Category: Uncategorized

Nelson, BC:  The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is pleased to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website, www.rdck.ca, aimed at improving accessibility, transparency, and public engagement. The new platform offers residents, businesses, and visitors a user-friendly experience with improved navigation, enhanced features, and easier access to important RDCK services and information.

With a fresh, clean, modern design, the new website provides a streamlined interface that ensures quick access to essential resources such as Board meeting agendas and minutes, building permits, recreation facilities, and hours of operation for waste and recycling facilities.

“This has been a long time coming and we are excited to introduce a digital experience that better serves our community,” said Stuart Horn, RDCK Chief Administrative Officer. “This new website, which is our number one communication tool, reflects our commitment to transparency, efficiency, and accessibility, ensuring residents can easily find the information and services they need. We look forward to hearing how our new website functions in this regard as well as how we can continue to improve”

Key features of the new website include:

• Enhanced Navigation: improved menu structure for quick and easy access to popular services.
• Responsive Design: Provides consistent viewing on any device or computer.
• Meetings Calendar Capability: Users can filter by area to find meetings impacting them.
• Expanded Commissions and Committees Pages: Built out content to include agendas, minutes and schedules for all commissions and committees.
• Monthly Newsletter: Sign up for monthly newsletter to stay up to date on all RDCK news, projects, initiatives, and events.
• Search: Improved functionality to get people where they need to go.
• RDCK Branding: The new website aligns with the organization’s visual identity.
• Accessibility Compliance: Adherence to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines standards to ensure inclusivity for all users.

The new website is a culmination of work between the RDCK and web developer Paper Crane. The RDCK invites residents to explore the new website and provide feedback on its functionality and features. The site will continue to evolve with ongoing updates and enhancements based on user needs and technological advancements.

Effective March 31, 2025

Nelson, BC:  On January 16, 2025, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Board of Directors approved the permanent closure of the Winlaw Recycling Depot located at 5686 Highway 6 in Electoral Area H. The site will continue to service its customers until its permanent closure on March 31, 2025.

The closest facilities to use upon closure are the Slocan Transfer Station (8875 Slocan South Road) or the Crescent Valley Recycling Depot (1285 Highway 6, beside the Community Hall).

Closing Winlaw was one of the recommendations of the Tipping Fee Cost Recovery Assessment & Resource System Efficiency Study (the Study), completed by GHD Consulting in 2024 to identify options for improving operational efficiencies, cost-effectiveness, and equitability of the regions Resource Recovery Program.

The Study compared RDCK to other regional districts, based on the hours of operation and the number of facilities per capita, and recommended closing any facilities which are collecting less than 50 kg of recycling per hour of operation and are located less than a 20-minute drive from other RDCK facilities.

Winlaw Recycling Depot is a Satellite Depot which accepts fewer materials than a Core Depot due to transportation costs and space restrictions; it receives approximately 40 kg per hour on average of household glass, plastic and paper products per hour of operation, and is approximately 19 km from the Slocan Core Recycling Depot, and approximately 24 km from the Crescent Valley Core Recycling Depot.

Closing Winlaw Recycling Depot will annually save an estimated $40,885 in operational costs, such as rent, snow removal, hauling of collected recyclables, staffing and supplies.

Recommendations in the Study related to tipping fee cost recovery and operational efficiencies are still being considered by Staff and the RDCK Board, and more changes will be proposed in 2025.

2025-2029 Draft Financial Plan

The current draft of this year’s financial plan is showing an average taxation increase of 6.5%, although actual changes vary widely based on property location. For example, the RDCK portion of Village of Slocan taxes are projected to decrease by 1.8%, while Electoral Area D is showing a 14% increase. Further changes to the Financial Plan are expected as there are ongoing budget reviews and discussions with Directors, staff, and at the committee level, as well as public engagement budget meetings throughout the region.

The budget process will conclude at the March 20Open Board Meeting where Directors will have a final opportunity to discuss, modify, and consider adoption of the budget.

