Inside British Columbia - The Blog

More on Big-Beaked birds

2011-12-18T23:35:00.001-08:00

Jim Sims picked up the story of my backyard big-beaked Hairy Woodpecker, writing about it in the October issue of Muskrat Express, the newsletter of the Williams Lake Field Naturalists. Read on at http://www.williamslakefieldnaturalists.ca/newsletter/Muskrat%202011-10.pdf

Shale gas: Sound the fracking alarm

2011-11-17T11:51:00.003-08:00

The evidence is being reported across the continent: first-hand reports, scientific studies . . . fracking may get more gas but it is very bad for people and the planet. Here are some reports from British Columbia and beyond: B.C. should cap gas sector growth, report says The report describes B.C.'s pursuit of shale gas development, including exclusive access to water and lax regulations for

Big-beaked Hairy Woodpecker

2011-10-09T14:50:00.001-07:00

I'm no bird expert but for 12 years I've been watching and photographing the birds in my (Cariboo) back yard. Among our most frequent visitors are the hairy woodpeckers. I'm not sure I could tell one from another, except that the males have a red flash on their crown. So, when I saw this one, I did a double take, thinking it was probably a variety I'd never encountered. But other than a beak

More Wild Cariboo Backyard Plants

2011-08-29T23:36:00.000-07:00

I've done more work on the Wild Cariboo backyard plants page and improving it, including the addition of nine new photos. Corrections, comments etc. very helpful and very welcome. Here's a bit of a perspective on at least part of the land on which these plants grow:

Wild Cariboo backyard plants

2011-08-22T17:08:00.003-07:00

I live on less than an acre. About half of the available land is second growth interior Douglas Fir. We moved here 12 years ago and, other than building a raised bed garden on the sunny side of the house, I planted little else. I put my energy into a much needed clean-up, including removal (to our wood-stove) of usable wood and excess forest floor fuel. I also removed a pile of thistle and some

Birds from a Cariboo Deck No.11: Hairy Woodpecker

2011-06-27T16:37:00.003-07:00

Looks similar but is much larger (around 9 inches) than it's smaller version, the diminutive (around 6 inches) downy. An early lesson in my birdwatching: "Huge Hairy, diminutive Downy". Spring brings the Hairy woodpecker pairs out, chasing each other in spirals around the Douglas fir. As the young grow into their adult plumage, you can still see the adults feeding them from time to time. More

Harper restrained by environmentalists

2011-01-02T23:30:00.000-08:00

Murray Dobbin in The Tyee, points to the ability of sustained and strong resistance by environmental coalitions to keep Conservative economic single-mindedness in check. For example: The rejection of the B.C. Prosperity copper-gold mine proposal and the saving of Fish Lake was a good example. Approving the mine in the face of very effective publicity on the part of opponents proved just too

Chris Harris tours to launch his new book: Motherstone

2010-10-17T23:20:00.000-07:00

Coming soon to a venue near you (if you live in BC, that is). MOTHERSTONE British Columbia's Volcanic PlateauIn the high country of British Columbia's Central Plateau lies the Motherstone. It is a land that few people have walked over or seen before. It includes a chain of shield volcanoes formed over a mantle hot spot rising from a depth of 2,900 kilometers, a sea of crystallized

Beetle-killed trees probably less flammable than green trees

2010-10-01T11:30:00.003-07:00

NASA Satellites Reveal Surprising Connection Between Beetle Attacks, Wildfire The results may seem at first counterintuitive, but make sense when considered more carefully. First, while green needles on trees appear to be more lush and harder to burn, they contain high levels very flammable volatile oils. When the needles die, those flammable oils begin to break down. As a result, depending

Flooding in the Chilcotin along Highway 20

2010-09-27T21:36:00.011-07:00

Reports are starting to come in from friends and clients of mine: From Chris Czajkowski, heading home after her season at Nuk Tessli: Sunday, September 26 I was expecting to drive to Williams Lake at 4.00am Monday morning to arrive at the garage at 8.00 for a brake job on my van . . . That was when someone said something about the road being closed near the McClinchy Bridge. My turnoff

Earthship building going up in the South Cariboo

2010-09-15T15:24:00.000-07:00

This type of energy-saving and energy-efficient structure was pioneered some years ago. As the design and especially the materials used (including much use of used car tyres and pop cans) gains credibility, "Earthships" are becoming more widespread. As I write, one of these is being built on my doorstep - in the South Cariboo, near 100 Mile House.

