Like most organisations, the BLPA had to cease our activities during 2020. When we were able to resume, we proceeded cautiously, within Metro Vancouver Regional Park and Provincial Health Orders. After developing a COVID-19 safety plan, our work parties looked different from pre-pandemic times: very small groups of existing volunteers, physical distancing, PPE, pre-registration and sanitization protocol. As provincial health orders eased, we modified our protocols, assessed, and made more adjustments with the goal to ensure that all participants continue to feel safe and comfortable while participating in BLPA activities.
We are happy to announce that the BLPA is now ready to open our stewardship events to new volunteers. Did you know, our invasive plant species removal program, also known as “Weedbusters”, began in 2004 which makes it one of the first community group programs to do this important work.
You do not need any prior experience or knowledge to volunteer. You will learn everything you need to know during the event orientation and there will be experienced volunteers or BLPA DIrectors to answer any questions.
We are starting to organise sessions this month to welcome new volunteers. Please complete the volunteer registration form and our Coordinator will be in touch with details.
Due to the continuing conditions with COVID-19, the Burnaby Lake Park Association will be holding our Annual General Meeting virtually using the online Zoom platform.
On Wednesday, May 19, 2021, you are invited to join us virtually at 7:00 PM PDT as we highlight some of the BLPA’s activities over the past year as well as well as take care of some required society business.
AGENDA
Call to Order/Welcome
Approval and Confirmation of Agenda
Approval of May 20, 2020 Annual General Meeting Minutes
Report from Chair
Treasurer’s Report
Nomination Committee Report
BLPA Elections
Other Business
Adjournment
Existing BLPA members will be contacted by our coordinator with meeting link, agenda and supporting documents.
If you are not a member but would like to attend, please click here to register. You will also find Zoom meeting tips there. You do not need a Zoom account to attend, just access to the internet via a computer, tablet or smart phone.
While all our volunteers and community members are invited to attend, only members will be allowed to vote.
Visit Burnaby Lake Regional Park to discover and connect with nature, contribute your observations to citizen science, and learn about the natural world around you.
Two easy steps to participate:
1. Go to iNaturalist.ca or download the iNaturalist app on your smartphone and set up an account.
2. Take photos in any Metro Vancouver regional park or greenway from May 15-June 13 and upload them to iNaturalist.
This spring, explore Metro Vancouver’s regional parks and greenways. Pay attention to plants and wildlife you haven’t noticed before. Then simply snap photos of what you discover and share your photos on iNaturalist.
iNaturalist is a great way to build your nature knowledge and get feedback on your observations. What’s more, you’ll be joining a global community of citizen scientists and contributing to biodiversity science. It’s a fun outdoor activity for everyone, on your own or with your family bubble.
All registered participants will be entered into weekly draws:
Monday May 24: Family membership to Museum of Anthropology (2 adults and up to 4 children under 18)
Monday May 31: Family membership to Beaty Biodiversity Museum (2 adults and up to 4 children under 18)
Monday June 7: Family membership to Vancouver Botanical Gardens Association and commemorative book
Monday June 14: Gift certificate for 2 adults for any 1.5 hour-long virtual or in-person tour with Talaysay Tours
Individual with the most observations: OWL Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society 40-minute owl pellet program with a bag of 10 owl pellets, plus a $60 gift card from Book Warehouse
Individual with the most species observed: $120 gift certificate for Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, plus a $60 gift card from Book Warehouse
Please note: To be eligible for prizes you’ll need to register for this project using this form. Register any time up to June 13.
If you’re new to iNaturalist:
We’re hosting a FREE “Introduction to iNaturalist” webinar on Tuesday, May 11th, 6:30-7:30pm. Presented by John Reynolds, SFU professor and iNaturalist expert. For the Zoom webinar link, click here.
You can also check out these tutorials on how iNaturalist works:
The Pacific Parklands Foundation was founded in 2000 to protect and preserve Metro Vancouver’s regional parks. We understand that healthy parks help build healthy, happy people and strong communities. Please join us!
