| Abstract/Description or Keywords |
Since 2013, the Slocan Wetland Assessment and Monitoring Program (SWAMP) has taken an integrated scientific approach to filling data gaps by identifying, mapping and classifying wetlands throughout the Slocan Valley watershed. This local initiative successfully brings together local professional biologists and citizen scientists to: 1) conduct field surveys; 2) build a comprehensive wetlands database; 3) help refine provincial wetland classification for our region; and 4) identify and prioritize sensitive wetlands for restoration and protection. SWAMP is a partnership of organizations including the Slocan River Streamkeepers, Slocan Lake Stewardship Society, and Slocan Solutions Society working with Ryan Durand, R.P.Bio., of Durand Ecological Consulting and Darcie Quamme, R.P.Bio., of Integrated Ecological Research. Funding and support has been provided by from BC Hydro Fish & Wildlife Compensation Program, Columbia Basin Trust, BC Wildlife Federation, Central Kootenay Invasive Plant Committee, Regional District of Central Kootenay, Selkirk College, National Wetland Conservation Fund, the Royal BC Museum and the Ministry of Forest Lands and Natural Resource Operations. Using a science-based approach to identify and classify wetlands throughout the Slocan watershed to create maps and inform restoration and conservation decisions, this locally-led effort will result in a comprehensive mapping database for wetlands of our valley. The Slocan Solutions Society is the fiscal manager of the program. |