Establishment of Local Conservation Fund Committee

The Board adopted Bylaw 2975: Local Conservation Fund Committee to establish a formal committee to review the proposed projects for local conservation funding. The establishment of the committee formalizes a practice previously conducted by those RDCK Directors whose Electoral Areas participate in the Local Conservation Service. Creating an official committee structure improves consistency with other RDCK service governance, ensuring proper public notice of meetings and opportunity for the public to attend.

Originally established in 2014, the Local Conservation Fund is collected in Electoral Areas A, D, E, F, and H. It provides funding for projects that benefit conservation in the rural areas around Kootenay Lake and the Slocan Valley. The fund is financed by an annual parcel tax of $15 in each of the participating Electoral Areas and applies to all parcels in the service area. Since 2016 the fund has distributed over $700,000 towards local conservation projects.

Community Readiness Partnership

The Board approved the RDCK enter into a two-year contribution agreement with Columbia Basin Trust to augment rural emergency management mitigation and preparedness capacity. The intent of the Community Readiness Partnership is to address gaps in funding initiatives that strengthen emergency preparedness, increase regional collaboration, and improve response capabilities in rural communities. Over the two years, the RDCK will receive $230,000 in funding which will go towards equipment purchases (vehicles, generators, trailer), training, extending the reach of existing community-based outreach initiatives such as the Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Plans, and renovations or improvements to emergency operation centres.

Inland Ferry Services Resolution

The Board Submitted a resolution regarding inland ferry services for consideration at the 2025 Association of Kootenay Boundary Local Governments (AKBLG) annual general meeting. Each year regional districts can submit resolutions to the AKBLG meeting for consideration, discussion and voting on by membership. The narrowed list will be presented to the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) and ultimately sent to the Legislative Assembly of BC for consideration by the provincial legislature.

The resolution put forward by the Board calls for the Province of BC to recognize that all ferry services within the province are necessary to the health, safety, and welfare of all the residents and should be considered when predetermining minimum inland ferry service levels on a site by site basis, and that the UBCM work with the affected areas and the Provincial Government to find a solution to ensure that rights of all British Columbia residents are protected equally on the Coast and the Interior of British Columbia.

Sue Big Oil resolution defeated

The Board voted against joining the Sue Big Oil class action lawsuit. Of the 20 Board of Directors, 16 opposed the motion. Sue Big Oil asks local governments to allocate at least $1 per resident, with the goal of raising $500,000 to get a class action lawsuit certified. During a lengthy conversation, the majority of Directors agreed they could not support taking a dollar from people who are not voluntarily signing up for a lawsuit.

Director’s Reports

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the February reports in the Board minutes.

RDCK Quarterly Report

For the latest RDCK Quarterly Report, which details the current projects and initiatives of the RDCK, please follow the link.

Nelson, BC: The public engagement project, Reimagining Recreation Services in the Castlegar & District Area, has come to a close and the final report is now available online. The final report summarizes the three phases of the project, all the key information collected during the entire engagement process – highlighting what the community shared and drawing conclusions from the feedback, as well as outlining potential future steps for the Castlegar & District Recreation Commission.

Read the Final Report

Key Highlights of the Final Report:

• Key Findings: The report shares the main ideas and feedback from the community, focusing on what residents want and need from recreation services in the Castlegar & District Area.
• Main Conclusions: The final report shares conclusions drawn from analyzing all three phases of feedback. The conclusions will guide future decisions made.
• Next Steps: The final report includes recommendations and suggests the next steps for the Recreation Commission as they move into planning how to improve or change recreation services in the community.

Next Steps for the Community:

The Castlegar & District Recreation Commission has reviewed the final report and has directed staff to bring back further information to evaluate the tax contributions needed to support a future project, based on the information gathered in the phase 2 survey. The Commission remains committed to ensuring the community’s voice is central in the decision-making process as it navigates the future of local recreation services.

“We are extremely grateful to the community for its active participation and valuable feedback throughout this engagement process,” said Brian Bogle, Chair of the Castlegar and District Recreation Commission. “This final report is an essential step as we move into the planning stage, and we will continue to keep residents informed about the next steps as we work towards creating a vibrant recreation environment.”

Review the final report and all three phases’ reports at Reimagining Recreation Services in the Castlegar & District Area | Engage RDCK.

