My hometown is right here in Kamloops, located in the beautiful semi-arid desert of BC’s interior. Kamloops has has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years; the area was originally inhabited by the Secwépemc (Shuswap) First Nations, who have lived in the region for over 5,000 years. (1) These Indigenous communities held a deep respect for the land, utilizing its diverse resources in a sustainable manner. They relied on the bountiful ecosystems for sustenance, leveraging salmon runs, hunting game, and gathering plants for food, medicine, and cultural practices. The Secwépemc’s harmonious relationship with nature fostered biodiversity and maintained ecological balance. (1)

Kamloops was historically home to a remarkable wildlife population. Bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk, and black bears roamed the region’s forests and grasslands. The rivers were vibrant with thriving salmon populations, serving as a vital food source for both humans and other animal species. (2) However, human settlement, habitat loss, and changing ecosystems have impacted wildlife populations. I have many fond memories of attending the Adam’s River salmon Run as a child, and class field trips to the Wildlife Park. Unfortunately, the Salmon run gets smaller every year, and ongoing conservation efforts are crucial to safeguard and restore the diverse fauna that once graced the area’s landscapes. (6)

The first European contact with the region occurred in the late 18th century when fur traders from the Hudson’s Bay Company arrived in search of valuable pelts. Kamloops, known as the “Meeting of the Waters” by the Secwépemc people due to its location at the confluence of the North and South Thompson Rivers, quickly became a strategic trading post and transportation hub. The fur trade brought about significant changes in the region, leading to the establishment of Fort Kamloops in 1812 as a key trading outpost. (1)

With the discovery of gold in the 1850s, Kamloops experienced a major influx of miners and prospectors seeking their fortune in the Cariboo Gold Rush. The town rapidly expanded, attracting merchants, entrepreneurs, and other settlers. Kamloops became an essential supply center and transportation stop along the Fraser River and Cariboo Wagon Road. As the gold rush era waned, Kamloops evolved into an agricultural and ranching community. The fertile soil and favorable climate supported the growth of orchards, grain fields, and cattle ranches. The arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1886 further boosted Kamloops’ economy and facilitated trade and transportation in the region.(1) This boom of movement and growth influenced the introduction of non-native species and had a profound impact on Kamloops’ ecological balance. Invasive species such as cheatgrass, European Rabbits, and fallow deer have outcompeted native flora and fauna, leading to the degradation of natural habitats. These invasions disrupt the delicate ecosystems that have evolved over millennia, requiring active management and control measures to restore ecological integrity. (5) (6)

Throughout the 20th century, Kamloops continued to develop and diversify. The city witnessed the growth of industries such as forestry, mining, and manufacturing, contributing to its economic stability. The construction of the Trans-Canada Highway in the 1960s further enhanced Kamloops’ connectivity and accessibility, making it a popular stopover for travelers. (1) As Kamloops grew and urbanized, the landscape underwent significant changes. The city’s expansion and infrastructure development have encroached upon natural habitats and impacted local ecosystems. However, conscious urban planning has aimed to mitigate these effects. The recent integration of green spaces, bike lanes, parks, and urban forest management initiatives has sought to restore ecological connectivity and enhance the well-being of both humans and wildlife. Our climate and location means that wildfires are an ever present risk during the hotter months, so Kamloopsians must remain diligent and informed on the risks. (4)

Today, Kamloops is a thriving city with a population of over 100,000 residents. The city of Kamloops, BC, has implemented several sustainability initiatives aimed at promoting water conservation, improving air quality, waste reduction, promoting healthy landscapes, and enhancing energy efficiency. The city encourages residents to utilize rain barrels and adopt indoor and outdoor water-saving practices to conserve water resources. To address air quality concerns, the City of Kamloops has developed an Airshed Management Plan, supporting its implementation and providing information to residents on how they can contribute to improving air quality. The “Bring Your Own” (BYO) Initiative promotes waste reduction by encouraging residents to use reusable bottles, mugs, containers, straws, and bags, thereby reducing single-use plastic waste. (3)

  Additionally, the city offers resources and guidance on dealing with pests, noxious weeds, and invasive plants in yards while complying with the pesticide bylaw, promoting healthy landscapes. Kamloops is also embracing electric transportation, providing information on the benefits of going electric and supporting the transition to low-emission vehicles. This initiative,  combined with the city’s expanding bike infrastructure, aims to make sustainability convenient. The city also offers information on the advantages of energy retrofits for homes and provides details on available rebates.(3) 

To help residents save energy and money, the city shares home energy hacks that can improve comfort and reduce energy consumption. These initiatives collectively aim to create a more sustainable and environmentally conscious community in Kamloops, benefiting both residents and the local ecosystem. Additionally, our very own Thompson Rivers University is platinum certified by the Sierra club of Canada, a very difficult environmental sustainability rating to achieve, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. (7)

The ecological history of Kamloops bears witness to the profound influence of human activities on the region’s physical environment. I have even seen this change in my own lifetime. From Indigenous pre-contact settlement to European arrival, the area has experienced transformations in land use, resource extraction, and urban development. The introduction of invasive species and the alteration of natural habitats have further shaped the ecological landscape. Nonetheless, Kamloops has demonstrated a commitment to environmental stewardship through various initiatives, fostering sustainability, and striving to restore ecological balance. By recognizing the historical legacy and implementing responsible practices I hope that the city I love so dearly continues to navigate a path towards a harmonious coexistence between nature and urban development.

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