The Tchesinkut Watershed Protection Society hosted a community BBQ event at the Francois Lake Community Hall on June 7, to raise awareness about environmental management and boost membership.

Mike Comeau, the society's secretary-treasurer, shared insights into the society's mission, which began nearly 30 years ago with a focus on promoting stewardship for Tchesinkut Lake and its watershed.

The society's origin is rooted in a collective desire to preserve the pristine waters of Tchesinkut Lake and its surrounding watershed, he said.  Noted for its clarity and purity, Tchesinkut Lake draws visitors from near and far, including divers from Prince George and residents from 亚洲天堂 Lake who rely on its water source.

When they first organized, the society boasted close to 100 members, largely driven by concerns about its health, he said.

The lake feeds into Endako River, which joins the Nechako and finally into the Fraser River.  "The outlet had become obstructed with logging debris, exacerbated by a surge in the beaver population, leading to flooding along the lakeshore," he explained. This crisis prompted the formation of the watershed society . 

鈥淔ast forward to today鈥� We conduct annual water testing, offer grants, and collaborate with the Fish and Wildlife Branch on fisheries studies and core sampling of the lake bed,鈥� Comeau said about their evolution. 

One of the ongoing project involves installing signage at boat launches to promote the Clean Drain Dry protocol, vital for preventing the introduction of invasive species like quagga or zebra mussel, Comeau added.

Despite the progress, Comeau acknowledged persistent challenges, including the impact of logging on the watershed.

However, he stressed that the society's stance is not anti-logging but rather advocates for sustainable practices. They do so by collaborating with logging communities, including the 亚洲天堂 Lake Community Forest and the Chinook Community Forests. 

Recruiting volunteers remains a hurdle, with some deterred by misconceptions about the society's stance on logging.

Currently the society has around 40 members and Comeau is hoping the numbers increase by the end of this year.

Comeau said the society is dedicated to protecting Tchesinkut Lake and its watershed for future generations and encourages community members to participate actively.