Spring is a favourite time of year for many: the sun is out, the creeks are rising, the birds are busy, the buds have broken open at the vineyards, soccer fields are full of kids and parents, the holiday trailer is getting cleaned up and ready to go, parades and festivals kick off, and my Dad is planting his garden.
This is also a time to get outdoors and explore new and different recreational activities.
Part of what makes our community healthy and vibrant are the many wonderful opportunities we have here in the Beaver Valley.
Did you know that we have 14 parks in the Beaver Valley? There are four walking trails, and we are currently working with Kootenay Columbia Trails Society and a volunteer group to create another.
Each of our parks and trails offer something a little different. The walking trails are for all age groups; we encourage you to try them.
We will soon be looking to the public to help us generate some recreation development ideas for the 95 acres of land that our former Mayor, Libby Nelson, generously donated to B.V. Recreation in 2014.
Named “Columbia Ridge” at Libby’s request, we look forward to this new opportunity for the region – thank you Libby!
In addition to these activities, B.V. Recreation offers a variety of programs and specials events throughout the year for adults, seniors, youth and pre-schoolers. Go to rdkb.com/Services/RecreationCulture/BeaverValley for more information, or call the B.V. Recreation Office at 250 367–9319. Our friendly and professional staff will be pleased to help you. You will also find maps for our great walking trails on the website.
Some exciting new projects approved for 2015 include: a new playground for Mazzochi Park, and a facelift for the Arena which includes: new paint, signage, doors, landscaping, improved meeting room; and upgrading the shower stalls, and power pole replacement at the Beaver Creek Valley Family Park.
Your Recreation Committee and staff have declared June 9, 2015 as “Park Appreciation Day”.
This year’s feature park will be our Beaver Valley Family Park, located at Marsh Creek, just a couple of kilometres east of Fruitvale. This is a great place to hold your family or group picnic, reunions, weddings and social gatherings.
There is plenty for everyone to do, with a horseshoe pitch, a playground for the children; hiking trails a field great for bocce, ball or soccer games, volleyball and basketball courts and a 40’x 40’ cement pad great for dancing. There are a number of trailer and tent sites available with water, electricity and showers with wheelchair access and is open June 1st to Labour Day long weekend.
On June 9, bring your family out to this family friendly park for hot dogs and refreshments from 5-7 p.m.
Bring some activities for the kids. Bring a lawn chair and your own picnic if you like. Enter to win door prizes during the event. Come out and see what a great venue this really is!
Beaver Valley Recreation offers a variety of leisure activities for all ages, interests and all skill levels. There is fun, fitness and a healthy lifestyle for the whole family. These are our parks and facilities: come out and enjoy them!
Hope to see you there.
Ali Grieve is the director for the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary Area A.
Community Comment is an opportunity for elected officials from our local municipalities to update citizens in the region on the events, plans and progress in their respective communities. Every Friday, the Trail Times will present, on a rotating basis, a submission from councils, school trustees or regional district directors.
