Discover Parks program reaches one million visitors at Golden Ears

B.C.’s Discover Parks interpretation program has reached one million visitors, with the milestone marked during a guided nature walk at Golden Ears Provincial Park involving a participant from Canucks Autism Network.

The free interpretation program was launched with BC Parks in 2020 after regular provincial park interpretation services were cut in the early 2000s. BC Parks Foundation CEO Andy Day said the initiative has expanded from five parks to 25 in six years, employed 119 young ambassadors and recorded a 97.2-per-cent visitor satisfaction rating.

Ambassadors lead guided walks, Jerry’s Rangers activities, evening programs and self-guided experiences focused on plants, wildlife, ecosystems and cultural stories. The program also offers nature houses, school programs, programming for equity-deserving communities and virtual tours.

The foundation says the program is funded through the BC Parks licence plate program and donor support. All ambassadors receive accessibility and inclusion training to adapt programs to visitors’ needs and abilities.

Canucks Autism Network said the guided walks help participants connect with peers, learn about nature and experience parks in ways that work for them. Parks Minister Tamara Davidson said the partnership is helping create meaningful opportunities for people to connect with nature across the province.