million to create Caribou Habitat Restoration Fund – Dawson Creek Mirror
Province grants $2 million to create Caribou Habitat Restoration Fund – BC Gov News
Caribou Habitat Restoration Receives Shot In The Arm From Bc Government – My PG Now
Caribou on the Brink: B.C. Herd Reduced to Three Females Points to Failure to Protect Endangered Species – DeSmog Canada
Forests minister announces $2 million for Caribou Habitat Restoration Fund – CFJC Today
Province spending $2 million to create Caribou Habitat Restoration Fund – Energetic City
Aid for caribou habitats – Ashcroft Cache Creek Journal
Blueberry pollinator pays $40,000 for killing bears attracted to Pitt Meadows bee hives
April 13, 2018
Vancouver Sun
Other enforcement actions listed in the Ministry’s latest quarterly report include Teck Coal and Maxam, an explosives company, were each found guilty of introducing business waste into the environment. Teck pays $200,000, $195,000 of that to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, while Maxam pays $150,000, with $145,000 to the foundation. In July 2014, five bighorn sheep were found dead at Teck’s Greenhills coal facility near Elkford. The sheep had ingested blasting materials.
Tie Lake man fined for killing wildlife
April 12, 2018
Columbia Valley Pioneer
A Tie Lake man has been fined $14,000 and sentenced to hunting and firearms bans for five years after illegally shooting a deer and a black bear in his yard in separate incidents a few years ago.
A percentage of Velba’s fines will be directed to the Habitat Conservation Fund.
See also Tie Lake man paying for Wildlife Act offences – East Kootenay News Online Weekly
White Nose Syndrome monitoring being done in the area
April 12, 2018
Chemainus Valley Courier
The Thetis Island Nature Conservancy is asking for the public’s help with monitoring for White Nose Syndrome in the Chemainus area, and on Thetis and Penelakut Islands.
Reporting dead bats could save the species
March 27, 2018
The Free Press
The BC Community Bat Program, in collaboration with the Province of B.C., is asking the public to report any dead bats in an effort to save the species.
Keep an ear out for rare screech owl
March 22, 2018
Coast Reporter
The Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project is asking for the community’s help in searching for a rare and threatened owl. The adorable coastal western screech owl stands just 7 to 10 inches tall and has yellow eyes and small ear tufts.
River cleanup sets sights on Gill Road messes
March 21, 2018
Chilliwack Progress
It’s time to gather your friends and family, work boots and gloves, and get down to the Fraser River.
B.C. man must donate $8,000 to conservation fund after killing grizzly bear
March 16, 2018
Surrey Leader
A B.C. man has been ordered to pay $8,001 in fines after killing a grizzly bear during a closed season near Powell River.The man was ordered to pay a $1 fine in addition to paying $8,000 to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
See also:
B.C. hunter ordered to donate $8,000 to wildlife foundation for killing grizzly with bow and arrow – CBC News
BC man ordered to pay $8K in penalties after killing a grizzly bear – Kelowna Now
Man Ordered To Pay Over $8000 for Killing Grizzly Near Powell River – My Comox Valley Now
B.C. bow hunter who mistakenly killed a grizzly ordered to pay $8K fine – Global News
Mistaken identity ends grizzly’s life – Powell River Peak
B.C. man must donate $8,000 to conservation fund after killing grizzly bear – Columbia Valley Pioneer
Fined for killing grizzly – The Canadian Press
Bow hunter ordered to pay $8001 for killing grizzly bear near Powell River – CHEK News
Researchers watching for spread of white nose syndrome
March 12, 2018
Salmon Arm Observer
The simple act of reporting a dead bat may help save the lives of other B.C. bats.
‘This is my identity’: hunter apologizes for illegal meat sale
Mar 5, 2018
Penticton Western News
A prominent Upper Similkameen Indian Band member will have to pay up $2,500 for illegally selling game meat in a case he says has “made me very upset, and I am very remorseful.”
