April 10th, 2013

Spring Program Booking Is In Full Swing!

If you haven't looked at our Spring program offerings you are missing out on some fantastic learning opportunities. Check out our spring programs at Goldstream and Bamberton Provincial Parks as well as throughout Vancouver Island.  From 1 hour to multi-day learning experiences we continue to offer a full spectrum of environmental learning opportunities.

Call us at the Goldstream Nature House to register today! (250) 478-9414

March 1st, 2013

Spring is in the Park... especially with the balmy winds from the 'Pineapple Express'!

Spring is a time for new growth, change and promise for the wonderful seasons that lie ahead; Here is what is 'up' and 'coming' with the Goldstream Nature House and RLC Park Services!

 February 14th, 2013

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

For the love of the family, kids, friends etc... get them out to the Park this weekend indulge in some Goldstream Nature House fun with our Gold Mining Days!

1. Take our Goldminers Challenge
2. Earn your Miner's License
3. Pan for gold in the troughs outside the Nature House
4. Take home memories that last in our Prospector Photo Booth!
5. Share some of your 'gold' and donate to the Nature House!

Saturday/Sunday 10-3 BY DONATION! Call 250-478-9414 for more details!

January 24th, 2013

Our seasonal newsletter is ready for the read!

*New for kids - print off and enter our coloring contest on page 3!

Click here to view our latest news in the Park! 

January 12th, 2013

- The parking lot is open, trails are clear and open and there are still Bald Eagles to be seen - See you in the Park!

 January 4th, 2013 

A look back through the year of 2012!

January 2012 - With an incredible amount of snow our little Nature House, fireplace a' roaring, looked like it should have been in a winter wonderland postcard.
February 2012 - As the snow melted away, the first signs of spring began arriving in the forest.
March 2012- Had us opening our Rathtrevor Beach Nature House early for ‘spring break nature camp!’
April 2012 - Spring was well under way with buds and leaves opening up everywhere you looked!
May 2012 - Naturalists headed to Manning Park for knowledge and skill enhancment and a little fun! Our first annual Conservation Funk event, was a great success with environmentally minded fun for all.
June 2012 - Schools came out in droves for our popular beach programs. See In Park programs for details!
July 2012- Out of the schools and Into the campground, offering public programs twice a day! Our 1st annual Photo Contest was a hit!
August 2012 - More programs for the public, covering a wide range of topics - Ticks to Whales and everything in-between.
September 2012 - The ‘calm before the storm’ for our little Nature House with a change of season and waiting for the arrival of the salmon, giving us a chance to 'bash a little broom'!
October 2012 - We kicked off our 10th Annual 5km salmon run fun run in the pouring rain. Over 100 brave runners joined us to support our Nature House and programs. Got our wildlife camera's working and ready for the salmon and eagle season!
November 2012 - The Salmon arrived in schools as did the school children of all ages to admire the spectacle.  Near Remembrance day we had over 25000 Chum Salmon in the river.  Thank you to all our Chum Sponsors for helping to bring the school groups here for our programs!
December 2012 - Eagle Extravaganza - our clean-up crew arrived for an all you can eat salmon buffet! Our highest count was over 60 Bald Eagles! Visit the Goldstream Nature House to see our wildlife camera's back in action.

Decmber 5th 2012 
Salmon season draws to a close, 
and "Eagle Extravaganza" is just getting started!

As the winter rains flood the Goldstream river, all the salmon carcasses are being washed down into the estuary. Here the eagles are waiting - hoping to enjoy an all you can eat salmon buffet! 

The Nature House will be open all winter from 9:00-4:30, 
There is prime eagle viewing from our front porch - Already this year we have had counts of over 48 eagles at one time!

See you in the park soon,

October 15th 2012

Congratulations to everyone who participated in our 10th annual "Salmon Run 5km"!!!

It was more than fitting that Sunday morning brought torrential downpours flooding the Goldstream River with water.  This triggered the salmon to enter the river and start their run upstream just as over 100 human participants were gathering in the Goldstream Campground for the 10th Annual Goldstream Salmon Run 5K. The cool rain and slippery conditions didn't deter the runners as they headed out onto the course and laid down some fantastic times on this "slightly short" 5K with its "hefty hill".  A new animal participant this year had some runners trying to pick up the pace as they feared being passed by a MOOSE!  That's right...although there are no acutal moose on Vancouver Island, BC Parks mascot Jerry the Moose showed up and ran the soggy course after agreeing to run if 100 people pre-registered.  Jerry was looking drenched but stylish running in his custom made "Goldstream Salmon Run...So Should You" technical shirt.  (There are lots available for sale in the Nature House in 3 different colours!!!)  Overall it was a fantastic day raising funds for the salmon run programs at the Nature House but also just getting out and being active in our Parks!  Check out our facebook page for more pictures as we get them uploaded!   