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued a Water Quality Advisory for users on the South Slocan Water System. The system is located in the community of South Slocan Village approximately 30 km southwest of Nelson and is within RDCK Electoral Area H. The Dam Inn is across Highway 3A and is supplied water from this water system.

The Water Quality Advisory has been issued due to high post-treatment turbidity as a result of rapid snow melt at the spring supply.

While health risks are considered low, the RDCK recommends children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems, and anyone seeking additional protection drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice. For these at-risk populations, water intended for drinking, washing fruits or vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute. Boiled water should then be refrigerated in a clean, covered container. Customers could also choose to use bottled or distilled water, or water that has been filtered through a well-maintained treatment device. 

Owners of all public facilities must post a Water Quality Advisory at all sinks or drinking water fountains accessible to the public (alternatively, public fountains and taps may be turned off). As opportunities arise, they must also advise their clientele verbally of the Water Quality Advisory.

The RDCK will be taking measures to reduce risk; water quality will be monitored, and the public will be notified when the RDCK is able to lift the Water Quality Advisory.

We apologize for any inconvenience this might cause and appreciate your cooperation and patience during this time. For more information contact the RDCK (250) 352-8161 or visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water.

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is set to pilot a program to divert used cooking oil from sewers and landfills to produce a higher end-use product.  

The project is in partnership with Leduc Industrial Inc., a Cranbrook-based business that provides cooking oil collection services for commercial businesses, restaurants and residents in Creston and the surrounding area. Leduc will collect the recovered cooking oil from the Creston Landfill and convert it into a safe, non-toxic concrete release agent for the construction industry.   

The program is set to commence March 15, 2025, and will run until October 31, 2025, at which point RDCK Staff will report to the RDCK Board of Directors on its effectiveness and make recommendations on continuing and/or expanding into other areas of the RDCK.  

A 2024 survey of both food service businesses and institutions providing commercial food services within the RDCK found only 60% of those surveyed were using cooking oil collection services for disposing of their cooking oil. Some of the barriers to proper disposal were attributed to a lack of storage space and/or the availability of a proper disposal service. It is likely that much of this cooking oil is being dumped with garbage or down the drain, which creates problems such as damage to landfill equipment, sewer system blockages and overflows, and polluting of groundwater and rivers.  

Ferdinand Schmidt, the Director of Infrastructure Services for the Town of Creston, agrees this pilot program is beneficial for both the Town of Creston and the RDCK’s Landfill Operations, and encourages residents and businesses to dispose of oil and grease responsibly. “Simple actions, such as recycling cooking oil instead of pouring it down the drain, can significantly protect our wastewater infrastructure and the environment.” 

RDCK Resource Recovery Manager, Amy Wilson, feels this program will also benefit solid waste operations. “This program will be a win for everyone. Not only will this oil get a second life as a product for the construction industry, it will also help our landfill operations. Sometimes customers place used cooking oil in with their garbage, and I get there aren’t a lot of disposal options, but cooking oil can damage equipment and increase fire risk. Add to that greenhouse gases, like methane, which are generated any time an organic waste is landfilled.” 

Disposing of used cooking oil is free of charge to residents in the Creston area, with a limit of 10 Litres per day. Disposals will be supervised by landfill staff, to ensure contaminants are kept out. This is strictly for used cooking oil, the likes of motor oil, hardened bacon fat, and antifreeze will not be accepted. Disposals can be done during regular business hours at the Creston Landfill. 

For more information visit www.rdck.ca/cookingoil. 

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is pleased to announce that effective immediately the Boil Water Notice issued for users on the Lister Water System, in Electoral Area B, has been rescinded.

On February 12, 2025 a Boil Water Notice was issued due to depressurization of the water main supplying the majority of the water system. The Boil Water Notice was issued as a precautionary measure.

The repairs have been completed and water quality tests indicate the water quality is good.

The RDCK appreciates Lister water users’ cooperation and patience during this time and apologizes for the inconvenience experienced.

Click here for a print-friendly PDF version.