BC Government has lost its environmental credibility

2010-08-08T23:10:00.000-07:00

Bob Peart, a member of the B.C. Roundtable on the Environment and the Economy from 1989-1992, reviews the many ways in which the BC government has alienated those concerned about support and protection for BC's natural environment. A war in the woods appears to be heating up again in British Columbia to the point that a B.C. cabinet minister was caught calling a group of environmentalists

Old Man's Beard is out there

2010-07-25T12:06:00.001-07:00

A very promising new band from BC's Elk Valley. See them this summer: Jul 25 Royal on Baker - Nelson, BC Jul 27 The Central - Fernie, BC Aug10 Shuswap Lake - Salmon Arm, BC Aug 14 + 15 Roots and Blues Festival - Salmon Arm, BC Web site

Teztan Biny / Fish Lake still in jeopardy

2010-07-09T11:04:00.030-07:00

According to resource planner Tony Pearse in The Tyee, the recently-announced Federal environmental assessment leaves loopholes for the federal government to justify approving the Taseko plan, which includes using the lake as a tailings pond. The panel had expert evidence before it that Taseko had substantially overestimated the economic benefits of its project and yet, in providing

Taseko / Fish Lake Panel sees B.C. mine as environmental threat

2010-07-02T21:26:00.000-07:00

Promising news for Fish Lake (Teztan Biny). According to this report, almost all the evidence supports preserving Fish Lake in its present pristine state. On the face of it, it's a no-brainer but, as we see around us, corporate interests sometimes act as if they have no brains and use profits and a few jobs to sweeten the pot. Apparently all that can stop this recommendation to preserve Fish Lake

The HST in BC: Some helpful clarification

2010-06-22T22:00:00.002-07:00

Wrong HST Question, Premier Campbell He asks how we can afford to drop the hated tax, so he can give the wrong answer. By Bill Tieleman, Today, TheTyee.ca The real question on killing the HST isn't about cutting services or raising the provincial sales tax. The real HST question Premier Gordon Campbell fears is this: "Do you want to personally pay hundreds or even

Birds from a Cariboo Deck No.10: White-crowned Sparrow

2010-05-10T17:37:00.000-07:00

The bird of the moment: our back yard is presently filled with these cute, little birds. More Birds from A Cariboo Deck

Prosperity Mine Environmental Hearing (affecting Fish Lake and area) in 100 Mile House. Testimony - Post No.2

2010-04-15T18:11:00.005-07:00

PROSPERITY GOLD-COPPER MINE PROJECTCANADIAN ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT REGISTRY #09-05-44811___________________________________FEDERAL REVIEW PANEL PUBLIC HEARINGPURSUANT TO: SECTION 34 OF THE CANADIAN ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT ACT______________________________________PROCEEDINGS AT HEARINGGENERAL HEARING SESSION - (Day and Evening Sessions)March 26, 2010Volume 8 Pages 1221 to 1425__________________

Prosperity Mine Environmental Hearing (affecting Fish Lake and area) in 100 Mile House

2010-04-04T14:19:00.001-07:00

Many powerful presentations made the case strongly against the plan, which includes filling pristine Fish Lake with mine tailings. The few presentations in favour (beyond those from the mining company, Taseko) were based on the usual mantra of dependence on the mine to provide jobs which provide taxes which pay for social services. As it happens, the South Cariboo has at least two

Food security: The South Cariboo has a Meat Co-op

2010-03-05T14:02:00.000-08:00

Launched yesterday at it's first AGM, the South Cariboo Meat Co-op looks like playing a significant role in the move towards sustainability and food security for the region and beyond. According to the coordinator: Intuitively, we all know that local food, produced by a farmer or rancher we know, caringly prepared by local folks, and lovingly shared with family and friends is good for us and for

The Tsilhqot'in Fight for Teztan Biny / Fish Lake

2010-03-01T13:08:00.013-08:00

There are areas in the Chilcotin region (and elsewhere in BC) where significant elements of the indigenous culture are still viable. This, despite the decimation of smallpox, evidently encouraged by the early settlers in their wish to take over inhabited land. The occupation continues to this day, currently in a plan to start a mine and dump the tailings in a nearby lake. This became possible

Nuk Tessli Alpine Experience for Sale

2010-02-26T18:24:00.001-08:00

A wilderness ecotourism business in one of the more remote corners of British Columbia is for sale. Chris Czajkowski, author, botanist and wilderness dweller continues to run her Nuk Tessli Alpine Experience but has put the business up for sale. Here's what she says: As readers of my books will know, I started Nuk Tessli single-handedly, from scratch, 21 years ago. There was not so much as

Tom Swanky: The Tsilhqot'in War and the Smallpox Plot

2010-02-01T19:31:00.001-08:00

"Researching the B.C. smallpox of 1861 to 1864. And the Tsilhqot'in response, culminating in the 1864/65 hanging of Tsilhqot'in leaders, the largest public execution in Canadian history." Tom will be presenting his updated information in Williams Lake at 7:00 pm on Wednesday February 3rd. He says: "Now includes targeting 'William' with smallpox and Killing the Northerners at Victoria. Improved

Sled dog racing at 108 Mile Ranch

2010-01-11T14:15:00.002-08:00

Yesterday, we went to the annual sled dog races here at 108 Mile Ranch. For the first time they were held at the heart of the 108 community, with the course running around the lakes around which the community developed. We were very impressed - with the new venue (the base was the Heritage Site), the organization, the atmosphere and, of course, the dogs, the mushers and the dog-handlers. Here

