River-lovers across British Columbia are gearing up to celebrate their local creeks, streams and rivers for the 44th annual BC Rivers Day on September 22.

Two events are scheduled in the East Kootenay, including the Elk River Alliance’s Elk River Shoreline Cleanup being held between Elkford, Sparwood and Fernie and Wildsight Invermere (pictured above) is hosting a group paddle next Sunday (Sept. 22).

Held annually on the last Sunday of September, BC Rivers Day is spearheaded by the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC). It serves as both a celebration of B.C.’s waterways and a vital call to action, offering a moment for reflection on the importance of the rivers that connect us all.

This year, over 30 events are already registered across the province including river cleanups, guided paddles, salmon education initiatives, riverside tree plantings, and more.

Events and celebrations are planned by recreational clubs, conservation organizations, community groups, and local governments in many regions of the province, including the Elk Valley and Columbia Valley.

ORCBC invites everyone to celebrate BC Rivers Day and have a positive impact on the incredible rivers that define our province.

“BC Rivers Day is more than just a celebration—it’s a movement that began here in B.C. and has grown into a global event,” said Soraya Olszewski, Communication and Engagement Officer of the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC. “Our rivers are threatened by pollution, habitat loss, industrial development, invasive species, and climate change. BC Rivers Day provides a meaningful opportunity to learn about and give back to the rivers that connect us.”

BC Rivers Day was founded by world-renowned river advocate Mark Angelo and the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC in 1980. Since then, it has expanded worldwide with more than 100 countries participating in World Rivers Day across six continents this year, making it one of the planet’s largest environmental celebrations.

“We have a spectacular river heritage in B.C. and to see this great provincial event evolve into a global celebration of rivers has been exciting to see,” said Angelo, founder and chair of both BC and World Rivers Day.

Photo submitted

Outdoor Recreation Council of BC

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