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Regional Staff & Contractors
John Bergenske
Conservation DirectorJohn was a leader in the 20-year process to create and complete the Purcell Wilderness Conservancy. He has been instrumental in designation of protected areas and parks in the East Kootenay, coordinated environmental appeals against industrial polluters, worked to establish the Southern Rocky Mountain Conservation Area, the Columbia Wetlands and East Columbia Lake Wildlife Management Areas.Tim Chapman
Kimberley/Cranbrook Youth Climate Corps CoordinatorBorn and raised in Guelph, Ontario, Tim grew up camping and road tripping with his parents, and at a young age developed an appreciation for nature and wild places. Driven by a passion to teach others, learn, and share knowledge and experience, he was drawn to his current role with Wildsight and the Youth Climate Corps. On a constant search for new adventures, Tim has worked in various capacities for Provincial Parks, Conservation...Dawn Deydey
Beyond Recycling Coordinator
EducatorFounder of the Rocky Mountain Education Series, Dawn Deydey brings the experience and understanding of for over a decade of Beyond Recycling coordination and development to the table. As Community Program Coordinator for the Wildsight Elk Valley Branch, her ability to weave environmental education and community action into successful programming that moves our community towards sustainability has been proven repeatedly.Robyn Duncan
Executive Director
Jumbo Wild Campaign LeadRobyn is the Executive Director of Wildsight and the campaign lead for Jumbo Wild. Born and raised in Kimberley, BC, Robyn fell in love with the mountains at an early age. Her work is driven by her passion for wilderness and wild places and a strong belief that we can minimize our footprint on the planet. She has been with Wildsight since 2006.Claudia Goodwin
Finance & Administration ManagerClaudia Goodwin was born and raised in Kimberley, BC where she continues to live with her two children. She received her B. Mgt. in 2010 and her CPA-CA designation in 2011. She has worked with First Nations, nonprofits and corporations in the area. She has been balancing her love for the outdoors with her work for several years and is excited to work for an organization that is focused on environmental conservation and...Jill Jennings
Education CoordinatorJill has been working in environmental education in many capacities throughout her career. She is passionate about nurturing the natural world around her and fostering environmental stewardship in people of all ages.Lorene Keitch
Communications SpecialistLorene joined the team to share the work of Wildsight with the world. Her formative years were spent in Cranbrook where she tromped through the trails, hiked the wild mountains and swam in cold, clear lakes. She is keen to keep these wild spaces for her own children and the generations to come. With a passion for the written word, Lorene presents the voice of Wildsight for all who love this place we...Mel Lavery
West Kootenay Youth Climate Corps CoordinatorWhen Mel discovered hiking when she was 19, she hung up her roller-skates and headed for the hills. Over the next decade, Mel lived a nomadic life, spanning continents as an Outdoor Educator. She witnessed how transformative working outside was while leading backpacking leadership expeditions. When she stumbled on Nelson, BC a part of her heart suctioned to the bridge and hasn’t been able to be pried off since. With her experience in...Graeme Lee Rowlands
Environmental Programs Coordinator
Columbia River Field School, Youth Climate CorpsGraeme serves as program manager for the Columbia River Field School and the Youth Climate Corps. He is passionate about the relationships that underpin the ways we make decisions about rivers and the climate. In 2017, Graeme spent 35 days biking and kayaking up the Columbia River from sea-to-source. He now lives in Golden but enjoys visiting familiar places and faces across the region.Randal Macnair
Elk Valley Conservation CoordinatorRandal moved to Fernie in the 1990’s and with his wife Lisa raised their family in the Kootenays. Randal is the publisher of Oolichan Books, prior to which he was a museum curator and consultant, working throughout western Canada with museums in human and natural history. He spent much of his life in public service with 15 years as a member of Fernie City Council including six as Mayor and and six as...Emily Markholm
Youth Climate Corps Special Projects CoordinatorEmily is the Youth Climate Corps (YCC) Special Projects Coordinator and was a participant in the YCC pilot program in 2020. She is currently a student at the University of Northern British Columbia, studying Wildlife and Fisheries. Emily hopes that through the YCC we are able to connect young people with meaningful and accessible opportunities in climate action.Tamara Mercandelli
Administrative supportTamara was the administrator at Wildsight for 5 years before she left to pursue her dreams in the restaurant industry. The world looks a little different now, and she is happy to be back with Wildsight in an administrative support role. In her free time she loves spending time with her family and exploring our beautiful backyard on foot.Monica Nissen
Education DirectorA passion for the wilderness and a gift for teaching have drawn Monica into the field of environmental education where she has worked both inside and outside the classroom for the past 15 years.Eddie Petryshen
Conservation SpecialistEddie is an East Kootenay local yokel, a conservationist and a human and coffee powered adventurer. Eddie works to improve logging practices on the ground and at a provincial level, he works on old growth protection, caribou recovery, recreation and land-use planning.Wyatt Petryshen
Mining Policy and Impacts ResearcherWyatt is the Mining Policy and Impacts Researcher for Wildsight, where he is investigating the impacts of metallurgical coal mine expansion in the Elk Valley and its consequences to local and regional ecosystem health. Born and raised in Calgary, Wyatt spent most of his free time exploring the mountain tops, old-growth forests, and everything in between in the East Kootenay. Wyatt graduated in 2018 with a B.Sc. Honours First Class in Geology and...Dave Quinn
Know Your Watershed and Go Wild! Coordinator, EducatorBorn in Cranbrook, Dave is a wildlife biologist, educator, wilderness guide, writer and photographer whose work is driven by his passion for wilderness and wild spaces. His work with endangered mountain caribou and badgers, threatened fisher and grizzly, as well as lynx and other species has helped shape his understanding of the Kootenay backcountry and its wildlife, and help guide his efforts to protect what remains.Bailey Repp
Communications and Engagement LeadBailey is Wildsight’s communications and engagement lead. She is a storyteller of many mediums, a filmmaker, photographer, and conservation communications creator whose work is driven by her passion for wildlife and wild places.Lars Sander-Green
Communications AnalystLars is Wildsight's mining lead, focusing on the impacts of coal mining in the Elk Valley. Lars has a BA.&Sc. in physics and a life-long love of clean water. When not focused on mining, Lars helps shape Wildsight's communications and fundraising strategies.
