CKISS honours local champions
By Contributor
The Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society (CKISS) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 CKISS Volunteer Awards, recognizing three outstanding community members whose dedication, passion, and hard work have made a meaningful impact on invasive species management across the region.
This year’s honourees are Jazmine Lowther, Ron Lowther, of Nelson BC and Kyle Hicks of Vallican who represent the spirit of community stewardship that drives CKISS programs forward.
Jazmine Lowther: Champion of the Pulpit Rock Communities Pulling Together Events
Professional trail runner Jazmine Lowther has been instrumental in the success of the Communities Pulling Together (CPT) events held at the beloved Pulpit Rock trail in Nelson. For three consecutive years (2023–2025), Jazmine has led volunteer recruitment, community outreach, and on-the-ground support, helping transform the Pulpit Rock CPT into one of CKISS’s most popular and well-attended events.
Jazmine’s deep love for the local trail network, combined with her energy and leadership, has inspired dozens of volunteers to take action. Her innovative idea to partner with the Nelson Run Club has significantly broadened community involvement, bringing new volunteers each year to help remove invasive plants and protect the ecological health of this iconic trail.
Despite a busy international racing schedule, Jazmine continues to return to her hometown and give her time to CKISS, demonstrating exceptional commitment to local conservation.
Ron Lowther: Three Years of Behind-the-Scenes Support
CKISS is also proud to recognize Ron Lowther, whose ongoing dedication has made him an invaluable part of the Pulpit Rock CPT team. For the past three years, Ron has consistently volunteered to handle one of the most challenging and essential elements of any invasive pull event: proper disposal of invasive plant debris.
Ron arrives at every Pulpit Rock CPT with his trailer in tow, ready to collect full bags of invasive plants—ensuring they are securely transported to the transfer station for proper disposal. His reliability, hard work, and willingness to tackle the toughest tasks have helped CKISS maintain safe and effective program operations. Ron’s efforts often happen behind the scenes, but their impact is significant and deeply appreciated.
Kyle Hicks: Inspiring Youth Leadership in Environmental Stewardship
The third 2025 CKISS Volunteer Award is presented to Kyle Hicks, a passionate youth leader and a familiar face at Broom Bash events and Communities Pulling Together activities. Kyle approaches every task with enthusiasm—whether digging, cutting, clipping, or bagging invasive plants—and has become a dependable and motivating presence within CKISS volunteer crews.
Kyle’s commitment to environmental protection sets an inspiring example for other young people in the Kootenays. His steady involvement and positive energy help build momentum for community-based stewardship and long-term invasive species management.
The 2025 recipients join a proud tradition of CKISS Volunteer Award honourees dating back more than a
decade. These awards recognize individuals whose actions foster healthier ecosystems, stronger communities, and greater awareness of invasive species impacts across the Central Kootenay region.
“Jazmine, Ron, and Kyle embody the heart of community conservation,” said Laurie Frankcom, CKISS Engagment Coordinator. “Their dedication has strengthened CKISS programs and helped protect some of the Kootenays’ most cherished outdoor spaces. We are truly grateful for their contributions.”
CKISS is a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing and reducing the spread of invasive species through education, outreach, on-the-ground action, and collaboration with community partners. By engaging local volunteers, land managers, and residents, CKISS works to protect biodiversity and maintain the ecological integrity of the Central Kootenay region. If you are interested in becoming a CKISS volunteer jump onto their website ckiss.ca and sign up to their newsletter.