Our SALMON camera is on! Be the first to get a sneak peak of the salmon as they enter the river...

Catch up on the latest news with our Summer/Fall Newsletter!

September 16th, 2012

THANK YOU! Royal Astronomical Society of Canada and Langford Fire Department for sharing your knowledge and expertise in our summer amphitheatre programs.

COMING SOON... Our Summer/Fall Newsletter and our "10th Annual 5k Salmon Run RUN" - the salmon run, so why shouldn't you!

August 25th, 2012

While the Summer Lasts...

Join RLC Park Naturalists in the Campground for some great interpretive programming in this final week of summer! Jerry's Rangers @ 3pm and Evening programs @ 7:30pm!

- Last 'Movie in the Park' is Thursday August 30th

- Goldstream's Got Talent - Saturday September 1st - Come show us your hidden talents!

August 5th, 2012

2012 PHOTO CONTEST RESULTS

Thank-you to everyone who entered our 1st annual Goldstream Photo Contest!

Above: Winning Photo By Jennifer Callioux

Here are some more of our wonderful entries!!!

"Fawn" By: Brian Rundle

"Elephant tree" By: Lyson Le

By: Brian Rundle

By: Jennifer Wamil

By: Linda Bedard

August 4th, 2012

AUGUST is here! Check out our August Campground Schedule in our Public Programs - Summer!

NEW!! Teachers - make your way to the Goldstream Nature House for 15% off your back to school goodies! FYI our book order just arrived and there are some AMAZING deals.

JUNE 30th, 2012

TOMORROW! Our Summer Campground Amphitheatre programs begin! Check out the JULY schedule in our Public Programs - Summer!

Sneak Peak - July 1st, 3pm Jerry's Rangers - "Insects" and 7:30pm "The MegaFauners" - meet the incredible wild team of large predators in our Park and the amazing superpower adaptations that make them the MegaFauners!

April 27th, 2012

Coming Soon... in 1 month - "CONSERVATION FUNK"

Sunday May 27th, 10:30am - 2:30pm at the Goldstream Nature House

A day to share in the LOVE of Nature! 

Join RLC Park Naturalists, Volunteers, The Ocean 98.5 Community Cruiser, BC Hydro, Habitat Acquisition Trust, Goldstream Bicycles, Saltspring Coffee, Norwex Cleaning, Greater Victoria Composting Centre, Zazubean Chocolate... and many more community partners to learn about different ways you can be 'green' in your day to day!

Lots of fun, activities, food and prizes!  See you in the Park - Sunday MAY 27th!

April 26th, 2012

Calling all teachers...

The year is wrapping up and we have some of the best co-curricular programs to conclude your lesson plans, From the 'Science of Slime' to life 'Beneath the Waves' its just a click away! Visit the programs we offer for a full list OR call 250-478-9414 and we can get you booked in right away!

Things are looking 'greener' everyday, so if you are looking for something to do this weekend, come visit us in the Park!
If you are in town, try heading over to the Outdoor Adventure EXPO at Pearkes Recreation, where we will be with our 'mini' Nature House.
If the weather turns for the worse and you're looking for a read see 'What's new at Goldstream' or open a pdf of our Spring 2012 Newsletter here.

April 7th, 2012

Spring is here... Hop into the Goldstream Nature House this Easter weekend to see the freshest signs of spring! New Robin eggs, Rufous hummingbirds back from their migration, the smell of spring flowers, the first Violet Green Swallow sighting (today) and more.  Lots of fun at the Nature House with family friendly scavenger hunts, great deals in our bookstore and lots of hot coffee! Open 7 days a week, 9-4:30pm. See you in the Park!

                      

   

 Goldstream 2012 Photo Contest

Do you have beautiful photos of Goldstream Park? Enter them into our first annual Photo contest!

We are looking for photos that capture nature, wildlife, and human visitors of Goldstream Park. All photographs should accurately portray the subject matter and the scene as it appeared in the park. Photos that have been digitally altered beyond standard optimization (removal of dust, cropping, reasonable adjustments to exposure, color and contrast, etc.) will be disqualified.

Contest is open from January 1st to July 15th 2012, and is open to photographers of ALL ages. 

