About Us
Who are we anyway?
The Yukon Invasive Species Council (YISC) is a non-profit organization committed to protecting the Yukon’s natural ecosystems, communities, and economies from the harmful impacts of invasive species. We are the only organization in the territory focused exclusively on invasive species prevention and management. Our work is rooted in collaboration, scientific knowledge, and a deep respect for the land.
Since our founding, YISC has played a leading role in raising awareness, coordinating community-based action, and informing policy to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive plants and animals. We host public events like weed pulls, deliver educational workshops across the territory, support youth and volunteers, and advocate for long-term strategies that prioritize early detection and rapid response.
We believe that meaningful change happens when people are informed, empowered, and connected. That’s why our work spans everything from creating accessible plant ID guides to collaborating with diverse stakeholders. Whether you're a landowner, student, volunteer, or policymaker, there’s a place for you in Yukon’s fight against invasives—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Our Team
A small but dedicated team of staff, board members, and volunteers working together to protect Yukon’s ecosystems.
Meesha Wittkopf
Director, President
Zach Fogel
Director
Seth Brown
Executive Director
Joel Kaskiw
Director, Vice President
Helen Liu
Director
Katelyn Lourenco
Director, Treasurer Secretary
Corin Noble
Director
Protecting the Yukon from invasive species through education, action, and community.
Our Mission
YISC exists to protect the Yukon from the ecological and economic threats posed by invasive species. Our mission is to provide Yukoners with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to recognize invasive threats early and respond effectively—before lasting damage is done. We work across sectors and communities to foster a culture of shared responsibility and long-term environmental care.
We see education, collaboration, and hands-on action as the most powerful tools for prevention. From school classrooms to riverbanks and roadside ditches, our work meets people where they are. We’re not here to alarm—we’re here to equip, inspire, and act alongside communities, land users, and governments to reduce harm and strengthen resilience across the territory.
Our Vision
We imagine a Yukon where ecosystems remain intact and diverse, where native species thrive, and where future generations inherit a landscape as wild and rich as the one we know today. In this vision, invasive species are managed proactively, and the public is informed, engaged, and confident in their ability to make a difference.
We believe in a future where prevention is the norm, not the exception—where Indigenous knowledge, scientific understanding, and community action come together to protect the Yukon’s natural integrity. This is not a distant ideal; it is a vision we work toward every day, through thoughtful planning, meaningful partnerships, and grounded action on the land.
Our Supporters
