Over a seven day period in May a very special
celebration will take place in the Columbia Valley in the Canadian
Rockies. It is a celebration that is born out of what we know about the
place in which we live;
Words
from our Patron, Robert Bateman:
http://www.batemanideas.com
What a good idea! `The Wings Over the Rockies Bird
Festival' conjures up an image of all that is great about Canada...
spectacular scenery, abundant nature and a warm, human spirit of getting
together in a worthy cause. The world over, when people think of Canada,
they think of the glory of the Rockies. When you combine this with the
upper reaches of the mighty Columbia, you have an unsurpassed natural
setting. The continuous wetlands along the river are perfect as breeding
areas and staging places for a significant number of bird species. This
and the many other habitats provide a variety of ecosystems which will
bring joy to any naturalist. But the idea of this festival goes far beyond
a "get-together" of serious naturalists. It is an ideal chance for
everyone to learn and share the excitement of nature "in the flesh" so to
speak.
What we Know:
The upper Columbia Valley is unique on the planet. Stretching over 150 km
it is home to a magnificent assemblage of natural habitats, the heart of
which is the wetlands that flank the great river; a carpet of green and
symphony of song each spring and early summer when the "birds come home to
the Valley".
It grows in value every day as other places like it
disappear - any celebration of its wonder and beauty must respect its
fragility and limits and ensure that its natural values are protected for
the future.
What we See:
Seven days of events that are high quality, creative and educational, a
festival that is inclusive of a broad range of interests and outlets for
discovering the world of birds that confirms our appreciation of their
natural wonder and tells others that they are welcome to join us in this
appreciation.
A festival that contributes to a long term vision of
sustainability for our communities - balancing the needs of human and
natural systems.
We see a festival that provides a focus for community
action on behalf of the environment in a way that enhances community
spirit and cooperation and provides opportunities for volunteers, clubs
and service groups.
How we will achieve Success:
Action will be a measure of success. Wings Over the Rockies should foster
immediate and long-term, positive action on behalf of birds, wildlife and
habitat by all who participate in the festival; we will recognize the
Festival's success by such action.
We will utilize and recognize public education,
research results, quality economic development and the skills and
resources of our communities to achieve success.
