Our picnic, exploration of ƛ̓éxətəm Regional Park (pronounced tla-hut-um), formerly Colony Farm, was a relaxing event full of sunshine and families from near and far. We learned about bats, co-existing with nature, what this land looked like and some of the history of the environment and peoples that lived and live here.
We were also lucky enough to be offered a chance to interact with the endangered Oregon forest snail! They were slimy, snail-like and cute! Sharing food we reflected on how we felt about being in nature together. Words such as warm, curious, calm and hungry were shared.
Later on some families joined the next group to end our afternoon with a BioBlitz as part of the City Nature Challenge and explored the grassland and river banks looking for various small species.
Inspiring Thoughts from the Nature Mentors of the Day
“It was truly a highlight to be part of the event and to see families engaging with one another and with nature in such a positive way. Thank you so much for including us and inviting us to participate in something that was both educational and fun, as well as genuinely inspiring.”
“We really appreciate being included in this tour and being able to share a bit of kʷikʷəƛ̓əm history and culture with the kids and their parents. It was great to see so many people from different walks of life come out with a similar goal to learn about nature! Please tell the families that it was a pleasure welcoming them to kʷikʷəƛ̓əm territory and that their curiosity and willingness to learn is the reason we participate in these sorts of events. One of the kids told me that “snails” are his favourite animal. I thought that was so cute!”
What does ƛ̓éxətəm means? Click here to learn more!
Do you want to get involved with citizen science and nature? Search for nature events near you via city websites, community boards/sites, and social and environmental groups if you already know the name. Take picture of nature for science with iNaturalist Canada app (for adults). Gamify your nature skills with purpose: use the SEEK app (for kids and adults).
Thank you to our partners in this event:
Lower Coquitlam River Nature Association
Port Coquitlam Community Foundation
Also a shout out to Metro Vancouver Regional Parks staff for continuing to support and welcome the NatureKids BC community into Regional parks.
Written by Michelle Perry, Programs Manager, NatureKids BC