 E-mail  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to get your entry form!!!

The Eagles have arrived!

Best viewing opportunities are at low tide.  Here are our hours to come visit the nature house during the Holidays:

December 24th - 9am - 3:30pm

Christmas Day - CLOSED

December 26th - 10:30am - 3:30pm

New Years Day - 10:30am - 3:30pm

Through out the rest of the winter, the Nature House is OPEN daily from 9:00am - 4:30pm.

Check out our Winter edition of our Goldstream Newsletter here.

November 30, 2011

Season Finale Salmon Printing!

Come out this Saturday Dec 3rd and Sunday Dec 4th for our LAST weekend of SALMON PRINTING!! Take home your very own Salmon Print and check out the Bald Eagles that have come to visit us in the estuary!!

November 15th, 2011

Something Smells Fishy!

Luckily, it's the Goldstream River Salmon Run and it is SUPPOSED to smell fishy!  Experiencing the salmon run is sure to get ALL of your senses tingling.  With this unbelievably beautiful weather, Goldstream Park has never looked more beautiful during the salmon run.  There are lots of salmon in the river so don't miss out...come on out and visit us at the Nature House.  Do a bit of early Christmas shopping in our incredible book store and help us keep our programs going and the Nature House open as all proceeds go toward this cause.

The COUNT Down is on...

2 days left of our Nature of Island Artist Art Show

OPEN Today, and MONDAY for you to enjoy local Island Artists art pieces and perhaps buy to help support environmental education at the Nature House.

Art pieces are sold outright or by minimum bid, please join us this Thanksgiving weekend to appreciate the many dimensions of our natural world through our Nature of Island Artists Art Show.

September 26th, 2011

Salmon Run... So Should You!

 Join us on October 15th at 10am at the Goldstream Provincial Park Campground for the 9th Annual

Goldstream Salmon Run 5K Run/Walk!Help support environmental education by bringing your friends, your stroller, your dog (on a leash of course!) and running or walking a beautiful 5K course through the forest on a fall morning. All proceeds go toward keeping the GoldstreamNature House running year-long and helping to offset costs for school groups wishing to attend salmon run programs. Register online!

"Find your ART in NATURE"

Join us at the Nature House on Sat. October 1st, 2011 for Art in the Park!

11am - 2pm 

- Meet a few participating artists in this years "Nature of Island Artists Art Show"

- Learn how to make Coast Salish Salmon prints with artist Chris Paul

- Unveiling of art piece by Chris Paul

- Engage in various art activities to discover your art in nature.

Participation is by donation and proceeds will help to keep the Nature House doors open and enviornmental education available.

SEE YOU IN THE PARK!

Sept 21st 2011

12th Biennial "Nature Of Island Artists Art Show" ON NOW at the Goldstream Nature House!!

Here is a small sample of what our show has to offer...

Show Hours: 10:00-4:00 daily

Please phone us for information, or to place a bid on your faviorite piece: (250)-478-9414

 Sept 6th 2011

The Goldstream Nature House Hosts the 12th Biennial Nature Of Island Artists Art Show!

    Visit the Goldstream Nature House between September 17th and
    October 10th, 2011 to see the Nature House transformed into a beautiful  
    nature art gallery. Featuring nature-inspired pieces by over 75 renowned local
    artists including Richard Hunt, Chris Paul, Mark Hobson, Morgan Warren and
    many more! All proceeds from the show go directly towards
    sustaining environmental education at Goldstream Provincial Park.
    Read more...

 Artists will be here throughout the art show doing demonstrations,
for a complete  schedule please phone the Nature House (250) 478-9419

Image  "Sockeye" - Chris Paul

 WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO CELEBRATE CANADA PARKS DAY Saturday July 16th!??

Come join us at the Goldstream Nature House in some Canada Parks Day celebrations: From face painting, scavenger hunts, crafts and pizes to cake cutting, we'll be celebrating from 11am - 3pm on Saturday July 16th.

OR

Come down to Bamberton Beach at 12:30pm for a public Beach Seine with one of our Naturalists!  Who knew the tide would be just right to bring up some amazing creatures from the eelgrass beds to explore!?  Be prepared to get wet and DONATIONS are always greatly appreciated!

Story of the Week... 

This visitor made our day here at the Goldstream Nature House.  Cole Nessel recently celebrated a birthday and instead of gifts he asked for money to give to a local charity. (Grade 2!!)