Unspoiled Taku River Valley discussions on land use

2009-11-30T15:40:00.000-08:00

Not much news about this process - at least I know little about it. So, I thought it wouldn't hurt to give it a little more exposure. This may not be the best explanation but feel free to add, in the Comments section, links to an article you would recommend. Gold glitters in B.C.'s last intact watershed By Tom Fletcher - BC Local News Published: November

Birds From a Cariboo Deck No. 9: Ruffed Grouse

2009-11-19T22:30:00.000-08:00

This was the grandest-looking of a family of four that visited in the fall; so, probably the adult male. They are not the most refined of flyers, especially when startled: flying into fences and walls. Fortunately I saw this one in time. More Birds from A Cariboo Deck

Introduction to the Chilcotin War - Tom Swanky

2009-10-20T15:32:00.010-07:00

Tom has been researching and collecting historical date long and hard. Here's an opportunity to learn about this remarkable and often disturbing part of our history in this part of Canada. Click on poster to see a larger version. In case the text still isn't easy to read, here's what Tom says: I am presenting the slide sequence in the Quesnel Museum Heritage Speaker series, Oct. 27 at 7pm in the

The trouble with DEET

2009-08-20T19:15:00.005-07:00

New research on DEET health risks DEET, the active ingredient in many insect repellents used by some 200 million people every year, appears to affect proteins in mammals as well as mosquitoes and other target insects. Some previous studies have implicated DEET in seizures among children. A new study (PDF) by an international group of scientists, supported by Agence Nationale pour la Recherche in

Nuk Tessli Update

2009-08-03T09:52:00.004-07:00

Just received from Chris Czajkowski:August 3, 8:55 a.m. "When the helicopter flew over Knot Lake yesterday the fire was still on the far side of Knot Lake which is very good news. There was little wind yesterday and none last night. Tomorrow the temperature is supposed to cool dramatically, which will help, and a chance of showers is forecast. It is supposed to rain in a few

Fire threatens Nuk Tessli. Chris Czajkowski has to fly out.

2009-08-02T17:39:00.008-07:00

Five years later and once again, Chris Czajkowski has had to evacuate Nuk Tessli. In an e-mail sent a couple of hours ago, she reports:"Even if the fire did not reach us, the smoke would probably be very unpleasant. Been there, done that. 11 clients and a wwoofer/guide had flown out that morning and 4 clients had flown in. These were a couple my age, their 80+ mother, and their 9-year-old

The Battle for Our Rivers and Our Fish

2009-07-07T12:12:00.005-07:00

Despite their victory in the last provincial election, the way is not open for the BC Liberals to continue their ceding of river access to corporate power-sellers. The tactical attempts to sneak through the legal requirements are being countered by an alert and growing resistance. The Tyee reports:Far from being deterred by the denial of a meeting in Nelson, local environmental groups banded

BC Election: Rafe Mair's call to action

2009-05-06T00:03:00.006-07:00

Today I'm making online space for Rafe Mair. I couldn't find this most recent letter of his online so, to give it a little more exposure, here it is. There comes a time when politics is more than just that and I think, for BC, this is one of them:Fellow British Columbians –I’ve been fighting injustice my entire life. I have long looked with considerable skepticism at those in charge feeling

Vote to protect BC's treasures

2009-05-01T22:26:00.005-07:00

While this video is definitely partisan regarding the upcoming BC elections, most of the issues covered are those I am somewhat informed on and agree with. As an election seems like the best, if not the only, way to stop much of the damage being done to our province, this video has my support; and I play my part here in giving a little boost to its circulation. Because of the scope of what's at

Corky Evans on Taking Our Rivers Back

2009-04-07T13:11:00.003-07:00

No-one says it clearer: the so-called "Liberal" government is selling our resources. We can stop them. Watch the video:

Protect our food and farmers: Amend BC's new meat regulations

2009-03-24T15:07:00.005-07:00

The "sanitizing" of the BC meat industry has continued under the current government, slowing down a bit in the face of obvious faults, but pretty much holding to the same track. The effect has been ongoing limitation to the availability of quality meat in this province and financial damage to many farmers we've depended on to provide good quality meat; meat which, from most reports, is at least

World Water Day 2009

2009-03-22T15:06:00.004-07:00

108 Lake, 108 Mile Ranch.World Water Day 2009 - more information.

The Lies and Deception behind Gordon Campbell's BC Rail Deal

2009-03-08T14:06:00.006-07:00

An NDP motion has resulted in the release of many documents revealing what actually went on behind the scenes of the sale of BC Rail: the violation of a promise Campbell used to get elected. Unfortunately the deception and lies allowed Campbell and his government to get away with this at the time but the truth is at least a vindication and may play a part in the defeat of his party in the

Nature Diary of a Wilderness Dweller by Chris Czajkowski

2009-01-12T11:58:00.006-08:00

My current and recommended reading for those interested in the life and world immediately around them:A MOUNTAIN YEAR Nature Diary of a Wilderness DwellerIn 1988, Chris Czajkowski walked into British Columbia's Central Coast Mountains to build a homestead, a business, and a life. A Mountain Year is a beautifully-produced art book full of original paintings, sketches and diary entries,

