Adopt a Forester Program

• Introduction
• How to Utilize the Help of a Forester
• Contacting Your Forester

  Introduction

  The Adopt A Forester Program in the Kamloops/ Thompson School District began in 1991 after a group of teachers and Ministry of Forests personnel gathered to brainstorm ways to assist teachers teach about forests and forestry related topics. Peter Lishman from the Ministry of Forests and Karl deBruijn from the School District were instrumental in getting foresters or technicians attached or 'adopted' by schools. Today, the program provides information on forestry through a network of professional foresters working through the school system assisting classroom teachers with fieldstudies, classroom visits, or locating appropriate resource materials.

  The present Adopt-A-Forester Committee consists of Steve Schell from the Kamloops Fire Centre, Rick Cooper from BC Timber Sales, Art Blackwell, Susan Bondar (Forestry Coordinator for School District #73), and Wayne Deptuck. Please feel free to contact
  Susan Bondar, if you have suggestions or requests.

  

  How Can a Forester Help ?

  Foresters obviously have a specialized background and knowledge of forestry related issues. It is important however, to know where their assistance is best used:

  • Any groups studying forest related subjects may want to have their forester accompany them on the Forest Capital Trail. Their expert knowlege can bring the otherwise invisible features of the trail to life, resulting in a far more interesting and beneficial educational experience.
  • Studies and activities that involve the study and exploration of tree and plant life.
  • Studies and activities that involve the study and exploration of forest dynamics, such as disease, fire, habitat management, and ecological principles as they relate to forestry.
  • Prior to your trip to the day or overnight centres, you may want to have your forester visit your class, helping to optimize the time spent on your trip.
  • A classroom visit while doing a school based unit related to the subject areas listed above.
  

  Contacting Your Forester

  Most schools have at least one forester assigned to them. There is also a teacher contact at each school who should be able to further help you in planning your forester's assistance. Click here to view the most current list.