SPrKL News!

Hello SPrKlers, SPrKL Associates Neighbours, and Friends!

As you may know, in 2010 SPrKL (Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake) received a $16000 Federal Eco-Action Grant which went toward purchase of riparian plants and fencing materials for enhancing the riparian vegetation and protecting the shores along Coldstream Creek at the Dog Park. The purpose of these activities was to help reduce erosion and improve Coldstream Creek water quality.This project was carried out as a contribution to the community’s ongoing Coldstream Creek Restoration Project.

This year SPrKL has applied for a $5000 RBC Blue Water Grant to carry out similar activities on a smaller scale in the area of the Kalavista Lagoon. SPrKL plans to plant riparian vegetation and install protective fencing along the Lagoon shore adjacent to the tennis court area, in order to prevent further erosion of the its banks and to enhance the wetland water quality and habitat. This project would be just a small step in SPrKL’s mission and the Community’s plan to rehabilitate the Kalamalka Lake Watershed and protect our drinking water.

Our general goals over time related to this particular project are:

• to educate ourselves and others about the rich biodiversity of the Kalavista Lagoon, its contribution to the health of the watershed, and the means to keep it healthy
• to involve the community in a habitat rehabilitation and educational signage project in the area
• to encourage the “powers that be”to restore circulation of fresh water to the Lagoon so as to to return it to a healthy state
• to create an Eco- Park in the Lagoon area

We will not know if we are to be awarded the grant or not, until early to mid April, and SPrKL has learned from experience that there are likely to be cost over-runs on projects such as this. Therefore, in the meantime, we are applying for another grant, and holding a Community Garage Sale on April 16th to raise extra funds.

We hope you will spread the word regarding SPrKL’s goals and activities, as well as contribute items and/or your time and ideas to help with the Garage Sale.

Please see the attached poster for details.

Louise Christie

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