In accordance with the creative sentencing principles of the Wildlife Act, $2,000 of the fine will be diverted to the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund.
See also:
Wildlife trafficking earns BC man minimum $2500 fine – InfoTel News
Fined for Selling Game Meat – Castanet
Opinion: Wetlands essential for sustainable urban future
Feb 5, 2018
Vancouver Sun
This past weekend marked World Wetlands Day, an opportunity to recognize one of the most under-appreciated environmental resources in our region — urban wetlands.
Why hunters and anglers work to protect our natural capital
Feb 4, 2018
The Province
Organizations such as the Habitat Trust Conservation Foundation and the Pacific Salmon Foundation have put hundreds of millions of dollars into thousands of conservation projects across the province.
December 27, 2017
Salmon Arm Observer
Elementary through high school students braved the inclement weather to make the Salmon Arm foreshore a healthier habitat for animals who call the place home. The Salmon Arm Bay Nature Enhancement Society (SABNES), City of Salmon Arm, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, and School District #83 staff and students were involved in a large project to increase biodiversity on the foreshore.
B.C. government to make announcement about grizzly bear trophy hunts
December 18, 2017
Vancouver Sun
The provincial government is set to make an announcement about grizzly bears in British Columbia on Monday.
Local Guides Aren’t Happy with Grizzly Ban
December 13, 2017
The Interior News
Of the $7 million in hunting license fees the Province collected, just over $2 million went to the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund for conservation projects. License fees also raised $230,000 a year for the Grizzly Bear Conservation Strategy which was then allocated to priority grizzly bear research, inventory and monitoring projects.
Van Live Year in Review: B.C.’s 30 best animals of 2017
December 13, 2017
Vancouver Sun
We mostly cover human beings here at The Vancouver Sun and Province, but once in a great while, another kind of animal makes the news…
Cache Creek man fined $18,000 for buying bear parts
Nov 20th, 2017
Kamloops This Week
A Cache Creek resident caught purchasing bear parts in a sting operation pleaded guilty on Monday and was sentenced to an $18,000 fine.
Hong Hui Xie, 48, was sentenced in Kamloops provincial court on six counts of trafficking under the provincial Wildlife Act. Lawyers for the Crown and defence made a joint submission to judge Roy Dickey, asking for an $18,000 fine, $3,000 of which will go to the Habitat Conservation Fund.
See also Cache Creek man fined thousands of dollars for buying bear parts InfoTel News
Steelhead can now return to spawning grounds
Nov 20, 2017
Hope Standard
Steelhead trout have had a rough time of it in the Coquihalla River since 2014.
That’s when a remnant railway bridge abutment and historic railway bed that made up the popular B.C. Parks trail located in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park near Hope partially collapsed and slid into the Coquihalla River.
Local Volunteers Get the Scoop on Bat Poop
Victoria News
November 18, 2017
When it comes to research on bats, the scoop is in the poop.
Habitat Acquisition Trust volunteers and Bat habitat stewards are collecting bat guano, i.e. bat excrement, from beneath bat roosts for genetic analysis to determine the species of bats living at each roost.
November 13, 2017
East Kootenay News Online Weekly
Beavers are more than Canada’s national symbol and our first national currency trading their pelts. They are also wetland engineers. Just look upstream of the north-Fernie bridge, along the Elk River and you will see an incredible dam built this summer. Although cute industrious critters, are beavers actually friend or foe to Canadians?
Bats keep bug populations down during warm months
Nov 1, 2017
Quesnel Cariboo Observer
With the recent passing of Halloween when images of scary, blood-sucking bats become common place, it is the perfect time to join with the BC Community Bat Program to counter these bat myths and do something to help bats.
“The conservation of bats in British Columbia has always been important, since over half the species in this province are considered at risk,” says Mandy Kellner, BC Community Bat Program co-ordinator.