Kootenay Energy Conference

2008-10-13T19:11:00.004-07:00

An encouraging event:Kootenay Energy ConferenceOctober 17-18, 2008 at Selkirk College, Castlegar, British ColumbiaPost Carbon Cities Program Manager Daniel Lerch will present via webcast to the Municipal Planners and Leaders Seminar on Friday, Oct 17, 2008, to an invited audience of planners and elected officials.Post Carbon Institute Senior Fellow Richard Heinberg will present via webcast on

BC Rivers Day - September 28

2008-09-24T10:41:00.006-07:00

Fraser River valley. Photo © Stanton Newman"BC Rivers Day began in 1980 with 40 volunteers helping to clean up a stretch of the Thompson River. The event has now grown to become the biggest celebration of its kind in North America. It has been proclaimed by the BC Government and by more than 90 cities and municipalities across the province."Hundreds of our rivers are being threatened by private

The arts have great potential in the BC Interior

2008-09-21T23:16:00.005-07:00

Here's an article from The Tyee that invites thought and may inspire more ideas and action. At least, here are a few extracts. If they interest you, check out the full article.Some of Canada's most renowned work, Inuit and Northwest Coast aboriginal art, is some of the most remotely produced. End-of-the-road communities like Atlin and Wells have been put them on the map because of their artistic

From Indian Summer into Equinox

2008-09-21T00:23:00.004-07:00

After an impressive Indian Summer, the turn of the year may be a little harder than usual to adjust to . . . and not just for us humans:

Chris Czajkowski's summer at Nuk Tessli filled with colour and adventure

2008-08-15T19:32:00.004-07:00

Chris Czajkowski's photo-journals chronicle the mountain and floral beauty of summer in her corner of BC's Chilcotin wilderness - and a bit of adventure too. Here's a sample from the 2008 journals:

The only inland temperate rainforest in the world

2008-08-08T19:00:00.004-07:00

An ancient interior BC cedar forest is getting attention and, fortunately, also some extra care. This may include government protection.More on this story

Birds From a Cariboo Deck No.8: Evening Grosbeak

2008-07-04T19:17:00.007-07:00

MaleFemaleThose of you living in Douglas fir territory might have noticed flocks of these birds from time to time, especially if you have a feeder with good supply of black sunflower seeds. Apparently they tend to follow the outbreaks of spruce budworm (right). These are the worms that descend from the higher branches on a thread of silk, until they land on lower branches where they begin to feed

CBC: Feds plan on turning good lakes into dump sites

2008-06-16T19:23:00.004-07:00

Long time no post!Well, this one's not very original but it does seem important. Sounds like the federal government is trying to sneak one over on all of us; and some of it will happen in BC, turning perfectly good lakes into dump sites.CBC News has learned that 16 Canadian lakes are slated to be officially but quietly "reclassified" as toxic dump sites for mines. The lakes include prime

BC meat-inspection rules putting good farmers out of business

2008-05-25T15:55:00.005-07:00

This fight is still being fought but already many farmers have lost their ability to sell locally, mostly because the new BC meat inspection rules have resulted in greatly-increased costs and deterioration of the quality of meat processed. Mass processing and stressful travel does not produce better meat - and, arguably can often increase the likelihood of contamination. Carlito Pablo, in the

'Green' power project kills fish; ducks and frogs 'disappear'.

2008-04-30T10:14:00.004-07:00

Smaller power generation projects are quickly building up a pretty poor track record.From a recent report in the Vancouver Sun:An independent power project on Miller Creek near Pemberton is failing to meet its commitments to produce "green power" and to protect species at risk, according to an environmental consulting report.The 33-megawatt power project, owned by the City of Edmonton's EPCOR

Farm to School opportunities for farmers

2008-04-09T18:52:00.005-07:00

I thought this would be of interest to those in the listed towns. I think this is a natural if we're looking to support healthier eating in our schools and promote local food.I am getting many calls from many eager schools who would like to pair up with a local farm (or a couple of farms) to make Farm to School happen. Calls are coming from Masset, Kitwanga, Terrace, Telkwa, Houston, Smithers,

With Pitt River hydro plans stopped, what now?

2008-04-04T09:26:00.003-07:00

Matthew Burrows in the Georgia Straight looks at plans some are making to introduce proposals for other private hydro operations. He quotes BC Liberal Randy Hawes:Despite its sudden withdrawal in the legislature on March 31, B.C. Liberal whip Randy Hawes says he still plans to introduce his motion supporting independent power producers. “It is going to get introduced, I would expect,” Hawes,

Great Horned Owl family on livecam at Thompson Rivers U in Kamloops

2008-03-30T22:52:00.008-07:00

Thompson Rivers University has a pair of horned owls nesting on campus and is sharing the experience around the world via streaming live video. The parents are taking care of two offspring. Urban nesting is unusual and the nesting is a little earlier than usual. The family seems to be doing well.Live Video - Horned Owls nest on campusMore about the Great Horned OwlGreat Horned Owl photo by

Rafe Mair speaks at hearing on privatizing power on BC's Upper Pitt River

2008-03-28T21:29:00.011-07:00

Well, the Pitt River project has been stopped (one down, many more to go) and here's likely one reason why: It seems there are many more plans like this one (similar enough) so those of us in the Interior will soon be more directly involved. This is a province-wide plan. Update (March 31, 2008): Rafe Mair: Pitt River Victory Quote: The premier can see that he's going to be in trouble all

Is Green Power 'Theft'?

