Throughout the world conservation tourism has been a driver in rural economic re-vitalization. The State of Oregon recently made it a central part of its tourism strategy. Unconventional and a sign of changing times and changing view of the new economy that takes into account the value of “natural capital” , conservation tourism is the fastest growing sector of the tourism industry.
As part of its educational mandate, Comox Valley Nature is hosting an illustrated lecture by tourism industry specialist, Sandra Borton, entitled “Conservation through Tourism:Essentials, Opportunities and Considerations”. This is a unique chance to understand the potential links between sound environmental conservation practice and potential sustainable economic development.
Sandra Borton is a graduate student at the University of Northern British Columbia, in Natural Resource and Environmental Studies. She holds a Bachelor of Tourism Management in Adventure Studies from Thompson Rivers University. Her current research looks at how high profile adventurers advocate for environmental conservation through media. Her field and research experiences include studying eco-tourism practices and management in Antarctica (Students on Ice University Expedition, 2009), rural revitalization through tourism and protected areas, and out of bounds skiing and snowboarding on Vancouver Island. She was recently awarded a student fellowship to the International Polar Tourism Network, and is speaking later this month at the Adventure Tourism Conference in Sogndal, Norway. She is an avid outdoor recreationist, and a member of the Explorers Club.
This lecture will take place at the Florence Filberg Seniors Centre at 7pm November 16 2014.
Comox Valley Nature is a non-profit society affiliated to BC Nature consisting only of unpaid volunteers. CVN fulfills its educational mandate by hosting monthly lectures, organizing free weekly guided hikes for members, and a free monthly walk open to the public. The society also undertakes a variety of environmental projects. Comox Valley Nature also supports specialized groups ( Birding, Botany, Conservation ,Garry Oak Restoration, Wetland Restoration, Photography and Young Naturalists Club) all of which have separate monthly activities. Membership in BC Nature and Comox Valley Nature is $30 per adult and $40 for a family.
Founded in 1966, it is one of the oldest environmental societies on the North Island. Meetings and lectures of the Comox Valley Naturalists Society are held on the third Sunday of most months at the Florence Filberg Centre, 411 Anderton, Courtenay. Meetings and guided walks are open to the public, including children and youth. Lecture is free, though a $4 contribution from non-members is appreciated. New memberships are always welcomed.
Anyone interested in this lecture or participating in CVNS activities can also contact Loys Maingon (CVN President) at 250-331-0143.