See also Halloween great time to join BC community bat program – Williams Lake Tribune
Explosives clear the way for salmon at Othello Tunnels
October 19, 2017
Hope Standard
A group of engineers, consultants and coalition of B.C. organizations have removed the rock that has blocked summer steelhead from swimming upstream to their spawning grounds.
October 19, 2017
Castlegar Source
As Halloween approaches, images of scary-looking bats become commonplace. Since the goal of the Kootenay Community Bat Project is to promote bat conservation, this is the perfect time of year to counter bat myths and do something to help bats. Such as build bat houses and find good locations for them, to give bats a place to roost.
Project Watershed Completes Work at Simms Park
October 7, 2017
Comox Valley Record
Local residents who use Simms Millennium Park will notice some significant changes since Project Watershed completed salmon habitat improvement work in the park this summer. During the month of August the Project Watershed team completed the construction phase of the project, which has been many years in the planning. The endeavour included the removal of an old culvert connecting the Courtenay River through the park into an inner pond area. This culvert was replaced with a larger fish-friendly culvert installed at a lower elevation so that fish would have more access during a variety of tide cycles.
BC Mining Company Fined for Polluting Tulameen River
25 Sept 2017
CBC.ca
A B.C. mining company is on the hook for thousands of dollars after discharging waste into a river in the Okanagan-Similkameen region of B.C.
A B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS) investigation uncovered Coalmont Energy Corporation’s discharge of 60,000 litres of mine waste into a watercourse that runs into the Tulameen River. Managers are being fined a total of $20,000 in relation to the charges, $19,800 of which will be be issued to the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund for fish habitat restoration projects in the Okanagan region.
See also
BC mining company on the hook for polluting river – Insurance Business Canada
$20000 in fines for Similkameen coal mine waste spill – Infotel News
Fined $10K for Oil Spill – Castanet
More than 1,000 fish lifted over Seymour rock slide as project caps off its third year
Sep 20, 2017
CBC News
More than 1,000 steelhead, coho and pink salmon have received a helping hand, over the last three years, getting over a large blockade in the Seymour River.
Managers plead guilty in B.C. coal mine spill
Sept 20, 2017
Agassiz Harrison Observer
More than four years after the Tulameen River ran black with coal slurry, criminal charges in the spill were settled quietly last Thursday in Princeton court.
Province handed out $4 million in environmental fines in 2016
September 15, 2017
Business Vancouver
British Columbia handed out more than $4 million in environmental penalties and tickets in 2016.
Environment ministry data released today shows officers handed out 2,201 tickets and nearly 300 administrative sanctions and penalties against industry and the public for violations last year. There were another 37 environmental orders issued and another 64 court convictions.
Sentenced for possession of 26 trout
Sept 12, 2017
North Thompson Star/Journal
An angler who was found in possession of 26 rainbow trout last Remembrance Day was recently found guilty and sentenced to multiple Fisheries Act charges.
See also Infonews.ca
Salmon Arm Observer
B.C. men convicted for killing off-season moose
North Thompson Star/Journal
August 31, 2017
Two Kelowna men were convicted and sentenced this month for the killing of a cow moose out of season.
BC Conservation reports that Randy Cecil Watson and Burc Colins were charged under the Wildlife Act after killing a moose near Beaverdell in November 2015.
Awesome summer conserving the Kootenays
August 28, 2017
E-know.ca
Throughout the summer while other young people were relaxing, The Nature Trust of BC Kootenay Conservation Youth Crew was hard at work. The Nature Trust of British Columbia hires young people each summer to tackle a wide variety of conservation activities on properties across the province and learn valuable skills for future employment.
August 24,2017
Castanet
The Nature Trust of B.C. has purchased a piece of land near Penticton to protect bighorn sheep.
The group announced Thursday they have closed the sale of the 87.5 acre Skaha Lake Eastside property, which they call “critical habitat” for bighorn sheep.