2008-03-24T10:43:00.011-07:00

My previous post reflects only a small part of the concern that's growing amongst many regarding the plan to privatize hydro-electric dams to extract power from BC rivers.As with all "stories", there is another side. In my view the story of what's already in the works with these dams has been a hidden story, hidden because the rationale for use of our river resources in this way was never

While we weren't looking, control of our rivers has been taken away from us

2008-02-25T23:44:00.007-08:00

500 BC streams risked for private profit.By Rafe MairPublished: February 25, 2008TheTyee.ca Thanks to the Campbell government, British Columbia will be a much different place when they're finished. It will not be a pretty picture and unless there is a public protest of sufficient impact to get the government's attention, the new B.C. will be in place with no turning

Birds From a Cariboo Deck No.7: Pileated Woodpecker

2008-02-21T23:52:00.005-08:00

This is the big one around here - and reputedly the inspiration for Woody Woodpecker: not just in its looks: the calls we hear when they make their way, sometimes as many as four at a time, through the woods towards our chief attraction - suet - are pretty close to that irritating call of the cartoon version.I say this is "the big one" but that status is among the woodpeckers. One of my most

Birch syrup is healthier and fetches a very good price

2008-02-17T18:10:00.004-08:00

It's that time of year again: the sap is rising - the sugaring season is upon us.Not here, you say? You were thinking maple, I presume . . . Think again . . . Try birch. Three of the country's 11 birch syrup producers are in BC. And, according to my source, an article in today's Province, a 250ml bottle sells for $22 - when you can get it. Demand far exceeds supply. Here's a reason to be

Tyee article sheds some light on BC Native land claims

2008-02-13T13:08:00.005-08:00

Aboriginal land claims in BC appear so complex that, given so many other matters that take my time, I seek to find simple principles amidst the details. There is little written in the mainstream media that has brought me much closer to understanding. This opinion article by Dave Porter, Chief Judith Sayers and Grand Chief Edward John in The Tyee (which is not quite mainstream), seems to cast some

Upcoming CBC Week-long Series on Pine Beetle

2008-01-04T13:08:00.000-08:00

From a press release issued by the Cariboo Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition:CBC Radio (Almanac) is producing a week-long series of shows on the beetle issue running from Mon. Jan. 7 through Friday, Jan. 11. The shows should be broadcast on your local CBC station. A community forum will be held on Wednesday, January 9 at the Williams Lake Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex - Gibraltar Room, 7pm

New blog on the block: Chilcotin Ark - by Dave Neads

2007-12-10T12:34:00.000-08:00

A special welcome to Dave Neads and his blog, Chilcotin Ark. Dave has been a guest writer in this blog on a few occasions:Factory fences: aliens in the ChilcotinOf Mice, Packrats and MenPerspective on the Lodgepole PineThe pine beetle aftermath requires a fundamental culture change. . . and now he's out there on his own. No stranger to writing, Dave has written many articles for, amongst others,

Bear rescue - not on BC bridge but in California

2007-11-03T15:09:00.000-07:00

This bear found its way onto the new bridge near Golden. We can only imagine how disruptive our great construction achievements are to wild animals. This worked out OK for the bear, thanks to highway people who used their time and experience to bring off a remarkable rescue.I wasn't able to find out who took these pictures. If you or someone you know took them, please let me know so I can give

Corky Evans speaks up on BC's dysfunctional meat slaughter regulations

2007-10-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

No pictures this time . . .I want give a little more exposure to an issue that's been around a long time. A couple of years ago new slaughtering regulations were tabled for B.C. Now they are being out into effect and the insanity of it all is becoming apparent. In the BC legislature, Corky Evans has been prominent among those attempting to restore sanity. Here's what he had to say a few days

Bear viewing in the Bella Coola Valley

2007-10-19T20:03:00.000-07:00

Autumn is fishing time for bears. Chris Czajkowski (of Nuk Tessli fame) and a friend went to look for bears in the Bella Coola Valley. They didn't have to look for long:The grizzly came ashore:Soon after the grizzly left, a black bear came a-fishing:and came pretty close too:The grizzly, who hadn't gone that far must have picked up black bear scent (supper?) and stood up:It wasn't long before

British Columbia Grasslands book

2007-08-28T21:53:00.000-07:00

BC photographer and author, Chris Harris, is launching his next book: Spirit in the Grass - The Cariboo Chilcotin's Forgotten Landscape.The Cariboo Chilcotin grasslands are one of the ecological wonders of the world and British Columbia's most endangered ecosystem. It covers less than 1% of the province yet supports over 30% of its threatened or endangered plant and animal species.The book will