When his Mom and Dad asked him where he would like to give, he said "the salmon river".  Cole arrived today with a ziploc full of his birthday money and donated here to the Nature House.  Staff and Volunteers are mostly impressed with Cole's keen environmental stewardship and thank him for his thoughtfulness!

The Goldstream Nature House Hosts the 12th Biennial Nature Of Island Artists Art Show!

Visit the Goldstream Nature House between September 17th and October 10th, 2011 to see the Nature House transformed into a beautiful nature art gallery. Featuring nature-inspired pieces by over 70 renowned local artists including Robert Bateman, Lissa Calvert, Mark Hobson, Morgan Warren and many more! All proceeds from the show go directly towards sustaining environmental education at Goldstream Provincial Park. Read more...

Check this schedule to see when your favourite artist is coming to the Nature House to demonstrate!

May 14th, 2011

Come and Play in the MUD!  MAY 21st, 2011

 
 Visit a part of the park normally off-limits to visitors! Discover the 
  specialized plants and animals that live in the Goldstream Estuary
  and find out why estuaries are important. View footage from our
  wildlife spy cameras, make an estuary craft, and get your face
  painted!

  Enjoy a hot dog BBQ (by donation)

Wear shorts and old shoes or gumboots and be prepared to get muddy (very, very muddy).

Entry is by donation ($5/ family suggested donation)

Goldstream Nature House in the News

If you missed some of the News events about the Goldstream Nature House this past week, we have included a couple of links here.  First is a link to the News footage of the cougar.  Although the News emphasized the potential danger in the situation (it is always important to respect wildlife and know safety precautions you can take) we were incredibly excited to get such an amazing view of a little-seen animal.  You can view Chek News version of the story here approximately 4 minutes into the newscast.

We were also lucky enough to be featured in an Island 30 episode where Chek helped us to get the message out that the Goldstream Nature House does not receive governement funding and we very much need everybody's support.  Currently the video does not seem to be on the site but hopefully it will be returned and the link included will be available. 

If you are interested in supporting our funding efforts please see our "How You Can Donate"  or our "Goldstream Chums" links.  You can also find information on donating to the Goldstream Chums Program through Habitat Acquisition Trust's site here.

April 23rd, 2011

Our Rare and Unique Cougar Sighting

We are still replaying in our minds the sighting we had early Thursday morning.  A feline friend sauntered past the Goldstream Nature House windows... WOW! For most of us it was a first in our lifetime opportunity.  Cougars are elusive animals, active by day only in undisturbed areas to avoid humans (usually). We speculate that because of the gas spill earlier in the week, and public visitation decreased, we were fortunate to have spotted the cougar. Our 'Cougar in Area' signs will remain posted, although it is noted that cougars can travel 40km in one night.  Here are a few safety tips: - Hike in groups of two or more. Make enough noise to prevent surprising a cougar. - Keep children close at hand and under control. If you encounter a cougar: - Give the cougar an avenue to escape. - Stay calm. Talk to the cougar in a confident voice. - Pick up children and make yourselves look big. - Back away from the cougar slowly.

April 19, 2011

ATTENTION TEACHERS: Please do NOT release your salmon fry into the Goldstream river at this time! Please contact your hatchery representative or the Goldstream Nature House for updates and information. Thank you!

April 18, 2011

Gasoline Catasrophe

Everybody at the Goldstream Nature House is shocked and dismayed by the gasoline spill on the Malahat.  Our stomachs are in knots as we observe just how detrimental this incident has and will continue to be for the ecosystems connected to the Goldstream River.  Check out our facebook page for updates as we learn more. 

April 12, 2011

2010 Salmon Run Numbers:

Chum ~4500 Adults Cumulative	Coho 436 Adults Cumulative	Chinook 23 Adults Cumulative

April 8, 2011

Have You Heard the Buzzzzz...It's Insect Intrigue!

Sunday, April 10, 2011  11am-2pm 

Join us on Sunday, April 10 from 11am - 2pm at the Goldstream Nature House for a day of Insect Intrigue!  Disocver the world of bugs as you become an entomologist and make sure you don't miss out on learning about bees from a local beekeepr at 1:00pm!  Use a variety of tools to catch and identify the weird and wonderful insects of Goldstream using our giant microscope generously donated by the Victorai Natural History Society,  get your face painted like your favourite bug, make an incredible insect craft to take home with you or sweetly sample some local honey. 

Entry is by donation (suggested $5/family) plus a $3 craft fee.  All proceeds go towards funding educational programs and keeping the doors of the Goldstream Nature House open.  Please donate  what you can!.   

