It is a story about a people, power and a region united. And it’s a story that runs right through the heart of the Kootenays, its culture and its economy. Half a century ago, the lives of people in the Columbia Basin changed forever when a series of dams altered their homes, landscapes and lives. To mark the anniversary, the Columbia Basin Trust — the organization that was created following the enormous project — published a remarkable commemorative book.

The CEO of CBT Johnny Strilaeff joined Kootenay Morning on June 7 to fill us in on how the organization was founded and what it means to the Columbia Basin.

Have a listen below: