Wildsight Youth Climate Corps, West Kootenay program, has now been running since 2020. West Kootenay Region is the first location where YCC started! Our journey has been an incredible adventure of learning, engagement, and collaboration.
Land Acknowledgment
We acknowledge that the land on which we operate is the traditional territory of the Sinixt, Syilx and Ktunaxa Nation, who have been stewards of this land for time immemorial. We honour their deep connection to the land.
Meet the West Kootenay Team
Allow us to introduce our dedicated crew members who are passionate about driving positive change in the West Kootenay region. From wildfire risk reduction to community outreach and wildlife restoration, our team is committed to making a difference. Guided by Brianna Thompson, the crew is this year formed by: Mateo, Miguel, Kozmo, Clara and Taylor.
Impactful Projects
Salmo Wildfire Risk Reduction Project: A wildfire risk reduction project developed to spread awareness and increase local wildfire resilience. Working with a local forestry company to remove surface fuels and increase the canopy base height to reduce the continuity of fuel loads. Collaboration with local FireSmart Neighbourhoods and Coordinators.
Community Engagement: The crew will work with different organizations and local governments to help educate and connect with the community on fire resiliency, water conservation, and community preparedness.
Several other small projects are dependent on funding and partnerships including residential-based FireSmarting, Sustainable Development Goals, shoreline stewardship, agricultural sector support environmental education facilitating and potentially more.
Within Youth Climate Corps, crew members are between 17-30 years old; they earn wages, gain work experience, build networks, and develop themselves personally and professionally. Meanwhile, they complete projects that both benefit their own communities and support global efforts to act on the climate crisis.
If you or your organization wants to learn more about how to team up with us and move forward on projects in your community, or if you are interested in funding one of our projects related to our different focus areas, we are here to support you.