Community members, environmental advocates and conservation experts will gather in Nelson next month to explore collaborative approaches to protecting Kootenay Lake.
The Friends of Kootenay Lake Stewardship Society (FoKLSS) will host its annual Kootenay Lake Summit on Nov. 15 at the Prestige Lakeside Resort, bringing together residents, scientists, lake users, politicians and stewardship organizations from across the watershed.
This year’s theme, Synergy: Collaboration in Conservation, will focus on how partnerships, shared knowledge and community involvement can strengthen conservation efforts throughout the region.
The summit will provide opportunities for participants to learn about local stewardship initiatives, exchange ideas and explore ways to work together to protect the lake’s ecological, cultural, recreational and economic value.
Interactive activities will encourage attendees to share their experiences, highlight ongoing conservation projects and identify opportunities for future collaboration.
FoKLSS program co-ordinator Ezra Creasy encouraged residents to secure their tickets early.
“We are now one month away from the 2026 Kootenay Lake Summit! We encourage everyone to buy their tickets as soon as possible as this beloved event always sells out!” Creasy said.
The event will feature a keynote address by Juliet Craig, program director of the Kootenay Conservation Program, along with an opening lakeside ceremony led by yaqan nukiy land steward Robin Louie.
Other highlights include the premiere of a short film on shoreline stewardship, live music by singer-songwriter Dana Lee, a locally catered dinner, door prizes and a silent auction.
Organizers said the summit aims to provide participants with practical information and tools to support conservation efforts while strengthening connections among people and organizations working throughout the Kootenay Lake watershed.
The event runs from 3 to 8 p.m., with an option for attendees to arrive at 5:30 p.m. for the dinner and keynote portion.
Registration is open, with FoKLSS members eligible for a 10 per cent discount. A limited number of reduced-price tickets are also available to improve accessibility.
More information and registration details are available through the Friends of Kootenay Lake Stewardship Society website.
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