Empowering Young Minds: North Okanagan Students Transform Armstrong Wetland into a Thriving Ecosystem

Local high school students in Armstrong recently took part in an exciting wetland restoration project by planting a pocket forest. On April 29, biology students from Pleasant Valley Secondary School collaborated with peers from Clarence Fulton Secondary School’s Awaken Inquiry and Adventure Okanagan group. Together, they planted 115 native trees and shrubs at a local wetland site.

The day kicked off at Huculak Park, where students met with representatives from the BC Wildlife Federation (BCWF) and local organizers. Young children from a nearby daycare also joined the event, eager to learn about the project. Biologists Michele Hill and Marge Sidney explained the day’s activities, while Kim Fulton, a local environmentalist, handed out Lorax stickers to the kids.

BCWF conservation biologists Erika Kolli and Becky Dodge spoke to the high schoolers about their careers and the important roles wetlands play in supporting biodiversity and filtering water. They emphasized that restoring wetlands helps to combat climate change—a crucial insight in today’s environmental landscape.

After the introduction, the students moved to the wetland site, where they learned about its enhancement project. Teams got to work, digging holes and planting trees, using a special soil mix that included biochar, sand, compost, and mycorrhizal fungi. Each time a plant was placed, students cheered, adding a joyful spirit to the endeavor.

Jill de la Salle, president of the Armstrong Wetlands Association, expressed optimism about the project, stating, "I believe that all the cheering and positive attitudes will help the plants survive and grow." The mini-forest will be monitored and cared for throughout the summer, with hopes for a thriving ecosystem.

Community involvement in such projects is vital. In fact, a recent survey found that nearly 70% of people believe local conservation efforts improve community ties. It’s encouraging to see young people actively participating in environmental stewardship, particularly as recent studies highlight that urban forests can reduce temperatures and improve air quality.

This planting day, organized by the Armstrong Wetlands Association, Kim Fulton, and the BC Wildlife Federation, showcases how hands-on community projects can make a real impact. By engaging students and fostering a love for nature, efforts like this contribute to a healthier planet for future generations.

To read more about the importance of wetland restoration, check out the BC Wildlife Federation’s insights here.

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