The Headwaters

We have a lot of rock here in the Basin! Our region is fast becoming a global hotspot for sport climbing and bouldering, and we’ll hear from those leading the charge in its development. We also chat with Chief Jason Louie from the Lower Kootenay Band of the Ktunaxa on the spiritual significance of rock, our oldest resident.

Look up, way up, and take a moment to ponder the great big beyond. Then, tune-in to our episode on Basin skies. We visit property owners in Crawford Bay who had a meteorite land in their backyard. We talk to a planetary scientist, the director of the Kootenay Stardome Foundation, visit a bat conservationist, and hear from an artist who specializes in capturing the mysteries of our deepest, darkest nights.

It touches almost every facet of our day-to-day life, from our favourite community sporting events to our own safety and protection. Volunteerism is a critical element of our society, and in this episode, we visit with three terrific individuals who give an enormous chunk of their time to the betterment of the Basin.

Snow is one of the defining features of the Columbia Basin’s culture and landscape. While it is synonymous with beauty and adventure, it can also come with risk. In this episode, we talk to experts making our snowscapes safer through education. We also go for a shred with Erin Sauvé, a world champion snowboarder from Rossland.

Let’s talk about the two most powerful moments in a human being’s life. The Kootenays have played an influential role in the growth and importance of midwifery. What was once an illegal act in Canada is now a treasured profession. On the other side, we speak with a death doula whose work focuses on those who are dying, helping make their final days the best they can possibly be.

A gas-station-turned-health-food-store, a landmark community bakery, a generational cobbler family, and an internationally renowned timber-frame shop: what do all four have in common? Each holds inspiring stories about Basin entrepreneurs who did it their way. Meet innovators, doers, and believers who own and operate thriving local businesses.

Restoring, maintaining, and preserving buildings and landmarks from another time is no easy task. It often rests on the shoulders of a few dedicated individuals who see great value in ensuring the legacy of our past is preserved. Our resident historian Greg Nesteroff introduces us to the people and projects that keep our history alive and kicking.

By ski, by foot, and by air, reporter Vince Hempsall chronicles three Basin adventurers who’ve accomplished incredible feats traversing, walking, and parasailing over great tracts of mountain wilderness. He then dives into the dangerous world of creating the Kootenays’ first-ever sketch comedy series.

Deep, clear waters; a sun-drenched beach; a stiff breeze: spending time on the lake is an age-old tradition in the Basin. Join reporter Graham Tracey as he takes you onboard one-of-a-kind houseboats, tries to learn sailing, and visits the legendary shoreline community of Gray Creek.