Conversations on Conservation with Don and Jeri Krogseth

We had the chance to meet Don and Jeri Krogseth, and learn about their connection with The Nature Trust of BC and their love of nature.

The Krogseths have supported The Nature Trust of BC for more than 20 years. As a former board Chair, and avid fly fisherman, Don played an important role in the development of the organization. He travelled to Cold Fish Lake in northern BC, the Salmon River on Vancouver Island, and the Hoodoos in the Kootenays—just a few places conserved by The Nature Trust. Together with his wife, Jeri, they have made an appreciation of nature and conservation a focus for their family.

How did you encourage your family to care about nature?

We all love the outdoors. When our children were younger, we went on family fishing trips, river rafting, canoeing, and hiking. Now the grandchildren are carrying on this tradition with their parents. The five year old wants to go fishing with her dad and the three year old was so excited to get his first fishing rod for Christmas. Both grandchildren are already fishing off the dock at Adams Lake. Enjoying nature is a family focus now.

Why do you support The Nature Trust of BC?

We started donating to The Nature Trust 20 years ago because we were impressed with what they were doing. They have assets all over the province. They are well-managed. And their focus is on both now and the future.

What sets The Nature Trust apart from other conservation organizations?

All the funding stays right here in British Columbia. Their focus is only BC. They’ve done wonderful work across the province, especially in the Thompson Okanagan area.

Real advances in conservation have been made because of what they’ve achieved and this province has gained a big benefit from their efforts. They are an “unselfish” organization in that they don’t do anything but benefit everybody in the province. They are building for the future.

What has contributed to the success of The Nature Trust?

They gained a lot of credibility because they recruited capable people. They did the research. They hired specialists. They also built their land portfolio cooperatively and thoughtfully.

It’s been a tremendous satisfaction to see it grow and be recognized and appreciated.

What is The Nature Trust’s approach?

Their priority is to acquire significant properties. They have an excellent assessment process. They ask if the land can be sustained and managed. It’s a practical approach and this is a key strength.

Step one is getting the land. But everything else is about managing that land. Funds are needed for everyday expenses and also to manage these properties.

They are caretakers for the future.

How does The Nature Trust engage with the next generation?

 One of the ways is what they are already doing by hiring youth crews every year to work in different areas to maintain their properties. It’s a job that attracts young people; they are enthusiastic, and it keeps the youth connection going forward.

They also recruit people from the youth crews into the organization so it’s a win-win situation.