Natural Treasure requires you to locate Impression Stations hidden along a designated trail in parks, forests, and other greenspaces/nature facilities; you can use either a Natural Treasure Map or (depending on the site) your own GPS device to find them. Each Impression Station will consist of a plaque engraved with a species symbol. As you find each one, you can use a pencil and paper to make an impression of each plaque on your Clue Sheet. Hold on to your Clue Sheet, because you will use the impressions to unlock a series of challenges and stories here on this site. The entire process has been designed to be fun, informative and, above all, promote an active outdoor experience.
A: Please refer to our list of parks that currently offer Natural Treasure. We are adding Natural Treasures on a regular basis, so keep checking back for updates!
A: Of course! Natural Treasure is designed so you can participate using maps or, if the site offers it, GPS devices. At GPS-equpped sites, Impression Stations will be set-up using both a map and GPS coordinates.
A: At the present time, GPS units will not be provided at the hike. But don't worry, map users can experience all the fun and orienteering challenge that GPS users will enjoy.
A: You can download them directly from the Natural Treasure website or pick them up at the respective site.
A: Of course! Get out and explore your local parks as often as you can with friends, family, and classmates. Each Natural Treasure adventure will be updated on a regular basis, with new puzzles and new locations.
A: The Get to Know Program has designed the Natural Treasure experience to be a safe, fun, and rewarding experience for everyone. NT Impression Stations are placed on existing paths and trails after consultation with those in charge of the park. Personnel from the respective park or trail will also monitor the trail on a regular basis, ensuring the safety of those involved. Finally, these trails are clearly marked and participants will not be required to stray off the trail to find the plaques; this is also done to limit disturbances to the park's wildlife.
A: Please contact Mary Krupa-Clark, director of the Get to Know Program, for more information. She can be reached at mclark@gettoknow.ca or 250-980-3969.