Fundraising paddle to support nature conservation

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This article was published 25/08/2023 (1120 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

People in Westman looking to enjoy some time on the water this weekend can canoe, kayak or paddle board their way towards improvements in local nature conservation.

Paddle for Nature, which begins today and runs through the weekend, is a three-day adventure put on by the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC)to help people connect with nature and raise money for conservation projects in Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

“Contributing to a better tomorrow doesn’t have to feel like hard work,” said Fayaz Hasan, the NCC’s development officer in Manitoba. “This is a great opportunity for people to get out in nature and enjoy themselves while making a difference. We are looking forward to a fun-filled weekend in support of a great cause.”

Paddlers can join the challenge by visiting paddlebynature.ca, where they can register and pay for the event as well as set their distance and fundraising goals. Participants can register individually or as a team.

As an added incentive, paddlers qualify for a 10 per cent discount from Paddle for Nature partners, including Wilderness Supply and Kendrick’s Outdoor Adventures in Winnipeg until the end of the event. There are also prizes for participants who spend a minimum of one hour on the water and those who use their social media to tag #paddlefornature. Every $200 raised gets participants an entry to the Supporting Nature Draw.

To date, the NCC has conserved over 270,000 hectares of land in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Many of their projects have supported the protection and restoration of wetlands and riparian zones, said a press release sent out by the group. The conserved land also contributes to improved water quality and healthy waterways.

Brandonite Ian Healey, who has been enjoying taking his young family out in a canoe at the Riverbank Discovery Centre this summer, said that having grown up in northern Ontario and northern Manitoba, he always found getting out onto the water an enriching experience.

“I enjoy spending time on the water with my family,” said Healey, who is considering taking part in Paddle for Nature. “It’s a way for us to paddle in harmony with nature’s flow.”

According to gopaddling.info, a website dedicated to sharing information about and promoting paddling, there are many health benefits to picking up a paddle.

First of all, paddling is a low impact activity, suitable even for those with weak joints, who can benefit from aerobic fitness, strength building and greater flexibility. Paddling also offers the opportunity to socialize and make new friends, as many people go paddling in groups. Paddling also helps improve mental health and helps lower stress levels, the site says, and it can also improve core strength and flexibility. Age is also not a barrier, as people well into their 80s and beyond can take up the sport.

Finally, paddling is inclusive as it offers opportunities for people with disabilities, their friends and their families to take part in an active, healthy lifestyle.

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