Editor:
My family were saddened by the closure of Camp Byng by Scouts Canada (“Scouts’ century-old Camp Byng on the Sunshine Coast closed ‘until further notice,”)
My children have learnt in community with the Spider Distance Learning Program SD46 at Camp Byng for over a decade.
My youngest was just a baby when he and I first accompanied his older brother on a rainy day through the Northwest Coast-forested landscape of Camp Byng and welcomed into the Spider Community.
Over the years, Camp Byng has offered the chance for my children to learn from Indigenous Elders, teachers, trades people, community leaders, authors, scientists, artists and parents who shared their expertise and passions while surrounded by the lush, forested trails and coastal beach of Camp Byng.
Our days are infused with the deep connection to the land, animals and nature. There was the time, we learned about medicinal forest plants and trees with an Indigenous healer. Other days - observing birds, bats, bears and the forest animals and creatures that make Camp Byng their home.
Today, children happily played underneath the canopy of cedar trees while an eagle flew above. Last week, a group of us – both young and old – cheered as we excitedly watched whales as they travelled in the distant ocean waters from Camp Byng’s deck.
I respectfully urge Scouts Canada and the SCRD, please prioritize the reopening of Camp Byng and keep it accessible for the enjoyment and education of future generations. The community needs this special place where children can grow and learn the importance of our inter-connectedness with nature. Given recent climate change events on the Sunshine Coast and around the world, our collective future for our children and generations to come depends on it.
Maria Alcuitas-Izen, Gibsons
