New boot brush stations at local trails combat invasive species spread

New boot brush stations located at the Mt. Begbie and Begbie Falls trailheads are the latest tool to help Revelstoke residents and visitors combat the spread of invasive species Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society (CSISS) announced in a press release.

CSISS partnered with Invasive Species Council of British Columbia to install the boot brush stations and information signage at the two trailheads with partial funding provided by a grant from the Alpine Club of Canada’s Environment Fund.

“The purpose of these boot brush stations is to prevent the introduction of invasive species and ensure any invasive plant seeds people step on while in the area don’t leave with them,” Jess Booth, CSISS Education and Outreach Program Coordinator wrote in a press release.

Those visiting trails where boot brush stations are installed are encouraged to wipe their footwear before entering the trail and as they’re exiting. Because it’s hard to know what species in and around Revelstoke might be invasive in other regions, it’s encouraged to keep all local flora hitchhikers within the Revelstoke area. 

“Invasive species are recognized as one of the five direct drivers of biodiversity loss worldwide,” CSISS wrote in the press release.

As for invasive species to keep out of the Revelstoke area, CSISS notes Himalayan Blackberry, Giant Hogweed and Scotch Broom as three of the 21 invasive species they’re monitoring in the region.

“The seeds of invasive plants can cling to our boots, clothing, gear and even our pets,” CSISS wrote. “Bringing these hitchhikers home silently spreads invasive plants.”

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