Jeff Zukiwsky

Zumundo Community & Environmental Planning

Jeff Zukiwsky is a Professional Planner and consultant based in Fernie, BC. He holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Management and has spent the past 15 years working with governments and stakeholder groups to address community and land use planning challenges.

Abstract

Developing and Implementing a Recreation Strategy for the Koocanusa Reservoir area in BC

Increased tourism and recreation have led to significant negative impacts on public land in the Koocanusa Reservoir area of BC. Impacts include the degradation of Ktunaxa cultural values, sensitive grasslands and wildlife habitat, as well as excessive littler and garbage in the backcountry. The Koocanusa Recreation Steering Committee, a partnership between the Province of B.C., Ktunaxa National Council, Regional District of East Kootenay and Columbia Basin Trust, was established in 2014 to help address these issues. A Recreation Strategy was developed in 2017 and updated in 2021, with new regulations that protect wildlife habitat and other important values, while also enhancing recreation trails and experiences. This session will highlight the successful planning process and implementation work completed to date.