February 14, 2011

ATTENTION: TECHNOLOGICAL DIFFICULTIES

We have experienced technological difficulties over the past two weeks with our website and email.  If you have emailed or made a program request through our website over the past two weeks and have not received a response from us please contact us directly at (250) 478-9414 or resubmit your email or program form.  We apologize for any inconvenience and hope to hear from you soon.

 February 14, 2011

Gold (Stream) Rush!!

The Gold(Stream) Rush is on!  Register for your program today at the Goldstream Nature House and learn about this important event in the history of British Columbia.  Our enthusiastic Prospector steps straight out of the 1850s and will educate and entertain your class in these 1-1.5 hour programs.  Go to our Gold Rush program page here.

 January 1, 2011

Goldstream Glows Green! 

The first message came through and emotion number one hit: complete disbelief.  Shortly it was followed by a second message, this time with a picture attached and the emotions shifted from disbelief to shock sliding into horror and settling in at grief.  This was the experience of finding out the Goldstream River was flowing Fluorescent Green! 

On Wednesday December 29, 2010 around 3:15pm visitors to Goldstream Park and passing motorists were horrified to see the water in the Goldstream River take on an almost glowing green hue.  Hundreds of people stopped to take pictures and video tape the unnatural event.  At the Goldstream Nature House, the phone started ringing off the hook and concerned visitors burst through the doors with stories of toxic green water, photos on cameras and even samples in coffee cups.  “It was unbelievable” Bre Statham mused, “and completely overwhelming.  I was inside the Nature House so I couldn’t see the river and the colour hadn’t reached the estuary yet but then people started bringing in pictures and I couldn’t believe what I was looking at.”   Some visitors remarked that the colour was so intense it actually hurt their eyes.  A father of another family recounted how his son started screaming “Dad! Dad! The water is slime!!! Pull Over!” as the family was driving north from Victoria.  They stopped and were incredulous at what they saw.  “It looked like every cartoon or horror movie you’ve seen of toxic waste!”

After approximately half an hour, the green water had flowed into the estuary and the entire estuarine habitat was lime sorbet green this was when grief entered into my heart.  At this point I had no idea what the substance was or the degree of harm it was having on everything it came into contact with.  All I knew was that it was completely out of our control to stop its progression throughout the watershed.  The fire department had been called in, the Ministry of Environment was on site, sympathetic observers were there, representatives of numerous interest groups were taking their own samples and yet nothing could be done to stop the flow of the unknown substance from passing down the entire length of the river in the park, entering the estuary and from there being carried by the ocean to anywhere it could go.  What if this substance was killing everything in its path?  As worry and grief took a strangle hold on my thoughts, I, like everybody else, had to sit and wait as tests were done on samples removed from the river.

Over the next day and a half it was media mayhem around the river.  Goldstream the "Green RIver" made it into the National NEws and many speculations pointed toward the mis-use of a tracing dye used to track water systems as the source of the colouration. Midday on December 31, 2010, the Ministry of Environment confirmed that the samples revealed the presence of Fluorescein which is not thought to be detrimental to wildlife in the concentrations found in the river.   For some this revelation allowed the feeling of grief to quickly subside to relief.  Howevere, I was left with concern and took a moment to contemplate the potential repercussions of this event both positive and negative. 

Initial digging into information on Fluorescein has revealed that it was banned for use in the Chicago River in their annual St Patrick's Day celebrations due to its negative impact on the waterway.  This is a bit disconcerting and could be foreshadowing for lasting issues on the river from this mindless prank.  However, this event brought out renewed expression of support for the Goldstream River and Goldstream Provincial Park itself.  The day after the Green River episod, we saw an increase in visitors at the Goldstream Nature House.  It was inspiring for us, the Park Naturalists, to see how many people hold this river close to their hearts.  Finally, we must use this even as an educational tool.  It is a very clear example of how the introduction of a substance into a river system leads to very quick  dispersal througout the ecosystem.  Although fluorescein is said to be non-toxic, imagine the impact if it had poisoned everything in its path!  We were virtually helpless to stop it and simply observed as it blanketed the sensitive river system full of newly laid salmon eggs.  The second concept this event illustrated is the way in which a very small amount of certain chemicals can be broadly dispersed by water.  The fluorescein was highly visible thus providing an easily viewable example.  Sadly, this happens with substances invisible to the naked eye all the time but passes unnoticed.  I hope we are able to turn this unfortunate event into a valuable environmental education tool. Education is why we are here at the Goldstream Nature House.

