The first-ever Great Kokanee Escape made a strong splash this past weekend, bringing together local businesses, and lake stewards in support of Kootenay Lake.
Hosted by the Friends of Kootenay Lake Stewardship Society (FoKLSS), the event at Lakeside Park welcomed 124 participants and raised over $7,600 for local environmental programs..)
Blending outdoor activity with hands-on learning, Great Kokanee Escape participants navigated interactive challenge stations that highlighted the real-world obstacles faced by Kokanee salmon, from predators to fluctuating lake levels. The event aimed to build both awareness and support for the fragile ecosystems that sustain Kootenay Lake.
“The turnout and energy we saw on Saturday speaks to how deeply this community values Kootenay Lake,” said Raine Freeman, one of the event’s coordinators. “This event was about more than fundraising; it also created an understanding of the challenges faced by kokanee and inspired people to be part of the solution.”
The event was made possible through strong local sponsorship. The Martin Hospitality Group led as the Presenting Sponsor, with Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism and Uptown Sports Bar joining as Tributary Sponsors. Additional support came from the Prestige Lakeside Resort, Home Hardware Building Centre, Kootenay Co-op, Save-On-Foods, Safeway, Kootenay Tamil Market, The Boonies Magazine, Big Cranium Designs, and Ainsworth Hot Springs.
Funds raised will directly support FoKLSS’s Kootenay Lake Education and Stewardship Program, including continued restoration work in the Harrop wetlands, shoreline cleanups, public education initiatives, and the expansion of long-term lake monitoring efforts.
FoKLSS also recognized outstanding fundraising efforts from participants. Nashira Birch’s class earned first place, raising $534 and winning a one-night stay at the Prestige Lakeside Resort. Renae Mackas secured second place with $470 raised, earning hand tools donated by Home Hardware Building Centre.
Learn more about the educational challenge stations on their website: https://www.friendsofkootenaylake.ca/news/great-kokanee-escape-challenges/
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