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Watershed Heroes

Welcome to our new Local Watershed Heroes series, where we shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of BC defending the waters they care about for the benefit of future generations.

From farmers to physicians to business owners to Indigenous stewards weaving age-old wisdom into modern-day conservation efforts, this series celebrates those who are making a difference for the water that is our life.

The lives, health, jobs and future of all British Columbians depend on the wealth of the vast watersheds that nourish BC’s rivers, lakes and wetlands, from the Rockies to the coastal islands.

Rich and abundant watersheds such as the Fraser, Skeena, Peace, Columbia and Cowichan are the envy of the world. But decades of mismanagement have left our watersheds vulnerable to droughts, floods, and contamination–and in desperate need of our fierce protection and restoration.

Many British Columbians have seen this need and stepped forward to champion our water.

Join us over the coming months as we meet the amazing British Columbians safeguarding our rivers, lakes, and streams.

Know a Local Watershed Hero in your community? Nominate them! Send your nominations to [email protected]

 

Dave Zehnder | Local Watershed Hero

March 14, 2024

CodeBlue BC has named rancher Dave Zehnder a Local Watershed Hero for his work with farmers and ranchers to increase watershed security. Zehnder aims, he says, “to fix BC watersheds.” With his family, Zehnder owns the Zehnder...

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MEET OUR LOCAL WATERSHED HEROES

Dr. Shannon Waters
Dr. Shannon Waters
Medical Health Officer for the Cowichan Valley
David Slade
David Slade
Owner, DrillWell Water Driller
Chief Kukpi7 Wayne Christian
Chief Kukpi7 Wayne Christian
Former Chief, Splatsin / Shuswap Nation
Dave Zehnder
Dave Zehnder
Owner, Zehnder Ranch and founder of Farmland Advantage
Liam Murphy
Liam Murphy
Brewmaster and Co-owner, Yellow Dog Brewing Co.
Lynne Smith
Lynne Smith
Director, Area G Saltair/Gulf Islands, Cowichan Valley Regional District