Are you a nature lover, bird watcher, hiker, gardener, member of a naturalist group or just curious about butterflies and other amazing natural phenomena?
You can explore springtime in the Nicola Valley with the Nicola Naturalist Society, hosts of the 2025 BC Nature Spring conference and AGM, May 22-24.
As the umbrella organization for more than 50 regional nature groups including 11 nature clubs/societies in the Thompson Okanagan Shuswap region, BC Nature also has work to do. The conference and AGM will address serious provincial environmental concerns and management activities…and offer, throughout the event, a myriad of natural area exploratory options for attendees and associated visitors.
Activities include appealing opportunities to explore and appreciate sustainable ranching’s positive impacts, macro photography, or learning to sketch in nature…a relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors.
Popular offerings like Bluebirds of the Nicola Valley, a hike in the Qoquihalla Pass Forest or an exploration of the ponds, wildflowers and birds of the Hamilton Commonage are already booked. But keep these nature adventures in mind for future conferences!
Alex Bodden, president of the South Okanagan Naturalists Club (SONC), is an enthusiastic promoter and participant of this year’s Conference. Well versed in the challenges facing critical environmental situations, Alex is ready to dig in on Conference topics and the dangers facing critical biodiverse natural settings. As SONC’s representative to the BCN conference, Alex will also attend the Council of Reps where local nature group issues are discussed. “It can be very interesting. Depends on what’s happening.”
I do expect Alex will reflect on a recent exploratory trip to the Merrit area that revealed the loss of a treasured wildlife pond area, apparently intentionally drained. “Always hundreds of ducks there! I’m shocked at the loss of a valuable wetland.”
Landscape alterations that threaten wildlife, and ultimately our own well-being, are typical of issues that will inevitably be on the BC Nature agenda. But other wisdoms are also addressed. How about a Conference presentation entitled – The Wisdom of Turtles?!
Another feature of this year’s BC Nature Nicola event will be an exhibit of nature inspired paintings by South Okanagan Naturalists Club member, artist Lyse Desellier. Lyse is a retired veterinarian from Calgary and co-founder of a Calgary Wildlife Rehab Centre for “every and any injured wild critter!”
With ‘critters’ in mind, bird feeders always out and an enthusiasm for hiking, a move to Penticton introduced Lyse to SONC for an informed welcome to the critters of South-central BC and, inspiration for her artistic vision.
Grateful to SONC and other nature organizations for treasured learning experiences, Lyse has chosen to “give-back” by donating proceeds from specific art sales, and donations of smaller paintings for art auctions, for the benefit of several nature organizations including BC Nature.
As Lyse explains, “I’m so grateful for the joy birds bring me. I want to help preserve their habitat and support those who protect them.”
Enjoy outdoor nature activities? Want to get out there plus help keep our natural environment healthy and welcoming? The BC Nature Conference begins May 22. Information at: https://bcnature.org/agm-2025-your-hosts-nicola-naturalists/
Dianne contact: dianne.islandartist@gmail.ca
Member of the South Okanagan Naturalists