So in the end, it appears I do not have to mourn the loss of my beloved Goldstream River just yet.  As a Park Naturalist, I am faced with grief and loss on a daily basis when I see the living systems, creatures and plants that care passionately abuot suffer and disappeaer in front of my eyes.  However, what I have learned from my closest friends and mentors, is to also look outside of these losses and be aware of the immense beauty that still surrounds us.  The only way we can protect the natural systems that we love is to inspire others through education and awareness to know, love and therefore protect our fragile planet.

Get outside, join us in the park and walk in beauty!

Allison Roberts

Park Naturalist

Check out A Channel News coverage here and here.

November 8, 2010

Books Books Books!

We just received a huge shipment of bargain books at the Goldstream Nature House!!!  Some of the prices will knock your salmon-viewing socks off!!!  The salmon are running, the park is beautiful and now you can do some early Christmas Shopping with all proceeds going towards keeping the Goldstream Nature House open and programs available!  Our Bargain Books include a large selection of Christmas books and books for all ages!  We also still have a great selection of puppets and stuffed animals in the bookstore!

We hope to see you in the park soon!

October 12, 2010

Salmon Run Programs Booking Up Quickly!

It's that time of year when everybody is starting to think about their annual visit to Goldstream Park to see the amazing spectacle of the spawning salmon.  We are accepting bookings for classes on a first come first serve basis and programs run from October 21, 2010 through to December 3, 2010.  If you are interested in more information on these programs click here or call us at the Goldstream Nature House at (250) 478-9414.  We are actively fundraising and are still a long way off our target to cover the cost of these programs so we ask that everybody please make a donation that is affordable for your group.  Please click here to find out about our fundraising initiative, the Goldstream Chums program, which is a partnership with the Goldstream Nature House and Habitat Acquisition Trust.  If you or somebody you know may be interested in becoming one of our Goldstream Chums, please do not hesitate to contact us.  We would love an opportunity to provide you with further information.

August 19, 2010

The Dog Days of Summer! Saturday Aug 28, 2010

Bring you dog (on a leash of course) out to the Goldstream Nature House on Saturady, August 28th, for a fun-filled day all about creating awareness for your pets and the environment!  Events begine with a guided hike with a naturalist at 11:00am followed by a dog training session, hot dog roast and dog talent competition.  Contact the Nature House for more information (250) 478-9414.

 Summer Program Schedule is posted!!!

Check out the summer public program schedule posted on this website.  For each area of the island (South Island, Mid Island and North Island) click on the area of the island, public programs and summer to bring up the summer long schedule!  Everybody is welcome to participate in these programs with Jerry's Rangers at 2:30pm for children and Evening Programs at 7:30pm for all ages.  In addition the Nature House is open every day as well!  Make sure you explore all that we have to offer with RLC Park Services in Goldstream Provincial Park.  These programs are offered free of charge but since we still do not receive direct government funding for these programs we ask you to consider making a donation at the Nature House or amphitheatre if you enjoy these programs!  We can't wait to see you in the Park this summer!

Spring is in Full Swing

 Wednesday, May 20, 2010

If you haven't looked at our Spring program offerings you are missing out on some fantastic learning opportunities. Check out our spring programs at Goldstream and Bamberton Provincial Parks as well as throughout Vancouver Island.  From 1 hour to multi-day learning experiences we continue to offer a full spectrum of environmental learning opportunities.

Call us at the Goldstream Nature House to register today!

Family Gold(stream) Rush Day 

Saturday, March 13, 2010  10am-2pm

"I struck the Motherlode!!!"  Learn about the short gold rush that to Goldstream acquiring its name, find out what it used to be called, learn about some of our amazing BC History, earn your miner's license and try your hand at gold panning!  All of this and more between 10am and 2pm on Saturday, March 13th, 2010 at the Goldstream Nature House.  Contact us for more information.  We hope to see you and give you a bit of Gold Fever...an ailment for which you will seek no remedy! 

Fundraising Concert to Benefit Doug Andrew Memorial Teaching Shelter

Join us for an afternoon of music with reknowned Canadian musician James Gordon to help fundraising efforts to construct a teaching shelter in memory of our beloved naturalist, mentor and friend, Doug Andrew.

The concert will be held on Sunday, February 21^st, 2010 at 3:00pm at the Swan Lake Nature House.  Tickets are $20.00 and only 70 tickets are available so hurry to reserve your spot.  You can have a ticket set aside by calling the Goldstream Nature House at (250) 478-9414 and using your Visa or Mastercard.  You can then pick your ticket up at the event if you so choose.