“You only have to take one look at a map to understand the risk of this property being developed and its habitat values lost forever,” said Ross Peck, chair of the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Recently restored sections of Mission Creek damaged by spring flooding
August 17, 2017
INFO News
The flooding in the Central Okanagan this spring damaged several areas of Mission Creek that were part of a restoration initiative completed last year.
Work on the Mission Creek Restoration Initiative began in the fall of 2015, but plans for the changes first surfaced in 2008.
With funding from the City of Kelowna, the Government of B.C., the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and the Okanagan Basin Water Board, creekside dikes that contained the waterway were set back and a natural floodplain developed.
NDP to enact B.C.-wide ban on grizzly trophy hunt, while allowing hunt for meat
August 14, 2017
Vancouver Sun
The NDP government made good on a high-profile election promise Monday by announcing a B.C.-wide ban on the trophy hunting of grizzly bears, while allowing hunting to continue for meat.The province receives about $540,000 in grizzly hunting licences and limited-entry hunt applications annually. Of that, $500,000 goes into general revenue, and $40,000 to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Learn to Fish with the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC
Aug 11, 2017
Kimberley Bulletin
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC is a private non-profit organization that works to enhance and conserve BC’s freshwater fisheries for public benefit, by working in partnership with the government, industry and anglers. The free programming is made possible through sponsors including the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, Columbia Basin Trust Fund, Rapala, BC Ram Dealers, the Province of British Columbia, BC Parks and Yamaha Motor Canada.
Prominent hunter fined $3,000 for illegal elk kill in Kootenays
August 9, 2017
Vernon Morning Star
A decision to illegally shoot a five-point elk has been a “black eye” on a formerly prominent hunter who has since fallen from grace.
See also Castanet article
Foundation receives millions of dollars in court fines from environmental offenders
August 7 2017
Vancouver Sun
A non-profit foundation established to improve fish and wildlife habitat across the province has reaped a windfall of more than $3 million from court fines levied against environmental offenders since 1993.
“It’s a growing area of revenue for us,” confirms Brian Springinotic, chief executive officer of the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation. “It’s because the courts like how we treat the money … and, in my view, are imposing ever greater penalties.”
August 6, 2017
E-know.ca
Are you noticing more bats around your house or property? You are not alone!
Mid-summer is the time when landowners typically notice more bat activity, may have bats flying into their house, and occasionally find a bat on the ground or roosting in unusual locations.
Mid summer means more bats around
August 6, 2017
Victoria News
If you’re seeing more little winged critters around your crib lately you can relax, you’re not going batty.
The middle of summer is typically the time bats are more noticeable around homes and properties, explained Mandy Kellner, a biologist and co-ordinator with the B.C. community bat project.
July 28, 2017
The Daily Courier
In July and August, pups are learning to fly, and their early efforts may land them in locations where they are more likely to come in contact with humans,” said Paula Rodriguez de la Vega, ecologist and co-ordinator with the bat program.
See Also:
You can live with bats in the Okanagan without going batty – Infotel News
Swallows and Bats Need the Community’s Help
July 27, 2017
Coast Reporter
The Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project is again asking for the community’s help in monitoring populations of two threatened wildlife groups: swallows and bats.
Upcoming construction at Courtenay’s Simms Park to improve salmon habitat
June 27 2017
Comox Valley Record
An initiative by Project Watershed to increase salmon survival in Simms Millennium Park will result in closures to the treed area and trail on the west side of the park for several days in July, and for the entire month of August. Funding for the project has been provided by Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program (FWCP), Recreational Fisheries Conservation Program (RFCPP), and Habitat Conservation Trust Fund (HCTF).
