The Forest Discovery Program offers interactive forest ecology and forest heritage programs that meet ministry-prescribed learning outcomes for grades K-6. Offered during the Centre’s operating season (Easter to Thanksgiving). The programs include a ride on the train and a visit from the engineer.

Participating in a Forest Discovery Program is a great way for your students to have fun while learning out in the fresh air. Your K-6 classes can explore the forest and visit the Bald Eagle’s nest or experience life in a mid-1900s logging camp.

Each program is two hours long but groups are encouraged to explore the other heritage buildings and exhibits on the site, enjoy a picnic or play on the playground.

During the month of December primary classes will enjoy the Oh Christmas Tree program where students experience the evolution of the Christmas tree in our 100-year-old schoolhouse. So much fun the students forget they are learning!

Spend the day at the BC Forest Discovery Centre!

Eagles & Ecosystem
Forest Ecology Program
Grades 1-3 / Ages 6-8

AExplore the forest to find out how members of the forest community interact with and rely upon each other to exist. The interactive walk through the forest includes a chance to see the Bald Eagles’ nest and discovery of plants and animals that live in the forest. A tree cookie craft activity helps students reflect on their experiences in the forest and is a unique reminder of their visit to the BC Forest Discovery Centre. A narrated ride on the train completes the program.
 

Timber Stamps & Tree Rings
Forest Ecology Program
Grades 4-6 / Ages 9-12

An engaging approach to the concepts of tree parts and functions, forest recycling and forest technology. Hands-on activities such tree boring (tree ring sampling) to discover what a tree looks like on the inside and an opportunity to use a cross cut saw are so much fun the students don’t know they are learning. A ride on the train is a great opportunity to see the amazing local ecology.
 

Fallers, Flunkies & Families
Forest Heritage Program
Grades 1-3 / Ages 6-8

Go back in time to the 1930s and experience life as a logger living in camp. See where loggers slept and ate and discover what it was like to live in a camp community. In our 100-year old schoolhouse students will make a pinwheel to illustrate how people living in these communities provided for themselves. Ride the train just like the loggers used to when they travelled from the camp to the logging operation.

Springboards & Swedish Fiddles
Forest Heritage Program
Grades 4-6

How did they fall those huge old growth trees by hand? Students will discover historic logging technology and transportation through interactive activities. Experience what it was like to be a faller in the 1930s by using tools such as a crosscut saw and springboards. Find out the unique language loggers used in the bunkhouse, cookhouse and while at work. A ride on the train takes you through the site past historical logging equipment.

Fir Trees & Ferns
Forest Ecology Program
Preschool / Kindergarten
*45 minutes*

Are you teaching your students about plants and animals? Introduce them to native plants and animals in their natural environment in the BC Forest Discovery Centre forest. A gentle walk through our nature trails and a stop at the Bald Eagle’s nest provides hands-on learning and age-appropriate content. The program concludes with a much-anticipated ride on the train.
 

FOREST DISCOVERY PROGRAM RATES

$7.00 per child
Rates Include:

• GST
• Admission of one adult supervisor per group of five children
• Use of the Centre and all facilities for the day (playground, exhibits, etc.
• One train ride
• 2 hour guided, interactive education program

TOP

BOOKING INFORMATION

• Group sizes range from 12 to 100. Large groups are accommodated on a case by case basis (depending on the amount of time the group will be at the Centre, the availability of volunteers, etc.)
• Programs commence rain or shine
• There is a 48 hour cancellation policy
• Please arrange for payment in advance or upon arrival
• All bookings subject to availability

TOP

BOOKING A FOREST DISCOVERY PROGRAM

• Please call the number below for program availability
• A booking form and package will be faxed or mailed to you for confirmation

TOP

Contact Information

For program availability and more information please contact:
BC Forest Discovery Centre
2892 Drinkwater Road
Duncan, BC
V9L 6C2
Tel: 250.715.1113
Toll Free: 1.866.715.1113
Fax: 250.715.1170

TOP

The Truck Loggers Association has contributed to this initiative