Wildsight Creston Valley is celebrating a major boost in its conservation efforts after receiving a grant from the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Local Conservation Fund, delivered in partnership with the Kootenay Conservation Program.
The funding will support the group's latest initiative: Wildflow Project: Wire Fence Removal to Restore Habitat Connectivity.
In collaboration with the Creston Valley Rod and Gun Club, the project aims to remove hazardous, unused barbed wire fencing across RDCK Area A – a significant step toward preserving local biodiversity and restoring natural wildlife corridors. These barriers often obstruct animal movement and pose serious risks to wildlife, particularly species that depend on free passage through the region's landscape.
“This initiative is about more than removing old fences - it’s about reconnecting fragmented habitats and supporting peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife,” said Debby Johnson, Wildsight Creston Valley director and lead of the Wildlife-Friendly Fencing Committee.
The project is being guided by an experienced leadership team. Alongside Johnson, project co-lead Brian Huscroft – past president of the Creston Valley Rod and Gun Club and a respected local farmer – brings conservation and land stewardship knowledge. Dee Howard, Wildsight Creston Valley’s project sites manager, adds global experience in environmental restoration to the mix, having led multiple award-winning initiatives focused on ecosystem recovery.
Wildsight Creston Valley branch manager Rebecca Gidney, who brings a strong background in community studies, is overseeing co-ordination. Gidney is deeply committed to community engagement and environmental education, and is playing a key role in mobilizing local support.
“This is truly a community-driven effort,” said Gidney. “We’re encouraging local residents to get involved – whether by identifying potential fence removal sites, helping us spread the word or volunteering.”
The initiative is currently limited to RDCK Area A, from Wyndell to Riondel, as it is the contributing area to the Local Conservation Fund. However, Wildsight Creston Valley welcomes submissions from outside the area for consideration in future projects should additional funding become available.
How you can help
Do you have unused or hazardous barbed wire on your property? Do you know of a potential location? Wildsight Creston Valley wants to hear from you. The team is actively seeking new sites for fence removal and is also building a roster of local volunteers.
To get involved or suggest a site, contact Rebecca Gidney at creston@wildsight.ca.