Englishman River Estuary to undergo five-year restoration
June 26, 2017
Parksville Qualicum Beach News
Hikers accustomed to a peaceful, quite stroll on the trails of the Englishman River Estuary will be faced with some unaccustomed construction traffic in the coming weeks. But it’s all meant to enhance the estuary in the long run.Funding for the project is provided by Canada’s National Wetland Conservation Fund and the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Learning Outdoors in 100 Mile
June 21, 2017
100 Mile Free Press
A unique program is bringing young children out of their classrooms at 100 Mile Elementary School and into the natural environment to learn about the birds, bugs and botany outdoors, and even to connect with their community.
Upgrades made to Fairmont’s Hoodoos trail
June 15, 2017
Invermere Valley Echo
Hikers on the Hoodoos in Fairmont Hot Springs may notice a few changes to the popular trail. The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) conducted a project in the Hoodoos to upgrade the site.Support for the project came from The Columbia Basin Trust, the Panorama Foundation and the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund.
Kootenay streams open to anglers June 15
June 14, 2017
Cranbrook Daily Townsmen
The many mountain lakes and rivers in the Kootenays provide excellent fishing for many different species of fish.When you purchase a freshwater angling license, a portion of the fee goes directly back to Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C., and a smaller portion goes to a conservation surcharge directed to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Court award catalyst for new Northern Vancouver Island fish and wildlife fund
June 13, 2017
Campbell River Mirror
Fish and wildlife will receive an extra boost next year from a new fund explicitly for conservation projects on the northern half of Vancouver Island.
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF) announced it will begin accepting applications for the $350,000 North Island Conservation Fund starting this fall.
Volunteers needed for annual bat count; Kootenay Community Bat Program
June 6, 2017
Kimberley Bulletin
Summerland Review
With the devastating White Nose Syndrome looming, the Kootenay Community Bat Program (KCBP) is seeking volunteers and bat colonies for the annual bat count. The citizen-science initiative encourages residents to count bats at local roost sites.
Volunteers Sought for BC Bat Counts
May 29, 2017
Kamloops this Week
The B.C. Community Bat Program is seeking volunteers and bat colonies for the annual bat count. The citizen-science initiative encourages residents to count bats at local roost sites.
2014 Sheep Mortality Incident Update
May 24, 2017
Crowsnest Pass Herald
Teck will pay $195,000 to the non-profit Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and pay a $5,000 fine and Maxam Explosives Inc (Maxam) will pay $145,000 to Habit Conservation Trust Foundation and pay a $5,000 fine due to one Environmental Management Act charge each related to a 2014 sheep mortality incident at Greenhills Operations (GHO).
B.C. Wildlife Federation wants citizens to speak out on behalf of wildlife
The Free Press
May 3, 2017
The province’s stocks of fish and wildlife are being slowly depleted by decades of underfunding and mismanagement, says Jesse Zeman, spokesman for the B.C. Wildlife Federation.
Next phase of Penticton Creek restoration set to begin this summer
May 3, 2017
Infonews.ca
Plans are moving forward to restore another section of the Penticton Creek riverbed this summer. The ambitious multi-phase project will cost a total estimated $30 million to restore 4.4 kilometres of riverbed.
Update on the 2012 sediment occurrence at Elkview
April 8, 2017
The Free Press
Teck will be paying forward $300,000, following a sediment-laden discharge spill at Elkview Operations (EVO) in September of 2012.
Of this, $285,000 will be given to the non-profit Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, as well as a $15,000 penalty as a result of three Environmental Management Act charges related to the incident.
Apr 7th, 2017
Kelowna News
The Public Art Pollinator Pasture Meadow Building and Stewardship Event on April 8, from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. dozens of volunteers are helping to plant hundreds of native plants on the pollinator pasture.
These plants also came from a significant donation from the Okanagan Collaborative Conservation Program, EcoAction, Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, Seeds Co Community Conservation and Okanagan Similkameen Stewardship Society with funding from Environment and Climate Change Canada.