Jenna Schulhof
Columbia Valley Conservation CoordinatorJenna is the Columbia Valley Conservation Coordinator. Jenna has lived between BC’s coast mountains and the Rockies her whole life and has made Golden, BC her home since 2020. Her enthusiasm for healthy ecosystems and wild spaces has always shaped her work. This has led her to various roles including ecological monitoring as a resource conservation officer in six mountain national parks and prior to, as an environmental educator with award winning programs...
Regional Educators
Ayla Bennett
EducatorAyla Bennett lives with her family in Fernie, BC. She is passionate about conserving and discovering more of our beautiful mountains, free-flowing rivers and wild spaces. Ayla works with environmental non-profit groups including Wildsight, Elk River Alliance and Mainstreams Environmental Society.Shanoon Bennett
EducatorShanoon Bennett lives in beautiful Winlaw, in the Slocan Valley. She teaches a host of programs including Know Your Watershed, as well as Wild Voices for Kids Winter Safety and Survival Skills, Animal Tracks, Habits and Homes, Forest, River, Pond Ecology and Natures Wild Food and Medicine programs.Jess Booth
EducatorJess is originally from a small coastal town in Australia. She has lived in Revelstoke since 2019, where her love for outdoor activities within the community has flourished. Jess has a Bachelor of Environmental and Outdoor Education. She has a background in invasive species education and facilitates connections between children and the natural world through the Revelstoke After School Society. Jess brings enthusiasm and curiosity to students she interacts with and enjoys gaining...Jessie Caza
Educator
Invermere SecretaryJessie moved to Invermere in August 2016 from Crawford Bay in the West Kootenays. She now works as a Wildsight Environmental Educator, and at Eagle-Eye Tours. Her favourite spot in the Columbia Valley is her garden, followed closely by Wilmer Wetlands and any number of local hiking trails.Dawn Deydey
Beyond Recycling Coordinator
EducatorFounder of the Rocky Mountain Education Series, Dawn Deydey brings the experience and understanding of for over a decade of Beyond Recycling coordination and development to the table. As Community Program Coordinator for the Wildsight Elk Valley Branch, her ability to weave environmental education and community action into successful programming that moves our community towards sustainability has been proven repeatedly.Karen Doughty
EducatorKaren has lived in Valemount, B.C for the past 30 years. Her experiences cycling, camping, hiking and paddling have given her many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Karen’s passion as an elementary school teacher has always been sharing the outdoors and environmental education with children. As a newly retired teacher, Karen is excited to share the Beyond Recycling and Know Your Watershed programs.Carrie Ferguson
EducatorCarrie lives in the wild Blaeberry Valley where she grows food, skis out her backdoor and homeschools her son. She delivers Classroom With Outdoors, Beyond Recycling, Know Your Watershed and Winter Wonder programs. Carrie is trained as an Environmental Protection Technician and has completed an Organic Farming Apprenticeship with Stewards of Irreplaceable Land. She has a passion for nature and loves to share this spark with others.Melissa Flint
Educator
Creston Project Director-CoordinatorMelissa Flint has a background in conservation biology, organic farming, permaculture and environmental consulting - and a love for mountain air and exploration. She loves taking people outside and finding connections in the natural world. Melissa's other work includes design, gardening and workshops in permaculture, sustainability and resiliency, through her company Aurora Edible Designs. Melissa teaches our Beyond Recycling, Classroom with Outdoors, Winter Wonder, and Know Your Watershed programs.Jill Jennings
Education CoordinatorJill has been working in environmental education in many capacities throughout her career. She is passionate about nurturing the natural world around her and fostering environmental stewardship in people of all ages.Patty Kolesnichenko
EducatorPatty Kolesnichenko has worked for over 20 years teaching Outdoor Education to individuals of all ages. Her background includes a Degree in Education with a specialization in Physical Education and Science from York University in Toronto. She has taught at the Boyne River Natural Science School, the Nor West Outdoor Centre in Ontario and started St Patrick High school’s Outdoor Program in Yellowknife. Patty has also run her own business "Wolfsong Adventures" in...Genna Lazier
EducatorGenna is passionate about bringing environmental stewardship to our younger generation in the hopes of passing on that enthusiasm so that they may become the next guardians of the earth. She wants them to pass along that knowledge and wonder of nature to their parents so that it will become a "family love affair". Genna teaches our Beyond Recycling, Classroom with Outdoors, and Winter Wonder programs.Monica Nissen
Education DirectorA passion for the wilderness and a gift for teaching have drawn Monica into the field of environmental education where she has worked both inside and outside the classroom for the past 15 years.Janelle Park
