For this week’s feature, we spoke with Executive Director, Tricia Collingham of Stanley Park Ecology. Through its mission of education, conservation and research rooted in Stanley Park, Stanley Park Ecology has a vision of generations inspired by nature within and beyond Stanley Park.
Describe your charity/non-profit in a few sentences.
Stanley Park, a 405-hectare urban oasis, attracts 18 million visitors annually to its diverse ecosystems including forests, wetlands, bog, meadows, and nearshore areas and is home to thousands of plant and animal species. Stanley Park Ecology works to raise awareness of ecological initiatives within the Park, to engage the public in environmental stewardship, and to directly conserve critical ecosystems. Every year, Stanley Park Ecology engages hundreds of community volunteers in habitat restoration and wildlife monitoring, while its educators connect over 20,000 people each year with nature through school and public programs in-person and online, and through the operation of Vancouver’s only Nature Centre. Stanley Park Ecology advises the Park Board and provides baseline information on conservation issues within the Park, including ecosystem integrity, Environmentally Sensitive Areas and Species at Risk.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Stanley Park Ecology Society aims to create harmony between nature and people. In light of 18 million visitors per year, balancing recreational needs and environmental stressors is an ongoing need for the health of the park’s ecosystems Stanley Park Ecology staff and volunteers are actively engaged in restoring sections of the Park’s forest and wetland habitats. Improving biodiversity is the strongest natural defense against climate change and through Stanley Park Ecology’s programs, we engage people in direct hands-on climate action initiatives while providing education and outreach, inspiring and empowering communities to make choices that sustain healthy ecosystems. Environmental education serving an average of 5000 children and youth per year instills respect for the natural world with the next generation.
What made you want to get involved?
As a previous volunteer with SPES, I understood that meaningful volunteer opportunities in nature are proven to build well-being, purpose and community – above and beyond nature’s stress-reducing benefits. The Park is near and dear to so many people locally, regionally, provincially and worldwide. It is a very special place to connect with nature. I feel very passionate about supporting conservation, research and environmental education so Stanley Park can be enjoyed by many generations to come.
What more needs to be done?
Now more than ever there is an urgent and critical need for support. A recent hemlock looper outbreak has necessitated the need for removal of approximately 160,000 trees due to fire risk and public safety risk. This means there is a critical need for invasive species management and understory replanting.
How can our readers help?
We urge the public to get involved by donating their time & talent (Volunteer), or treasure (donate). We cannot operate without the generosity of our supporters. We urge people to look at ways they can support our longevity and get involved.
Do you have any events coming up?
We always have events open to the public. Check out our current offerings here.
Where can we follow you?
Our Website provides a comprehensive overview of work.
We can also be found on social media: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity/non-profit that you love?
We love the work of Talaysay Tours, a First Nations-owned and operated tour company offering extensive land-based learning with an Indigenous focus. They have many tours within Stanley Park to enjoy.
