Parks Canada helps newcomers become “one with nature” through a series of workshops called “Learn to Camp”. These activities help newcomers build practical skills while exploring the Canadian landscape and laying the foundation for a new generation of environmental stewardship.
Teaming up with Mountain Equipment Co-op, Parks Canada camping experts oriented campers-to-be with knowledge on campfire building, tent setup and relevant safety tips on the first day of training (July 31). Even with a fire ban in place, the Queen’s Park in New Westminster was still a fun (and even enchanting) place to be! Acquainted with knowledge of campsites, newcomers were eager to begin their next trip out in nature. Camping experts were hosted at the S.U.C.C.E.S.S. ISIP Burnaby office on August 5, where they updated students on fun activities at nearby national parks and historic sites, how to use Parks Canada’s new online campsite registration system and smart packing tips. Under the evergreen shade in Lobley Park, learning continued with a fun relay competition, interactive demonstration of what makes an ecosystem thrive, coupled with a quiz to identify invasive versus native species. During our last gathering back at Queen’s Park (August 14), participants checked out different types of camp-stoves, made healthy granola bars and learned how to be weather and wildlife smart travellers!