 Your support in helping us to realize Dougie’s dream of having an outside teaching shelter for programs in Goldstream Provincial Park would be greatly appreciated.  Pass this on to friends and come out for some good music, good friends and lots of laughter.

For more information on James Gordon check out www.jamesgordon.ca.

January 11, 2010

Where Have All The Eagles Gone?

It’s only the 2^nd week of January and the eagle count at Goldstream is at a possible all-time low for this time of year.  Saturday’s count of 10 eagles still provided a chance for visitors to get a great look at these majestic birds but was less than expected.  Visitors to the park have commented that the Goldstream Park “smells really good!” which might be nice for our sensitive noses but probably means not enough carcasses to keep the Bald Eagles fed.  It’s still worth your while to pay Goldstream a visit at this time of year though.  You are almost guaranteed to see at least one eagle and the misty damp days have a way of turning Goldstream Park into a magically mysterious forest dripping with beauty.

December 1st, 2009

Hundreds of Bald Eagles Return to Goldstream for the Holidays!

Goldstream Nature House Holiday Hours: The Goldstream Nature House is open everyday from 9am to 4:30pm except for the following dates: Friday, December 25th (Christmas Day): CLOSED Saturday, December 26th (Boxing Day): 10:30am-4:30pm Friday, January 1st (New Years Day): 10:30am- 4:30pm Got holiday guests?  What better way to show them what a beautiful place we live in by taking them to see hundreds of Bald Eagles in their natural habitat for the holidays!

With the 2009 salmon run having peaked earlier than usual and flood waters washing salmon carcasses into the estuary, the Bald Eagles are arriving early for their annual holiday feast of spawned-out salmon.  It is expected that over 200 bald eagles will arrive at the Goldstream Estuary by Christmas 2009.   Bald Eagles gather in the estuary where they can feed undisturbed by people.  With our remote controlled eagle cam we can take a sneak peak from inside the Nature House at spectacular views of Bald Eagles in their natural habitat.  The best viewing times for Eagles is at the low tide, when the salmon bodies they feed on are exposed (Click here for the best low tides this season).  Bring your holiday guests and binoculars if you have them, and be sure to come down to the Nature House where most of the eagles can be seen feeding in the Estuary.   

 While visiting the Nature House to see all of our very cool interactive exhibits you might want to think about finding some last minute gifts in our incredible natural history gift store

Reasons to Visit the Nature House During the Holidays:

·  Incredible Eagle viewing opportunities with remote video cameras and spotting scopes.

·  Exhibits on eagles and other birds of prey, as well as many other interactive displays.

·  Incredible gift store including BARGAIN BOOKS, puppets and the best natural history book selection around for those hard-to buy-for nature lovers.

·    Help support the Nature House by purchasing gifts from the bookstore or entering our Christmas raffle to WIN fabulous prizes such as a beautiful handmade quilt, a field guide set, a children’s gift basket and more!

·  Hot drinks and a warm fire to chase the winter chill away.

-  For the kids: Join us during the weekends in December to take part in some great holiday nature crafts!  Make your own christmas animal-tracks wrapping paper, or create a christmas ornament for our wish tree!

Click here to learn more about Bald Eagles and see what dates and times are best for viewing eagles at Goldstream this season!

November 7, 2009

Salmon Count as of November 24th, 2009

Chum ~19,000 Adults Cumulative	Coho 160 Adults Cumulative	Chinook 28 Adults and 6 Jacks Cumulative

Preliminary estimate of Chum Salmon returning in 2009: about 19,000.  Check back here in a few weeks for the final count number! 

Click here for more information on the Salmon Run!

October 23rd, 2009

Salmon Run 5K A Success!

Nearly 100 runners and walkers (and dogs and strollers!) joined us on Sunday, October 18^th for our 8^th annual Salmon Run 5K Fun Run. Participants enjoyed a beautiful, sunny fall morning at Goldstream while they walked or ran to support environmental education in the park, and help us kick off the start of this year’s salmon run. This annual event will be held again next year on Sunday, October 17^th, 2010. Be sure to check this website for registration information so that you can join in on the fun again next year!

Click here for race results.

October 9th, 2009

Monday, October 12^th: Last Chance Celebration!

