News release

For immediate release

Saanich Parks launches new field guide

Saanich, BC – Saanich Parks released a beautiful new field guide in time for the Family Arts “Family Bubble” Festival to inspire a passion for nature discoveries in parks close to home.

This illustrated field guide highlights some of the plants and animals found in Saanich parks and the different types of ecosystems where they live. It is a visual learning tool aimed at youth, but the intent is to encourage learning and enjoyment for all park visitors.

“We hope our new guide will enhance the experience of our park visitors and encourage them to be curious about their natural surroundings,” said Manager Community Development and Business Systems Nathalie Dechaine. “The guide is part of our Natural Intelligence initiative that aims to improve citizens’ knowledge about our natural world and how we connect with it. In deepening that connection with nature, we tend to be happier, healthier and motivated to protect it. ”

The field guide was developed to have the look and feel of an artist’s nature notes highlighting some of the plants and animals that live in our local ecosystems. Illustrated by local artist Kristi Bridgeman, her artwork captures the spirit and beauty of the unique nature that exists around us. Saanich Parks will develop resources for families and educators to use with the field guide so they can broaden their learning while experiencing these lovely places.

The field guide is being featured as part of the “Saanich Parks Awesome Art Adventure” activity during the upcoming Family Arts “Family Bubble” Festival. The festival shifted this year to provide “COVID-friendly” ways to celebrate your family through the arts. There are many fun activities to enjoy within your household bubble. We encourage everyone to participate—there is no age limit for submitting your creations either by email or by tagging us on social media.

Saanich parks provide vital habitat for plants and animals. Please help us protect these special places by treading carefully, taking only memories and leaving nothing but footprints.

The field guide is available at saanich.ca/fieldguide.

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Media contact:
Nathalie Dechaine
Manager Community Development and Business Systems
nathalie.dechaine@saanich.ca
250-475-5522