Staff
Laura – Executive Director
Laura has been involved in the environmental sector since 1970 and has many years experience in ecosystem restoration She provides technical support for Mainstreams varied educational programs and habitat restoration projects.
Jim – Administrator
Jim worked as a professional educator in the School and College system for 30-years. After retirement, he and Laura established Mainstreams in 2004.
Dave – Water Education Instructor
Dave Quinn is a Kimberley-based outdoor educator, wildlife biologist, and wilderness guide. He is a BC-certified teacher and award-winning natural history author and photographer. Dave designed Mainstreams’ Climate Change Adaptation and Mark Creek Flume Restoration Programs.
Patty – Water Education Instructor
Patty has a B Ed and a B Sc (Kinesiology and Public Health). She is CABIN and Streamkeepers certified and has 20 years experience as an Outdoor Education teacher. Patty designed the Macro Invertebrate, Beaver and Wetlands Programs for Mainstreams.
Kim – Water Education Instructor
Kim has a MA in Environmental Education and Communications, and a varied background in community engagement, program development, and volunteer management. New to the Kootenays, Kim brings with her over 10 years of experience leading programs for all ages, and a passion for connecting people with the natural world.
Jill- Water Education Instructor
Jill has a diploma in Adventure Tourism and Outdoor Education and brings over 10 years of environmental education delivery experience. Prior to moving to Kimberley in 2018, she spent 10 years working for Alberta Parks in a variety of different capacities, including interpretation, environmental education, and inclusion and accessibility. She is passionate about nurturing the natural world around her and fostering environmental stewardship in people of all ages. Jill is thrilled to join the Mainstreams family to continue to connect people to natural places.
Shannon – Event Management, Communications
Shannon coordinated the establishment of community gardens in both Cranbrook and Kimberley. Owner of Purcell Organics, Shannon creates wonderful teas and also specializes in creative flower arrangements for weddings and special events. Shannon provides communications and event management services.