Chris Harkness transitioned into the role of coordinator of the Salmo Watershed Streamkeepers Society in 2022.  Chris has been involved with the SWSS since 2009, working on various projects and sitting on the Board of Directors.  He holds an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Marine and Freshwater Biology from the University of Guelph.

Since his early days of childhood, Chris has been drawn to the water and fascinated with the life within it.  Playing in creeks or Lake Ontario in his neighbourhood in Kingston or spending time in the lakes and swamps in cottage country, he could be found chasing crayfish, frogs, turtles or fishing.

Chris brings a diverse set of work experience in aquatics to the organization.  As an independent environmental consultant, he has worked on wetland and riparian restoration projects, fish salvages, fish population studies and aquatic plant inventories to name a few.  As an aquatic invasive species specialist, Chris has primarily worked for non-profit and stewardship groups across the province including the Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society, the Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society, the Northwest Invasive Plant Committee and the Seymour Lake Stewardship Society.  He has presented at workshops and provided training in aquatic invasive species monitoring for these organizations and others throughout the province.

Chris hopes to continue and build on the excellent work that has been accomplished by the Salmo Watershed Streamkeepers Society to date, strengthen existing partnerships and building new relationships throughout the watershed and beyond.