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued a Boil Water Notice for users on the Lister Water System. The system is located in the community of Lister, within RDCK Electoral Area B.

The Boil Water Notice has been issued as a precautionary measure due to depressurization of the distribution system.

The RDCK and Interior Health recommend that all customers drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice. Water intended for drinking, washing fruits and vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute. Boiled water should then be refrigerated in a clean, covered container. Customers could also choose to use bottled or distilled water.

Owners of all public facilities must post a Boil Water Notice at all sinks or drinking water fountains accessible to the public (alternatively, public fountains and taps may be turned off). As opportunities arise, they must also advise their clientele verbally of the Boil Water Notice.

The RDCK will be taking measures to reduce risk; water quality will be monitored, and the public will be notified when the RDCK is able to lift the Boil Water Notice.

We apologize for any inconvenience this might cause and appreciate your cooperation and patience during this time.  For more information contact the RDCK (250) 352-8161 or visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water.

Click here for a print-friendly PDF version.

Nelson, BC: As part of the Organic Waste Diversion Program at the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK), a new pilot program to subsidize separated organic waste tipping fees for commercial customers has recently been approved by the Board of Directors. This initiative was brought forward to generate more affordable participation in organic waste recycling in the Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional (IC&I) sectors.

Disposal cost of source separated commercial organic waste is currently subsidized at 65% lower than mixed waste ($55/tonne compared to $166.50/tonne). The price of $55/tonne is a specific organic waste disposal rate for the IC&I sector. The standard organic waste tipping fee is currently $106.50/tonne. This subsidized tipping fee is available at all RDCK facilities where organic waste disposal infrastructure exists (Grohman Narrows Transfer Station, Ootischenia Landfill, Creston Landfill, and Central (Salmo) Transfer Station).

This pilot tipping fee subsidy program is approved for the IC&I Sector until January 2026, at which time the outcomes of the subsidized tipping fee will be reviewed by the Board of Directors.

With the support of the RDCK, the Nelson and District Chamber of Commerce Business Climate Advisor has been working to provide education and advocacy for affordable, effective solutions to business’s waste disposal needs. By diverting compostable materials from mixed waste, businesses have the opportunity to both save money and help the environment.

In addition to the tipping fee subsidy, the RDCK Resource Recovery department will provide up to a $400 rebate for businesses in Nelson and surrounding areas towards the purchase of collection containers and supplies for starting organics recycling in their operations.

The $400 rebate is available for the first 25 participants on a first come, first serve basis, with application requests being sent via email to the Resource Recovery Department Organics Coordinator: organics@rdck.bc.ca.

The rebate program may be available to other municipalities and areas with access to organics disposal, should the business community express interest. Access to organics disposal is available to those with collection services, or who can self-haul commercial organic waste to an RDCK disposal facility. Commercial organic waste hauling services have been confirmed as available in the Nelson area, so now is a great time to connect with your contracted waste collection service provider or reach out to the RDCK to be connected to potential services. 

RDCK staff are also able to provide education, and program implementation support at the request of a business. Staff can provide operation managers with front and back of house waste sorting recommendations, collection bin sitting support, and liaise with waste haulers to advocate for affordable, safe, and effective services.

An information session is being hosted by the Nelson Chamber of Commerce on February 24 from 8:30 am to 10:00 am to discuss these changes and opportunities for increased waste diversion and cost savings. RDCK staff will be available to answer questions and provide support and resources for setting up organic waste recycling in IC&I operations. Registration is free, and can be completed at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/ici-organics-bin-pilot-program-info-session-tickets-1223805458069?aff=oddtdtcreator.

A survey to help the RDCK better understand current waste disposal practices and barriers in the IC&I sector, as well as additional information about this initiative, including example signage and resources for starting organic waste recycling for commercial operations can be found online at https://engage.rdck.ca/ici-organics.

The RDCK Board of Directors has also directed the Resource Recovery Department to assess the feasibility of regulating organics disposal for the IC&I Sector, and to provide a framework for implementing some form of regulation on landfilling organic waste where diversion services exist. This feasibility study will be provided to the Board in the fall of 2025.