Oil Spills: Preventing Future Spills by Learning from Past Incidents
April 2, 2017
Hazmat Magazine
Last November saw the Canadian federal government approve the Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain Expansion Plan and the Enbridge Line 3 Replacement Plan. Both projects have been met with fierce opposition from First Nations communities, local governments and environmentalists. Chief among their concerns is the risk of crude oil spilling into the environment. So it would be prudent to look at past spills involving each line and reflect on the possible dangers they pose.
NCC land purchase will lead to wetland restoration north of Road 22
April 2, 2017
Osoyoos Times
A newly acquired 90-acre property north of Road 22 will help the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) restore and protect a vital area of wetlands in the South Okanagan.
$3 million added to war on mussels (covered by multiple media outlets – see links below)
March 30, 2017
The Daily Courier
InfoTel News
Castanet
Salmon Arm Observer
Kelowna Capital News
The Nelson Daily
Kelowna Now
The campaign to keep invasive mussels out of B.C. lakes is getting a $3-million boost.
Premier Christy Clark announced Thursday in West Kelowna that the money will help pay for two new inspection stations, longer inspection hours, more inspectors and a mussel-sniffing dog.
Osoyoos Oxbows Added to Habitat Preserve
March 28, 2017
Penticton Western News
Thanks to the efforts of the Nature Conservancy, in partnership with Ducks Unlimited Canada, another piece of wetlands is being preserved.
A 90-acre (36.4-hectare) wetland property in the heart of one of British Columbia’s best birding areas. Located along the Okanagan River in an expanse of wetland known as the Osoyoos Oxbows, the new conservation area is the latest addition to a complex of conservation lands that parallel Highway 97 between Osoyoos and Oliver.
Efforts underway to assist elk and deer until springtime
March 26, 2017
The Free Press
On March 11, Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett announced the province was investing $40,000 to mitigate the drastic impacts of one of the region’s harshest winters in decades but a conservationist is calling the move a short-sighted drop in the bucket.
Hunting Fees will now go to Wildlife Management (covered by multiple media outlets – see links below)
March 23, 2017
Fighting Invasive Mussels receives $3M Influx of Funds
Kelowna Now
The province is following its fisheries lead and plowing all revenue raised from hunting licences in B.C. back into wildlife management. On Wednesday, Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Minister Steve Thomson announced the move, saying a new agency will be created to administer the money. The move will be modelled on what was done with fishing licences a few years ago. He said based on input from stakeholders over the last few years, the government will form a new agency in fall 2017 with startup funds of $5 million. The agency subsequently would be supported by hunting licence revenues of $9 million to $10 million each year. Currently, hunting licence revenues support a number of government activities. Hunting licence surcharges totalling more than $2.6 million annually would still be dedicated to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation for its conservation projects.
FJM and Wild School Winter
March 13, 2017
The Free Press
Three hundred and fifty students at Frank J. Mitchell Elementary School (FJMES) participated in several Wild School Winter stations experiencing ways to love being outside in winter. The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF) Wild School program is a three-year program providing teachers and students of K-8 schools with free resources, training and support for environmental learning, outdoor field experiences and connections to conservation work in their communities.
BC farmer fined over 4 grizzly bear deaths
March 6, 2017
CBC News
A B.C.court has fined a farmer over the 2014 shooting deaths of a grizzly bear sow and its three cubs in a mountain valley between Prince George and Jasper, AB. Arlan Harry Baer must pay a $500 fine and a $1,500 payment to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.
Moose Riders Fines for Harassing Wildlife (covered by multiple media outlets – see links below)
March 3, 2017
The Province
Bradley Dale Crook and Jaysun Allan Pinkerton of Fort St. John were convicted for harassing wildlife with a boat. Judge B. A. Daley imposed a $4,000 fine on each man, including a $2,000 payment each to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation to be used in the B.C. Peace region. The investigation stemmed from a YouTube video of one of the convicted jumping off a boat onto a swimming moose’s back.
