A new report released by Geoscience BC indicates the potential for coalfields in British Columbia’s East Kootenays to host elevated concentrations of rare earth elements. Rare earth elements (REEs), a group of elements with uses in technologies such as turbines and electric motors, are important to Canada’s transition to a net-zero emissions economy. Owing to […]

For the past three and a half months the world has witnessed the devastating situation in Palestine and Israel. Since the horrifying Hamas terrorist attacks of October 7 and the beginning of this latest assault on Gaza by Israeli forces, tens of thousands of innocent people have been killed, of whom two-thirds are women and […]

At the start of a new year, many of us take time to set goals and make plans for the months ahead. As MLA for Kootenay West, and Minister of Finance for the entire province, I know there is so much work to be done this year to make life better here and across B.C. […]

With winter’s crisp embrace, Salmo Ski Hill in the West Kootenay unveils a snowy playground for all skill levels. Beyond a top-tier spot for night skiing, this cherished family hill has been at the heart of the community for over six decades. “Nothing beats a fresh snowfall and that night air — it’s phenomenal,” says Margaret MacDonald, […]

People in the Columbia Basin rely on their communities for many reasons, including being able to turn to them for protection during disasters. To boost this ability, 13 projects supported by Columbia Basin Trust aim to help communities be prepared during situations like floods, wildfires or sustained power outages. “People and communities in the Basin […]

The city’s police force is stepping further into the digital age and embracing “cutting-edge” technology aimed at increased operational efficiency and public safety, says the NPD’s deputy chief. Raj Saini said the Nelson Police Department (NPD) is launching a “ground-breaking” pilot project to introduce Intelligent Mobile Patrol (IMP) software, designed and developed by the Canadian […]

BC Highway Patrol – Kootenay has found a shocking number of drivers operating vehicles without valid insurance. From December 1, 2023, to January 11, 2024, BC Highway Patrol – Kootenay has located 177 drivers operating uninsured vehicles. Each driver received a violation ticket for no insurance for $598 dollars. As a result, BC Highway Patrol […]

The city has the rare honour of not only having one of the only, but one of the oldest municipal police forces in B.C. with the Nelson Police Department. The NPD has been evident on the city’s streets since its inception in 1897 but, even with over 120 years in operation, the 20-plus contingent is […]

On Jan. 19,  at approximately 6:30 a.m., Osoyoos Fire Rescue and Osoyoos RCMP supported by other first responders attended to a mobile home fire at the Avalon Mobile Home Park on Main Street in Osoyoos, according to Penticton/South Okanagan/Similkameen RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Jason Bayda  . He said that, although numerous fire crews responded quickly, the […]

A Provincial snow measuring station near Nelson measured its lowest total on record as the region and the province struggles with an extremely low snowpack, according to the latest Snow Survey. Published by the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, the Snow Survey and Water Supply Bulletin noted the snowpack at the snow station […]