Nature News and the New Normal
Nature News
As with any challenging situation, opportunities arise as a way to adjust to new circumstances. As we adapt to this new normal, we are super excited to announce the production of “Eagle Point Nature News.” To continue with our mission of supporting Environmental Education we will be producing this newsletter to provide inspiration and resources to help families as they adjust to their new normal. It will include information on outdoor activities, nature crafts and wildlife notes as well as other resources to explore.
Click on the link to download the full document.
PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT ALBERTA PARKS HAS RESTRICTED ACCESS TO PROVINCIAL PARKS. VEHICLE ACCESS IS PROHIBITED DURING THE COVID CRISIS. FOR UP TO DATE INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.ALBERTAPARKS.CA
Eagle Point Nature News Volume 1
Parks & Wilderness Access
At the time of writing this article people are still allowed to be outside, enjoying walks, experiencing nature and accessing Alberta Parks , however vehicle access to Parks is no longer allowed. (Please obey all current government advice and orders regarding Covid 19 restrictions). This is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, as long as individuals are practicing proper physical distancing (keeping 2 meters from one another). Please be forewarned that as Alberta Parks remain open (as of time of writing), facilities including toilets, picnic shelters, warm up huts, playground and winter camping are closed. You know what that means! Whatever you take into the Park you need to remove – yes, that includes poop! Instead of making the journey, which is really not advisable right now, to Alberta Parks hours from home why not explore your own local scene. For folks who are restricted to home, and feeling well enough, you can go out to your back yard and get some fresh air and sunshine. I know things are still blanketed by snow however there are signs of spring out there including song birds and pussy willows. Eagle Point Provincial Park’s Pembina Nordic Trail system are both open at this time – you can still visit the Pembina Nordic Ski Club trails for an enjoyable spring cross country ski. Trails are groomed and in fantastic shape. Please know that the Rotary Pembina Nordic Outdoor Education Centre at the ski club is closed. The Rotary Trails South (near the River View Cemetery) are open if you want to take your pet for a walk, or if you need a place to tucker out the kids. For those who want to go for a short drive and a hike you can access Hill Top and Hill Side trails by the upper gate heading into Willey West Campground.
A Story of our Time
Well friends, this is a story from your life that you will be telling your grand kids, and great-grand kids. The Covid 19 Outbreak of 2020 will be a defining moment for all of us. This unprecedented situation is definitely presenting difficult challenges and will have societal impacts regarding what we truly value in life. Thankfully however, as the saying goes, this too shall pass! I have decided when this is all over I am officially going to become a “hugger.” No, not a tree hugger (although I do love trees), a people hugger! I never realized how much I value physical contact with people, so watch out, when this thing ends, I am giving out hugs! Stay healthy and well friends!
Submitted by Sandra Bannard, Executive Director
Eagle Point-Blue Rapids Parks Council