EducatorJanelle Park lives with her family in beautiful Fernie, BC. She has a degree in Elementary Education from the University of Alberta. Janelle strives to connect students to the natural world through her work with Wildsight, HCTF and School District #5. She is passionate about connecting students to place to help foster young stewardsDave Quinn
Know Your Watershed and Go Wild! Coordinator, EducatorBorn in Cranbrook, Dave is a wildlife biologist, educator, wilderness guide, writer and photographer whose work is driven by his passion for wilderness and wild spaces. His work with endangered mountain caribou and badgers, threatened fisher and grizzly, as well as lynx and other species has helped shape his understanding of the Kootenay backcountry and its wildlife, and help guide his efforts to protect what remains.Mary Searchfield
Education Development
EducatorMary started delivering environmental education programs last century (!) She has a Masters in Environmental Education and Communication from Royal Roads University, and an education degree from UBC (WKTEP). Mary currently delivers Beyond Recycling, Nature through the Seasons, and Winter Wonder in and around Nelson, BC, her home for the past +20 years.Kim Urbaniak
EducatorKim lives in Kimberley, where she brings plenty of enthusiasm and passion for outdoor activities and connecting people with the natural world. She has a MA in Environmental Education and Communications, and a varied background in community engagement, program development, and volunteer management.Jess Williams
EducatorJess is an environmental educator with an Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership Degree. She is passionate about the environment and loves to spend time sharing the wonder and awe of nature with her students. She believes that all people, no matter what age, can learn to appreciate the wilderness around them and learn skills to keep it wild for all to enjoy for the future. Activities such as snowboarding, hiking, paddling, mountain biking and...
Regional Board of Directors
Leslie Adams
Regional Branch Director
Golden Branch ManagerLeslie has lived in the Kootenays almost her whole life, growing up in Castlegar and now residing in Golden where she has been for almost 30 years. She loves the wilderness and spends as much time as she can outdoors; camping, hiking, swimming and cross-country skiing. Leslie has 7 grandchildren and it is important to her that they are able to enjoy the wilderness as much as she does forever.Aita Bezzola
Golden Board Director
Golden Area Forestry Lead
Regional Council Board LiaisonAita is a born and raised Parson-ite, she moved away for school and life but recently moved back. She is a biologist and map-maker, and joined Wildsight to advocate for our amazing landscapes. She enjoys gardening, the outdoors and connecting with people.Casey Brennan
Regional & Elk Valley DirectorCasey and his family live work and play in Fernie in the heart of Canada's beautiful Southern Rockies. Casey managed Wildsight's Southern Rockies Campaign for a decade and is grateful for the opportunity to continue to support progress on conservation and community sustainability through volunteering with Wildsight.Brian Conrad
Regional ChairBrian Conrad moved to the Kootenays in the mid 1970’s after living in England, the United States, Mexico and Colombia. The grandeur of the region inspired an intensified consciousness of environmental excitement and concerns. As a teacher at Mt. Baker Secondary School in Cranbrook, Brian joined a team of colleagues and ran an Environmental Awareness Program for Grade 11 students for many years.Lindsay Cuff
Regional DirectorLindsay has extensive experience in environmental and non-profit communications, and has managed communications for inspiring organizations in the US, France, and Canada. Lindsay is currently an Assistant Professor of Teaching at UBC in the faculties of Forestry and Land & Food Systems where she is teaching a new generation to tell stories and create change.Tracy Flynn
Regional Director
Invermere DirectorTracy Flynn came to the Columbia Valley from northern Alberta 12 years ago. She appreciates intact, healthy ecosystems but it was Columbia Lake that drew her here. Having spent most of her life in the unspoiled lake environments that northern life offered, she was pleased to find Columbia Lake. Tracy has always preferred to be outside, doing everything and anything outdoors related, including hiking, skiing and biking. She feels she has landed in...Lesley Giroday
Regional Board DirectorLesley is a retired lawyer who worked for the East Kootenay Environmental Society (Wildsight’s precursor) as a campaigner between 1992-1998. Lesley established the Elk Valley Conservation Society which evolved into Wildsight’s Elk Valley Branch, negotiated the East Kootenay CORE Land Use Plan with the environmental sector, and was on the originating steering committee of the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative. In her legal practice, she provided advice to First Nations on a variety...Margie Jamieson
Regional Vice-ChairI feel fortunate to have lived in the Rocky Mountain Trench for over 30 years and have been able to play and work in my front-yard, the Rocky Mountains and my backyard, the Purcell Mountains. My history with Wildsight is as old as the organization. As a founding member, I have been a proud supporter for many years. I have worked on many campaigns but am most proud of the Purcell Wilderness Conservancy...Woody Maguire
