History
In 1996 Colony Farm Regional Park was chosen to be one of four parks to try out the Metro Vancouver Parks Partnership Initiative. Colony Farm was unique in that it was the newest regional park and that it had a land use plan attached.
The groups that first met to form what became the Colony Farm Park Association (CFPA) included the Burke Mountain Naturalists, Wildlife Rescue Association of BC, Douglas College Institute of Urban Ecology and FarmFolk/CityFolk.
Since the first meeting in the summer of 1996, the partnership between these groups and Metro Vancouver Parks staff has been very successful. The partners have worked together to plan and implement wildlife enhancement projects, set up a community garden, organize community events and improve the trail system to provide greater access to people who use mobility aids. The partners also successfully raised funds to build a pedestrian bridge over the Coquitlam River.
Other partner Groups
• Colony Farm Community Gardens Association
• Colony Farm Kid's Club
The Association's Kids Club starts in April each year, with an organizing meeting in February. The club was started by youth for kids aged six to 12 years and has a maximum enrollment of 15. All programs are run by the youth members of the CFPA. The Club combines hands-on gardening and nature activities.
For more information, contact the Central Area Office after March 15th. The registration fee is $10 per family and includes a one year membership in the CFPA.
Activities
Each year, the CFPA hosts a variety of different events. Past events have included the spring Environment Festival, Earth Day Celebration and the fall From Field to Table, an Organic Experience.
Heron survey
The Colony Farm Park Association Wildlife Committee organizes a heron survey that runs from fall to early summer. Participants record observations on herons whenever they visit the park. There is no set time.
In addition, the park association offers public walks in the park throughout the spring, summer and fall. Contact Trina Sakata at the Metro Vancouver Central Area office by email or at 604-520-6442 for more information about the CFPA and its activities.
Check out our photo album for a virtual look at all that we do!
How to get involved
To find out how you can get involved in the Colony Farm Park Association, contact the Metro Vancouver Central Area Parks office at (604) 520-6442, or email Trina Sakata |
