Our Ecological Restoration camps are specifically geared towards youth ages 10-12 who are eager to take their interest and curiosity for nature and make positive action in the world.
We don’t have any restoration camps scheduled yet for the Spring or Summer 2023. If you are interested contact restoration@cowichanestuary.ca
Participants in this camp will get a chance to learn about the watershed and the obstacles that it currently and historically has faced such as invasive species growth, logging, and excessive harvesting of groundwater. They will engage in invasive species management to improve the health of the ecosystem as well as learn about native plant species present in the area. The days will be a balance of invasive species removal and engaging learning activities such as nature and art walks. The objective of this camp will be to facilitate the growth of a relationship between campers and the environment while participating in light restoration action. Each day will center around a different element of the watershed: the river, the animals, the understory vegetation, the trees, and the community.
COVID UPDATE: We will be monitoring current PHO guidelines and post up to date Summer Camp policies so you can rest assured your camper will have a safe and fun experience with our team.
Details and Fees
Camp fees are $260 per child for a total of five days. Minimum of 12 children registered to run a camp. Single Day Camp: $55 per day per child. Single Day Attendance during week-long camps may be available if the camp is not fully booked and depending on health and safety protocols.
We are proud to offer access to two bursary funds for camp fees this year.
Cowichan Valley Naturalists’ Society has set up a camp fee bursary in honour of the late Eric Marshall who volunteered and dedicated himself to nature education in the marine environment. To apply for this bursary please download our application here: Eric Marshall CVNS Bursary Application 2022.
The Nature Centre also has its own bursary fund set up to fully or partially fund our camp fees for 2022. To apply for this bursary please download our application form here: CENC Camp Bursary Application 2022 . Bursary applications may be submitted with Registration documents (found below) to restoraiton@cowichanestuary.ca.
All Camps run from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. You may drop off your child between 8:45 am and 9 am.
As our camp leaders are busy setting up for the day, we cannot offer early drop off or late pick up. Parents will be charged late fees for not adhering to drop off and pick up times.
For children with special needs, contact restoration@cowichanestuary.ca to discuss possible accommodations.
Our staff are working hard to ensure the safety of all of our campers during Covid-19. You’ll find more details on how we will will work with you as parents to support your child to have a safe, health camping experience in our Covid 19 Parent Guide.
How to Register (registration not currently available)
Registration is a two-step process:
- Go to Eventbrite, select a camp, sign up, and make payment. (Each camp is also linked above in the camp schedule to Eventbrite). Payment can be through a credit card on Eventbrite or cash/cheque mailed to or dropped off at the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre.
- Download and complete a camp Registration/Medical form linked below:
- CENC Camp Registration Form 2023 Return forms at least 2 weeks prior to camp start by:– email to restoration@cowichanestuary.ca,– in person or by mail to:Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre
Box 5, Cowichan Bay,
BC, V0R 1N0
- CENC Camp Registration Form 2023 Return forms at least 2 weeks prior to camp start by:– email to restoration@cowichanestuary.ca,– in person or by mail to:Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre
IMPORTANT: Your registration is not considered complete until we have received the medical information and waiver forms. Payment and forms must be received at least 2 weeks prior to camp start date or your registration will be forfeited.
CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS: If a camp is cancelled due to Covid-19 provincial health requirements, all camp fees will be fully refunded to affected families.
Families withdrawing a child’s registration within the two week period prior to the camp offering or during a camp will be charged for days attended plus an administrative fee unless the withdrawal is illness-related.
Questions? Contact restoration@cowichanestuary.ca. Or phone: 250-597-2288