NEWS RELEASE
NOTTAWASAGA VALLEY CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
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UTOPIA, - After careful consideration of the risks involved, and the safety measures that would need to be in place to run programs safely, the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) has decided to cancel this summer’s Camp Tiffin.
Camp Tiffin is a nature-based camp where campers spend most of their time outside. It has become a staple and favourite for many kids in the area. While the Province of Ontario has announced that day camps may be able to proceed in July and August, NVCA’s current resources do not allow for the proper sanitation and physical distancing requirements.
“The priority for the NVCA during COVID-19 is to do our part for the health and safety of our community,” said Naomi Saunders, manager of environmental education at the NVCA. “We understand that this is a disappointment for many families. Camp Tiffin offers so many opportunities for adequate social distancing and minimal multiple touching of shared resources, but it’s the time spent eating and using the washrooms that would be the most challenging.”
If the Government of Ontario relaxes physical distancing and sanitation requirements, the NVCA may consider holding modified environmental education programs. However, these programs will only happen if there is interest from families and if they can be held safely.
“For now, families who would like to learn more about nature in their own backyards can sign up for Beyond Tiffin Education, NVCA’s new online nature exploration program,” continued Saunders. “For $5 per lesson or $20 for five lessons, families will have access to video lessons, activities, and access to Google Classrooms where they can share adventures, pictures and ask questions.”
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