Birds From a Cariboo Deck No.6 - Northern Flicker

2007-08-19T13:10:00.000-07:00

The Northern Flicker is a favourite of mine: beautiful and a little shy, it enjoys the usual woodpecker favourites - bugs and suet - and also likes to pick off a few ants on a nearby berm.Apparently many years ago the flickers got separated into two populations: west and east. The eastern flickers developed a yellow wing colour and we in the west can enjoy the more dramatic orange.More Birds

Wildcrafting Strawberries

2007-07-16T18:31:00.000-07:00

For a few years now I've been giving a little help (occasional watering and weeding) to a patch of especially large wild strawberries. Each year they reward me with a special harvest - not large but very sweet. This year's gift was substantially greater than last year's:

Foxes in the Cariboo and London

2007-07-14T16:46:00.000-07:00

This is an image of a fox, fairly common around here (the South Cariboo):For contrasting lifestyle and season, here's a picture, from a friend, of a fox making itself at home in a London garden. Apparently this is not uncommon, especially around Hampstead Heath:

Chris Czajkowski's Chilcotin Photo-journal

2007-07-09T22:38:00.000-07:00

Chris Czajkowski, author of Wildfire in the Wilderness, The Cabin at Singing River and other books, is back home at Nuk Tessli, hiking and paddling "her" piece of Chilcotin wilderness. Join Chris, as the early summer sun begins to melt last winter's heavy snows and she records in words and pictures the spectacular scenery and fascinating plant and animal life of this beautiful corner of British

The pine beetle aftermath requires a fundamental culture change

2007-07-03T14:31:00.000-07:00

Dave Neads writes from knowledge and experience about the forestry industry in BC. After hoping it would go away or some miracle cure would appear, the reality of the pine beetle aftermath is beginning to set in. This is going to require a deep, cultural change from those of us in affected areas, whether we are involved with forestry or not. Dave's article provides a welcome perspective. (The

Birds from a Cariboo Deck No.5 - American Robin

2007-06-28T15:21:00.001-07:00

A pair of robins have honoured us with setting up a nest nearby. They join others in the neighbourhood in their sweet evening singing. Aside from singing, the most popular visible activity of robins is their flamboyant bathing:More Birds from A Cariboo Deck

Kamloops/Thompson School District gets free software

2007-06-11T00:34:00.000-07:00

Some interesting news on the computing front:-------------------------------------------------Kamloops school district gets an education in free softwareTuesday June 05, 2007By: Bruce Byfield The Kamloops/Thompson School District in British Columbia, Canada, is a free software success story. Gregg Ferrie, manager of information technology for the district, believes its infrastructure may be "the

Fairyslipper / Calypso Orchid - spring beauty

2007-05-21T21:56:00.000-07:00

Here in central BC it's the season. Fairyslippers are still fairly common, despite significant loss of habitat and being very fragile. For those who express their appreciation for flowers by picking them, these flowers are vulnerable because of their beauty and because picking a bloom can easily uproot the whole plant. Join me in a salute to the Calypso orchid (I prefer that name - more

Birds from a Cariboo Deck No.4 - Dark-eyed Junco

2007-05-06T22:15:00.000-07:00

Once the Varied Thrush invasion subsided, the Dark-eyed Juncos started arriving in numbers. These birds enliven our back yard with their cheerful twitting and the little flashes of white as they fly around.More Birds from A Cariboo DeckI've just heard from our neighbour that he is planning to take down most of his trees - essentially the continuation of our bit of forest.Part of our forest at

Birds from a Cariboo Deck No.3 - Varied Thrush

2007-04-28T21:19:00.000-07:00

It's been a while but spring has sprung and definitely time to feature another bird seen from my back deck. This time the honour falls to the Varied Thrush who this spring arrived in unprecedented numbers and stayed longer than ever (there are still a couple around). It's the males who arrive first so I will feature a male varied thrush here:More Birds from A Cariboo Deck

Earth Day 2007

2007-04-21T14:20:00.000-07:00

As the birds come north . . . . . . celebrating the day, the birds and the air we breathe. Photo: April 21. Birds over the Cariboo. Photo Jeffrey Newman. More British Columbia birds

Canadian Architect magazine praises new Osoyoos museum

2007-03-29T20:05:00.000-07:00

For some time I've been hearing and reading about this beautiful new museum in Osoyoos. The Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre is set on the Osoyoos Indian Reserve and is part of a larger resort destination being developed for the band. I came a across this substantial and generously-illustrated introduction to the museum in Canadian Architect.

Don't bring apples - and the apple maggot - home with you.

