Three events are planned in North Vancouver to celebrate rivers this Sunday, including a rivershed tour, tree planting events and a film screening.
World Rivers Day has been celebrated in the province since 1980 and, since then, similar events have grown all over the world. In 2005, the United Nations recognized World Rivers Day.
World Rivers Day, which started in B.C. is meant to increase awareness, promote stewardship, and encourage river conservation around the world.
“Rivers are integral to all life. Yet, many waterways continue to face an array of threats and are often impacted by inappropriate practices and inadequate protection,” says Mark Angelo, World Rivers Day chair/founder. Angelo is also chair emeritus of the Rivers Institute at the British Columbia Institute of Technology.
Sept. 23 events
Tree planting
A family event is planned for Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. at Lynnmouth Park that will including planting of 1,000 native plants, giant games like Connect Four, Jenga and Checkers at the family fun zone, displays by community groups with education about creeks, fish and nature, live music and a ceremonial tree planting at 2 p.m. Lynnmouth Park is close to Brooksbank and East 5th St.
Watershed tour at Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve
Children three years and older are invited to explore where water comes from at the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve on Sunday, Sept. 23 at 9 a.m. Metro Vancouver is hosting a watershed tour where children can explore the Seymour falls dam and walks through trails by the lower river. This event is by registration, and children must be accompanied by an adult. To register, call 604-432-6430.
Film screening
RiverBlue follows river conservationist Mark Angelo as he investigates the fashion industry, which is one of the most polluting industries on Earth. The film is narrated by raised-in-North-Vancouver actor Jason Priestley, a clean water supporter, and it examines the destruction of rivers and the effect this has on humanity as well as solutions.
RiverBlue will be shown on Sunday, Sept. 23 at 1 p.m. at Parks Heritage Centre, 1620 Mount Seymour Rd. The film is free but registration is recommended as there is limited seating. Email [email protected] to register. The family-friendly film is rated PG and recommended for those eight years and older.