Update 5:50 pm PST

Nelson, BC: The water main break affecting the Lister Water System, in Electoral Area B, will not be able to be repaired until tomorrow morning. Most users will experience overnight water outages. The RDCK appreciates your patience and apologizes for the inconvenience. Water service is expected to be restored late morning tomorrow (Wednesday, February 12). A precautionary Boil Water Notice will be issued once water is restored, with more information and instructions provided at the time.

4:30 pm PST

Effective immediately, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is implementing emergency water restrictions for the Lister Water System, in Electoral Area B, due to a water main break on 28th Street, which supplies the majority of the Lister Water System. The majority of users will experience water outages as a result.

The RDCK is asking users that have water supply to limit use to drinking water only. Customers will be updated as to when water supply will be restored once the break is assessed.

The RDCK appreciates your cooperation in adhering to the water restrictions and will notify users once regular water use can resume. For more information, please visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water or contact the RDCK at 250.352.8161 or 1.800.268.7325 ext. 8161.

The Marblehead Transfer Station (13925 Highway 31, Meadow Creek) will return to regular operating hours starting Wednesday, February 5. All work has been completed to remove logs and debris from the site, following an incident last week. The facility has been declared safe and secure for our staff and residents to return. Many thanks to everyone for your patience and understanding during this temporary disruption.

The Marblehead Transfer Station and Recycling Depot is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

                       

The Marblehead Transfer Station (13825 Highway 31, Meadow Creek) will remain CLOSED through the weekend and will be re-evaluated early next week. On Monday, January 27 a private logging contractor was working above the site and logs slid down the embankment and into the facility. Nobody was on site during the incident, but one of the structures received extensive damage.  The RDCK is working with WorkSafeBC and the private logging contractor on the safe removal of the logs from the property, and most importantly, to ensure the safety of RDCK staff and the public when visiting the site moving forward.

For residents in the area, the nearest alternative Resource Recovery facility is the Kaslo Transfer Station (1302 Kaslo West Road).

The Kaslo Transfer Station is open Sunday, Tuesday, & Friday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

                     

Inland Ferries in the RDCK

The Board approved the writing of two letters regarding inland ferry service. The first to be sent on behalf of the RDCK Board to the Minister of Transportation and Transit requesting the BC Government implement, meaningful consultation, automatic standing, hearings in impacted communities, and prioritize the mental health and welfare impacts on BC residents while considering the needs of physically isolated communities before it can disrupt access for BC resident’s access to essential services they rely upon for their health, safety, and welfare.

The second letter will be sent on behalf of the RDCK Board to the Premier of British Columbia and Minister of Transportation and Transit acknowledging that the Province legislate that inland ferry services are categorized as essential services for residents of BC, and further, the current essential service orders for daily sailings of the Kootenay Lake, Glade, and Harrop-Procter ferries does not meet the needs of those communities, and that a new determination be made on the minimum number and frequency of daily sailings required to maintain each crossing.

Resource Recovery Facility Regulatory Bylaw

The Board adopted a new Resource Recovery Facility Regulatory Bylaw which includes a 10% increase on all tipping fees at RDCK landfills and transfer stations, effective February 1, 2025. As waste management becomes more complex, capital and operating costs, which include fuel, labour, insurance, interest on borrowing repayment, and more stringent regulatory requirements, continue to increase. Additionally, sufficient reserve funds are required to minimize future borrowing costs and fund a number of long-term projects such as landfill upgrades and infrastructure replacement.

The RDCK is committed towards operating “user pay” facilities, meaning those who generate waste pay for its disposal. The purpose of this is to financially incentivize diversion.

The bylaw also has made changes to promote diversion of organic waste to composting facilities, through the acceptance of compostable plastic bag liners, produced from biomass, for their environmental benefits and competitive pricing.

Resource Recovery System Efficiency Study

In 2024, the RDCK undertook a system efficiency study to gain a better understanding of the costs of managing specific waste materials, as well as to identify options for improving cost effectiveness and equitability across the region. The study identified existing tipping fees were not sufficient to cover the current cost of disposal for most materials. As a result, the shortfall has been made up through taxation, which impacts everyone regardless of individual waste generation and diversion efforts. The study recommended increasing tipping fees, as well as the closure of some Satellite facilities. Winlaw Recycling Depot will be closed some time in 2025. The closure will save $33,382 on an annual basis while still providing residents a high level of service.

