Annual Kootenay Lake Summit Returns to Nelson With Expanded Community Participation
Friends of Kootenay Lake Stewardship Society (FoKLSS) is preparing to bring together community members, conservation groups, lake users and watershed stewards for the annual Kootenay Lake Summit, with this year’s event focused on strengthening collaboration to protect one of British Columbia’s most important natural resources.
The 2026 Kootenay Lake Summit will take place on November 15 at the Prestige Lakeside Resort in Nelson from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Under the theme “Synergy: Collaboration in Conservation,” the event will highlight the role partnerships play in creating long-term environmental solutions for Kootenay Lake and the surrounding watershed.
FoKLSS Program Coordinator Ezra Creasy said the organization is expanding this year’s event following strong community interest in the previous summit.
“The 2025 Kootenay Lake Summit at Harrop Hall was a sold-out success! That is why we are expanding this year with a larger venue capacity so more people can get involved in these important conversations about our cherished Kootenay Lake.”
Summit Aims to Build Stronger Conservation Partnerships
The Kootenay Lake Summit is designed as an annual gathering where individuals and organizations connected to the watershed can exchange knowledge, discuss challenges and explore opportunities for collective action.
Kootenay Lake plays an important role in the region’s ecological, cultural, recreational and economic landscape. FoKLSS said maintaining the lake’s health requires cooperation among the many communities, organizations and individuals who depend on and care for the waterway.
The 2026 event will provide attendees with opportunities to connect with local stewardship groups, learn about ongoing conservation initiatives and share ideas for future projects. Interactive activities planned throughout the afternoon will encourage participants to discuss their own contributions and explore ways to work together toward a healthier and more resilient lake ecosystem.
Keynote Speaker to Highlight Role of Collaboration in Conservation
The evening program will include a locally catered dinner, live music, an opening lakeside ceremony and a silent auction. The event will also feature a keynote presentation from Juilet Craig, MSc, RPBio, and Program Director of the Kootenay Conservation Program.
Craig will share her experience in conservation and discuss how collaboration among communities, organizations and environmental leaders can help create lasting change.
The summit will also serve as a forum for community members to share their ideas, concerns and hopes for the future of Kootenay Lake. FoKLSS said creating opportunities for dialogue is an important part of building a connected network of people dedicated to protecting the watershed.
Registration Opens for Community Conservation Event
Registration is now open for the 2026 Kootenay Lake Summit. FoKLSS members will receive a 10% discount on ticket prices, while a limited number of reduced-barrier tickets are available to help ensure broader access for residents throughout the Kootenay Lake region.
Additional details about the event schedule and programming will be released as planning continues.
Event Details
What: Kootenay Lake Summit — Synergy: Collaboration in Conservation
When: November 15, 2026, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Prestige Lakeside Resort, Nelson, British Columbia
Keynote Speaker: Juilet Craig, MSc, RPBio, Program Director of the Kootenay Conservation Program
FoKLSS Continues Mission to Protect Kootenay Lake
Friends of Kootenay Lake Stewardship Society is an inclusive stewardship organization focused on sustaining a healthy Kootenay Lake for future generations. The organization works to improve lake health through monitoring, habitat restoration, capacity building and community empowerment.
FoKLSS supports collaboration among local communities, First Nations and stakeholders by providing a central platform for sharing information, learning about lake conditions and developing solutions to protect the watershed.
Through workshops, lake health monitoring initiatives and community-led projects, the organization continues to support efforts aimed at preserving Kootenay Lake as an important environmental and community resource.