Be on the lookout for White Nose Syndrome
Feb 23, 2017
Kitimat Northern Sentinel
The Skeena Community Bat Project is asking for the public to keep an eye out for White Nose Syndrome in the regions bat population.
The group, overseen by the BC Community Bat Program and in collaboration with the BC government, is asking for northwestern BC residents to keep an eye out for dead bats, as well as bats flying in the wintertime.
Growing Bigger Island Trout
Feb 16, 2017
Campbell River Mirror
After four years, the proof is in the pulling. Pulling, that is, on a hook by big trout in some Vancouver Island lakes.
The trout are getting bigger thanks to a small lake fertilization program started four years ago. It’s a cooperative effort between the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF), the BC Conservation Foundation (BCCF) and the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations (FLNRO).
Public asked to help in reporting bat activity
Feb 16, 2017
Williams Lake Tribune
White Nose Syndrome (WNS), a fungal disease responsible for the death of millions of bats in eastern North America, has moved to the west coast and was confirmed in Washington State in 2016.
This is very worrisome for the health of bat populations in British Columbia, with nearly 100 per cent mortality for some species of bats exposed to the fungus.
You can help monitor deadly White Nose Syndrome in bats
Feb 15, 2017
Kootenay News Advertiser
Funded by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, the Province of BC, the Habitat Stewardship Program, Columbia Basin Trust, Kootenay Conservation Program in partnership with the Regional District of East Kootenay, and the Public Conservation Assistance Fund, the BC Community Bat Program works with the government and others on public outreach activities, public reports of roosting bats in buildings, and our citizen-science bat monitoring program.
Port to plant eelgrass gardens off Tsawwassen ferry terminal to benefit marine life
Feb 13, 2017
Vancouver Sun
The Port of Vancouver is proposing to plant vast gardens of eelgrass on the ocean floor this year to benefit marine life ranging from fish to crabs near the Tsawwassen ferry terminal.
The project would create a total of four hectares of eelgrass habitat on the southeast side of the terminal at two ocean-bottom sites that were formerly dredged.
Foreshore rehab work continues
February 8, 2017
Salmon Arm Observer
The trail may be closed to the public until the end of March, but there’s plenty of action on the foreshore.
On Tuesday, a Spidex, a large all-terrain, mobile excavator from Vernon, was on site, depositing torso-size riprap and sandaround some of the “toes” of the three hummocks that were created in November to increase bio-diversity along theforeshore Nature Trust land and trails.
Bats flying in the winter? Or, find a dead bat? Please report. Here’s why.
February 8, 2017
Nelson Dailey
Bats are an essential part of the global ecosystem. They save agriculture a great deal of money by eating vast numbers of crop-destroying insects such as Colorado Potato Beetles, and they save humans a lot of itching by eating vast numbers of flying, biting insects such as mosquitoes. For years, bats had an undeserved bad reputation, but gradually we are learning to understand their huge value.
Woman fined $2,000 for poaching California bighorn
January 11, 2017
KW This Week
A First Nations woman has pleaded guilty to shooting a California bighorn sheep — one of three she hunted — and leaving most of its meat behind.
Marlene Kato was sentenced yesterday in provincial court under the Wildlife Act for failing to remove edible portions of a carcass. The law is in place to ensure hunters kill for more than a trophy rack or horns.
Judge Chris Cleaveley sentenced Kato to a $2,000 fine. All but $100 of that amount will go to the B.C. Habitat Conservation Trust Fund.
Seymour salmon project gets funding boost
January 3, 2017
North Shore News
The year 2017 could be good for the salmon and steelhead that spawn in the Seymour River.
The project to revive the Seymour as a fish-bearing habitat after it was blocked by a rock slide in 2014, is being fast-tracked, thanks in part to a boost in funding.
North Vancouver MP Jonathan Wilkinson recently announced that the Seymour Salmonid Society, which is leading the project, would receive a $235,950 grant from the Recreational Fisheries Conservation Partnerships Program.
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