Industrial, Commercial and Institutional Organics Collection Pilot Program

The Board approved proposed subsidies and support for the Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional organics diversion pilot program in and around the City of Nelson. This includes a reduction in commercial organics tipping fee, education and training support for participating businesses, development of a communications plan to promote and support the pilot, and rebates for the first 25 participating businesses.

Director’s Reports

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the January reports in the Board minutes.

RDCK Quarterly Report

For the latest RDCK Quarterly Report, which details the current projects and initiatives of the RDCK, please follow the link.

Here are the Board Highlights from January.

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the January reports in the Board minutes.

RDCK Quarterly Report

For the latest RDCK Quarterly Report, which details the current projects and initiatives of the RDCK, please follow the link.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

Vancouver, BC – BC Parks Foundation is proud to be part of the largest expansion of Rosebud Lake Regional Park in its 30-year history, expanding the park from 16 hectares to more than 80. That’s five times its current size. 

This expansion brings much of the lake’s shoreline into the regional park. The shoreline and the upland leading into it are crucial for Western Painted Turtles which make their home in this part of British Columbia and are the only native freshwater turtle species in BC.

These charming creatures stand out with their unique red and yellow stripes and can often be found sunbathing in the spring. According to the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada, the Western Painted Turtles are of special concern. They are especially vulnerable and under threat at their nesting stage. Predators and humans can damage their eggs. As a result, only one in five hatchlings make it to adulthood.

“We purchased this land and protected these vulnerable nesting sites to give the turtles a better chance of hatching and surviving to adulthood,” says BC Parks Foundation CEO Andy Day. “We also recognize it’s a popular recreational area.  We are supported by British Columbians and this announcement reflects our community’s commitment to provide opportunities for people to enjoy BC while conserving the incredible diversity of life that also lives here.”

Rosebud Lake is unique because it is fed by underground springs, further emphasizing the importance of protecting these lands. In 2002, Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) established “The Rosebud Lake Park Plan” which identified the need to expand the park to provide refuge for the wildlife and the ability to control the water levels that are critical for the park’s environment. Today’s announcement builds on parks being part of the climate solution and reducing the carbon pollution that is driving climate change. 

“We have worked hard to secure the protection of the Western Painted Turtle and are happy to now have both the water and land protection to ensure the survival of the painted turtles,” says Hans Cunningham, RDCK Electoral Area G Director. “ This day wouldn’t have been possible without BC Parks Foundation working with Regional Parks staff to expand Rosebud Lake Regional Park. We are excited for the public to continue to access the Park as an outdoor recreation area.”

This park expansion demonstrates the strength of the Foundation’s partnerships with Environment and Climate Change Canada and The Wilson 5 Foundation.

“Expanding Rosebud Lake Regional Park not only safeguards critical habitat for Western Painted Turtles but also creates a space where people can stay active, explore, and connect with nature,” say Summer and Chip Wilson. “This expansion ensures the heart of what makes BC extraordinary is protected forever.”

“Through collaboration with partners like the BC Parks Foundation and the support of generous foundations, we are working to expand Rosebud Lake Regional Park, bringing much of the lake’s shoreline into the regional park,” says Minister of Environment and Climate Change Steven Guilbeault. “The Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund is playing a key role in helping combat climate change and biodiversity loss, getting us closer to our national goal of conserving 30% of land and water in Canada by 2030.”

The RDCK will continue to operate Rosebud Lake Regional Park, including the additional land acquired, and will be taking over the rights and obligations of the water license to protect the painted turtles.

Park visitors must stay on existing roads and trails, but please note that these roads and trails are not routinely maintained.  Basic amenities and upgrades to the park will be done through RDCK Park’s planning efforts and in the future will work towards a Management Plan that will include public consultation.