Join us at the Goldstream Nature House on the last day of the 2009 Nature of Island Artists Art Show to help us celebrate! Enjoy fresh coffee and goodies, win beautiful art pieces by entering our live draws, catch a sneak peek of the 2009 Salmon Run Programs, get great deals on fabulous original artwork in our live auction and, of course, make sure you get the last bid on your favourite piece in our silent auction! Check out the schedule of events below:

9am: Doors Open

11am: 1^st Live Draw: Original Chinese Brush Painting, “On the Moon” by Jennifer Plumridge

1pm: 2^nd Live Draw: Ink Drawing, “White-headed Woodpeckers” print 207/350 by Robert A Cannings

1:30pm: Salmon Run Sneak Peek- Join a naturalist for a free glimpse of our salmon run programs

3pm: LIVE AUCTION: Get an amazing deal on some beautiful original artwork. 100% of the proceeds go towards sending kids to salmon run programs this year.

4:30pm: 3^rd Live Draw: Robert Bateman Commemorative Print

ALL DAY: Silent Auction: make sure you get the last bid on your favourite piece in our silent auction by bidding on site or phoning in your bid at 250-478-9414. Silent Auction ends at 4:30pm, October 12^th.

October 4th, 2009

Salmon Run... So Should You!

Join us on October 18th at 10am at the Goldstream Provincial Park Campground for the 8th Annual Goldstream Salmon Run 5K Run/Walk! Help support environmental education by bringing your friends, your stroller, your dog (on a leash of course!) and running or walking a beautiful 5K course through the forest on a fall morning. All proceeds go toward keeping the Goldstream

Nature House running year-long and helping to offset costs for school groups wishing to attend salmon run programs. Register online!

August 28th, 2009

The Goldstream Nature House Hosts the 11th Biennial Nature Of Island Artists Art Show!

Visit the Goldstream Nature House between September 19th and October 12th, 2009 to see the Nature House transformed into a beautiful nature art gallery. Featuring nature-inspired pieces by over 70 renowned local artists including Robert Bateman, Lissa Calvert, Mark Hobson, Morgan Warren and many more! All proceeds from the show go directly towards sustaining environmental education at Goldstream Provincial Park. Read more...

Check this schedule to see when your favourite artist is coming to the Nature House to demonstrate!

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August 6th, 2009

Volunteer at the 2009 Nature of Island Artists Art Show!

Do you need some volunteer work? Perhaps you're an art connoisseur and would like to share your passion with others. Or maybe you have some free time and would like to fill it by making a difference for environmental education in Goldstream Provincial Park. Either way we'd love to have you on board as a volunteer during our nature inspired art show running from September 19th to October 12th, 2009 at the Goldstream Nature House. This art show runs as a major form of fund raising for environmental education program here at Goldstream and we need all the help we can get. Volunteers provide a warm, welcoming presence during the show where they are available to answer visitor questions and help facilitate the ongoing silent auction. All volunteers are provided with training and free cups of fresh, hot coffee during their shifts as well as a volunteer discount in the Nature House bookstore and gift shop. We are recruiting right now so sign up here!

July 30th, 2009

The Dog Days of Summer! This weekend: Saturday Aug 1st & Sunday August 2nd

Bring you dog (on a leash of course) out to Goldstream Provincial Park this weekend for a fun-filled day all about creating awareness for your pets and the environment! Check out the event schedule below:

Nurture Your Soul By Nature Yoga- Wednesdays

Relax, Refresh and Renew at the Goldstream Nature House with nature yoga! Bring a mat or towel and a bottle of water every Wednesday at 9:30am and do yoga with a naturalist instructor in a special, serene place in the park! ($5 donation/ class) Click here for more details

June 30th, 2009

New Website Layout!

With a fresh new look comes some great new features! Check them out using the menu on the left.

• Field Guide- Check out this page every season before you come out to the park to find out what plants and animals you're likely to see.

School Programs- Teachers, here's your user friendly guide to the educational programs we offer here at our parks. Check out the teacher's corner!

• Public Programs- Taking a group out to the park? Organizing a birthday party? Want to know what's happening in your campground while you're there? Our public programs often run on a schedule or you can book them!

Special Events- A must see every time you check out our website, there's always something special happening in our parks!

How You Can Help- Find out how to become a volunteer, join our "Chums" program or donate towards environmental education.

Guest Book- Did you enjoy your trip to the park? Maybe you spotted some interesting wildlife? Let everyone know by signing our new, online guest book!

About Us- Learn about what we do, our nature houses and your naturalists!

Keep an eagle eye on what's going on at Goldstream Provincial Park by signing up for our free e-newsletter and email updates on special events and opportunities!