FMCBC E-News February 2024

The Federation of Mountain Clubs
of British Columbia
February 2024 NEWSLETTER

FMCBC News

As outdoor enthusiasts eagerly embrace the arrival of spring, it's crucial to be mindful of our impact on the delicate ecosystems we cherish. Invasive species pose a significant threat to the biodiversity of our beloved landscapes in British Columbia. As stewards of the outdoors, it's our responsibility to take proactive steps to prevent the spread of these non-native plants and animals.

This spring, let's adopt a united front against invasive species:

Clean Your Gear: Before heading out on your adventures, thoroughly clean your gear, including boots, hiking poles, and camping equipment. Remove any mud, seeds, or debris that may harbor invasive species.
Use Local Firewood: If your outdoor plans involve a campfire, opt for locally sourced firewood. Transporting firewood can inadvertently introduce invasive pests to new areas.
Stay on Designated Trails: Straying from designated trails can lead to the spread of invasive seeds. Stick to established paths to minimize the risk of carrying unwanted hitchhikers on your shoes or clothing.
Educate and Inform: Share knowledge about invasive species with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Awareness is a powerful tool in preventing their spread. Consider organizing educational events or including informative inserts in our newsletter to empower our community.

By collectively embracing these practices, we can safeguard the beauty of British Columbia's natural wonders and ensure a vibrant and healthy outdoor environment for generations to come. Let's enjoy the spring responsibly and protect the landscapes we hold dear.

Mountain Matters

Welcome Wren

This week, the Federation of Mountain Clubs of British Columbia team was joined by Wren Shaman, in the Administration and Communication Coordinator position.

Wren is an avid outdoors enthusiast who is passionate about creating accessible, safe, and enduring opportunities for folks to get outdoors. She particularly enoys hiking and bike packing, since moving to the Island. She grew up skiing and canoeing in the Kootenays.

She looks forward to getting to know the FMCBC community!

Films and Panel Discussion: Indigenous Identity in the Outdoors

Mar. 1, 2024, 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. PT in Vancouver, B.C, In Person.

Celebrate Indigenous reclamation and stewardship with inspiring journeys of paddling, riding, and running. Featuring the story behind Canada's newest national park, Thaidene Nëné, showcasing Indigenous commitment to land, waters, culture, and history. Curated by Michele Lobo.

Get your tickets here

Nominate a Conservation Champion for Wildsight’s Ellen Zimmerman Award

Nominations are now open for the Wildsight 2024 Ellen Zimmerman Award. The award recognizes an individual who works to protect nature or inspires a love of the wild through environmental education in the Upper Columbia Valley.

Submissions are accepted until March 31. For more information, visit Wildsight.

Victoria Outdoor Club Meetup

Join members of the Victoria Outdoor Club Meetup group for their weekly Saturday run. At varying locations, runners come together to train for the Times Colonist 10k throughout the year.

In the News

18 of the Best Canadian Running Trails that are Accessible to All - Redbull (January 22, 2024)

Stoney Nakoda First Nations Ask Province for Environmental Review of Mountain Town Projects - CBC (February 14, 2024)

Is BC ‘Returning All Traditional Lands’ to First Nations? - The Tyee (February 14, 2024)

Avalanche at Fernie Alpine Resort Leaves No Casualties, Injuries - The Nelson Star (February 15, 2024)

Special Olympics Athletes Heading to National Snowshoe Races - Prince George Citizens (February 19, 2024)

Closed for the Season? Why B.C. Ski Hills Face an Uncertain Future - The Times Colonist (February 20, 2024)

British Columbia’s Multimillion-dollar Mining Problem - The Narwhal (February 21, 2024)

Join the FMCBC today!