Regional Director
President - Kim/CranWoody’s involvement with Wildsight Kimberley Cranbrook has mainly taken place behind the scenes through his work on the Board of Directors. His strong pragmatism has helped to guide Wildsight programming since 2013. His involvement is inspired by the value he places on local food security and stewardship/protection of local ecosystems. He also has a passion for local arts and culture and sees how Wildsight activities help to create a strong social fabric within our...Kelvin Saldern
Regional DirectorKelvin, ‘Kel’ (he/him) resides in Rossland where he squeezes time in his consulting business in between volunteering, biking, hiking, kayaking and skiing in all its forms. He brings a deep background in community and organizational development and non-profit management to Wildsight’s board. As a recently certified Canadian Aquatic Biomonitoring (CABIN) field tech, he plans to participate in volunteer citizen science and contribute to the health of the rivers on which he spends so...Jim Smith
Regional Director Creston Valley BranchBorn and raised in rural west central Minnesota, Jim graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Forestry in 1969, married Sandy and headed west. Over the following 30 years he worked various industry and government positions from Prince George and Burns Lake, to Creston and Vernon and back to Creston again. Throughout most of this experience Jim was fortunate to work with people who “saw the forest through the trees.”
Creston Valley Staff & Contractors
Creston Valley Board of Directors
Mary Jayne Blackmore
Creston Valley Branch DirectorHaving grown up on the traditional land of the Yaqan Nukiy within the Ktunaxa Territory, Mary Jayne Blackmore is passionate about protecting access to waterways and green spaces for all creatures, which lead to chairing Trails for Creston Valley Society for 5 years. With ten plus years teaching elementary and high school, her focus is to bring kids to have authentic and impactful experiences in natural spaces, so they can better understand that...Brian Churchill
Creston Valley Branch PresidentBrian has a MSc in Forestry Wildlife and had a career as a Wildlife Biologist for BC Government in Fort St. John followed by 15 years of consulting as an ungulate habitat specialist. Brian has been involved in conservation biology and wildlife research projects including swans, mountain goats, caribou, moose, elk, deer and grizzly bear.Lindsay Donald
Creston Valley Branch DirectorLindsay Donald is an international award-winning wildlife photographer. Originally from Scotland, he has a degree in zoology and animal behavior from the University of Hull in the United Kingdom. Lindsay started taking photographs to illustrate animal behavior for a research project in the late 1970’s. He has travelled the World in search of amazing wildlife images. In North America he travels from Florida to Alaska and makes frequent visits to Africa including Botswana,...Gitte Grover
Creston Valley Branch Vice PresidentI was born in Marburg, Germany and immigrated to Canada after I obtained my Ph.D. in biology from the Justus-Liebig-Universitaet in Giessen. I worked for 21 years as a researcher with a forestry company (Alberta-Pacific) in Northern Alberta and was part of a team implementing innovative forest management systems. I am passionate about protecting the environment and Wildsight gives me the opportunity to contribute.Debby Johnson
Creston Valley Branch DirectorMy grandparents' caring interest in the wellbeing of nature influenced me to my core. I raised my family in the Creston Valley because it offers a wholesome, healthy lifestyle. Supporting an environmentally conscious culture is vital for retaining this valued way of life. My business, marketing, communications, and community development background can be an asset to the Wildsight Creston team. I want to help give the land a voice.Vanessa Lozecznik
Creston Valley Branch DirectorI grew up in Chile between the Andes mountains and the Pacific Ocean. I moved to Canada many years ago to continue my education at the University of Manitoba. My studies and work focused on transformative learning as a catalyst of action and I had the privilege to work with many Indigenous communities throughout Manitoba. I moved with my family to the Kootenays to enjoy the majestic landscapes and to fulfil my dream...Don Peel
Creston Valley Branch DirectorR. Don Peel, PGeo. MSc, MEd, Hon. FEC. FGC. A lifetime career as a geoscientist, homeschooling my granddaughter (from Grade 6), completing a MSc (Earth Sciences-University of Alberta 2004), and a MEd (Peace Education-University of Hawaiʻi 2014) focused on sustainable development, has turned my passion towards crusading for a paradigm shift in public education, to stimulate full human potential. The future of humanity is dependent on shifting from the current knowledge conformity education...Jim Smith
Regional Director Creston Valley BranchBorn and raised in rural west central Minnesota, Jim graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Forestry in 1969, married Sandy and headed west. Over the following 30 years he worked various industry and government positions from Prince George and Burns Lake, to Creston and Vernon and back to Creston again. Throughout most of this experience Jim was fortunate to work with people who “saw the forest through the trees.”