“This project is a great example of British Columbians coming together to protect this beautiful land, water, and wildlife. It’s a real tribute to everyone involved and we are very grateful on behalf of the generations of people, turtles and other wildlife that will benefit,” says Day.

For more information on the BC Parks Foundation click here.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

Nelson, BC:  Effective January 2, 2025, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) will accept grant applications for the Columbia Basin Trust (the Trust) Resident Directed Grants (ReDi).

The program supports local projects that provide additional value to Basin communities. ReDi Grants are intended to be flexible and incorporate community-based funding decisions. Program funds are distributed annually to the Trust’s regional government and First Nations delivery partners, including the RDCK.

“RDCK communities benefit from the continued commitment from Columbia Basin Trust to help support and build up local projects in our areas,” said Aimee Watson, RDCK Board Chair and Electoral Area D Director. “As part of the ReDi program requirement, the highlight of the process is having our residents participate in the engagement process to help determine which projects will bring additional value to their communities and receive access to funding.”

Last year, 311 applications were received, of which 288 were approved. The majority of projects that received funding were supporting cultural, social, environmental and economic projects.

The granting allocation for the RDCK for 2024 – 2025 is $1,515,940.

Checkout www.rdck.ca/ReDi for more information about the Columbia Basin Trust ReDi Grants, including, who is eligible and how to apply. The deadline to apply is February 19, 2025 at 4:30 pm.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

Director’s Reports

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the December reports in the Board minutes.

RDCK Quarterly Report

For the latest RDCK Quarterly Report, which details the current projects and initiatives of the RDCK, please follow the link.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

The Slocan Transfer Station is scheduled to re-open full services to the public on December 14,  2024.

The upgrades in Slocan are the last of a larger project to replace aging infrastructure, increase site capacity, and improve the efficiency of waste management in the area, following upgrades to both the Rosebery and Nakusp waste facilities.

Hours of operation at Slocan will resume to normal winter hours: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 9am-3pm

 Visit www.rdck.ca/2024Construction for more details and updates or email rrdept@rdck.bc.ca.

 

Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is now accepting Expressions of Interest from water and wastewater systems across the region wishing to transition to RDCK ownership and operation.

In July 2024, the RDCK Board of Directors approved the 2024 Water and Wastewater Acquisition Plan, lifting a moratorium on new acquisitions that had been in place since 2011. Alongside this, the Board adopted the 2024 Water and Wastewater Systems Acquisition Policy, which provides a clear roadmap for the acquisition process.

Many small, independent water and wastewater systems in our area face significant challenges, such as:

• Maintaining water quality compliance.
• Aging infrastructure and inadequate funding.
• Declining volunteer involvement in operations.
• Difficulty attracting and retaining certified operators.
• Liability for volunteers and maintaining liability insurance

By transferring ownership to the RDCK, system owners and residents can benefit from the expertise, resources, and long-term planning the RDCK provides, plus:

• Expertise in lifecycle asset management and financial planning.
• Proven success in capital projects, including storage reservoirs, water metering, and quality upgrades.
• Reliable operations and maintenance by Certified Operators available 24/7 for emergency response as well as experienced water science and engineering staff.

How to Apply
Water and wastewater systems within RDCK boundaries are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest. Comprehensive guidance, submission documents, and details about the acquisition process are available on the RDCK website at www.rdck.ca/becomeaRDCKwaterservice.

This is an exciting opportunity for local systems to secure sustainable, long-term solutions for water and wastewater management, ensuring safe and reliable services for their communities.

Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

 

Nelson, BC:  On November 14, 2024, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Board of Directors approved the permanent closure of the Kokanee Creek Marina Recycling Depot (Kokanee Creek) located at 5110 Highway 3A. The site will continue to serve its customers until its closure on December 31, 2024.

The closest facilities to use upon closure are the Balfour Transfer Station (821 Heyland Road), Nelson Lakeside Recycling Depot (70 Lakeside Drive), or Grohman Narrows Transfer Station (1201 Insight Drive).

Closing Kokanee Creek was one of the recommendations of the Tipping Fee Cost Recovery Assessment & Resource System Efficiency Study (the Study), completed by GHD Consulting in 2024 to identify options for improving operational efficiencies, cost-effectiveness and equitability of the regions Resource Recovery Program.

