By Minerva Cook
Fifteen years ago, Nancy Griffin, Educational coordinator for Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA), had an idea to educate children about forests in a natural setting. Several years ago she shared her vision with Donna Lacey, Forest Technician, SVCA. They searched for similar projects and found the Aylmer community planning to launch their Carolinian Forest Festival in October 2008. This was patterned after the annual water festivals in Ontario. The one in Chesley was already in it’s10th year and had done well with high school students teaching grade school students. Nancy and Donna contacted various organizations of Bruce and Grey counties and came up with a list that might be sponsors and provide representation for an organizing committee.
In the spring of 2009, 25 people from 15 organizations met as a committee to discuss the feasibility and structure of the project and composed a Project Business plan and a budget for $55,000. October 2010 would be the first of annual events to take place at Allan Park. This would be a hands-on event for 900 Grade 7 students over a period of 3 days with at least 30 activity stations geared to themes such as forest ecosystems, species at risk, conservation and stewardship. High school student volunteers would present the activity and adult volunteers would guide and instruct when needed and generally help to run the plans smoothly. As the vision was taking shape, funding became a challenge. Trillium awarded funds for the salary of a coordinator. Karen Mortimer, very dedicated and qualified, filled the position. Donations came from various businesses and organizations from the community. Our club donated $750 which was welcomed and appreciated.
The vision became a reality on October 19, 20, & 21, 2010. Over 900 students had registered,. 160 high school students had volunteered to present at 31 activity stations, and over 160 adult volunteers functioned in a variety of tasks. Evaluations were generally very positive. Nancy was gratified that her idea worked and established itself although she says that if it were not for the 300 plus volunteers, it would not have happened.
The next festival is being planned for October 2011. Interested community people and club members are welcomed to become acquainted and volunteer for the second festival. I found my involvement with this successful project stimulating, interesting and a great learning experience.