Elk Valley Staff & Contractors
Dawn Deydey
Beyond Recycling Coordinator
EducatorFounder of the Rocky Mountain Education Series, Dawn Deydey brings the experience and understanding of for over a decade of Beyond Recycling coordination and development to the table. As Community Program Coordinator for the Wildsight Elk Valley Branch, her ability to weave environmental education and community action into successful programming that moves our community towards sustainability has been proven repeatedly.Jennifer Lennon
Local Store Coordinator -- Wildsight Elk ValleyAfter over a decade as a performing arts designer, Jennifer arrived in Fernie in late 2020. With a passion for local and more sustainable food systems, she joined Wildsight that winter to help establish the Local store. She loves a worthy challenge, walking in the woods, and making things beautiful.
Elk Valley Board of Directors
Myriam Bourdeau-Potvin
Board Director -- Wildsight Elk ValleyAfter obtaining her Science Degree at the University of Ottawa, Myriam got involved with not-for-profits, contributing to the preservation of the massive urban Boucher Forest. Her passion for biology, science popularization and sustainable lifestyles brought her to the Rockies where she made Fernie her home.Casey Brennan
Regional & Elk Valley DirectorCasey and his family live work and play in Fernie in the heart of Canada's beautiful Southern Rockies. Casey managed Wildsight's Southern Rockies Campaign for a decade and is grateful for the opportunity to continue to support progress on conservation and community sustainability through volunteering with Wildsight.Mary Cosman
President -- Wildsight Elk ValleyMary Cosman has been a grower-member of Seeds of Diversity Canada since the early 1990s. She was a member of the Prince George Community Garden while living there, and has been a director of Fernie’s Community EcoGarden since moving here in 2005.Randi Jennings
Board Director -- Wildsight Elk ValleyOriginally from Kimberley, BC, Randi had a love for the conservation of nature from a young age. After finishing a BSc. in Biology from University of Victoria, Randi ventured to Yellowknife, NT for a Wildlife Management Biologist career. Randi and her husband have made the move back to BC and are excited to call Fernie home! She is excited to bring her passion for conservation, wildlife protection and environmental stewardship to the Wildsight...Robyn Peel
Board Director -- Wildsight Elk ValleyAs an avid supporter of local, social enterprises and people making positive change, Robyn joined Wildsight Elk Valley as a volunteer in 2020 to help bring Local, their social enterprise local food store, to life.Kaitlyn Philip
Board Director -- Wildsight Elk ValleySince her arrival in Fernie, Kaitlyn has spearheaded and supported multiple project campaigns throughout the region. With a deep love for the outdoors, Kaitlyn strives to build a future where humans can leave a positive impact on the environment.
Kristina Woodford
Accountant & Board Director -- Wildsight Elk ValleyKristina studied Biology at UVic and more recently studied Accounting at COTR. She now lives in Jaffray, BC with her husband and two kids where she raises chickens and loves working in her garden and camping at the local lakes. She is passionate about environmental protection and wants to foster more awareness in the South Country community
Golden Staff & Contractors
Leslie Adams
Regional Branch Director
Golden Branch ManagerLeslie has lived in the Kootenays almost her whole life, growing up in Castlegar and now residing in Golden where she has been for almost 30 years. She loves the wilderness and spends as much time as she can outdoors; camping, hiking, swimming and cross-country skiing. Leslie has 7 grandchildren and it is important to her that they are able to enjoy the wilderness as much as she does forever.Aita Bezzola
Golden Board Director
Golden Area Forestry Lead
Regional Council Board LiaisonAita is a born and raised Parson-ite, she moved away for school and life but recently moved back. She is a biologist and map-maker, and joined Wildsight to advocate for our amazing landscapes. She enjoys gardening, the outdoors and connecting with people.Gemma Cobb
ResearcherAfter completing a B.A in Geography and GIS at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Gemma came to British Columbia 'for a visit' and never left. She has been residing in Golden, BC for the past four years where she likes to spend time outdoors enjoying the sun, rain and snow. When she's not working you can find her enjoying a good book, travelling or working in her garden.Rachel Darvill
Upper Columbia Swallow Enhancement Program - Project BiologistRachel is a registered professional biologist who developed and currently coordinates Wildsight Golden's Columbia Valley Swallow Project and Community Invasive Plant Program. She also developed and managed on the hugely successful Columbia Wetlands Waterbird Survey for Wildsight. At the top of her class, she graduated with a Master of Science degree in Environment and Management in 2014, and has a Bachelors of Science degree (biology major) from the University of Victoria. She has...Sam Foster
ContractorOriginally from the UK, my professional focus for the past 17 years has been in business strategy, branding, and design. Now happily settled in Golden, I continue to work with non-profits and small local businesses as a registered 1% for the planet company. My life long love is the natural world. I am a Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide at The Wild Lifers, and a Level 3 Forest School practitioner. I want to...Meg Langley
Golden Branch Director
Golden Biologist & Project CoordinatorGolden Branch Director & Biologist on the Golden Rocky Mountain Sheep Project and Project Coordinator for the Plant Awareness ProjectAnnette Luttermann
ContractorAs a consulting boreal river ecologist, Annette Luttermann works with Aboriginal communities across Canada primarily investigating the cumulative environmental effects of large hydroelectric developments. Annette holds an interdisciplinary PhD from Dalhousie University where her research focused on the historical effects of dams and impoundments on riparian habitats of the Churchill River in Labrador.
