We have many long-term volunteers, but we also have lots of new ones too. Corbin is a new volunteer this year and has really jumped in with both feet. He’s keen to volunteer his time and we hope he finds a career in conservation!
Volunteer Profile : Corbin
“If you are someone that has a keen interest for conservation, then the volunteer programs at Minnekhada park are an excellent place to start. With friendly staff and a wonderful park with beautiful scenery everywhere, it’s one of the nicest parks in the tri-cities. In addition, the very welcoming community helps you feel like you are part of a greater environmental cause during the various initiatives that the park offers. Whether you are a fan of amphibians, reptiles, bats, or just nature in general, Minnekhada park has something for everyone. .”
How long have you been involved with Minnekhada Regional Park and why did you decide to volunteer?
Six months, wanted to get in-the-field experience with conservation to aid my career pursuits. The volunteer programs at Minnekhada let you talk to like-minded peers, so if you would like to make connections with folks interested in or working in the environmental field, it’s a great time.
In what activities are you involved? (volunteer with bat counts, invasive species removal, Board members, Muse participant?) What has your experience been with these activities?
Involved in bat counts and toad/toadlet counts, interested in the invasive species removal. The events have been very well organized. Erin has done a good job informing new volunteers about the objective of the counts, as well as making a good effort to keep new members involved.
What is your favourite thing / hike / location in the park?
My favourite hike in the park is the hike to high knoll through mid-marsh, as well as further down quarry road on the way to Dennet Lake for rock climbing.
In your opinion, what makes Minnekhada special?
Minnekhada park is quite special because of the diverse ecosystem it has for being a [relatively] small footprint. The number of different species present, from toads to frogs, various waterfowl, and numerous different plant species. Having such a pristine park only a stone’s throw from home isn’t something everyone gets to experience most days. A striking memory I have of the park that exemplifies this was when recently, during a toadlet count. The group had met up in the parking lot and was about to set out, when a group of bears including a mom and two cubs sauntered through the path. They didn’t seem to notice our presence and left us alone, but I’ve never been able to be so up and close to a group of bears before in my life. Quite interesting to see how normalized humans have become for them.
What is your advice to people who are not aware of the Park OR not aware of the activities we have here?
The volunteer experience is very carefree! It feels good to be able to contribute to a large project while in a very pressure-free environment. The park staff and volunteers are all very friendly that I would consider it a waste NOT to at least come out once.