2007-03-16T20:51:00.000-07:00

If we who who live in the Interior and visit the Lower Mainland and points south, are very careful, we can play a part in delaying the arrival of the apple maggot in the Okanagan. The simple request of vulnerable apple farmers in the Okanagan valley and other interior BC apple-growing areas is: Don't bring back any apples. This delay will, at least, give growers a little time to prepare. The

Help Save Monarch Butterflies

2007-02-22T13:46:00.000-08:00

Photographer made this available under a Creative Commons LicenseOn this side of the continent, we have the western Monarch and it seems that both eastern and western varieties are under threat because of massive loss of habitat brought on by modern farming methods, especially the use of Roundup Ready corn and soybeans.So, the call is out for individuals anywhere in the monarch range to provide

Kettle Valley farmer tries to stop radio-active mining on his land

2007-01-06T23:56:00.000-08:00

A Rancher's Radioactive Hell Joe Falkoski says he's being forced by bad laws to allow toxic mining on his land.A special report By Kendyl SalcitoJanuary 4, 2007Falkoski with barite chunk at prospecting site left barren.TheTyee.caWhat do you do if you are a rancher told by a company -- and then the courts -- that there is nothing you can do to stop your rangeland from being dug up and

Wildfire in the Wilderness by Chris Czajkowski

2006-12-08T18:58:00.000-08:00

Alarm about the 2004 Lonesome Lake fire went unnoticed for a while, to the great frustration of locals. It prompted me to start a blog and bring attention to the fire with reports from locals. Some of my friends and clients (I design web sites) were in the midst of this drama and their personal accounts were vivid, leading, amongst other things, to me getting a call from the CBC asking for

Two new books on the Bowron Lakes

2006-12-02T17:56:00.000-08:00

NEW (March 2007): These books now have their own web site, along with other information: www.canoebowronlakes.caBC photographer, Chris Harris, has published nine books. His two most recent bring to us his longtime experience on the Bowron Lakes.The Bowron Lakes, British Columbia's Wilderness Canoe Circuit - A Lifetime Journey features 150 of his photographs in a generous 10.5" x 10.5" format. The

The Alcan question: aluminum or hydro?

2006-11-24T15:47:00.000-08:00

Konrad Yakabuski in The Globe & Mail takes an in-depth look at the background to this story . . . which started whenIn 1950, British Columbia's government gave Alcan the right to reverse the flow of the Nechako River, flood 125,000 acres of land and displace about 200 members of the Cheslatta nation so that the company could build the 900-megawatt Kemano station. The electricity was meant to

Provide shelter for winter birds: Chickadee

2006-11-16T16:17:00.002-08:00

Those of you who've seen my Backyard Birds page will know of my interest in the feathered flyers. Winter - a tough time for birds - is almost upon us and here's something you can do to help them along: Give Shelter to Wintering Birds And, as No.2 in my Cariboo birds series, here's a common bird that will benefit from your assistance: Birds from a Cariboo Deck No.2 - Black-capped Chickadee

Birds From A Cariboo Deck. No.1: Steller's Jay

2006-10-29T07:40:00.000-08:00

This is the first in an occasional series featuring photographs I've taken of birds that visit my Cariboo back yard. It seemed appropriate to start with BC's provincial bird, theSTELLER'S JAYThe Steller's Jay is an occasional visitor but this year has decided to stay a while. It's now around two weeks and he/she is still here, filling up regularly with sunflower seeds, water and a little

Record low levels in many Interior rivers

2006-10-24T11:24:00.000-07:00

The BC Ministry of Environment's River Forecast Centre reports record (50-100 years) lows for many BC Interior rivers. These include:most gauged rivers in the PeaceFraser River at HopeFraser River at Prince GeorgeThompson River at Spences BridgeNorth Thompson River at McLureColdwater RiverEagle River (at Malakwa)Salmon River (at Salmon Arm)Quesnel RiverBella Coola RiverSaloomt River (at

Perspective on the Lodgepole Pine

2006-10-19T13:15:00.000-07:00

Guest article by Dave Neads, director of the Cariboo Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition and of the Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society. He is a member of the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Resource Committee, represents the West Chilcotin Tourism Association regionally and writes a bi-monthly column on conservation issues for the Williams Lake Tribune.-----------------------------------------------

The Bull Trout at Risk in BC

2006-10-13T22:46:00.000-07:00

James Murray, in the Salmon Arm Observer, begins a new series on "mismanaging natural resources".As I stood on the banks of the Adams River last week, watching, or perhaps it would be more accurate to say looking for, the sockeye salmon that were supposed to be returning to spawn (who knows for sure what is happening with the sockeye runs), I found myself pondering the plight of yet another fish

Owner of Country Inn Motel describes the fire experience

2006-10-04T17:28:00.000-07:00

Ted Hlokoff sent me this account. It is followed by a link to the article he and his wife Deana wrote for the Williams Lake Tribune.I am a car collector and had many tools and car parts were lost in the fire. I have much more car stuff that was saved from the fire. Once it was obvious to me that the Motel fire was out of control I screamed for everyone to run away. Then I went to the Motel

Country Inn Motel in Nimpo Lake burned to the ground

2006-09-30T12:46:00.000-07:00

I am sad to report another loss to fire in the Chilcotin:Yesterday, the Country Inn Motel in Nimpo Lake burned to the ground. Fortunately there were no casualties. Apparently the manager of the motel was able to alert all the guests in time to move themselves and their vehicles to a safe place. The owners, had moved to the Inn only a month ago, and lost everything. This is what the site looked

