A local man has been recognized by the B.C. Lake Stewardship Society for his efforts to help steward and improve the health of Charlie Lake.
Long-time resident Bruce Kosugi was named a 2022 volunteer of the year to recognize his community efforts as a founding member of the Charlie Lake Conservation Society in 1996, and the active role he still plays with the organization today.
“Bruce’s interest in nature and science began as a youngster exploring ponds and streams. This influenced his choice of later obtaining a degree in chemistry," the BCLSS said in a write-up about Kosugi's career and path to volunteerism.
"His career in the oil and gas industry helped him understand the vital responsibility for environmental stewardship in resource development."
Of his work with the Charlie Lake Conservation Society, the BCLSS noted Kosugi “has spearheaded many projects such as ice on and ice off observations, plant surveys, algae sampling, water monitoring, bat surveys, and educational workshops to name a few.”
It added, "Recently, the CLCS finished a survey of blue-green algae in Charlie Lake that involved many volunteer hours collecting algae samples at multiple locations on the lake."
"Bruce presented the findings of the survey to the Peace River Regional District in March 2022 and recommended that an active monitoring program be considered to keep a close watch on the toxins that blooms are releasing into its waters.”
Also recognized this year by the BCLSS were volunteers with the Whistler Lakes Conservation Association, who work to conserve and protect five Whistler-area lakes.
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