The Study compared RDCK to other regional districts, based on the hours of operation and the number of facilities per capita, and recommended closing any facilities which are collecting less than 50 kg of recycling per hour of operation and are located less than a 20-minute drive from other RDCK facilities.

Kokanee Creek is a Satellite Depot which accepts fewer materials than a Core Depot due to transportation costs and space restrictions; it receives approximately 40 kg per hour on average of household glass, plastic and paper products per hour of operation, and is approximately 11 km from the Balfour Core Recycling Depot, and approximately 28 km from the Lakeside Core Recycling Depot.

Closing Kokanee Creek will annually save an estimated $68,562 in operational costs, such as rent, snow removal, hauling of collected recyclables, staffing and supplies.

Recommendations in the Study related to tipping fee cost recovery and operational efficiencies are still being considered by Staff and the RDCK Board, and more changes will be proposed in 2025.

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Aimee Watson acclaimed as RDCK Board Chair for 2025

Electoral Area D Director Aimee Watson was acclaimed as Board Chair for 2025 by the RDCK Board at this month’s meeting. Chair Watson has served as the RDCK Electoral Area D Director since 2014 and begins her seventh term as Chair.

Village of Nakusp Councillor and RDCK Director Aidan McLaren-Caux was elected as Board Vice-Chair for 2025 by the Board of Directors. Vice-Chair McLaren-Caux has served as a RDCK Director since 2022 and begins his first term as Vice-Chair.

The Board Chair and Vice-Chair are elected annually by the Board of Directors and serve a one-year term.

Pictured (L-R) – Aidan McLaren-Caux, RDCK Board Vice-Chair and Aimee Watson, RDCK Board Chair

Forestry WorksforBC letter of support

The Board will send a letter of support to the Ministry of Forests regarding the Forestry WorksforBC campaign. Forestry WorksforBC is a group of forest-based organizations and companies, representing more than 1,000 businesses engaged in all aspects of British Columbia’s forestry sector. The objective of the campaign is to bring awareness to how much this industry affects the provincial economy, and the impact mill closures across the province have on communities and families. From the perspective of the Board, forestry is critical to the area, but it is imperative to ensure ecological and community values are considered in forestry practices. Increasing efficiency of use through value added regional production is critical.

Economic Trust of the Southern Interior BC

The Board appointed the following Directors (Hanegraaf – rural, Lockwood – municipal, Lunn – municipal, and McLaren-Caux – alternate) to the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior BC for a two-year term ending December 31, 2026. The not-for-profit corporation was created to administer a $50 million one-time endowment intended to support investment in the economy of the Southern Interior of BC.

Emergency and Disaster Management Act – Indigenous Engagement Requirements

British Columbia’s new Emergency and Disaster Management Act (EDMA) requires consultation and cooperation with Indigenous Governing Bodies is undertaken by all municipalities and regional districts in a culturally safe manner, across all phases of emergency management. The RDCK Board will partner with member municipalities, who agree to do so, in completing the Indigenous Engagement Requirements under EDMA. The province has provided $40,000 of funding to each Local Authority to meet the requirements. The RDCK will undertake a coordinated approach by pooling funds to maximize effectiveness and efficiency. A portion of the funds will be used to hire a consulting firm to design and facilitate the engagement process between the participating local authorities and First Nations.

Regional Accessibility Advisory Committee Framework

The Board endorsed the RDCK Accessibility Framework which will be used as a reference in the development of the RDCK Accessibility Plan. The RDCK is committed to building a community that is truly diverse, equitable, inclusive and accessible. These objectives will be achieved through strategic initiatives and meaningful actions aimed at ensuring every resident can participate fully and equally. The next steps are to identity the priorities and steps required to create a comprehensive three-year accessibility plan and to establish a feedback mechanism for the public to provide experiences related to accessibility.

Director’s Reports

RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the November reports in the Board minutes.

RDCK Quarterly Report

For the latest RDCK Quarterly Report, which details the current projects and initiatives of the RDCK, please follow the link.

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