2024 BCLSS Outstanding Volunteer Group Award
We’re excited to announce that the White Lake Residents Association (WLRA) has been named the recipient of our 2024 Outstanding Volunteer Group Award! The BCLSS Volunteer awards recognize individuals and groups for their outstanding volunteer efforts that demonstrate the Society’s fundamental values – preservation, protection, and restoration of lakes throughout British Columbia. The BCLSS Volunteer Award elevates the awareness and importance of how education, monitoring programs, restoration projects, and “environmentally friendly” living contribute to the vision of clean, healthy lakes throughout British Columbia.
Founded in 2008, the WLRA is made up entirely of local residents who volunteer their time to support their community and safeguard the environment. Over the years, this group has taken on everything from advocating for responsible logging practices to leading important scientific studies on lake health — all while organizing community events and strengthening local connections.
Caption: Some Key Members of the White Lake Residents Association and BCLSS Director Marge Sidney. Back row from left to right: Gary Winram, Lynn Heinrich, Lindsey McDonald, Patrick Frank, Gary Leoppky. Front row left to right: Jean Leoppky, Marge Sidney and Terry Winram.
Most recently, the WLRA completed the Level 3 BC Lake Stewardship and Monitoring Program and continues to collect enhanced Level 1 water quality data. Their work is providing valuable, long-term insights into the health of White Lake, and we’re incredibly grateful for the commitment and care they bring to this effort!
To recognize their incredible work, BCLSS Director Marge Sidney visited White Lake on April 14th to present the award in person. Marge said:
“The passion and dedication of the White Lake volunteers truly inspires me. Their tireless efforts are definitely having a positive impact. I am very grateful for their contributions to the environment.”
From maintaining community notice boards to collaborating with partners like BC Parks, Fisheries, and the Shuswap Trail Alliance, the WLRA continues to lead by example — showing what’s possible when a group of dedicated individuals comes together with a shared purpose.
Congratulations to everyone at the White Lake Residents Association! Your dedication and hard work are extremely appreciated and make a significant contribution to the BCLSS fundamental values – preservation, protection, and restoration of lakes throughout British Columbia.
Read more about the WLRA on their website – https://www.wlra.ca/