Another decrease in medical service for small-town BC

2006-09-27T10:51:00.000-07:00

Fewer Doctor Visits Approved for Rural, Isolated TownsBy Ethan RibalkinPublished: September 27, 2006TheTyee.caA lot of small towns in B.C. rely on the care of visiting family doctors and specialists. It's the only alternative to flying or busing people miles to medical centres. But this year the B.C. government has lowered the number of approved doctor visits to rural and isolated communities,

Pictures of the Farwell Canyon bridge fire

2006-09-08T12:45:00.000-07:00

[updated 8:20 pm PST]Thanks to Dan Laurie, we have some dramatic pictures of the fire that took down the bridge. (Click on image to see a larger version.)The loss of the bridge will affect many people, not least those involved in area logging. Radio 94X in Prince George reports:Roy Halls, a local trucker says drivers will now only be able to make one trip a day carrying logs to williams lake

More on the Farwell Canyon Bridge fire

2006-09-07T15:47:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Kate for alerting me to this report in the Williams Lake Tribune. Pretty dramatic picture and story too.It appears that there is a connection between the cause of the fire and the mudslide of two years ago: on Sunday night someone started a fire underneath the bridge, using brush that accumulated during the flooding caused by the slide. This quickly got the bridge support posts burning

Farwell Canyon Bridge burnt down

2006-09-05T11:00:00.000-07:00

Photo: Chris HarrisPhoto: Stanton NewmanI hear the Farwell Canyon bridge burnt down on Saturday night. Police and fire services were there through the night. Apparently there is a long way round alternate route.Anyone out there know more about this and/or have pictures?(If you're interested, I have pictures of the flood that occurred there in 2004)

A very big baby cowbird

2006-09-03T17:05:00.002-07:00

This year brought a lot of heat and an unprecedented hailstorm to my Cariboo backyard. The hail stripped the bushes and trees of a lot of their (protective for the birds) foliage. Perhaps the most unusual happening was the pairing in this picture on the left. The bigger bird followed the Junco around for days, treating it like a parent. I didn't see it again after the hailstorm. The mystery: what

Concerted opposition to Fairmont Hotsprings East Kootenay development

2006-08-29T22:52:00.000-07:00

One Community's Firm 'No' to Tourist BoomTheTyee.ca Looking across Columbia Lake to Lot 48, the small cleared section in the distance. Photo A. Bergles.On Columbia Lake, Fairmont Hot Springs Resort has big plans - and creative opponents.By Adrian Bergles. Published: August 29, 2006-----------------------------------------------------At the headwaters of the mighty Columbia River, a

Running out of water

2006-08-24T22:51:00.000-07:00

A quarter of us, many in rural areas but many more in the suburbs of the Lower Mainland, on Vancouver Island, in the Okanagan and elsewhere, depend on wells for tap water. Business and industries in those areas do the same. With each passing year, we're pumping more from the buried lakes and slow-moving underground streams known as aquifers. So says Chris Wood in Pumping Blind and I think we'd

Plan to build pipeline from Alberta oilsands to BC Port of Kitimat

2006-08-23T22:17:00.000-07:00

Plans are in the works for an oil pipeline from the Alberta oilsands to the BC port of Kitimat. To many this sounds wonderful: jobs for locals, profits for the companies involved and taxes for the BC and Alberta governments. To many, however, the nature and scope of the project is a disaster - in process and in consequence.If the plan goes ahead, the Gateway pipeline will be the largest

Alarm for the northern spotted owl

2006-08-14T19:16:00.000-07:00

Alarm bells are ringing loudly as the northern spotted owl population drops to near extinction levels. According to Larry Pynn in the Vancouver Sun:The number of known mating pairs of Canada's rarest bird, the northern spotted owl, has dropped to three from six and the overall population to 17 from 22 since last year, says the Sierra Legal Defence Fund. The organization is urging the B.C.

Native activists protect the North-west's natural heritage

2006-08-11T15:37:00.000-07:00

In the 1950s, Dr. Edward Teller ("Father of the H-Bomb") championed a scheme to use nuclear weapons to carve out a harbor in Arctic Alaska. Successful resistance to "Project Chariot" united native villages.says Joel Connelly in the Seattle Post-IntelligencerThe North-west's beauty is continually under threat. Under that beauty lies much mineral wealth and on it many trees. Without outspoken

British Columbia Day greetings from Inside British Columbia

2006-08-05T11:29:00.000-07:00

August 7, 2006

Alarm sounded on coalbed methane in BC

2006-07-20T23:33:00.000-07:00

Merran Smith in the Smithers Interior News: We are concerned that B.C.’s regulations for coal bed methane are inadequate. Unlike mines such as Blue Pearl, coalbed methane developments are not subject to environmental assessments. There is nothing to address cumulative impacts. And compliance and enforcement monitoring is largely conducted by the company itself, not the government.Read the article