Verena Shaw
ContractorVerena Shaw is a very passionate naturalist who loves to get outside into the wild and has been birdwatching for many years. Verena has been involved with various environmental projects with some bird related ones being swallow, bluebird, wood duck nest box monitoring, nightjar and marsh bird surveys, a western screech owl study, and various other bird counts. When coming to the Wings Over the Rockies Bird Festival two years ago she fell...
Golden Board of Directors
Calvin Beauchesne
Golden Board DirectorMy name is Calvin Beauchesne. I have a BA (Honours) in Environmental Studies and MA in Sustainability Studies. I led the fossil fuel divestment campaign at my university from 2013- 2015. I wrote my masters thesis on the effectiveness of different tactics and strategies of opposition to the Trans Mountain pipeline in BC. I have lived in Golden for 3 seasons. This past winter I presented to Golden City Council proposing the town...Aita Bezzola
Golden Board Director
Golden Area Forestry Lead
Regional Council Board LiaisonAita is a born and raised Parson-ite, she moved away for school and life but recently moved back. She is a biologist and map-maker, and joined Wildsight to advocate for our amazing landscapes. She enjoys gardening, the outdoors and connecting with people.Kate Corrigan
Golden Board DirectorKate grew up with a profound love of nature after summers camping in Jasper with her family and hunting with her dad every fall. For 16 years, Kate played ringette in the winter in her hometown of St.Albert, Alberta. Kate moved to Golden in 2021 after completing a 4-year Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Alberta, Augustana Campus in Environmental Studies and Outdoor Education. While at Augustana, Kate was the university’s Outdoors...Joan Dolinsky
Golden Branch TreasurerJoan has been volunteering with WIldsight Golden since it’s inception in 1989. She has been the branch president for many years, spearheading and supporting many initiatives and projects Joan finds it a privilege to work with the great people that are part of Wildsight and to live and play in such a wild and wonderful place.Natalie Ebsworth
Golden Board Co-ChairNatalie spent the best part of 10 years travelling the world as a Snow Sports Instructor. After witnessing the unpredictability from season to season due to environmental factors she returned to the UK to complete an Environmental Science B.Sc (hons). Since then has worked in invasive species (plants) with Spectrum Resources Group, as a Community Coordinator with WildSafeBC and as a Junior Biologist. She looks forward to working with Wildsight Golden as it...Tyler Garwood
Golden Board DirectorTyler grew up in White Salmon, Washington on the Columbia River. He got his BSc in Fire Ecology and Forest management at the University of Idaho while also working as a Wildland Firefighter for 6 years. Here is where his love for trees, being outdoors, and conserving our natural spaces blossomed. He moved to Golden in 2021, with the hope of participating in conserving this beautiful landscape (also on the Columbia) for years to come! I want to...Jennifer Greenwood
Golden Branch Co-ChairJen has been in Golden since 2019, after moving from Revelstoke. Over the last 10 years, she has developed a strong sense of place and love for this region and is finding joy in exploring this side of the Columbia Valley now. For the last five years Jen has worked in ecological monitoring and now wildlife management as well, for Parks Canada. Prior to this, her somewhat meandering career as a biologist took...Meg Langley
Golden Branch Director
Golden Biologist & Project CoordinatorGolden Branch Director & Biologist on the Golden Rocky Mountain Sheep Project and Project Coordinator for the Plant Awareness ProjectBrittany Verbeek
Golden Branch SecretaryBrittany moved to beautiful Golden five years ago, to pursue early years education and has worked at several local childcare centres, including supervising the ski hill’s Kicking Horse Kids Club. Prior to that she worked in the environmental non-profit sector in Alberta, creating nature-based excursions and experiences for people of all ages, and advocating for the protection of wild spaces. She is a fully certified Early Childhood Educator, has a degree in Biology...Mathew Zaleski
Golden Board DirectorMathew Zaleski has degrees in electrical and human factors engineering and a PhD in computer science from the University of Toronto. He has worked as an engineer, manager, and business owner and recently finished a 5 year stint as a computer science professor. In 1986 he started as a software engineer for IBM. Subsequently he worked for Autodesk, Adobe and Intel. In 1994, with two partners, he founded and operated Mountain Lake Software...
