For over 25 years the Friends of Kootenay National Park Association has been working together for the protection, appreciation, education and understanding of Kootenay National Park’s cultural and natural history as well as the neighbouring ecosystem of the Columbia River valley. But, after all these years, all good things must come to an end.

At the end of this month, the Friends of Kootenay National Park will end operations due to board of director’s retirement, the Friends reported on social media.

Over the years, the Friends of Kootenay has sponsored and supported various events such as the Wild Voices Speaker Series, Wings Over the Rockies, the annual Knapweek Pull, the Head Banger Trail Challenge fundraiser, Headbanger tours (pictured), heritage teas, Art with Friends, and working with Parks Canada to create new interpretive signs along the Sinclair Canyon trail.

Their longest running achievement was the Junior Naturalists program at the Redstreak Campground.

“For years youth visiting Redstreak Campground and Radium Hot Springs were able to get excited about the cultural and natural history of Kootenay National Park by going on exploitative hikes and playing interactive games with our program leaders,” the Friends explained.

The Nature’s Gifts & Bookstore closed at the end of the November but Parks Canada will be setting up a gift boutique within the Kootenay National Park Visitor Centre selling Kootenay National Park related merchandise.

“Just because the Friends of Kootenay National Park is ending operations, doesn’t mean the end of everyone caring, exploring, and supporting Kootenay National Park. At the end of the day, everyone can still be a friend to one of the best National Parks in Canada,” the Friends reminded.

“Thank you for all your support over the decades. The Board of Directors of the Friends of Kootenay National Park Association; Alex, Dale, Lindsay, and Vivian.”

e-KNOW file photo

e-KNOW

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