Presenters and Leaders


The beauty, natural significance and variety of habitats found in the Columbia Valley attract many biologists, naturalists and conservationists who work to understand and preserve our natural ecosystems. Wings over the Rockies Nature Festival has traditionally depended on the expertise of such people to make presentations and lead field trips through the wetlands, lakes, grasslands, and forests flanking the Columbia River. There are also local enthusiasts who have devoted years to observing birds and have gained an impressive expertise in birding. Our leaders and presenters contribute their time, energy and knowledge in their desire to educate and instill an appreciation for nature. Thanks to these dedicated volunteers!

2026 Presenters and Leaders Bios and Photos

  

Click on a name to read the biography of any one of the presenters and leaders.


Presenters

  • Andrea Petzold - Evening Presenter
  • Cam Gillies - Evening Presenter
  • Chris Skinner - Luncheon Presenter
  • Gila Melamed - Evening Presenter
  • Jenny Feick - Luncheon Presenter
  • Serina Tourangeau - Luncheon Presenter
  • Signature Event Gala Celebration with Adam Shoalts Ph.D. - Keynote Speaker
  • Signature Event Live Music - The Wardens
  • Signature Event Special Film Screening - The Art of Adventure

Leaders

  • Alison Bell
  • Andrea Petzold
  • Angela and Josh Miller
  • Blair McFarlane
  • Brian Wesley
  • Brian Wesley and Bob Littlejohns
  • Brian Wesley and Monica Dragosz
  • Bryon Benn
  • Cajsa Fredin - Matsdotter Metals
  • Cam Gillies
  • Cam Gillies and Jody Allair
  • Catriona Leven
  • Chris Skinner - Playwest Experiences
  • Columbia Lake Stewardship Society and Colin Cartwright
  • Columbia River Paddle
  • Conrad Kain's Kitchen & Grill
  • Dallas Hussar - Invermere Public Library
  • Dallas Hussar and Japhy Hunt - Invermere Public Library
  • David Gibson
  • Don Delaney and Kathleen Mpulubusi
  • Doug Yukes
  • Four Points Books
  • Gareth Thomson
  • Gareth Thomson and Kristina Meakin
  • Georgie West
  • Heather Fischbuch
  • Herrie ten Cate
  • Jakub Olesinski
  • Japhy Hunt - Invermere Public Library
  • Jen Abra and Natalie Ruby - Black Star Studios
  • Jennifer Bowes
  • Jody Allair
  • John Zehnder
  • Jon Bisset
  • Josh and Angela Miller - Serenity Farm
  • Kathleen Mpulubusi
  • Keltie and Stan Masters
  • Kicking Horse Coffee & Cafe
  • Lana Banham - Homestead Harvest
  • Lori Baugh Littlejohns - Columbia Valley Arts
  • Lyle Grisedale
  • Lyle Grisedale and Brian Wesley
  • Mara Nelson
  • Monica Dragosz
  • Monica Dragosz and Kristin Anderson
  • Pat Bavin - Forest Therapy with Pat Bavin
  • Pat Bavin and Patrick Carrick
  • Priya Biswas and Archie Miller - Photography
  • Randy Harris and Dianne Cooper
  • Randy Hopkins and Shelagh Wrazej
  • Rick Kubian
  • Rocky River Grill
  • Ron and Tracy Grams
  • Ron Grams and Julie Walker
  • Ryan Bavin
  • Steve Pratt and Greg Scott
  • Walter Bernstead
  • Winderberry Nursery & Edible Acres Farm & Café