The Kootenay Conservation Program (KCP) has announced the recipients of its 2025 Conservation Leadership Awards, recognizing two remarkable individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and leadership in conservation. Each year, KCP honours one person from a partner organization in both the East and West Kootenay for their outstanding contributions to protecting the natural heritage of the region.
This year’s East Kootenay award goes to John Bergenske, founding member and current Strategic Advisor of Wildsight, while the West Kootenay award is presented to Gregoire Lamoureux, recognized for his long-standing leadership with the Slocan River Streamkeepers.
East Kootenay: John Bergenske, Wildsight
For over five decades, John Bergenske has been a driving force in conservation across the Kootenays. A founding member of Wildsight—originally the East Kootenay Environmental Society—Bergenske’s leadership has shaped regional and provincial policy while protecting key ecosystems.
From his early work helping to establish St. Mary’s Alpine Park and the Purcell Wilderness Conservancy, to his instrumental role in the creation of Columbia Wetlands and East Columbia Lake Wildlife Management Areas, Bergenske’s legacy is defined by collaboration and results.
He has built alliances across sectors, including with government agencies, resource companies, and Indigenous communities, always grounding his advocacy in shared values and practical solutions. His efforts have extended to sustainable forestry certification, wildlife policy reform, and advancing Indigenous-led conservation initiatives.
Currently, Bergenske is focused on safeguarding the southern Rocky Mountain Wildlife Corridor, working with a wide network of partners to maintain ecological connectivity from Waterton to Banff. His mentorship and advocacy continue to inspire emerging conservation leaders across the region.
Bergenske received a framed photograph by Pat Morrow featuring Buster Lake and the Bugaboos in recognition of his lifelong contribution.
West Kootenay: Gregoire Lamoureux, Slocan River Streamkeepers
For over 30 years, Gregoire Lamoureux has been a pillar of stewardship in the Slocan Valley. As a founder and leader of the Slocan River Streamkeepers, Lamoureux has guided over 50 riparian and fish habitat restoration projects, replanting and revitalizing riverbanks, wetlands, and ecosystems across the valley.
A teacher and practitioner of permaculture, Lamoureux has educated hundreds through courses, workshops, and partnerships with Selkirk College. His deep understanding of land systems and community collaboration has made him a mentor to countless young environmentalists.
Under his leadership, the Slocan River Streamkeepers have restored wetlands, improved fish habitat, installed more than 180 bird nesting boxes, and implemented water monitoring programs. His work embodies the connection between ecological restoration, biodiversity, and community education.
Lamoureux received a framed photograph by Lucas Jmieff titled Slocan River Serenity in honour of his contributions.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Both recipients shared guidance for future conservationists: stay grounded in nature, listen to the land, and build relationships rooted in respect and curiosity.
The Kootenay Conservation Program acknowledged that its work takes place on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Ktunaxa, Secwépemc, Sinixt, and Syilx Okanagan peoples, whose stewardship continues to guide conservation efforts in the region.
Read more about the 2025 Conservation Leadership Award recipients and their incredible work at KootenayConservation.ca
Source: KCP
