Evgeni Matveev

The Elk River is a flyfishing paradise, renowned for abundant native Westslope cutthroat trout. In 2017, Tourism Fernie estimated that fishing represented a $2.7M industry in the Elk Valley, calculated from direct guided trip costs; given the increase in tourism and accessory costs such as...

It’s no secret that the Fernie sewage management system is out of date. At the Elk River Alliance, we’re hearing more community concerns about the impacts of effluent discharge on ecosystems and recreation quality. Fernie wastewater has also raised flags with the Ministry of Environment, who are...

So far, the Elk Valley is lucky: we turn on the tap, and water comes out. Water is abundant and clean enough to swim, ski, raft, and fish. But taking water for granted is a luxury we can’t afford, especially in a changing climate and with growing demand. In early June at the Without Water symposium...

Two years ago, I wrote an article on whirling disease risk to the Elk River watershed. Much has changed in BC since then and with the Elk River opening to fishing on June 15 it’s prudent to do a refresher crash course. If you plan on getting out on the water, make sure you know how to take proper...

Mining is the most prominent Elk Valley industry, but forestry has the largest direct footprint by land area. Terrestrial impacts of forestry are largely evident and widely known: habitat loss and fragmentation, decreased biodiversity, and increased temperature. However, trees are vital for healthy...

In the Elk Valley, selenium is a topic of heated discussion reaching national and international attention. In the Fernie community there are diverse opinions; as the Communication Manager for the Elk River Alliance (ERA) I’ve heard the gamut. Depending on whom you ask, selenium will turn you into a...

In this final piece on the Elk River Alliance, I will focus on the community education and outreach pillar, which falls under my jurisdiction. If you are reading this, consider yourself out-reached! The main goal of ERA’s outreach effort is to improve community science literacy and engage people in...

In this second article on the Elk River Alliance, I will cover the restoration program, which works to protect and enhance valuable streamside ecosystems by revegetating areas impacted by agriculture and development. Healthy Forests, Healthy Streams Land surrounding streams and waterbodies is called...

Over a drink at The Northern, a good friend and I got talking about work. I was quite surprised (shocked and indignant, really) to learn that she didn’t know what the Elk River Alliance (ERA) does: “something environmental to do with the river?” What! As the Communications Manager, this was a...

Our mountain waters are filled with monsters of untold terror, lurking just below the surface of our waters. These creatures possess powers of mind control, suck your blood, have unhinging jaws, and eat fish cartilage. Read on… if you dare! Controlling Grasshopper Brains Horsehair worms are long...