Invermere Staff & Contractors
Karen Barkley
Invermere Branch ManagerKaren Barkley comes to Invermere from Banff with vast experience in climate change and community issues. Most recently, she was the Operations Manager with the Global Call for Climate Action for over 8 years and was Project Manager for The Resilience Institute in Canmore, AB. She has worked in international development in Nigeria and Nepal, where she helped the national office of the Federation of Community Forest Users with its strategic planning and...Lianna Ferguson
Invermere Program CoordinatorLianna Ferguson is an environmental scientist, naturalist and wildlife guide with a passion for connecting people with the wild and facilitating discussions to find common ground. Originally from the Adirondacks in NY, she spent her childhood exploring the expansive lakes, waterways and forests of this region. She attended SUNY Cobleskill and obtained a Bachelors in Wildlife Management, followed by a Masters in Environmental Science at the University of Colorado. The vulnerability of the...
Invermere Board of Directors
Jessie Caza
Educator
Invermere SecretaryJessie moved to Invermere in August 2016 from Crawford Bay in the West Kootenays. She now works as a Wildsight Environmental Educator, and at Eagle-Eye Tours. Her favourite spot in the Columbia Valley is her garden, followed closely by Wilmer Wetlands and any number of local hiking trails.Tracy Flynn
Regional Director
Invermere DirectorTracy Flynn came to the Columbia Valley from northern Alberta 12 years ago. She appreciates intact, healthy ecosystems but it was Columbia Lake that drew her here. Having spent most of her life in the unspoiled lake environments that northern life offered, she was pleased to find Columbia Lake. Tracy has always preferred to be outside, doing everything and anything outdoors related, including hiking, skiing and biking. She feels she has landed in...Cam Gillies
Invermere Vice PresidentCam grew up in the Columbia Valley and is thrilled to return and call it home. He has a PhD in Biology and his passion for birds and the environment comes from a life of enjoying the outdoors since he was a child. Living in Windermere, he runs Eagle-Eye Tours, which provides an opportunity for travel to remote and wonderful corners of the world. He has also been involved in several wildlife research...Shannon McGinty
Technical Advisor
(non-Board member)Shannon grew up canoeing on the lakes of Southern Ontario, where she nurtured a passion for aquatic insects and terrestrial plants. She moved to Prince George in 2010 to pursue a Bachelors of Science, and continued to grow her connections to natural spaces. She has worked and volunteered with several non-profits, most recently finding her spot as Water Coordinator at MakeWay. Shannon began volunteering with Wildsight Invermere in 2018 and now serves as a...Baiba Morrow
Invermere PresidentBaiba Morrow has navigated much of her working life as a freelance writer, photographer, and dabbler in documentary film making. In partnership with her husband, Pat Morrow, she has travelled and explored the mountain world, especially the Himalayan region, and found inspiration from ancient cultures. Since moving back to the East Kootenay in 2007, Baiba continues to find joy in her community, the mountains, and her garden.Aurora Orchiston
Invermere Youth representativeAlthough Aurora has lived most of her life in Invermere, she was born in New Zealand and has been enjoying the outdoors since a young age. Many weekends were spent hiking and camping if she was not already training for cross country skiing, soccer and other outdoor sports. Aurora has had the pleasure of travelling to other countries to enjoy nature and appreciate its beauty. Aurora is excited about representing the youth voice in nature conservancy and...Taoya Schaefer
Invermere DirectorTaoya Schaefer moved to Invermere in 1985, and has been a member of Wildsight since its inception (as the East Kootenay Environmental Society). She is a retired physiotherapist, and along with her husband has raised two sons. She is passionate about preserving the natural environment and loves all manner of outdoor pursuits, especially ski touring in the winter and hiking, biking, and whitewater kayaking in the summer.Ben Tregidgo
Invermere TreasurerBen’s passion for all things outdoors has brought him from the UK to Invermere in August 2021, with his wife and two children. He is a chartered accountant and has gained experience in a range of finance roles at not-for-profit organisations since 2008. Ben is a fan of all the seasons and likes to connect with the environment by hiking, swimming, kayaking and cycling in the warmer months, and skiing in the winter....
Kimberley Cranbrook Staff & Contractors
Helena Barger
BookkeeperHelena BargerAndrea Chapman
Branch ManagerAndrea loves everything outdoors, be it a microscopic plant or heartwarming snowfall against a colourful sunset. She brings experience with education, research, and management to the Wildsight Kimberley/Cranbrook branch, and is excited to be working within the communities she calls home.Ali Hadikin
Community CoordinatorAli was born and raised in the Creston Valley and loves all things outdoors. After a 10 year hiatus to Calgary, she is excited to be back in the Kootenays focusing her career in a new direction. Whether it be travelling to a new country or simply enjoying the wild nature around us, you can usually find Ali adventuring in her free time. Ali will be working on the Apple Capture project in...Corrine Highwood
Meadowbrook Educator, Wildsight Kimberley CranbrookI moved to Kimberley in the summer of 2019 with my husband, dog, and 2-year-old daughter and am here to stay. I bring 14 years of environmental and outdoor education experience on three continents, along with a deep passion for promoting nature connection and wild adventures.Chad Kile
Sustainability CoordinatorPreviously an urban farmer, Chad is interested in creating strong local food economies.Alannah Leach
Farmers' Market CoordinatorAlannah is an Ontario farm girl now happy to call Kimberley home. After graduating from OCADU with a Bachelors in Fine Arts, it seemed natural to move further west in search of a community with a comfortable juxtaposition between outdoor adventures and artistic opportunity. She is very excited to be the new Kimberley Farmers' Market Coordinator and will probably show you a photo of her puppy or cats unprompted.Trixie Pacis
Communications and Fundraising CoordinatorTrixie is an incredibly talented writer, filmmaker and digital creator who is driven to share stories that celebrate our connection to the environment. After many years of travelling the world and capturing the beauty of diverse cultures and landscapes, she is excited to responsibly explore and passionately advocate for the wild corners of the Kootenays. kimcranfundraise@wildsight.caKim Urbaniak
EducatorKim lives in Kimberley, where she brings plenty of enthusiasm and passion for outdoor activities and connecting people with the natural world. She has a MA in Environmental Education and Communications, and a varied background in community engagement, program development, and volunteer management.
Kimberley Cranbrook Board of Directors
Daniel Bauer
Treasurer - Kim/CranDaniel grew up in Cranbrook skiing, backpacking, climbing, and enjoying the outdoors every opportunity he could get. After graduating from Royal Roads University, he returned to the Kootenays eventually moving back to his home mountain of Kimberley. Daniel currently works as an accountant for Nupqu (proudly owned by the communities of the Ktunaxa Nation), while also working on his CPA Preparatory Courses. He also volunteers as the Treasurer for the Columbia River-Revelstoke BCNDP....Ameila Bonenfant
DirectorAfter graduating with a degree in Biology and Environmental Science at Trent University and working as a Conservation Technician for The Nature Conservancy of Canada, Amelia moved to BC to gain work experience and live in the mountains. She then worked for The Nature Trust of BC and Spectrum Resources managing conservation lands and invasive species. Through her work with Neighbours United and Wildsight Kimberley Cranbrook, Amelia is making a positive contribution to...Daryl Calder
Director - Kim/CranGraduated UVic 1978, BSc Physical & Resource Geography. Built energy efficient home near Cranbrook in 1983. Self employed, with a variety of jobs according to the season. Active member of Rocky Mountain Naturalists, South Star Recreation Society, Kootenay Christmas Tree Association. I like birding, paddling, making things from ‘scratch’ and figuring out how to improve my community.Dean Chatterson
DirectorProudly born and raised in Kimberley, Dean retired from teaching in 2004. He has always enjoyed the outdoor life in the Kootenays and treasured the natural ecosystems that surround us. His involvement with Wildsight is the best fit for preserving and protecting the things he values.Sharon Cross
Director - Kim/CranSince the late 1970’s, I’ve been active locally, regionally and nationally in environmental and social issues. Jim Campbell and I were the EKES team that started recycling in Cranbrook. I am actively involved in: Kootenai River Network, Inc. (Montana), Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook Society, EK Network for Humanity, Social Planning Society, Grow It Eat It Task Force, Cranbrook Food Action Committee, the Cranbrook Community Forest Society, and Yasodhara Yoga Cranbrook.Woody Maguire
Regional Director
President - Kim/CranWoody’s involvement with Wildsight Kimberley Cranbrook has mainly taken place behind the scenes through his work on the Board of Directors. His strong pragmatism has helped to guide Wildsight programming since 2013. His involvement is inspired by the value he places on local food security and stewardship/protection of local ecosystems. He also has a passion for local arts and culture and sees how Wildsight activities help to create a strong social fabric within our...Nadine Rake
Director - Kim/CranOnce the coordinator for Cranbrook Composts and the Clean Bin project, Nadine now brings her educator background and fresh perspective to the Wildsight Kimberley Cranbrook Board of Directors. Passionate about waste reduction and diversion, Nadine is doing her best to reduce her household waste to zero, and blogging all about it! Check out her work on the Zero Journey Blog.Craig Stephani
Vice President - Kim/CranCraig has been working in the environmental education and community outreach industry for more than a decade. His passion for engaging children and young adults to become environmental stewards in their community eventually led him from Winnipeg to the Kootenays. In his free time you can find him camping, playing volleyball, exploring the mountains with his two dogs or volunteering with Search and Rescue.
Revelstoke Board of Directors
Join The Team
Want to protect wildlife, clean water and wild spaces? Volunteer with us! Wildsight volunteers are a very special group of people who give generously of their time to stuff envelopes, attend rallies, help run events, put up posters, keep tabs on forestry practices in their communities and participate in citizen science initiatives.